Choosing the right boot for your outdoor adventures

January 2024

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January 2024

When it comes to outdoor adventures, having the right footwear will make all the difference to your experience. Each activity demands specific features from footwear and wearing the correct boot is important for safety, comfort and performance.

Here are some tips for choosing the right boot:

1. Terrain: Very stiff boots are required for alpine or rocky terrain. Moderately stiff for off-trail adventures with a heavier pack. You can choose a more flexible boot for on-trail day hikes. Boots with Vibram outsoles are the best, but it is important to choose the appropriate lug pattern for the terrain.

2. Weather protection: New Zealand’s ever-changing weather means wearing boots that can handle the elements. Those with a waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex membrane will help to keep feet dry.

3. Pack weight matters: As your pack gets heavier, greater strain will be put on your feet and lower body. A polyurethane (PU) midsole provides shock absorption to distribute weight and won’t deform under heavy pack loads because it is more stable. It also lasts longer than cheaper EVA.

4. Comfort: Nothing will ruin your day faster than a pair of uncomfortable boots. LOWA has earned a reputation for crafting supremely comfortable boots through meticulous attention to the details that make a difference. LOWA footwear feature bio-mechanical functionality, exceptional shock absorption, anatomical padding, and carefully designed lacing systems. These features work together to deliver unparalleled comfort, fit, and quality.

LOWA has a 100-year legacy of crafting top-of-the-line boots, particularly for hiking, mountaineering, and everyday travel. Made in Europe, LOWA stands as the ultimate choice for serious outdoor enthusiasts.

There is a LOWA for every adventure

LOWA Ticam Evo GTX $779

This high-country trekking boot is designed for tackling demanding surfaces, unstable weather conditions and challenging alpine environments while the user is carrying a heavy pack. Crampon compatible.

LOWA Camino EVO GTX (men’s) and Mauria Evo GTX Wide (women’s) $729

A speciality multi-day hiker capable of handling pack weights of 20kg+ over long distances. These boots offer exceptional comfort and high-performance features. 

LOWA Renegade GTX MID $549

An excellent choice for weekend trips with a pack weight of 5–10kg. It is waterproof, durable, lightweight and provides the necessary cushioning and support without requiring a break-in period.

LOWA Innox Evo GTX Lo $379

An exceptionally lightweight waterproof day hiker and fastpacking shoe that will also cope with everyday sporty activities. It offers outstanding agility, flexibility, and high performance.

Discover the full range of LOWA footwear at www.lowa.co.nz

About the author

Ruth Soukoutou

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