Price:
$399
Our Rating:
This is an entry-level boot with an upper of stiff nubuck leather and a reinforced toe box and heel cup, which you would expect to pack add weight but the boot is surprisingly light at 1210g (w: 1000g).
Their first outing was in the snow at Tongariro National Park. I stayed on the track and was still impressed by how warm my feet stayed and not a drop of water found it’s way inside. I was also impressed by how little I was sliding in the muddy slush. The boot’s deep lugs provide good grip and I needed to worry far less about my footing and balance than my companions in their hiking shoes.
The following two days were more a test of their endurance on well-formed paths.
However, without a protecting rand the boots quickly showed wear and tear. Scratches have been etched into the leather and some stitching low down on the boot appears to be fraying.
They remained comfortable and though I had taken them straight from the box and onto the trail, I had no blisters or hot spots.
During use, the top of my left foot started to rub at the toe. They fitted me length-wise, but the boot felt too tight across the bridge of my foot. This didn’t lead to any major pain, but I suspect could cause problems on longer trips unless properly worn in.
A few days after use, a white coating appeared on the leather where it attaches to the sole. This looked like salt from feet and may have seeped through the boot –a sign the Gore-Tex lining is doing its job, but it’s not a nice look. It wiped away.
In the time I used these boots, I’ve found them comfortable, waterproof, warm and light – ideal for easy to moderate trails. But I do question their durability.