Gear Review
Vasque Wasatch GTX Backpacking Boot - Men's
broken, twice
By Ian Mangiardi
Ranked #565 - Men's Backpacking Boots
April 26, 2009
I bought these shoes because I heard they were really durable and comfortable. I will admit, they were incredibly comfortable, they fit my foot really well, and was all around a great boot at first.
After about a month and 600 miles, the sole had cracked all the way up to the base of the shoe, and the rubber cap on the front started to peel off. Granted, not many people who buy this shoe is thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail, but I still felt that wasn't acceptable. So, I e-mailed Vasque and got them replaced. About another month and 700 miles later, both of the new ones were cracked again. So, I told them I didn't want those anymore and they replaced them with the Clarion. They don't look as durable as these do, the leather held up really well and was a very comfortable shoe, however, at this point, if the Clarion don't hold up, I'll just go with a new company. I do commend Vasque on their customer support though!
View Details: Vasque Wasatch GTX Backpacking Boot - Men's
Helpful Votes: 0 Yes
Change me.
2 Comments Last Reply: April 4, 2010 By: Ethertec
I have had a similar experience with these boots only they blew out at closer to 300 miles with light hiking use only. I only hope Vasque's customer service is as good now as it was a year ago as I will be asking for a replacement set.
Helpful Votes: 0 Yes
This is about the expected life for a boot in this range, believe it or not. Most boots these days are built for comfort, and this has come at the cost of durability. Lighter polyurethane midsoles like these only last about 600 hard miles, and the leather uppers are not high-end. For the price, it is about right (unfortunately).
Helpful Votes: 0 Yes