Looks can be deceiving...

By Tang Ranked #495 - Men's Backpacking Boots October 9, 2010

I have done many summers leading 5-day backpacking treks in the Adirondacks, and I had always worn a mid-cut, lightweight hiking boot. I was in the market for some new boots, and when I looked at these initially I balked: they look too heavy and stiff for my tastes. Like a cross between an approach shoe and a mountaineering boot.

After I tried them on, I changed my opinion completely. These are MUCH lighter than they look, fit my (narrow) feet like a glove with no pressure points on the laces, and while they aren't as flexible as I'm used to, that might be a good thing as I get older.

I took them on a "break-in" 3-day trip over Labor day to the Pharaoh wilderness. 2 eight mile days with a 30lb pack with a 7 mile mountain hike in between. Nothing rigorous, but these boots didn't give me a single blister, and my feet weren't screaming to be out of them at any point. It was bone-dry, so I can't account for the eVent, but the rubber is sticky enough for any rock, and there is enough ankle support without inhibiting your motion.

Overall, this is a dynamite boot, and I'm glad I went for something new. I can't wait to test them out in snow shoeing season, and I feel that these could last me long enough to hand down to the kids I don't have yet.

View Details: Kayland Vertigo High Backpacking Boot - Men's

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes