Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boots Review
--Product Information--
Product Name: Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boots
Product Brand: Lowa
Best Use: Hiking & backpacking.
--Test Information--
Location of Test: Columbia Gorge and Oregon Coast
Duration: Each hike lasted about 3-4 hours round trip
--Ratings--
Value Rating: 9
Durability Rating: 9
Overall Rating: 9
Full Review: For being an avid hiker and backpacker, I have never invested in durable, waterproof, really nice hiking boots. For years I have been hiking in sturdy Nike tennis shoes and some old but solid Hi-tec low tops I bought for $20 at the Goodwill in Sandy several years ago. While these shoes have been dependable and suitable, I've had my fair share of rolled ankles due to a lack of ankle support, soaked socks, and toe and ankle blisters. After a recent soaking wander through Washington's Ape Caves, I decided it was time to bite the bullet and buy some real hiking shoes.
The Lowa Renegade Goretex boots were the second pair of shoes I tried on and I immediately knew it was meant to be. Extremely lightweight but sturdy, the fit was perfect. After a lengthy jaunt around the store, I became increasingly convinced that these shoes would fit all of my needs. I had originally intended to initiate them on a snow shoe trip but ended up taking them hiking instead, (sadly due to the lack of snow to be found). The hike was challenging - uphill and steep, crossing three streams and trekking downhill on loose gravel: the ultimate first test for the Renegade boots. They passed the test with flying colors. My feet stayed dry, my ankles felt more supported than ever, and my feet stayed comfortable throughout the day. Best part? I didn't even feel like I needed to break them in, they were already so comfy.
Hiking another steep hike on the coast proved similar results. My feet stayed dry and my ankles happy, but my toes eventually started to hurt. Perhaps some initial breaking-in is needed; my socks were also not optimal. It was mostly my little toes that started to rub, Getting the right shoe-sock combination is important. I also had not tied them tight enough, something I found sometimes hard to do due to the hook-only lace-up system.
Overall, these boots are awesome and come highly recommended. Perfect for the casual hiker or the ambitious backpacker or all-season adventurer. Definitely a great first hiking boot.
The Good List:
- Lightweight - I can strap them on my backpack without feeling like I'm carrying a water bladder.
- Waterproof - go ahead and dunk your foot in that stream! You'll love it! That Goretex will keep you dry all day.
- Supportive - weak ankles? Roll them no more!
- Comfortable - cushioned ankle pads and design adds for extra comfort.
- Flexible - the soft sole adds for some flexibility; no boot stiffness! Trendy - for hiking boots, they ain't bad looking.
The Not so Good List:
- Getting it right - make sure you get a size up (or two). They seem to run small, but hiking boots should always be sized larger - I went up a half size.
- Wear proper socks - I really think this makes a difference with the overall comfort of this particular shoe.
- Laces - pulling them tight enough can be challenging at times.
- Goretex - super waterproof but not the most breathable of boots. Also not the worst.
