Gear Review: Vasque Inhaler GTX

Value Rating: 9 Durability Rating: 9 Overall Rating: 9 Location of Test: Steens Mountain, Wallowas, Gorge, Smith Rock Duration: 1 year Product Name: Inhaler GTX Product Brand: Vasque Best Use: Hiking with or without a pack, especially good in warm weather Sizes Available/ Specs: Gore-tex, 3D Mesh construction, Vibram soles The Full Review As I packed for my week-long backpacking trips through the Wallowas, I packed my Vasque Inhalers. As I headed for Smith Rock for a weekend of weed-pulling, hiking, and climbing, I packed my Vasque Inhalers. When I set out for the muddy trails of Broughton Bluff in October, I of course packed my Vasque Inhalers. The fact is, the Vasque Inhaler is the best hiking shoe I’ve owned yet. Light-weight, aesthetically handsome, durable, and comfortable, I’m quick to recommend the Vasque Inhaler to all of my friends. I bought my Inhalers just prior to a week-long backpacking trip in the Wallowas. Right out of the box, they fit well, although it did take a solid 20 miles of hiking to break them in fully. One broken in, however, they were incredibly comfortable. Perhaps what I appreciate most about this boot is its versatility. I wear this boot on hot days in the desert, and rainy days on the muddy trail. Vasque used leather and mesh on the outer portion of this boot, creating excellent breathability. These boots also incorporate Gore-Tex into their design, making them both breathable and waterproof—I’ve never hesitated to plunge my foot into several inches of water when wearing these boots. When buying a boot with so much mesh, I was admittedly worried about their durability. As time has gone on, I have been continually pleased by how well these boots have held up. The mesh shows no serious signs of wear, even after a year of fairly consistent use. The traction on this boot is outstanding. The lugs make me feel stable and comfortable on any terrain. The most unique thing about this boot is its. Unlike many hiking boots of this caliber, this boot is light, narrow, light, and narrow. I never feel weighed down, clunky, or awkward by these boots. This boot provides excellent support, durability, and comfort and an impressive weight and is well worth the price. The Good: Light, waterproof, breathable, low profile The Bad: Not insulated and therefore could be cold if in snow for a long period of time, took a little bit to break them in The Bottom Line: This is a great all-around hiker with a wide range of abilities--you won't regret owning this boot.