Choosing Off-trail Boots, Follow Logic or Hype?

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Posted by overmywaders on March 17, 2008 at 1:56:16 pm EDT

If we apply common sense and an elementary knowledge of design principles, what are some of the desirable properties of a backpacking boot designed for rough-trail/off-trail use?

I suggest the following:

1/ A durable upper with a minimum of stitching to wear and fray. (Scree can tear through stitching quickly)

2/ A waterproof upper with a minimum of stitching to admit water.

3/ A lining that is comfortable; not too hot and conforms to the foot.

4/ A lining that is durable.

5/ Many different widths available, from AAA to EEEEEE, for men; AA to EEE for women.

6/ A good insole, shank, midsole, and outsole. (A 3/4 or full shank is a big help in rough ground, sharp rocks.)

7/ A durable construction method (attaching midsole to upper) which permits re-soling.

8/ Good padding of sides, collar and tongue. (Save those twisted and bruised ankles)

9/ Gusseted tongue. (Keep the little nasties out.)

10/ Light weight of total boot -- IF all above are satisfied.


Not all-encompassing, but a start. Now which of the above is available in the "typical" rough-trail boot today?

For a sample I show the Asolo Power Matic 400gv
http://www.asolo.com/content.asp?L=3&idMen=419


Of the positive properties above we can list for the Asolo #6, #8, #9, and #10. The stitching and seams are excessive, though highly decorative, and just provide many points of abrasion and water infiltration. The Gore-tex is a hot liner and does not necessarily maintain its waterproof nature. The weight of the boot is about 3.15 lbs, but since it doesn't provide most of the properties listed above, the light weight is incidental (when it blows out on you in the back of beyond, you'll not concern yourself with its weight). This boot might last two - three years of frequent multi-day hikes off-trail or rough-trail. So the retail price of $165 is amortized over that period.

Here is an example of a boot that meets most of the criteria above:
http://www.limmerboot.com/Midweight.html

You'll note that it meets conditions #1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, and 9. The weight is 3.75 lbs., more than a half pound heavier than the Asolo; however, the Limmer is expected to last 10-15 years (or more) with care, so it is unlikely to fail at a critical time. The additional expense is amortized over a much longer period, so the cost is actually less per year than the Asolo. The shortage of available widths is lamentable, but not uncommon today. [Danner used to make their boots in AAA - EEE, but no more.]

So, are the criteria I listed above unrealistic for off-trail backpacking or, if realistic, how many boots regularly available meet these criteria? If not, why not?

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