Asolo AFX 520 GTX

I used these boots on the Canadian shield doing geological mapping for 95 days, as well as 10 days in the Little Rocky mountains in Montana. I purchased these in February for ~180 American. Walking to school on a regular basis was good for breaking them in (~4km each day).

The first problem was that the inside of the boot was made of Gore-Tex, including the sole, which caused the insoles to slip on inclines, giving me blisters on the inside bottom of my big toes. (This was fixed with 2 sided tape.) Then these boots deteriorated incredibly fast, after nine days of light mountain hiking I had worn the leather on the toes. After one month on the Canadian shield, traversing ~12 Km/day the leather had substantially deteriorated, making repairs necessary (5 min. Epoxy). After ~2 months the sole became seperated from the leather around the toe, and the side, causing water leakage and WET FEET!!

Although Asolo looked at them, they told me they were too damaged to warrant return of any kind. This was after owning them for six months. These boots are designed for someone who wants to look like they hike, but doesn't actually hit any terrain other than the dirt paths. The only thing I would recommend these boots for is day hikes (they are comfortable) but they are very pricey for that kind of use.

Great boots. Had a rivet pop and sent boot back to Asolo and they fixed it quickly, free of charge, and they even paid for return postage. (Nice to see)

Here in Canada I put at least 5km on them per day, rain or shine, and yes, in winter as well. They are holding up very well. Just as sturdy as day one. Grip is excellent and leather uppers give great support. Only drawback is rather thick sole, feels a little 'chunky' when doing a lot of ascending and descending. Better than too thin though.

A thin merino wool sock is about all you need on the inside.

All in all it's an awesome boot. Approx. 1.5 yrs. on them and they are still waterproof, comfy and I would never trade them, even for a 2-4 after 3 weeks in the bush !

Cheers

David

I've had this boot for quite a few years now and it has been by far my BEST piece of backpacking equipment! Denali, the Adirondacks, western PA, Canada, WV...hot weather, totally wet/damp/muddy weather...easy trails, killer ones, these boots despite being banged around and bearing a 55lbs. pack or more, I've had nothing but the best experiences with these boots! I love them! I've added a set of Sole inserts to added a bit more cushion...the Vibram soles have worn incredibly well. These boots fit like a glove!

Best boots, heck, best shoes, I've ever owned. Bomber tough. Waterproof. And plenty of room for my feet up front, yet snug enough that no blisters ever. Hiked five days in the Grand Canyon. These boots are my friends for life. Hope that Asolo keeps making 'em. Only shortcoming for me is they're a heavy boot and don't pack easily for a plane trip. Am headed for Europe later this winter. I'd love to take my Asolos, but they just weigh too much.

These boots have served me quite well and are beginning to show it. They are now covered with scratches and the leather is no longer its handsome self. Asolo is a very comfortable boot but I must say the uppers are somewhat loose and can make you wonder why they didn't provide more ankle support. I have not had any real problems despite this. If you are going to be going somewhere very rocky I would suggest buying a boot with a thicker sole (midsize range).

These boots are great. My hike was in late August and I expected the boots to be hot, but they weren't. And certainly not even uncomfortably warm. Previous reviews had mentioned these boots tearing up feet, and I had the same complaint...till I broke them in. They fit my feet well, and I didn't have a hint of a blister or pinched toe the entire hike. I love these things...and my only complaint is their weight.

I've been wearing these boots for 5 years now and they're still awesome. They have handled everything from Death Valley to slogging through the jungles of Thailand. I take good care of the leather and the boots never let me down. Every trip has a first step and for me it'll always be in my Asolos.

The Asolo 520's are a great boot. They have tough leather. They are a very dry boot. They have the new Vibram sole, which is awesome. They give my feet support like I have never felt before. I would recommend this boot to anyone anywhere. Asolo is the best!

Ryan Hostetler

Did 122 miles in 11 days. Came down with a few blisters but that was my fault.

I love this boot. Hiking in the Adirondacks, I was looking for something to keep the water out and the 520 kept the mud and water out. I love this boot.

Great boots. Started with a 62 lb pack for nine days on the Appalachain Trail and never had so much as a hot spot. They kept my feet perfectly dry during one rainy day, and provided excellent ankle support on the more rocky sections.

The fit is great, but with Thorlos or Smartwools I recommend 1/2 size larger. Replaced the insoles with Superfeet immediately (after reading these reviews) and went hiking. Break-in is nominal, and to top it all off they look great too. Highly recommended.

Hiked up Whitney with them. No blisters. Very comfortable. Fit my foot like a glove.