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Asolo Stynger GTX

rated 4.0 of 5 stars
photo: Asolo Stynger GTX hiking boot

I just had to write a review for these after reading a recent negative review given to the Men's version, The Fugitive, by Trailspace member Cody Rayl. Mr. Rayl had numerous problems with several pairs of Asolo Fugitives.

I wanted to let everyone know that my Styngers will be the third pair of Asolo boots I own -- they have always been high quality. Actually, my last pair, the Fusion (I think) isn't even worn out, I just loved the style of the Stynger and HAD to get the red/clay colored version.

I have had NO problems with this pair of Styngers. The break-in period was nearly non-existent, the Gore-tex is solid and I love the beefy soles. I haven’t noticed any stiching coming loose, peeling or lumps in the Gore-tex, as Mr. Rayl described in his Fugitives.

These boots are very lightweight and they also provide a decent amount of ankle stability due to their height. I’ve enjoyed mine so far in many different conditions.

The only problem I’ve ever had with my Asolos is I must ALWAYS double knot, or my laces come undone.

Materials: suede, nylon, Gore-tex
Use: hiking, moderate backpacking, scrambles
Break-in Period: there was a break in period?
Weight: 2 lb 5 oz.
Price Paid: $160

I have found this to be my "Go-To Boot" .....I now prefer this over others.

Pros

  • Excellent support and stability
  • Run true to size — I wear a 10 and bought a 10!
  • Worth the money

Cons

  • Nothing so far

I took two pair of boots with me on my trip to Costa Rica (Asolo Stynger GTX and the Lowa Renegade GTX).  After a while I found myself relying on the Asolo boot more and more. The Lowa conformed to my foot but after a while it became loose and unstable in its feel.

The Asolo definitely held its shape and continued to provide stability and support while climbing over rocks and maintained traction while on slippery rocks/surfaces. There is ample room in the toe box to wear a thick sock with no problems. I have always preferred a thin sock and with these boots I experienced no blisters.

I find this to be a great multipurpose boot.  This is my first pair of Asolo and I would definitely purchase again. Time will tell as to the durability.

Source: bought it new

After searching long and hard for the perfect boot, I decided on that one. It offered great toe space, was lightweight and had great traction.

Pros

  • Light
  • Durable

Cons

  • Not as warm as a full grain leather boot

I used it on several hikes and needed some break in, but not near as much as some other brands I have used in the past. I hike in SoCal and wanted boots that would offer great temperature control since the mountains offer alpine climate and the desert, well, is hot.

The shoe lace don't come undone as often as my other pairs used to do. It has great arch support and roomy toe-box. First out of the box they handled ice well, as opposed to other boots I had tried which seemed to need more time to offer the traction I needed. 

Source: bought it new
Price Paid: $220

My favorite Asolo boot!

Pros

  • Sized right
  • Sturdy
  • Comfortable
  • Waterproof

I buy Asolo boots almost exclusively, but the Stynger is by far my favorite Asolo and my favorite hiking boot, overall. I have another boot that I reserve to use with my snowshoes, and I use these for hiking and backpacking.

The sizing is accurate — or at least it was for my size (a women's size 8) — and the break-in time was mercifully short. I usually couple this boot with a good pair of Smartwool light hiking socks. It's a combination that just seems to really work well.

Source: bought it new

To be honest they are the worst boots I have ever had.

So what that they are very waterproof and very comfortable if they are not breathable? I had never ever problem with wet feet until I bought these shoes. I can't use them if there is more than 13-15C degree as my feet are boiling!!! Never mind what kind of socks I'm wearing. I paid for them only 85 pounds, but can wear them in colder day.

Price Paid: 80 Pounds

I have just bought my first Asolo Stynger, and after a day of walking had two big lumps on the front of my ankle. Has anyone else had this problem? I also had pain in the front of my ankle but only on one foot.

Thanks. emm

Price Paid: £79

They run a little big. Order a half size down unless you plan on wearing really thick socks every time you wear them. Also, stiff, but expected from a hiking boot. Very comfortable, no breaking in needed. No blisters, and I've had them for 2 months.

Price Paid: $129

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Specs

Price MSRP: $210.00
Current Retail: $138.11-$300.00
Historic Range: $42.76-$300.00
Reviewers Paid: $129.00-$220.00
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