User Review: Hi-Tec Altitude II

Hi-Tec Altitude II
Above: The current Altitude II, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed August 31, 2006 by myneni

Rating: rated 4 of 5 stars
Materials: waterproof nubuck leather
Use: rough trail w/ medium pack
Weight: 20 ounces
Price Paid: $40

This is my second backpacking shoe. My first one was a Merrel boot that, while snug at my forefoot, kept losing the grip on my heel.

The leather upper is well waterproofed. I walked through deep puddles of water where the level of water was almost to the 'tounge' of the boot. No water and moisture seepage to inside.

The thick rubber soles were very grippy on granite that have been eroded smooth by melting ice in the hikes near Tuolumne meadows. The shoe flexes slightly less than what I like, so it does get a bit tiring after a few miles. While the soles weren't printed as 'vibram soles', there was adequate cushioning.

The neck of the boots are pretty high, making it difficult to run in them. But then one shouldn't be running with a backpack and with backpacking boots on. But the top is flexible enough to allow me to squat for a while.

Lately I started hearing a 'creaking' sound as I walks with weight on my back. Almost as if a robot is walking ;) This isn't a bother to me, but I thought I will mention it.

The slightly rough texture of the leather makes it catch dust a lot. But since it is waterproof, I just hose the shoes down after my trips.

The brass hardware is very robust and the top hooks make for a quick lace-down.

At less than $50, these boots are a good value for money in my opinion. There are newer versions of this boot. I saw the Ascent IV on someone the other day. I will continue to wear these over the next few years to various backpacking and hiking trips.

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