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Lowa Banff

Lowa Banff

Average Rating: rated 5.00 of 5 stars
Reviewed by 18 Trailspace users

Description

The Banff is a backpacking boot made by Lowa. It has an average rating of 5 stars (out of 5), based on 18 user reviews.

Here's what other sites are saying:

From Campmor:
"Handcrafted in Germany, LOWA's classic backpacking boots are made for on- and off-trail use with heavy 50- to 60- pound packs for extended trips in the backcountry. Handcrafted construction, the finest leathers, Vibram outsoles, and SPS (Supination, Pronation, Support) midsole technology, are just some of the reasons why LOWA is the boot of choice for rugged, off-trail adventure. The classic look of a seamless leather backpacking boot, though lighter on the foot with a sturdy backpacking sole and full rubber rand for durability. Leather lined for close to the foot comfort. Top performer for hard-duty backpacking on and off-trail. Water-repellent 2.5MM thick seamless Nubuck leather (one piece) upper. Comfortable leather lining Vibram 'Tsavo' outsole with shock-aborbing mid-sole and climate-control insole with pronation/supination zones. New SPS System: Optimum stabilization of the foot for excellent walking comfort 'C4' Tongue AWP Wide (EE) width (item 10959). Asymmetric Walking Position The ankle section of men's boots is set at a 2-degree outward angle to provide a more balanced stance, less fatigue and easier overall break-in period. The boot has a raised "scree" collar on the inside (keeps out trail debris and cushions the lower leg)."

From Backcountry.com:
"The Lowa Banff Backpacking Boot for Men is the product of history and technology. Like its predecessors, the Banff uses 2.5mm thick seamless leather for unbeatable durability and long life. Coupled with a Vibram sole with a shock absorbing midsole, the Banff stabilizes and protects your foot. The full rubber shank lends stability in uneven terrain and protects from sharp rocks. The leather upper with the slightly raised inner cuff prevents ankle rolls. A carefully constructed insole with pronation and supination zones gives optimum stabilization no matter what your stride looks like. The Banff is a great deal on a top performer for intense backpacking with heavy loads. Traditionally, Lowa's run large so select a size below your normal shoe size."

From RockCreek:
"The Lowa Banff provides the classic look of a seamless leather backpacking boot, though lighter on the foot with a sturdy backpacking sole and full rubber rand for durability. Leather lined for close to the foot comfort. Top performer for hard-duty backpacking on and off-trail. Excellent knee and back support for a 30+ pound pack."

From REI:
"Rugged and dependable, these boots are a great choice for taking on rough trails while carrying moderate to heavy loads. Thick nubuck leather uppers are highly water-resistant and flexible and offer long-lasting protection and comfort. Smooth leather linings are soft and absorbent and will conform to foot shape for an enduring fit. C4 lacing system uses an asymmetrical padded tongue, soft edging, recessed ankle cut and curved insert for tailored comfort across instep. Full rubber rands decrease abrasion and deter moisture from uppers. Polyurethane midsoles offer outstanding cushioning for all-day wear; nylon shanks afford enhanced torsional rigidity to protect and support feet. Thermoplastic urethane inserts help control pronation and supination for a more natural walking motion. Vibram® Tsavo outsoles feature omnidirectional, self-cleaning lugs for reliable traction on all types of surfaces."

User Reviews

rated 5 of 5 stars Men's Banff
Reviewed by Mike McCarthy, Sep 03, 2009

"I have been backpacking for 40 years and have a narrow foot, 14 B to be precise, so my choices are very limited. I had been wearing Vasque narrow sizes until they moved production to China and discontinued most of their narrow products.

These are absolutely the most comfortable boot of any kind I have ever worn."

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rated 4 of 5 stars Men's Banff
Reviewed by Bb, May 09, 2009

"These boots are tough. Has taken 5 weeks everyday wearing in very wet and dirty conditions to break in. I wear size 14 wide and they fit well but a little weak in the ankle. They take quite a while to break in.

The vibram rubber sole doesn't grip well on slippery surfaces, but all in all if this boot is well maintained it should last."

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rated 5 of 5 stars Men's Banff
Reviewed by P.Griff, Mar 15, 2009

"I used a pair of these on a two day hike almost straight from the box in wet muddy conditions and they were flawless. Covered a load of ground with a wide variety of terrain assessing 3 Expedition groups and they felt solid, comfortable and cleared mud well."

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rated 5 of 5 stars Men's Banff
Reviewed by Davidg, Feb 25, 2009

"This is my fourth boot product from Lowa and every one of them has exceeded my expectations. The boot fits well though it may be a little large. I enjoy leather lined boots and prefer them over all other types. Lowa is one of the few makers that still produce them. Will take some break in time but that is expected."

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rated 5 of 5 stars Men's Banff
Reviewed by Jake, Oct 05, 2008

"This is a fantastic boot which has kept my feet dry and comfy over thousands of miles. They provide excellent support and traction. I am amazed that my feet never seem to get too hot yet they provide enough insulation for pretty cold winter hikes."

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rated 5 of 5 stars Men's Banff (Scout)
Reviewed by FJ, Feb 07, 2008

"I have relied on this boot for seven years now. The same boot used to be called the Scout. I have two pairs one lined with calfskin the other with Gore-tex. Both have been resoled by Dave Page in Seattle ( http://www. davepagecobbler. com/ ) and are still going strong."

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rated 4.5 of 5 stars Men's Banff
Reviewed by John Jaeger, Dec 12, 2007

"This has been my main winter hiking boot for 3 years in the NE Mountains, bareboot and snowshoe. I have size 12 narrow, and the narrow model is a rare fit. Though not a "winter" boot, it's served me well including many 15-20+ mile days doing 4k footers in winter, good snow traction and edging."

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rated 5 of 5 stars Men's Banff
Reviewed by traildust, Sep 19, 2007

"I’ve hiked long distances with Asolo Powermatic 400’s and Vasque Clarion GTX. Those are good boots, BUT, I was still coming back with blisters and sore feet after about 20-25 miles.

My hikes will normally include mountainous terrain of steep elevation gain and loss, scree, and dry creek rock hoping."

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rated 5 of 5 stars Men's Banff
Reviewed by Dave Pitts, Apr 04, 2007

"If you're looking for boots, give these a try. I bought them for the AT and have spent a month breaking them in on longer and longer hikes. They feel great although I went up a half size to an 11. 5. No blisters and no hot spots. My heel seats perfect with plenty of toe room."

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rated 5 of 5 stars Women's Banff
Reviewed by Darcy, Feb 24, 2007

"Even though this boot is considered "heavy backpacking" they are comfortable enough to be worn for anything! Nice wide toe box, superb fit in the heel! (They can be heat molded to your foot. Make sure to ask a trained person to do this. ) Excellent traction in all types of weather and all types of terrain; swamps to mountain tops these perform! The "glove" leather lining does fit "like a glove."

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rated 5 of 5 stars Men's Banff
Reviewed by Awesome Boot, Feb 08, 2007

"Hurray! Never ever tried the boots on and they fit great with a pair of medium to heavy hiking socks. I am 6'1" and 200lbs. I have a 12D to 12 1/2 D foot for many of my boots and shoes but usually have to go up to 13D to get a shoe that fits or is available."

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rated 5 of 5 stars Women's Banff
Reviewed by Connie Doan, Jan 26, 2007

"I got a great deal on these boots on ebay and there was only one pair in the size and model (WXL) that I wanted. The WXL has extra room in the toe box.

I love these boots. They fit me as if they were custom made and are super comfortable right out of the box."

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rated 5 of 5 stars Men's Banff
Reviewed by Jonathan Bushey, Sep 11, 2006

"This boot is the best thing I have ever worn on my feet. Ever. And I am a bit of a boot nerd. I bought this boot semi-reluctatly. I was looking for something mid-weight, one piece leather upper, simple, and sturdy-feeling, but somewhat flexable."

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rated 5 of 5 stars Men's Banff
Reviewed by Kery Plamus, Mar 30, 2006

"After trying on all brands of boots, this Lowa felt the best and have not proved me wrong. The rocking system is amazing, and the finish quality first class."

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rated 3 of 5 stars Banff
Reviewed by Nick, Apr 21, 2005

"I have worn the Lowa Renegade GTX for three years. The best boot I have ever worn. The only problem was the toe stiching which came undone. Lowa replaced the boot with no problem however it happened again with the second pair. Lowa suggested that I exchange for the Banff, a boot without seams on the toe and a more heavy duty boot."

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rated 5 of 5 stars Banff
Reviewed by Charles A. Miller, Nov 01, 2004

"After reading several reviews of the higher-end trekking boots available out there, I was already leaning toward the various Lowa products, and finally purchased the Lowa Banff boots a few weeks ago. Since then, I've taken a number of strenuous mountain hikes here in the Appalachians in a range of weather conditions and the Banffs have broken in beautifully."

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rated 5 of 5 stars Banff
Reviewed by Laura, Sep 16, 2004

"Very nice boot indeed. I also have the Lowa Scout also. These are even nicer than the Scouts though. They have the rocker type sole and I find that it's nice when you are getting tired. They give you a little energy with each step (no BS). The support in these babies is wonderful."

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rated 5 of 5 stars Banff
Reviewed by Frank, Jun 14, 2004

"This is a remarkable boot. I have a hard to fit, narrow foot. Backpacking has always been a struggle with foot pain and blisters, but not anymore. I've used this boot right out of the box on three tough hikes with a lot of climbing and numerous stream crossings."

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Have you owned or used a Lowa Banff? Share your thoughts with other hikers and backpackers.

Where to Buy

Buy Online We found the Banff at 2 online stores:

StoreProduct DescriptionPrice

Campmor
3 purchase options:		Men's Banff Backpacking Boot$179.97Buy Now
Men's Banff Backpacking Boot - Wide$179.97Buy Now
Women's Banff Backpacking Boot$179.97Buy Now

Backcountry.com		Banff Pro Backpacking Boot - Men's$223.96Buy Now

Similar Footwear

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Women's Banff Backpacking Boot
Price: $179.97

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More Buying Choices

Campmor

$179.97 Men's Banff Backpacking Boot
$179.97 Men's Banff Backpacking Boot - Wide

Backcountry.com

$223.96 Banff Pro Backpacking Boot - Men's