User Review: Vasque Clarion GTX

Vasque Clarion GTX
Above: The current Clarion GTX, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed July 6, 1999 by Peter Kananen

Rating:
Materials: Leather
Use: Tough trail w/ heavy pack
Break-in Period: Practically none!
Weight: ?
Price Paid: $165

Contrary to some of the other reviews, this boot is absolutely capable of backpacking. I used them for a weeklong trip in the Smokies on the Appalachian trail with a 45 pound pack with lots of elevation change and never had any trouble, discomfort or complaints. I bought these right before my trip, and did not have too many complaints with break-in period, except for the bunching of the tongue gussets by my ankle. This can be avoided if you make sure that you fold them the right way the first time you use them, so they mold that way forever.

As for stiffness, mine are quite stiff and can nowhere near fold them over. This stiffness can probably be accountted for by the fact that my boots are 98 model, and the guys in the other review are older. The tread is great, and keeps traction even on steep grades with a heavy pack. The Gore-Tex layer is also great, and makes it fun to walk through deep puddles. However, if you do get water inside the boot, it takes forever to dry out.

Overall, a very good boot that can be used for light to moderate backpacking.

Where to Buy

Buy Online We found the Clarion GTX at 4 online stores:

Store

Product Description

Price

Moosejaw 3 purchase options:	Men's Clarion GTX Wide Shoe (Spring 2007)	$140.00	Buy Now
	Men's Clarion GTX Boot (Spring 2008)	$150.00	Buy Now
	Men's Clarion GTX Shoe (Spring 2007)	$180.00	Buy Now