User Review: Vasque Sundowner MX2

Vasque Sundowner MX2
Above: The current Sundowner MX2, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed July 31, 2000 by Steve Hodges

Rating: rated 4 of 5 stars
Materials: leather
Use: backpacking, various
Break-in Period: little to none
Weight: 3.0 lbs
Price Paid: $220 U.S.

I bought these at the last minute (due to a small but well-known cult boot outfit screwing up my order) for a 5-day high-altitude Sierra Nevada backpacking trip. To my discriminating eyes, they looked like a "real" hiking boot, they were made in Italy, and Vasque has a pretty good reputation. I wasn't real happy w/ buying a glue-on sole, but I had no choice other than to cancel the trip.

After five days of rocky, dusty trails carrying at least a 40lb pack, my companion and I were amazed that I didn't have any blisters or hot spots whatsoever. My feet were happy and dry, and the boots looked virtually new after a cleanup later. I'm still not convinced that Gore-Tex is such a great idea, but we didn't go through any water. The tongue tended to drift to the outside a bit too, but maybe I just need to play with the lacing. I also plan to replace the insole w/ something a bit beefier. I thought the rubber outsole of the MX2 seemed much more robust than the original Sundowner, which always seemed a bit thin to my taste. The three-pound weight was nice. There were several people out there hiking in running shoes, but I appreciated many times the good ankle support (and leather collar) of the MX2. I only hope it lasts more than a few years.

All in all, a very well-made leather boot in the new style. I plan to convince my wife to purchase a pair, and I think I'll keep mine. I still prefer an all-leather Norwegian welt boot, but such good service out of a brand new boot in demanding conditions deserves loyalty.

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