Gear Guy

Friday, May 11, 2012

Q: The Best Boots for Jungle Hiking: Lowa Zephyr GTX Mid

I'm moving to Puerto Rico and I need hiking boots to match the climate and terrain. Since I've got narrow feet, I've been considering the Vasque Breeze or Wasatch. What do you think?

By: Question from: Theo, California
Lowa Zephyr GTX Mid
Lowa Zephyr GTX Mid Photo: Courtesy of Lowa

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May 22, 2013

A:

Lowa's Zephyr GTX Mid ($180) are similar to the Vasque Breezes, with a composite leather and nylon upper, a Gore-Tex liner, and an emphasis on breathability. I like their external polyurethane exoskeleton, which adds support without bulk. Like most boots in this class, they have nylon shanks for light weight and flexibility on day hikes or with a light load.

The fit in all of these boots will be improved with some Superfeet Green insoles ($40). They're the “high-volume” model, meaning they’re for low-volume and narrow feet.

My last piece of advice is this: Buy two pairs of boots and let one dry out while you're hiking in the other.

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