Crispi Valdres EVO GTX Boot

I bought these to replace a pair of Salomon Quest 4 boots that fell apart on my across 5 hard walks/grunts in as many months, soles came apart in several places, chipped and de-glued. Disappointed about those pricey boots being too fragile for Aotearoan conditions, I was looking for something that can take the real rough that this country throws us. I read extensively about these Crispi's, especially listening to bush bashing hunters that put through through their paces off track.

They have not disappointed, so far. Tread is excellent, very grabby. They heel up high which has its advantages on the climbs, and you can dig in on the descents - will be good for catching when you're sliding down the rough. They have a hard heel sole, which took some getting used to, and I admit I was worried about its wear on the feet, both skin and bone. But sure enough it took shape with the break in, and is now comfortable. These will be very good pack boots (not tried yet), and are surprisingly light.

Minor criticism would be that they don't have the ankle support of some other boots in the same price bracket. This is because they traded that out to cut weight. In some senses though this gives you better mobility, therefore agility on the likes of rock hopping, and ensures your ankles don't get lazy and weak. Too much ankle support can get you into trouble - too stiff. If in doubt, wear some compression socks with these boots.

Here's hoping they hold up on some forthcoming grunts into…