I have praised the Topo shoes in a previous post. Della and I both just acquired new Topo Terraventure 2Wp boots for an upcoming EBC hike. Mine cost A$279 delivered from Sherpa. Topo have improved the shoes since my first pair. Eg They now have really super grip Vibram soles which just about glue you to the ground.
These boots weigh just about identical weights to my beloved Keen Targhee shoes at 469 and 470 grams respectively in size US9.5 (except these are a boot) but they have much better soles than the Keens – and do not delaminate.
The boots (unlike the Topo shoes which weigh a mere 299 grams) are lined, so they are both waterproof and warmer than the shoes. The boots also have better rolling structure and a rubber kick-plate at the toe (like the Keens) have which makes them so much tougher for off-trail work. They just about do the walking for you.
A full-length ESS rock plate offers total protection from rocks and roots. The antimicrobial OrthoLite® performance insole offers additional comfort underfoot with odor resistance. Stack Height: 33mm (heel) // 28mm (forefoot), Heel to Toe Drop: 5mm.
The (lockable) lacing system allows for a fully varied comfort system. The three pairs of lockable hooks allow you to adjust the fit in many different ways.
These boots were comfortable straight out of the box. I am looking forward to the first thousand kilometres in them! My old Topos have done that many times. Still have not (completely) worn a pair out yet. I have been breaking in these new ones on our afternoon walks – hence they are no longer pristinely clean.
They have Honey’s approval too you may notice – of course she thinks we are going for a walk!
NB: The Topo shoes may be better for deer stalking in that they are lighter (at 299 grams) – and thus quieter – but that little bit of extra toe protection (plus insulation) and ankle protection might see them taken up as a favourite by deer hunters, I suspect. There is nothing within probably half a kilogram of them. That difference will really pay off after a long day in the bush – particularly during the carry-out. Weight is per shoe.
See Also:
