Gear Closet: STABILicer Maxx Ice Cleats

Winter may be coming to a rapid end, but that doesn't mean we won't have to deal with ice and snow before it releases us from its grip. There is nothing worse than an early spring blizzard or ice storm to really put a damper on our enthusiasm for the arrival of warmer weather. With that in mind, I've had the opportunity to test out a pair of STABILicers Maxx Ice Cleats from from 32North, and found them to be an excellent way to keep your footing in poor conditions.

If you're not familiar with the Stabilicers, they are – in a sense – a pair of lightweight crampons for use on just about any shoe. While they aren't meant for serious mountaineering, they can provide excellent traction for your favorite outdoor activities, such as hiking, backpacking, trail running, ice fishing and so on. The are designed to provide a good sense of security against slipping and falling in poor surface conditions, and they do that job quite well.

The first thing that struck me about he Stabilicers is how durable and rugged they are. They truly feel like they are meant to withstand the punishment that comes from being active in the winter months. They feature a tough, rubber sole that has 17 hardened cleats built right into the base. Those cleats easily bite into snow and ice, providing a surprising amount traction, even in very poor conditions. Putting these on a pair of hiking boots - or even winter boots for that matter - immediately improves traction on the slickest of surfaces.


I was also impressed with the Stabilicers integrated strap system. The belts are wide and accommodating for all manner of footwear. This allows them to quickly and easily slip on to your boot, tighten into place using velcro, and get you off and moving in a matter of moments. I appreciated the fact that it took virtually no time to get my boot seated into place, lock the cleats around it, and hit the trail. The last thing you want to do in cold weather is to waste time battling your gear.

Better yet, once the Stabilicers are connected to your shoes, they stay in place quite nicely. The velcro straps keep them from sliding around or coming off altogether, even when you're taking part in vigorous activities. I found that once I had my pair locked into place, they didn't move until I was ready to take them off at the end of the hike.

As I mentioned, the Stabilicer Maxx acts a bit like a pair of lightweight crampons, although you won't find yourself moving quite so awkwardly with these attached to your boots. While they don't exactly provide the stability of a crampon, most of us don't need that level of performance either. These cleats are akin to putting a pair of chains on your tires to help you get through snow and ice, and in that regard they perform even better than I expected.

A few months back I posted my thoughts on a pair of Yaktrax, which are designed to do something similar to the Stabilicers, albeit with a different design. At the time, I wrote positive thoughts on the Yaktrax, which deliver solid performance and ease of use. There is a night and day difference between these two products however, and it is hardly fair to compare them directly. The Stabilicer Maxx are built more durably and are simply more reliable in demanding situations. The Yaktrax are a lighter product however, and are probably a better option for trail runners looking to move fast in conditions that aren't so demanding. They're also more versatile in that they'll fit more easily on a variety of shoes, but if you're looking for stability in tough conditions or in more demanding environments, the Maxx are clearly the way to go. They are, quite simply put, more up to the challenge than their competition.

The Stabilicer Maxx come with an affordable price tag as well. They run just $49.95, which is a good price for a product that performs this well. If you're still fighting snow and ice where you're at, but you're eager to get out on the trail none the less, consider adding a pair of these to your own gear closet. They'll be one of the best investments you've made in winter gear in a long time.

Gear Closet: Keen Revel II Hiking Boots

With temperatures dropping – and even colder weather on the way – a good hiking boot designed to handle rain and snow is a must for any gear closet. After all, we have excellent gear to keep our other body parts warm, and we definitely don't want to neglect our feet either.

Arriving just in time for winter, Keen has just started shipping their new Revel II hiking boots, which have some innovative new features to help keep our feet warm on cold weather hikes. They also manage to maintain Keen's typical high level of durability and comfort while also managing to look good in the process.

Keen has designed the Revel II to have a more traditional look when compared to some of the other footwear in their line-up. These boots have a more understated appearance that makes them feel right at home on the trail, and the high ankle support is a welcome addition to what may be the most sturdy dedicated hiking boots in the Keen catalog.
One of the features of this boot that helps them to stand out from the crowd and makes them a good choice for winter hiking is what Keen calls their Heat Trapolator Insulation System. This patent pending design includes three layers of insulation for the foot that helps keep warmth inside the shoe. This extends under the foot as well, helping to keep the bottoms of our feet toast warm. This approach makes a lot of sense considering that when hiking on snow and ice, much of the cold temperatures emanate from the ground itself.

Keeping our feet comfortable doesn't end with simply staying warm however. The Revel II boots are also waterproof to keep excess moisture out, while a breathable, wicking liner helps to pull moisture away from the foot too. The result is a boot that keeps your feet dry in all but the worst of conditions. When paired with a good pair of socks, most hikers will be ready to face the elements with a smile on their face.

As mentioned, these boots are very comfortable, which is a Keen trademark for sure. I did find that the break-in period for these shoes was a bit longer than some of the other Keen boots that I've worn, but once they did loosen up, they felt as good on my feet as I had expected. For a full-size, rugged boot, they are also lighter in weight than they would appear at first glance, although it doesn't seem that Keen has had to sacrifice any durability in achieving this svelte design.

The Revel II's aggressive outsole does a good job of holding their grip on both dry and wet surfaces, although once again there was a short break-in period before this happened. Out of the box, the bottom of the shoes felt smooth and slick but after wearing them for a bit, they seemed to improve. I'm not sure if my pair of boots shipped from the factory with a slick coating on the bottom, but traction certainly improved after putting a bit of mileage on them.

If you're in the market for a pair of hiking boots that are suitable for cool, or even cold weather hikes, than Keen's new offering may be exactly what you're looking for. They are comfortable, durable and perform well on snow and ice. They also happen to have traditional good looks and sturdy construction that should make them last for years to come. Available for $160, these aren't the least expensive shoes available from Keen, but they just might be the most capable hiking boots the company currently makes.

Gear Closet: Keen Alpha WP CNX Hiking Shoes

When shoe company Keen isn't busy building sandals to our custom specifications they're putting together some of the most comfortable and versatile footwear available to travelers and outdoor enthusiasts. For the past ten years Keen has pushed the envelope in terms of design while continually creating lightweight and durable products for both town and trail. That tradition continues with their new line of CNX shoes, which feature a minimalist design that doesn't compromise on stability or protection.

The latest addition to the CNX line-up is the new Alpha WP, a low-cut shoe that has been built with the multi-sport athlete in mind.  It features a lightweight midsole and contoured arch support that allow these shoes to feel much sturdier than their 12 ounce (340 gram) weight would normally imply. The Alpha has a unique, flexible sole that keeps your feet in tune with the surface yet still provides plenty of comfort and protection. In keeping with Keen's typical high standards, the shoes are also very durable, brushing off all kinds of punishment while remaining as good looking as if they had just come out of the box.

At first glance, the Alpha resembles a mash-up of a light hiking shoe and a trail runner. Its synthetic upper is soft, lightweight and breathable. It also happens to be waterproof, which lends these shoes a level of versatility that isn't found in many of tis competitors. This combination of properties makes these a great shoe for hitting the trail for just about any kind of activity. While putting my pair of Alphas to the test, I took them hiking on trails of mud and rock, mountain biking and even trail running. In each case, they performed exceptionally well. At the end of each of those activities my feet felt as comfortable as they did when I first set-out. That's no small feat for footwear that weigh so little.



One of my favorite aspects of Keen shoes has always been the fact that there is little to no break-in time. That holds true here as well. Typically I take a new pair of hiking shoes out of the box and wear them while running errands around town for awhile before I actually hit the trail, but when I put the Alphas on for the first time they felt like they were good to go straight out of the box. As a result, I never experienced any kind of abrasions or blistering while wearing these shoes, even when I hiked a substantial number of miles in them on hot Texas trails.

As mentioned, these shoes are waterproof and feature Keen's proprietary Keen.dry technology. At the heart of that system is a breathable membrane that manages to keep moisture out while also allowing heat and vapor from inside the shoe to escape. This is an extremely effective system as the shoes managed to keep my feet nice and dry while crossing streams but also kept them from getting too warm during the heat of the day. When paired with a lightweight hiking sock, these shoes are perfect for just about any conditions.

Many of Keen's shoes have a styling that makes them work well both on the trail or in casual settings around town. The design of the Alpha definitely lean more towards the trail however, although I still found plenty of reasons to wear them in an urban setting where they performed equally well. Because they are lightweight and easy to pack, they also make great shoes for the active traveler, where versatility and performance are greatly appreciated.

If you're in the market for a pair of shoes that can serve you equally well on local trails – both on foot and on a bike – or while trekking in remote locations on the other side of the planet, the Keen Alpha WP is a great option. These lightweight, comfortable and durable, not to mention waterproof, shoes are a great investment for the active outdoor enthusiast who doesn't want to break the bank. Keen has priced these shoes at $130, which seems like quite the bargain for a footwear that is this easy to like.

Gear Closet: AKU SL Sintesti GTX Hiking Boots

Last summer I reviewed a pair of SL Trek GTX hiking boots from AKU and came away highly impressed. At the time, I lauded the boots for being comfortable, breathable and durable with great traction on a variety of trail conditions. Since then, I've only become more impressed with the boots, which continue to hold up well with many more miles of trail under their heels. So when AKU offered to let me try out their new SL Sintesti GTX hiking boots, I jumped at the chance, eager to see if the same level of quality could be found in a lighter and more affordable shoe. Considering the mountaineering legacy that the company brings to the table, I should have known that I wouldn't be disappointed.

AKU says that the Sintesti is designed for hiking and backpacking on a variety of terrain up to medium altitudes. Lightweight and comfortable, these are the kind of shoes that you can wear on your favorite local trail or take with you on a trek through the Himalaya or up Kilimanjaro. The shoe provides plenty of protection for your feet, keeping them well shielded from rocky trails. In fact, the ground here in Central Texas is actually very rocky, but the Sintesti had no problem keeping my feet from getting battered or overly tired, even on long walks.

These boots feature a Vibram Mulaz outsole that is tough as nails and provides excellent footing whether you're scrambling over rock or through deep snow and mud. When combined with a triple-layer internal midsole, it provides a rigid, yet comfortable ride that nicely cradles the foot and protects it from harm. Because of that rigidness, these shoes aren't quite as flexible as some lighter weight hiking footwear from the competition, although their performance is light years better.

Despite this outstanding level of protection for the foot, the Sintesti don't feel heavy or bulky when worn at all. On the contrary, they actually feel so good that you'll almost believe that AKU custom made them especially for you. The footpad molds itself nicely to the shape of your foot and the break-in period is quite fast, ensuring that your new pair of boots feels like a comfortable old pair of boots in no time.

Other features include a precision lacing system that extends to just above the toes, allowing you to cinch the boots to your liking. I personally prefer a snug fit when hiking, although I know others don't like their feet to feel confined. What ever your preference is, you'll be able to adjust the Sintesti to an optimal fit quickly and easily. The suede upper conforms nicely to your needs as well, wrapping the foot in an incredibly durable – not to mention good looking – shell.

AKU has incorporated a Gore-Tex liner which helps to keep the feet dry in a variety of conditions. When your they start to heat up, the liner wicks moisture away and when you're hiking through wet conditions, Gore-Tex will keep unwanted moisture out as well. As is typical with all products that use Gore-Tex, performance was excellent and my feet remained dry and happy at all times.

Like the SL Trek GTX boots that I reviewed last year, I am once again impressed with the high level durability that AKU has managed to instill in the Sintesti. These boots can take everything you throw at them and still come out looking just as good as new. I took them on muddy trails, across very rocky terrain, up and over boulders and through rushing streams, and except for showing a little dirt, they look like they've barely been worn. A good pair of hiking boots are an investment and this level of durability ensures that the Sintesti are a wise investment indeed. I would wager that anyone who buys these boots will have footwear to accompany them on their adventures for years to come.

AKU sells these boots for $249, which is about $80 less than the SL Treks that I recommended so highly last year. The Sintesti GTX delivers a similar level of performance with those boots but at a more affordable price. If you're in the market for a new pair of boots that can accompany you on nearly any hiking adventure, these are just the shoes you've been looking for. They are comfortable, durable and perform well even under the worst of conditions. Not all footwear displays that level of dependability, but you'll get all of that and more in AKU's SL Sintesti GTX hiking boots. And chances are, your feet will thank you.

Gear Closet: Scarpa Rapid LT Light Hiking Shoes

Last week I shared my thoughts on the Scarpa Kailash GTX hiking boots, giving them high marks for being durable and comfortable for use in a rugged environments. I liked how those shoes provided plenty of support for long days on the trail and solid traction, even on wet surfaces. This week I take a look at a completely different shoe from Scarpa and come away just as impressed, although for some very different reasons.

The company's Rapid LT is a light hiking shoe that is perfect for those shorter, less demanding days on the trail. While it lacks the high ankle support of the Kailash, it still provides a rugged sole that maintains a solid grip on a variety of surfaces. In fact, I was extremely impressed with how this shoe held its traction on loose rock, wet pavement, muddy trails and slick rocks at the bottom of a small stream.

Lightweight and built for speed, Scarpa designed these shoes for fast peak bagging, speed hikes and to serve as an approach shoe. I personally found their versatility went well beyond that however as I comfortably wore the Rapid LT's mountain biking, casual hiking and just kicking around town. In all cases, my feet were very comfortable and protected no matter where I went, including some rather rocky trails.

I'm the kind of person who prefers his shoes to be a bit on the form fitting side as I find that it helps me to stay well connected to what ever terrain I'm moving through. The Rapid LT definitely falls into that category, so if you have wider feet, you'll definitely want to try them on before you buy. In my case, I really appreciated how they felt on my feet, allowing me to move quicker and with more confidence on the trail. They fit so good in fact that although I haven't tried them in this capacity, I feel they could even be used a rugged trail running shoe.

Constructed from a blend of suede, recycled synthetic leather and a polyester mesh, the Rapid LT's shrug off dirt, scuffs and other potential wear without even slowing down. I'm impressed with how great the shoes still look in spite of the fact that I have been wearing them often and in a host of different capacities. Despite them becoming my favorite new shoe, my pair of Rapid LIT's look like they just came out of the box. Judging from the number of comments I've had while wearing them recently, I'd say they look pretty darn good as well.

As impressed with the Rapid LT's as I've been, I was even more impressed when I learned the cost. These shoes run just $110, which I feel is quite a bargain for something that is this versatile and comfortable to wear. This is the kind of footwear you can take with you on just about any kind of trip, whether you're heading to Europe for a leisurely escape or to Africa for something a bit more wild. It'll also serve as a great shoe for shuffling around Base Camp after you've kicked off your heavier mountaineering boots or when you're speed-hiking the Appalachian Trail. In short, this is the kind of shoe you want in your gear closet no matter where you're headed or what activities you intend to take on.

Gear Closet: Scarpa Kailash GTX Hiking Boots

Scarpa is a brand of outdoor footwear that has been around for a long, long time. The company can trace its roots back to 1938 in the Asolo region of Italy. That was an area well known for its shoe craftsmen, many of whom specialized in creating the best footwear possible for mountaineering. Today, Scarpa continues the tradition of designing and building some of the best shoes possible for the outdoor athlete, and while they now offer everything from trail running shoes to loafers for kicking around town, their legacy remains in the high altitude mountaineering boots that have made them so famous.

That legacy can be seen in other shoes across their line as well, including the new Kailash GTX hiking boot. Rugged and durable, these boots have an aggressive styling that hints at the company's decades of mountaineering history while still being designed from the ground up with the serious trekker in mind. The shoe features a rigid sole that provides great protection for the foot, while still offering a surprising amount of flexibility too. And the high ankle support gives the wearer a reassuring amount of stability with out impeding movement. The tension lacing system makes it easy to secure these boots around your feet, providing a snug fit right out of the box.

This combination of features was most welcome while putting the Kailash GTX boots through their paces on the rocky trails of central Texas. The ground here is greatly lacking in top soil and as a result, the hiking paths can be really punishing on the feet. But these boots handled the challenges of those rocky trails with ease, keeping my feet comfortable and well protected for miles on end. The solid toe-box was also a welcome design choice as it saved my toes from getting bashed on outcropping that threatened to trip me on more than one occasion.

The sole of the boot holds a tight grip on just about any surface, even when wet. On two occasions while testing these boots I was caught out on an afternoon hike when a sudden rainstorm sprung up, coating the trail in a mixture of slick rocks and greasy mud. But both times I slogged on without really noticing much of a change. It is nice to know that you can depend on sure footing, even when conditions take a turn for the worse.

My feet also stayed nicely dry during those unexpected downpours thanks to the Gore-Tex lining that Scarpa has incorporated into the Kailash GTX. Gore-Tex remains a wonderful option for waterproofing our footwear and it is a welcome addition to any boot of this caliber. It also happens to breathe well most of the time, although I will admit that my feet did get a little warm on a couple of abnormally hot spring days.

Scarpa's boots are a great option for the serious hiker or backpacker. They are an extremely well built shoe that will hold up well even after hundreds of miles on the trail. But before you set out on that epic hike that you've been planning for years, make sure that you break these shoes in first. On my first few outings in the Kailash GTX's I found that things started off well and my feet quite comfortable. But after an hour or so into a hike, I started to develop a couple of blisters, even through excellent hiking socks. Considering how stiff the soles of these shoes are however, I knew that they had to be well broken in before I could get a legitimate look at how they performed. After two or three moderate-length hikes, the boots began to finally loosen up and my feet started to get far more comfortable in them. Another hike or two and they were very comfortable to wear indeed. If you're planning on buying a pair of Kailash GTX's for yourself, know that you're buying an excellent pair of boots, just be sure to show a little patience while you go through the break-in period.

These boots carry a price tag of $209, which is actually far less than I expected when I first set my eyes on them. That price is a real bargain for a pair of boots that will see you through many years of adventures. Scarpa has built a high quality, versatile boot here that is sure to please any outdoor enthusiast. Whether you're hiking, backpacking or bagging a peak, these boots will see you through the challenge and then some.

Gear Closet: Keen Verdi Mid WP Hiking Boots

Comfortable, lightweight, durable and affordable. That seems to be the formula that Keen follows when designing their hiking boots, and over the years they've managed to work that formula into a fine art. Their boots have always been the perfect choice for the ultra-light backpacker, weekend warrior or adventure traveler. The company's new Verdi Mid WP doesn't stray far from that winning formula, although they do continue to refine their boots, improving them with every iteration.

Designed from the ground up to be a trail shoe for those who want to remain light on their feet without compromising performance, the Verdi Mid is everything you could ask for in a hiking boot. The tough and sturdy outsole provides good traction on a variety of surfaces while keeping your feet well protected from the rigors of the trail. They feature rugged, yet breathable, fabrics that do a remarkable job of resisting wear and tear, while the ankle support is much appreciated for those long treks. Throw in excellent waterproofing and a tongue designed to keep rocks and dirt out of the interior and you have an excellent shoe that lives up to the Keen reputation for quality.

One of the things that I always appreciate from any shoe from Keen is that they have a relatively short – or even nonexistent – break-in period. That happens to be the case with the Verdi Mids as well, which seemed ready to hit the trail right out of the box. Aside from needing to loosen up a bit around the ankles, my first day out with these boots felt like I had worn them plenty of times before. There is something reassuring about pulling on a new pair of shoes that feel like a comfortable old pair of shoes.

My local trails have proven to be the perfect testing ground early in the year. Living in Texas, we've already had temperatures ranging from cool to surprisingly warm and when you add in some rain here and there, you get a nice mix that will put any boot through its paces. In cooler, wet weather the Verdi Mids kept my feet warm and dry while maintaining perfect footing along the way. In warmer, dustier weather my feet stayed dry, blister free and completely comfortable. The boots get bonus points for having a spacious interior that accommodates thicker hiking socks without any problem.

I was so impressed with their performance that I would recommend these boots for anyone in the market for a new three-season hiking shoe heading into the spring. They definitely subscribe to the Keen formula that I opened this post with, being comfortable, lightweight and quite durable. As for the "affordable" portion of that formula, the Verdi Mids come with a price tag of $120, which makes them a great buy for such a high quality product. Over the years, I've come to learn that you get what you pay for, particularly when it comes to outdoor gear. Keen shoes remain one of the best values on the market however, providing plenty of performance and long life, making them a worth investment for any outdoor enthusiast.

If you have some big plans for spring hikes but need some good footwear to see you through those adventures, then the Keen Verdi Mids are certainly a great choice.

Gear Closet: ECCO BIOM Hike 1.2 Boots

A couple of weeks back I posted a very positive review of a new pair of minimalist running shoes from ECCO that I have been training in lately. At the time I hinted that those shoes were just the tip of the iceberg in terms of what the company has planned for their active and outdoor footwear line in the year ahead. ECCO has some ambitious products in the pipeline, many of which go well beyond just running shoes. Take for example their new BIOM Hike 1.2 hiking boots, an aggressively styled shoe that molds rugged good looks, performance fabrics and a durable sole into one very comfortable product.

One of the first things I noticed when I pulled these boots on for the first time was how comfortable they are. ECCO will tell you that that is because they've been designed to wrap around your foot in an anatomical fashion, cradling it in all of the right places, and I'm apt to believe them. These boots hug your feet with a snug fit but without restricting motion in any way. Arch and ankle support are excellent as well, and when you factor in the sturdy, yet flexible, outsole, you get a boot that shields your feet from all of the challenges of the trail.

The Hike 1.2 isn't just built for comfort however as ECCO has clearly designed these boots for the demands of our favorite outdoor pursuits. Not only does the sole provide plenty of traction on just about any type of surface – wet or dray – but these shoes also excel at keeping your feet warm and dry. A built-in Gore-Tex lining helps keep these boots waterproof in the worse of conditions and provides a nice layer of insulation in colder weather too. As is typical with Gore-Tex, you give up a bit of breathability, which could make the Hike 1.2's a bit too warm on hot weather hikes. I tested these recently in the snow and ice, and on some cool weather treks, and this wasn't an issue. But I'll reserve judgement on how they perform in the heat of a Texas summer.

Despite creating a boot that acts like armor for your feet, ECCO has managed to keep the Hike 1.2 surprisingly lightweight. In fact, I own other pairs of boots that don't provide the same level of protection while still managing to weigh considerably more. The combination of lightweight and super-comfortable footwear make for very happy feet at the end of the day and after returning home from a long hike, I wasn't in a rush to take them off. If that isn't a testament to how comfortable these boots are, I don't know what is.

Earlier in the week I posted a review of a new pair of hiking boots from Keen and if you read that review, you probably know that I was also very impressed with those shoes too. But those boots and the Hike 1.2 are aimed at two very different markets. If you're a weekend warrior who enjoys day hikes and possibly some light camping, then I'd recommend the Keens wholeheartedly. But if you're looking for something a bit more rugged for longer treks, backpacking trips or even light mountaineering, then you'll want to check out what ECCO has to offer. The Gore-Tex liner alone puts these boots in a different category, making the Hike 1.2 an excellent option for climbing Kilimanjaro, hiking the Inca Trail or even trekking to Everest Base Camp.

Of course, there is one other major distinction between these boots. The ECCO Hike 1.2 does carry a heftier price tag coming in at $225, as compared to Keen's $120 price. But considering what the ECCO boots bring to the table, I would consider them well worth the price. They are a lightweight, durable and very comfortable boot that will last for years. They'll also see you through many adventures great and small, keeping your feet perfectly safe in the process.

If these boots are indeed a hint of what ECCO has planned for their outdoor footwear line, I can't wait to see what they come up with next.

Gear Closet: Keen Alamosa Mid Hiking Boots

Finding the right hiking shoes for long days on the trail is always a tricky matter. We want footwear that is comfortable of course, not to mention durable and rugged. The shoes should provide good traction on a variety of surfaces and it doesn't hurt if they just so happen to look good too. That may sound like the Holy Grail of hiking boots but it also happens to be an apt description for the Alamosa Mid from Keen, a lightweight pair of boots that don't compromise on build quality or protection for our feet.

I had the privilege of testing the Alamosa WP hiking shoes last year and came away very impressed with what Keen had to offer. The Alamosa Mids differ from those shoes in some key ways however, not the least of which is their ability to handle moisture. The WP version of these shoes are actually waterproof, while the Mid is just water resistant. An important distinction depending on how you'll be using them. But the Mid is more of a full hiking boot, providing a lot more support for the ankle. That translates into a higher level of stability on the trail and better overall comfort on longer hikes.

Built from water resistant leather, with a breathable mesh upper, the Alamosa Mid is a nice mix of both classic and modern hiking boot design. These boots feature a flexible, yet durable, non-marking rubber sole that wraps up and around the toes to provide plenty of protection from the rigors of a rocky trail. That same outsole provides a solid level of traction for when the trail gets wet or icy, giving us the stability we need in variety of weather conditions.


I had the chance to test these boots extensively over the holiday season that has just passed and came away very happy with their performance. I wore them in both snow and ice, as well as on dry trails in warmer conditions, and in both cases my feet were very happy with the results. The Alamosa Mids kept my toes warm and dry in the snow and slush, and yet they were able to breathe well in warmer environments, wicking moisture away in those conditions too. The higher ankle support was much appreciated as well, particularly on the slicker surfaces and the more rugged trails and rocky trails found near my home in Texas.

Wearing these shoes for extended periods of time is no problem as well, thanks to a comfortable (and removable) footbed that cradles the arch and provides plenty of cushion for the bottom of the foot. In fact, I found these boots to be so comfortable, that they were quite literally the only pair of shoes that I took with me on a holiday road trip back home to the Midwest. Their classic styling and good looks make them perfect for wearing around town or on a snow trail, and despite being exposed to a wide variety of weather conditions, they've held up exceptionally well and still look brand new.

If you're in the market for a new pair of hiking boots that can perform well in many different situations than I highly recommend the Keen's Alamosa Mids. They are an excellent entry into the lightweight hiking boot category, making them perfect for day hikes or backpacking in terrain that isn't too rugged. They are durable and well built too, which means they'll make good trail shoes for many, many hikes to come. The fact that they cost just $120 means they won't put too much pain on  your pocketbook either.

Gear Closet: Danner Crag Rat Hiking Boots

Earlier this year I had the pleasure of testing a pair of Danner Crater Rim hiking boots and came away very impressed. The boots were comfortable, durable and provided plenty of support on the trail. They ended up being one of the biggest surprises that I've had all year in the way of gear and after sufficiently breaking them in, I was regularly hitting hiking trails with very happy feet.

Part of my surprise came from the fact that the Crater Rim boots looked rather uninspiring when I first took them out of the box. They had a very classic look about them that appeared dated when sitting next to other hiking boots from Danner's competitors. That staid look wasn't great for first impressions, but the Crater Rims made up for that when I got them on my feet.

A few weeks back I received a new set of boots from Danner and based on my experience with their previous offering I was eager to open it up and see what was inside. This time I found a pair of hiking shoes that had looks to match their performance. The new Crag Rat boots update the classic good looks of the company's other hiking shoes with a splash of color and a more modern design. But these shoes aren't just about good looks, they also happen to maintain Danner's high level of performance.

Built from Nubuc leather, these boots require a bit of a break-in period as well, but once the leather has loosened up, they become a flexible, comfortable trail shoe. Danner lined the boot with Gore-Tex which keeps them waterproof and warm - a bit too warm for summer in Texas I might add – although I'm sure they'll be fantastic in the fall when the cooler weather sets in. The Crag Rats also features a Vibram outsole that works nicely with Danner's patented Dynamic Response System to create a protective barrier for the foot that also happens to provide plenty of stability on unstable ground. Inside they've placed a soft footbed that molds to the foot, becoming more comfortable over time.



Putting these boots through their paces only served to reenforce my positive impression of Danner. The Crag Rats are incredibly well constructed and resistant to wear, absorbing every bit of punishment I threw their way. The pair I tested look like they just came out of the box, aside from a bit of mud and dirt from the trail and despite using them on the rocky Texas trails, there is nary a scratch or scuff on them.

I aslo appreciated the high ankle support these boots provide, which when coupled with Danner's speed lacing system, cinched up nicely around my feet. Since spraining both my ankles in the Costa Rican rainforest last year I've had particularly sensitive and tender ankles. But the Crag Rat boots not only cradled them extremely well, they prevented me from rolling them and re-injuring them again.

One of the elements that stood out for Danner when I tested the Crater Rim boots a few months back was the fact that they were handmade in their factory in Portland, Oregon. The company is clearly proud of its heritage and the fact that their boots are made in the USA. The pair of Crag Rats that I received included a stitched in label that noted that they were made in Vietnam however and I'm not sure if that is a new direction for Danner or if the pair I've been using are simply an advanced prototype built overseas before production is moved stateside. While I really didn't detect a huge difference in quality between the two boots, I still thought that this little element was worth mentioning considering Danner's reputation.

Unfortunately I haven't received any word on when these boots will be available for purchase or at what price they'll be introduced to the market. The Crag Rat boots are an incredibly high quality pair of boots that hikers and backpackers will find very enticing, but for now we'll all simply have to wait for their arrival in stores to discover these final pieces to the puzzle. If I were willing to bet, I'd guess these are scheduled for release this fall, when I think they'll be a popular choice for outdoor adventurers.

Outdoor Retailer 2012 Summer Market Preview

The 2012 Outdoor Retailer Summer Market gets underway later this week and most of the gear manufacturers will be on hand showing off their latest creations. The bi-annual event is a busy and wild  affair featuring more backpacks, boots and jackets than you could ever possibly hope to see. But it is also an opportunity to mean some very interesting people, network and talk outdoor adventure for a few days. In preparation for the oncoming gear-pocolypse, several websites have begun posting previews of what we can expect in the way of new gear.

Over at Trailspace.com there are previews of new climbing equipment and backcountry camping gear. Amongst the items that will be enticing you to spend money when they hit stores is the new Black Diamond Vapor climbing helmet, which weighs in at just 6.6 oz (187 grams) and a new rope bag from Millet that keeps your gear nicely organized. Campers will be interested in new tent lines from both Eureka and Mountain Hardwear, not to mention a new sleeping bag from Therm-a-Rest who enters that market for the first time.

Trailspace always does a great job of reporting OR news directly from the show so be sure to keep an eye on their Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2012 Coverage page.

The Gear Junkie has also posted an early look at some of the gear that will be on display in Salt Lake City this week with some unique and interesting items catching his attention. For instance in his first preview we get a glimpse at Kelty's new air-pole tent that features an inflatable frame to keep it in place and a minimalist hydration pack from Platypus designed for cyclists. Gerber has a new flashlight powered by a crank, while a company called Biolite introduces a cook-stove that generates power to recharge your cell phone as well. GJ's second preview includes other intriguing gear such as  Mountainsmith's new lightweight, three-season tent that uses trekking poles to keep it suspended. We also get a look at new alpine boots from Scarpa – designed by Ueli Steck no less – that promise to shed bulk and weight while remaining comfortable. Granite Gear introduces a new backpack with a host of features that mountaineers are sure to love which will be available later in the year too.

I'll be headed out to Salt Lake City for the show on Wednesday and I'll be there when the doors open on Thursday morning. Like last year I intend to share as much stuff as I can directly from the show floor, so if you're interested in checking out the new gear as it's announced follow me on Twitter at @KungFuJedi. I promise to include photos of the gear as often as I can so you'll have an idea of what to expect when this stuff hits the market in a few months time.

Gear Closet: AKU SL Trek GTX Hiking Boots

The hiking boot market is one of the most competitive and crowded in the entire outdoor industry. There are literally dozens of companies producing a wide variety of footwear designed to fit the specific needs of climbers, trekkers and backpackers everywhere.

Italian boot manufacturer AKU is one such company. For more than 30 years AKU has been designing and testing mountain footwear in the Alps, and over those three decades the company has grown from a small workshop to a large scale operation. The brand is well known in Europe and other parts of the world, but now AKU is coming to North America and their bringing their high quality boots with them.

I recently had my first experience with AKU boots when I put their SL Trek GTX to the test. Lightweight and durable, these shoes are built for hiking. Their design incorporates an intriguing blend of AKU's traditional mountaineering heritage with a mix of modern, high tech elements that make them a great choice for trekking trails in the backyard or the far side of the planet.

One of the first things that struck me when I started hiking in these boots was how comfortable and breathable they are, even in very warm conditions. Hiking Texas trails in the summer heat can be brutal on your feet, but the SL Trek GTX managed to keep my feet dry, happy and blister free. No boot is perfect in hot conditions of course, but these were some of the best I've encountered, especially considering some of the other features it brings to the table.



Performance isn't limited to simply venting heat off our feet either. The aggressive Vibram sole has an impressive grip that provides stability and traction on a wide variety of surfaces, both wet and dry. These boots are obviously well suited for the trail but I found they were equally adept at scrambling up a smooth rock face or across a field of loose scree too. This level of performance and versatility is obviously a cross over from AKU's line of mountaineering boots but considering how unpredictable trail conditions can be, it is nice to know you're wearing a pair of boots that are up to the task.

One of the more unique aspects of AKU's design is a polyurethane exoskeleton, which wraps around the exterior of the boot. That exoskeleton is meant to provide an extended level of stability without adding bulk or weight, and for the most part it works. This feature does give the Trek GTX a certain rigidness however, which made for an extended break-in time. As is generally the case with a pair of new boots, they did eventually loosen up and became more very comfortable but it took a bit longer than I expected.

Other features of the AKU SL Trek GTX include a Gore-Tex liner that helps keep moisture out, a memory foam footbed that molds to the foot the more you wear it and a sole that provides excellent cushioning from the rigors of the trail. All of these elements work well together to create a lightweight, comfortable boot that is durable enough to last for years.

AKU has a winner on their hands with these boots. They not only perform at an extremely high level but they also have their own unique look and feel as well. If you're in the market for a new pair of hiking boots for serious alpine trekking or backpacking, I highly recommend giving these boots a try. Just be prepared to give them ample time to loosen up and break in and you're likely to find you have a fantastic pair of boots that will accompany on far flung adventures for a long time.

(MSRP: $329)

Gear Closet: Keen Turia Shoes

One of my all time favorite pairs of shoes are a classic pair of sandals from Keen. I love them because they are comfortable, durable and versatile. I've worn them on light hiking trips, visits to tropical destinations or simply kicking around town. They've always scored big points for being highly packable as well, so they have often ended up being one of the pairs of shoes that I take with me when I travel. So when I was offered the opportunity to test the new Turia sandals, it was with both excitement and trepidation that I accepted. After all, these new shoes had a lot to live up to.

The new Turia has a classic Keen look while still managing a style all of their own. With a breathable synthetic airmesh upper, a soft, molded footpad and a rugged close toe, the shoe manages to provide plenty of protection for the foot while keep them well ventilated as well. The no-slip soles provide great traction, even on slick surfaces, and the quick-lace system is still a convenient way to adjust the fit of the shoes to your liking. In short, the Turia is a nice mix of the classic Keen design with a few subtle improvements.

Primarily built for use in warm environments or around water, the Turia is a fantastic travel shoe. Their compact design make them a perfect choice for throwing in a backpack or luggage, even when room is at a premium and they're equally at home in base camp as they are around a resort pool. There aren't many casual shoes that can go from trail to beach to town with such ease, but the Turia can accomplish that get and more.



I recently took my pair of Turias with me to Jordan where they were put to the test on the streets of Amman, hiking through the ruins of Petra and in the wilds of Wadi Rum. Considering that country is both warm and incredibly dry, I was extremely happy that I brought them, particularly when we hit the blistering desert sands. The fact that these shoes are comfortable to wear, easy to hike in, and allowed sand to pass through without filling them up, made them a great option for that journey, although they performed equally well while visiting both the Red and Dead Seas.

As with most new shoes, I tend to spend some time breaking them in sufficiently before I take them with me to another country. During that process I found the underside of the airmesh upper to be a bit abrasive on the tops of my feet. They didn't actually manage to cause any blisters, but they rubbed them just enough to be uncomfortable at times. Fortunately the more I wore them the less of an issue this became, although I'm not sure if it was because the fabrics smoothed out some with use or if my feet simply became accustomed to wearing the sandals. In the long run this hasn't been an ongoing issue, but the first few times I wore them I was a bit concerned.

Aside from that one issue, the Turia Sandals were quick and easy to break-in (a common trait with Keen shoes I've found) and have been very durable thus far. I've been wearing mine multiple times a week for several months and they still look like they just came out of the box. Considering how much mileage I've put on them already, that bodes well for their long term durability.

Keen's Turia Sandals come with a $100 price tag, which is a good price for a pair of shoes that you can take with you practically everywhere. I think you'll find they make excellent travel shoes but are just as comfortable for when you're at home too.

Nat Geo Adventure Announces 2012 Spring/Summer Gear of the Year

Looking for some new gear to add to your arsenal of outdoor equipment? Than National Geographic Adventure has you covered. They've just announced the winners of their 2012 Spring/Summer Gear of the Year and as always there are plenty of great items competing for your hard earned cash.

Items on the list include the new Sierra Designs Zissou 15 sleeping bag which uses the new waterproof down that has been all the buzz in recent months. The Outdoor Research Axiom jacket get a nod for its use of a more flexible version of Gore-Tex and the Canon 5D Mark III DSLR sets a new standard for cameras as well.

A couple of items that I've had the pleasure of reviewing make the list, including the Atmos 50 backpack from Osprey and Camelbak's ingenious All Clear bottle, which uses UV light to purify drinking water. I found both of those products to be fantastic and highly recommend each as well.

Of course, the Gear of the Year list always inspires some gear-lust in my personally and the 2012 edition is no exception. I'm personally looking forward to trying out the Suunto Ambit watch, which I've heard really great things about and the North Face Havoc Mid GTX XCR hiking boots have me intrigued as well.

Most of this equipment is available now and makes perfect gifts for moms, dads and grads. Of course, they also make perfect gifts for yourself as you gear up for the summer adventures ahead.

Gear Closet: Danner Crater Rim Boots

There are a lot of companies that make hiking boots these days, many of which have no business doing so. They stock their line-up with way too many options and colors and they seem more designed for fashion than function. That isn't the case with Danner however, a company that has been around for 80 years and has maintained a reputation for creating boots that are durable, rugged and comfortable even in the most challenging of conditions.

I recently received a pair of the company's new top-of-the-line Crater Rim hiking boots and to be honest, I was a bit underwhelmed when I first took them out of the box. With their simple, classic design these boots don't look much different than something you would have found on store shelves twenty years ago, although that isn't necessarily a bad thing. In terms of looks, this is the quintessential hiking boot, but when you're use to testing shoes that come in increasingly unique colors and designs, the Crater Rim did little to set itself apart.

Of course, I'm of the mind that looks don't mean much in a hiking boot, it's performance on the trail that really matters. With that in mind, I was eager to slip into these boots and take them for a test drive. When I did that however, I was once again a bit underwhelmed. The boots were a bit stiff and they felt somewhat cumbersome on my feet, for lack of a better word. As I walked around my apartment testing them out for the first time, I wasn't sure what to make of these boots with the unassuming looks and the uncompromising fit.

Then a funny thing happened. The longer I wore them the more they started to feel good on my feet. The nubuc leather began to loosen up just enough and my pair of Crater Rims started to become more flexible.  Even better, it felt like they were cradling my feet quite nicely and before I knew it was enjoying these new boots more than I had initially thought possible. By the time I drove to the trail I was more than ready for a good long hike.

While on that hike Danner's hand crafted boots, put together in their Portland factory, continued to impress. The thick soles – the same ones that I found cumbersome not long before – proved to be a great at protecting my feet on the rocky Texas trails and the waterproof Gore-Tex liner remained highly breathable, keeping my feet dry throughout the day. The only hitch in the entire trek was that the boot rubbed my ankles in the early miles of the hike, although like the rest of the boot that loosened up over time.

Make no mistake, Danner's Crater Rim boots are a hard core option for those who demand a lot out of their boots, Their rugged looks are not just for show and the boots have worn very well even after a number of hikes. My pair still look practically new, which bodes well for their longterm health. Be warned, the boots do come with a hard core price tag as well. Ringing in at $300, they may be a bit more expensive than most people want to pay, but from my experience they are worth the money. After all, they're made by hand, right here in the U.S. and the quality shines through.

Whenever I test a new pair of boots I invariably compare them to my favorite pair of Asolos that have accompanied me on trips to Everest, Kilimanjaro and beyond. Those boots are comfortable and very durable and love the way they feel on my feet. They also happen to cost less than the Crater Rims. That said, this is the first pair of boots I've found in years that can actually perform on the same level of those boots and may actually surpass them for long term durability. I'll need to wear them on a few globe trotting adventures to be sure, but at this point I have a really great feeling about that.

If you're in the market for a new pair of hiking boots, and you're looking for something that can handle just about anything you throw at them, then look no further than the Crater Rim by Danner. Quality costs money but it'll also pay off over the lifespan of the shoes, and your feet will thank you on your next long distance trek.

Just don't let your initial impressions turn you off to these boots. This is definitely a case of not judging a book by its cover. Great boots for great adventures!

Gear Closet: Keen Ambler Hiking Shoes

Despite the fact that the calendar still reads winter, we all know spring is now just a few short weeks away. That means it is time to put away the thick winter clothes and store those bulky snow boots for another year. This spring Keen is helping us make the transition back to the warmer weather with a new pair of light hiking shoes that could help to redefine the category.

The new Ambler light hiker features a very soft waxed suede upper that is both durable and water resistant, helping to keep the shoes looking good and maintaining their overall condition. After breaking the shoes in by wearing them around town I was eager to hit some local trails and after several day hikes in a variety of conditions, I can honestly say that my Amblers still look like they just came out of the box. The suede makes them very easy to keep clean and with a little attention, you'd hardly know that they've been used as much as they have.

On the inside, the Amblers sport a well cushioned footpad that conforms to the shape of your foot, actually becoming more comfortable as you wear them. A moisture-wicking lining helps to keep your feet cool and dry no matter the what the weather throws at you and the lightweight, yet rugged, sole round out the package.

Of course, all of that sounds like what you would expect out of just about any light hiker from just about any company. But as usual, Keen has a few surprises in store for us, not the least of which is how good these shoes actually look. The Amblers have a nice sense of style about them that is unique and truly makes them stand out from a crowded field of competitors that mostly look the same. You can wear these shoes on a trail all day, then go to the local watering hole immediately afterward without a second thought, and I was surprised at how many people made comments on these shoes while I had them on.

We all know that how good a shoe looks is secondary to how well it performs however and we all want our hiking shoes to live up to our expectations. The Amblers don't disappoint in that area either and I was continually impressed with how light and comfortable they were. In fact I regularly had to remind myself that I wasn't wearing a pair of trail running shoes, albeit ones that protect my feet more fully.

The Amblers don't just make a great trail shoe however as their versatility make them perfect for travel as well. When I hit the road I tend to travel light, rarely carrying more than two pairs of shoes with me at any given time. Because these shoes are great both on the trail and around town, they are the perfect option no matter what the destination.

The great looks, comfort, and versatility all come with a great price tag as well. The MSRP on the Keen Amblers is just $100 which is a bargain for quality shoes of this type. From my perspective, Keen has another hit on their hands.

Gear Closet: Wolverine Pulsar Boots

For more than 125 years, Wolverine has been designing boots for the workplace. In fact, when I think of the company, thats what immediately comes to mind – sturdy, rugged, shoes that are popular on logging and construction sites, and a variety of other places. With that legacy in mind, I was surprised when I first saw their new Pulsar hiking boots, which are due out later this spring. Better yet, I was even more pleasantly surprised when I put them on for the first time.

The first thing that will strike you when you lay your eyes on the Pulsar is how different looking they are from any other boot from Wolverine. While many of their work boots share a more staid, locked down design, the Pulsar comes in several different colors and look a bit like a mash-up between a hiking shoe and a sneaker. The shoe incorporates a waterproof, yet highly breathable, Gore-Tex liner, and features an integrated Ortholite footpad. It also uses Wolverine's patented Individual Comfort System (ICS), which I'll talk a bit more about shortly. 

After I finished admiring the Pulsar's interesting and refreshing design, I immediately laced them up and slipped them on. Turns out they don't just look good, they feel great too. I was immediately impressed with how well these boots cradle your feet, particularly along the arches. I also noticed that the footpads molded nicely itself to my feet, which made the shoes even more comfortable after I wore them a time or two. The thick, rugged Vibram soles also go a long way to protecting the bottom of your feet, even while trekking over rocky terrain. 

But Wolverine went a step further in ensuring that these will be one of the most comfortable pair of boots you've worn by developing their Individual Comfort System. The ICS uses a specially designed gel disc, which sits under the liner in the heel of the shoe. That disc can be rotated to adjust the feel of the boots from a firmer setting, which helps stave off fatigue on longer hikes, to a more cushioned feel, which is designed to maximize the shock absorption. The disc can also be set to compensate between a low or high arched foot as well. The design is actually ingenious and this isn't simply a marketing ploy on the part o Wolverine. Adjusting the ICS disc did have a noticeable impact on how the shoes felts felt, and the entire system works extremely well. 

In case you couldn't tell, I'm highly impressed with the Pulsar boots. Over the past few weeks, I've worst them in all kinds of weather and on all kinds of surfaces, and I've found them to be as much fun to wear around town as they are on the trail. A few months back I managed to sprain both ankles, and while they are mostly better now, there are days when they still bother me. But these boots are quite possibly the most comfortable shoe I've had on my feet since the injury. After wearing these boots for hours on end, my feet don't feel nearly as fatigued or tired as some of the other footwear I own, and I can't think of a better endorsement for these shoes at the moment. I've come to enjoy the Pulsar's so much in fact, that they I've worn them more than any other shoe since they arrived at my door. 

The Pulsar hiking boots will be available later this spring and while the price hasn't been finalized yet, they are expected to retail for about $165. I think you'll find that they are an excellent now option for hiking shoes, and I can't wait to see what else Wolverine has in store for us.