Summer Gear: New Footwear
Time to replace those worn out kicks? Here are some top footwear picks — a runner, a hiker and an approach shoe:
Multipurpose Runner: Hi-Tec Shadow Trail — $85
Hi-Tec’s Shadow Trail bridges the gap between a trail runner and a blacktop shoe. A lightweight mesh upper keeps your dogs breezy; microfiber suede reinforcements add to the shoe’s strength. On the path, a Vibram trail outsole, abrasion resistant toecap and dual-density midsole technology keep a spring in your step, and offer sufficient protection for a light-duty dirt track. This is also an ideal training shoe, thanks to its 12 mm deep-drop. Available in Royal Blue/Grey/Limoncello or Silver/Grey/Lime. Men’s (pictured) and women’s models available. Hi Tec
Silent Approach: Adidas Outdoors Terrex Solo Stealth — $120
Coming soon from Adidas Outdoors — the Terrex Solo Stealth (with Stealth Rubber) looks to be an amazing shoe. This is Adidas Outdoors’ first approach shoe with Stealth Rubber, a material that forms a secure bond to any irregular surface, allowing climbers, boulderers and alpinists to take advantage of the shoe’s extreme grip en route to technical terrain, before slipping on their climbing shoes or mountaineering boots. They offer comfort enough for everyday wear, yet functionality enough to use while belaying or hanging out and taking photos of your fellow climbers. Of course, they are very lightweight, meaning that once swapped out for boots or climbing shoes, you won’t even notice them dangling from your carabineer. Men’s and women’s (pictured) models available. Adidas Outdoors
Off-Trail Stomper: Zamberlan 960 Guide GTX RR — $300
Like a Land Rover, the fancy exterior hides a go-anywhere beast. The buttery smooth Nubuck leather is treated with a rubber compound that resists nicks, scratches, dirt and water. A high rubber rand offers further protection around the sole. And Zamberlan’s attention to detail means despite their heft (1.7 kg), they feel comfy out of the box. Inside is all the support and cushioning you could want for heavy loads and rough terrain. On a smooth trail, these big boots feel a little clunky, but as the terrain got rougher they started to feel smoother. Hiking off-trail, we felt totally stable with an aggressive tread pattern on the Vibram soles keeping us on our feet and a plastic shank providing a supportive platform. Zamberlan
