Trail Gear Guide 2022
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ZAMBERLAN 996 VIOZ GTX £220<br />
With their traditional looks and Gore-Tex lined, full-grain leather uppers, these boots<br />
are built for the long haul, just like all boots used to be. They’re reliably waterproof,<br />
extremely durable and reassuringly stable, inspiring confidence over the rockiest<br />
terrain. Downsides? They take a little while to break in and aren’t the lightest.<br />
VERDICT So-called ‘fast and light’ hikers might find these boots too<br />
heavy and stiff, but others will appreciate their superb build quality –<br />
which also means they’ll undoubtedly outlast flimsier rivals.<br />
ALTBERG DALESWAY VEGAN BOOT £195<br />
The ethical and environmental benefits of a plant-based<br />
lifestyle have meant that veganism has gained huge traction<br />
in recent years – but the outdoor industry seems to be lagging<br />
behind. There is Altberg’s Dalesway though: a vegan-friendly<br />
hillwalking boot with uppers made from lorica, a man-made<br />
microporous alternative to leather. Sturdy and waterproof,<br />
they’re also available in five widths.<br />
VERDICT Choices are fairly limited if you’re looking<br />
for high-quality, vegan-friendly hillwalking boots, but<br />
Altberg’s Dalesway is one of the most well-made and<br />
robust options out there.<br />
NEW<br />
FOR<br />
<strong>2022</strong><br />
LONG-TERM TESTS<br />
ADIDAS TERREX<br />
EASTRAIL MID GTX £100<br />
Budget boots usually come<br />
with a few compromises, but<br />
I can honestly say that these<br />
lightweight hikers aren’t<br />
just great value: these are great boots,<br />
full-stop. You get reliable Gore-Tex<br />
waterproofing, running shoe cushioning<br />
and solid build quality. I’ve worn them<br />
regularly over the past 6 months, yomping<br />
all over Snowdonia. They’ve performed<br />
brilliantly and still look like new.<br />
VERDICT A stylish, comfortable,<br />
lightweight and waterproof mid-cut hiker<br />
at a great price. Why pay more?<br />
USED BY Matt Jones, <strong>Trail</strong> contributor<br />
USED FOR 6 months<br />
MAGAZINE<br />
BEST<br />
VALUE<br />
DANNER MOUNTAIN 600 £200<br />
The Mountain 600’s hybrid style, combining a traditional full-grain leather upper with a<br />
cushioned trainer-like midsole, looks striking. The springy-feeling midsole is the pièce de<br />
résistance, delivering top-notch rebound, cushioning and support in a really responsive,<br />
agile unit. You also get a leather upper, Danner Dry membrane and a Vibram Fuga outsole.<br />
VERDICT A full-grain leather boot with a plush, springy midsole.<br />
GEAR GUIDE <strong>2022</strong> TRAIL<br />
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