If you’re going to name a shoe after the most feared of all snakes, it better be bad ass. TrekSta dared to invoke the name with their Kobra II GTX light hiking shoes. Packed with technology aimed to keep you dry and comfortable, the Kobras claim to be the “envy of light hikers everywhere.” We tested these shoes everywhere in every possible condition, and in the end found out that the Kobras are indeed king.
When we opened the box an audible “damn” were the first words uttered. These shoes look the part: a striking grey and black color scheme with lime green highlights is both flashy and muted enough to fit right in outdoors. The next thing you’ll notice is the absence of laces; that’s right, the Kobra IIs are outfitted with a Boa lacing system. The quick adjust dial on the shoes means you’ll be locked and loaded with a simple turn. On the trail adjustments are easy with the Boa, and after five months of testing the system is as solid as the day we opened the box.
TrekSta uses NestFIT tech to ensure the shoes cradle your feet. We’ll admit, they felt a little weird (almost too perfect) the first few times we hit the trail, but after a minimal break in period the NestFIT delivered exactly what it promised: a shoe that adapts to the contours of your feet is tough to beat in terms of comfort. After long hikes in the mountains and tough slogs through desert washes, our feet were so comfy that we didn’t even need to change shoes back in camp.
Traction is often the number one concern when it comes to picking out a light hiking shoe. The Kobra II shines in this area. Most people wouldn’t consider wearing a shoe during late spring in the mountains; high elevation snowpack usually demands that travelers use their boots well into early summer. Thanks to Hypergrip/Icelock soles, the Kobras made quick work of spring ascents through packed pow in the Wasatch. When it came to the desert, the Trekstas delivered again: when stemming through slot canyons in the San Rafael Swell, the shoes stuck like glue and prevented us from a muddy splashdown.
So what happens if water is unavoidable? No worries, these shoes have a GoreTex membrane to keep your feet dry. We gave them the standard water test: after more than three minutes under a chilly mountain stream our feet came out dry and happy. Mud, snow, ice and water are all kept where they belong- outside of the shoes. The only drawback to the GoreTex membrane is the potential for overheating. You probably don’t want to wear the Kobras for trail running on dry, hot summer days.
After putting these kicks through the ringer, we would be hard pressed to recommend a better pair of light hiking shoes. The Kobras killed it in any condition, and kept our feet comfortable doing it. If you’re in the market for a new pair of shoes that delivers proven performance with heaps of style, the TrekSta Kobra II GTX should be on your list of finalists. Just keep your eyes open for mongoose- the little fella might be this shoes’ only weakness. For more info or to find out where to grab a pair, head to TrekStausa.com.