Wandering for miles through the halls of the Salt Palace during the 2016 Outdoor Retailer Summer Market, the mind inevitably turns toward one’s sore feet. Good shoes are imperative, so I was interested to see what new shoes and boots are coming out for spring ’17. Here are some highlights from Garmont, Vasque, Oboz, and Glerups.
Vasque Breeze III
First off, Vasque debuted the new Breeze III hiking boot. It’s an updated version of the company’s best-selling, original Breeze. This new iteration packs in new technologies that have been developed over the years, such as a more sleek and ergonomic design, a more breathable, mesh upper, and new heel and toe ventilation ports to increase airflow. It also includes exclusive Vibram ContactGrip outsoles for traction, coupled with Vibram Megagrip High Performance compound for “uncompromising grip.” MSRP: $179.99
Garmont Tower Trek GTX
New from Garmont is the Tower Trek GTX. This backpacking/trekking boot stands out because it has all the features you’d expect from a burly, multi-day boot, but with the weight of a sneaker. What’s unique is the “flex insert” where the collar and tongue are made of one piece of Schoeller® stretch fabric coupled with a stretchy Gore-Tex® lining. This gives the high-motion area around the ankle a lot more comfort and flex. The boot also has a progressive lasting board that matches stiffness/flexibility to the length of the boot. The Vibram® New Winkler outsole features semi-blocked lugs in the toe and heel strike area for enhanced grip on hard surfaces. MSRP: $330
Oboz Crest BDry
The latest offering from Oboz is the Crest Low BDry (MSRP:$150) and Crest Mid BDry (MSRP: $165). These are technical, light, waterproof trail shoes that can handle everything from day hikes to long backpacking excursions. A ton of mesh allows for excellent breathabilty, which is also enhanced Oboz’ breathable BDry membrane. Below the uppers, there is waterproof, double strobel construction that gives the Crest a light, flexible feel. The durable, edge-to-edge Thru-Hiker outsole reduces the exposure of the midsole to wear and tear, and underneath the heel, a polyurethane plug gives resilient cushioning. Extras include speed lacing, an engineered BFit Deluxe footbed that supports the arches, and toe and heel reinforcements.
Glerups Slippers
Wool slippers from Gelrups look to be about the most comfortable things ever to slip into after a day on the mountain. These hand-made, 100% wool kicks slip on easy, and are super worm – no socks required. They also conform to your feet over time for a perfect, unique fit. For hanging out indoors on cold winter days, or chilling out in a yurt after backcountry skiing, I see these as being awesome for post-recreation relaxation. They are just now entering into the U.S. market, so keep an eye out for them. MSRP: Varies.