THE SELL: The ultimate multisport hiking shoe. THE TEST: Don’t be fooled by the trail-runner-like appearance—the Forge Pro has boot in its blood. The thick, stable outsole (with a stiff nylon shank) was a welcome ally during a tricky late-fall ridge scramble in Pennsylvania, and the sawtooth tread held solid on icy ledges when other boots whimpered for mini-crampons. Even on longer jaunts, the Forge was impressively comfortable, with dependable (if a little steamy) eVent waterproofing and a shock-absorbing EVA foam midsole that, after a 14-mile hike with 25 pounds, had one lonely tester waxing romantic. “I could have kissed them,” he said. THE VERDICT: A solid low-cut that’s game for whatever mission you decide to take on. 15.2 oz.
Support: 4
Comfort: 4
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