Why They’re CoolDefying their given name, the two-pound-12-ounce Alpine Trails are great warm-weather boots, with breathable all-leather construction and no waterproof lining. » The high-topped uppers fended off whistling-thorn acacia in Tanzania’s Selous Game Reserve, while protecting my ankles from rocks and (I hoped) mamba bites. Support was excellent for day-hiking loads up to 25 pounds. » Despite a soft EVA midsole, arch protection is good, thanks to a fiber insole and an excellent sock liner reinforced with a polyurethane shank. » Sharp-edged tread blocks afforded me great traction in soft dirt and sand. » My toes rejoiced in the generous wiggle room.
Hmmm . . .The sole squirmed too much for secure traction on steep slabs and boulders.