PRECISION LACING ON DEMAND
Fine-tune the fit as easily as you dial up the volume on your stereo. The Vaporate’s Boa system—49 thin steel cables integrated in the shoe’s upper—bear-hugs your foot with wraparound pressure at the twist of a knob (located at the back of the heel, safe from bangs and bumps). The instant adjustment was welcome when I switched back and forth between scrambling and hiking. Other smart features include aggressive lugs at key traction points and rigid underfoot protection. timberland.com
Bonus: Weighing just 14 ounces apiece, these are extremely light shoes for their performance.
Bummer: Even after weeks of testing, the synthetic upper still felt a bit plastic and stiff.