Footwear
Tested: Keen Uneek 02
The Uneek O2’s are a lighter weight version of Keen’s original Uneek sandals that, with their new closed heal, gives more of a ‘trainer feel’ in the back – perhaps confusing how to really classify these shoes! Whether sandals or trainers, after several months and a lot of use, I can honestly say that these have been some of the most comfortable footwear that I’ve ever worn. The O2’s are still constructed with the same two-cord design that makes the entire Uneek range so ‘unique’. This construction moves with your foot and almost makes you forget that you’re wearing shoes at all. … Read more »
Filed under: Footwear
Tested: Keen Liberty Ridge
We travel to the Balkans to try out Keen’s latest European Made hiking boot… Keen have made much recently of their push to manufacture in the markets that they sell into, and rightly so. As well as providing jobs in these regions, it also saves on the energy used and pollution created by shipping products around the world from far eastern factories. Keen’s factory in Oregon has been manufacturing footwear for the North American market for four years now and they have recently started manufacturing in Europe to serve its customers on this side of the Pond. If only more brands … Read more »
New tough shoe from Anatom
Anatom has launched a new shoe that fills a niche in the rugged approach shoe / boot market. Ideal for challenging terrain, where a flexible approach shoe would lack in stability, the S2 Stone Road is designed to provide the walker with more support than other approach shoes. The Stone Road incorporates Anatom’s new SR outsole made from super grip, non-slip rubber, which provides stability and more secure footing. The S2 Stone Road was developed and tested in the Cairngorm mountain range, the lightweight phylon midsole and reinforced arch bridge give increased comfort and support. This shoe also features a new bellows lacing system, which … Read more »
Tested: Millet Everest Summit GTX
Expedition leader Tim Mosedale tests out the latest version of Millet’s high-altitude boots, on Ama Dablam… I’m sure that you are well-acquainted with the concept of layering; creating air pockets and trapping layers of warm air between garments, whether that be the upper body, legs, head or hands. By removing or adding thin or thick layers you can regulate your temperature according to whether you are working hard, standing still at a belay, resting for lunch or whether the weather has changed and it is getting warmer or cooler. With boots, however, this isn’t really an option. Apart from perhaps adding a … Read more »
Filed under: Climbing & Mountaineering, Footwear
Group Test: 3-4 Season Boots
Need a boot for year-round use? We test out eight of the best models vying for your money… It’s not possible to have one boot that’s perfect for every occasion, but a 3-4 season boot is probably as close you can get. Offering as much support and protection as you’ll ever need, they will even take you onto snow at a push, with a sole stiff enough to take C1 crampons, yet still be flexible enough to remain comfortable after hours of walking or trekking. Within this category there are also several distinct types of boot e.g. do you want a … Read more »
