Staff members Mick and Charlotte have been testing out Lowa’s Renegade Walking boots over the last month. Read on to see what they think...
The Lowa Renegade GTX Mid is designed from the ground up to be a really comfortable, waterproof yet lightweight hiking boot for year-round use. A combination of supple Nubuck leather with a clever stitch design to give maximum comfort right out of the box.
An all-new Vibram sole, designed specifically for the Renegade Evo, offers best in class cushioning and superior grip on paths and trails. The latest Gore-Tex performance lining ensures the Renegade Evo is completely waterproof, keeping your foot comfortable in a wide range of climates.
Both Charlotte and Mick have been walking over a range of terrain in different conditions and have been really impressed with the quality and comfort of the boots.
Charlotle has been wearing the Wide Fit version stating “I was initially surprised at the width; they are one of the widest boots I’ve tried (Charlottes previous boots have included the Asolo Falcon & Grisport Fuse). Although I found the first wear a bit tough but once the leather started to soften the boots have only gotten more comfortable with each wear! These are becoming one of the most comfortable and light weight leather boots I have owned”
“They are surprisingly grippy especially on rock, and loose uneven terrain. The design of the Vibram sole seems to do a really good job at digging into the ground both up and down. I felt confident everywhere I’ve been.” This level of traction has been achieved thanks to the VIBRAM RENE TRAC outsole which has been designed with a strategic lug pattern and heel brake in combination of a well balanced sticky but durable rubber compound which performs exceptionally well in typical UK conditions.
One particular feature that Charlotte highlighted was the mountaineering hitch on the lacing system. “I really felt like my heal was locked down in the boot and in combination with the well cushioned footbed provided excellent impact protection and comfort throughout the walk. The hitch also allowed me to precisely adjust the fit across the midfoot and around the ankle for a really personalised fit.”
Charlotte noted how lightweight the Renegade is stating that “For a durable, leather boot the Lowa Renegade is really light, it feels like a shoe but with the added bonus of ankle support. I could wear it all day without it feeling heavy and tiring.” Lowa have been able to accomplish this thanks to combining modern technology with traditional craftsmanship to utilise a relatively thin leather upper without compromising durability.
Charlotte concludes that the Lowa Renegade is quickly becoming her go to everyday boot for local walks thanks to its excellent comfort and adaptability on a wide range of terrain from limestone paths and pavements to forest tracks and trails.
Mick found the fit and comfort excellent from day one.” Straight out of the box the new boots needed no wearing in, and I’ve had absolutely no blisters or rub points which is a great start.”
“The soft ankle cuff and tongue was really nice, providing a soft, cushioned feel and prevents any chance of irritation.”
The recent weather in the local Yorkshire Dales have really pushed the Renegade Boots to the limits of their intended terrain. Mick’s walks tend to take on a lot of off path terrain and has seen him testing the boots over very challenging mossy, muddy and boggy terrain.
Even during the recent snows and subsequent thaws, Mick has been especially impressed with the level of waterproof protection the boots provided; “I’ve taken the boots out in the worst conditions we’ve seen this year and I’ve not experienced any water ingress, which considering the terrain and weather I‘ve been out in is impressive.”
This level of weather protection has been achieved thanks to the natural properties of the leather upper and the GORE-TEX membrane inside that not only helps keep water but is also breathable to keep your feet comfortable inside.
Mike concludes that he’s been really impressed with the Lowa Renegade stating that they have “exceeded his exacting demands from day one. They are a really comfortable, highly versatile boot that so far has proved its worth in some very demanding conditions”.
If you’re looking for a lightweight, leather walking boot that is well suited to the typically wetter, muddier conditions of the UK then the Lowa Renegade is well worth a look. Thanks to being available in both Standard and Wide fit and sizes including UK ½ sizes there is sure to be one to fit most people.
Although we haven’t stocked the Lowa brand for that long, we’ve overall been really impressed with the quality of the boots and based on the feedback from customers along with Charlotte and Micks experience we’re sure this is set to continue. For full details and to buy click here.
