Issue link: http://viewer.e-digitaledition.com/i/1004186
Bogs' Bedrock Comp Toe (72302CT-249), $170 The Footprint: The waterproof Bedrock features a 90-degree 5/8-inch heel, a Rebound midsole for cushioning and all-shift energy return, a seamless heel-outsole construction to stop outsole separation, a flex-width insole system that adapts to fit medium and wide feet and asymmetric composite toes custom built for each size. Kevin Kious, VP–sales: "The work boot market continues to look for lighter weight boots but with enhanced durability and comfort. Consumers want the weight and comfort of an athletic shoe combined with the durability of a tough work boot. Brands that can bring this to market will win." Cat Footwear's Engage Alloy, $140 The Footprint: ASTM-approved, the Engage's alloy toes make it lighter than steel and roomier than composites. Loaded with ground-engaging performance protection, it is military tough and durable; its Vibram MegaGrip outsole is the first of its kind in the U.S. work market. Lindsey Lindemulder, Work Category Manager: "Our next generation of Earthmovers grew up wearing sneakers, so putting on a pair of heavy- duty work boots doesn't work for them. We designed this range of work boots for the guys who hate wearing work boots and the result is a sneaker boot that delivers the mega grip, protec- tion and comfort they need while spending the day hustling on their feet." Danner's Stronghold, $190 The Footprint: Made of full-grain leather with polyurethane-coated panels in high-wear areas, the Stronghold merges the brand's heritage with modern construction and technology. Its ultra-cushioning Vibram SPE midsole, which debuted in Danner's award- winning Mountain 600 hiker, is paired with a waterproof lining and an oil- and slip-resistant outsole. Erin Braun, Marketing Communications Spe- cialist: "We'll continue to look to our past to design for the present, taking inspiration from our Danner DNA and incorporating the latest in performance-driven technologies. Also look for more crossover between function and versatil- ity — protective boots that blend going straight from the jobsite to dinner on the town." Georgia Boot's ReFLX, $100 The Footprint: Made of high-performance abra- sion-resistant mesh fused with a thermoplastic polyurethane overlay, the breathable ReFLX collection features a three-layer comfort system constructed from a rubber compound for slip- resistance and flexibility and an ethylene vinyl acetate midsole layer. The patented polyure- thane footbed has a memory-foam topper that wraps the foot for a customizable fit. Melissa Lewis, Marketing Manager: "The ReFLX WORK BOOT BOOK 50 • Footwear Insight ~ July/August 2018 footwearinsight.com Hi-Tec's XT Forge Elite Mid WP360, $130 HIGH PERFORMERS ON AND OFF THE JOB Kodiak Safety's Axton 8-inch, $129