Outdoor Insight

August 2021 • Outdoor Insight • 25 outdoorinsightmag.com getting outdoors for the first time during COVID, there is also a push for boots that are more accessible and versatile than the conventional offerings. This new customer wants a boot that feels more similar to their trail running shoe: lightweight and comfortable that they can go anywhere in. Of course, there is still the cus- tomer looking for the more conventional boot, but I think we'll continue to see more offerings across the industry that trend lightweight and non-obtrusive on the foot. Aesthetically, this new demographic is also increasing the demand for more creative color arrangements that 'pop' and give the lifestyle flair they seek, unlike the traditional colors seen on standard hiking footwear." Michael O'Brien, marketing director, Topo Athletic "Since the pandemic started, there is a greater trend towards a lifestyle approach with boots or shoes that can also be worn every day." Peter Sachs, general manager, Lowa Boots "As part of our mission to support the next generation of skilled trade workers, we've spent significant time with young work boot consumers. We continue to see the bar for comfort being set by sneakers, but [we also see] a desire for classic work boot style in- fluences that signify proven toughness and timelessness. Sales of soft toe boots continue to grow, as consumers can wear them for their work needs, but also doing projects around the house and casual wear." Lauren Poole, brand marketing director, Wolverine "Western boot consumers want a well-rounded boot that can do it all. First and foremost, consumers are craving a new level of comfort. Secondly, the boot must be durable. Finally, consumers demand the traditional western boot style and aesthetic. This product category is about more than footwear — it's a lifestyle." Monte Nelson, VP of Western, Twisted X "Sustainable function has emerged as a leading trait. Consumers want function-first products that are going to perform, as they are spending more time outdoors. For the sake of a sustain- able environment, we at Baffin hope the days of 'disposable fashion' move behind us." Mark Hubner, SVP of brand and strategy, Baffin "Consumers are looking for a brand that brings quality built products to the market at competi- tive prices. They need products that hold up in the environment in which they are used, whether that is for work, outdoor, lawn and garden, lifestyle, or new for us, the fishing industry. We are all about the function of the product, with features built in to enhance the wearing experience. We use all-natural rubber, leading to a more durable, flexible product." Craig Hahn, senior partner, Dryshod Aku/Croda DFS GTX Italian brand Aku's new Croda DFS GTX boot is a high-end outdoor performer, built to be light, agile and comfortable. It has a light and sturdy Kevlar upper, along with an elastic spider frame structure and a Vibram Croda Litebase outsole that is 30 percent lighter and 50 percent slimmer than typical mountaineering boot outsoles. Offered in men's sizing and women's-specific sizing, too, designed specifically for each gender's plantar anatomy. Available Spring '22. MSRP $399.95. Wolverine/Guide UltraSpring The Guide is built to move with the body, thanks to a high-performance UltraSpring midsole that energizes each step. A grippy Vibram rubber outsole makes it suitable for any terrain. Feet stay fresh with a breathable waterproof membrane and moisture wicking mesh lining. Available Spring '22. MSRP $140. Western Chief/Ruston Washington Shoe Co. offers a chunky, rugged, sturdy boot in a monochromatic color palette for the urban warrior. This boot crosses seasons and easily transitions from day to night with high quality rubber and neoprene. The Ruston also features a memory foam insole and lightweight EVA outsole. Available Spring '22. MSRP $90. Tecnica/Magma S Mid GTX A versatile, lightweight hiker designed for those who prefer a quick pace on the trail but also require steady grip for technical rocky scrambles. The anatomically shaped last more closely matches the shape of the foot, delivering a precise fit out of the box that can be even more dialed in with the integrated lacing system. The mid-cut boot features a synthetic upper with a Gore-Tex liner for waterproof/ breathable protection, and the thoughtful outsole design, inspired by MTB enduro tires, aims to provide optimal grip on all surfaces regardless of conditions. Available Spring '22. MSRP $190. Lowa/Axos GTX Mid and Lo The new Axos family consists of modern styles with lightweight, athletic performance in mind. The GTX Mid and Lo are constructed with seamless welded polyurethane/synthetic uppers that feature a specially designed comfort cuff, and set on the new sneaker- inspired Camara outsole. The Axos GTX Mid is 100% vegan. Available Spring '22. MSRP $250. Topo Trailventure 2 WP This rugged, waterproof hiking boot has a durable mesh upper with a full eVent waterproof bootie construction. It also has a widened platform and a ZipFoam midsole and external TPU heel counter for comfort and security. A Vibram Megagrip outsole provides grip and a full-length ESS rock plate offers protection and stability. Available Spring '22. MSRP $175.

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