Question:
I need brand recommendations for a low-cut backpacking boot with a
stiff sole. I really like my Lowa Tempest but they are worn out and
the new ones have been redesigned with soles that are too flexible. I
suspect most companies redesign frequently, making it harder to do
research on this subject. I know quite a lot about boot fit and have
no problem finding boots that fit well. I have shopped at the stores
and have found only mid- to high-cut boots that have the required
stiffness. It may well be that no one any longer makes what I am
looking for, in which case I will have to buy a higer-cut boot, or
have boots custom-made.
Answer:
I have a good experience with my Merrell Chameleon XCR low-cut hiking
shoes. The soles have stayed relatively stiff even after a year, and
the lugs have survived mostly pavement use. The Vibram sole of their
latest version of the Chameleon seems to have been redesigned, but it
might be worth a look. There are several versions of the Chameleon
(Gore-Tex, regular, vented, stretch, ) but they all have the same
stiff Vibram sole.
http://www.merrellboot.com/Shop/Gallery.aspx?NavID=FT-O-CHM
It's funny about stiffness of the sole. I've got two pairs of Nike
Air Zoom Tallac + lightweight boots. One is new in the box and the
sole is as stiff as any boot I've got. The used pair is now as
flexible as a running shoe.
If the boot has a steel shank then it won't noticeably soften with use
or age. Fiberglass also stays stiff for a long time. Not likely to
find either in anything not designed for backpacking.
Maybe work boots. I've got some Timberland Pro work shoes that are
really nothing more than steel toed hiking shoes. They're not that
heavy either and banging my toes against rocks isn't a problem. ;-)
Right now, their offerings that might be close to what you need are
the Gorge Steel Toe or the Mudsill Low Steel Toe.
