THE GEAR:
The Breeze GTX XCR from Vasque is a lightweight, breathable, and waterproof hiking boot. Designed for day hikes and light backpacking excursions, the Breeze features waterproofed nubuck leather uppers, Gore-Tex XCR liners, and a Vibram Contact outsole. The boot also comes with moisture wicking DryTech footbeds and pressure relieving, gusseted tongues.
THE TEST:
For the last several months, I have taken the Breeze XCR's out on several day hikes in and around the Columbia River Gorge. Let it be known that more often than not, I hike in trail runners since I have strong ankles. There is however, something to be said for the way a good boot can reduce foot fatigue caused by hiking over miles of volcanic rock. On trails such as Eagle Creek, and numerous others in the Northwest, foot fatigue can be a problem.
I found the Breeze to be quite comfortable overall; particularly, the uppers around the ankle and the tongue, which can be a problem spot for me. The boots have a true fit and feel light and agile, not clunky. The break-in period was quick and easy; perhaps 10 miles of blister-free hiking. They grip well on a variety of surfaces and stayed relatively cool for a hiking boot. The Gore-Tex performed admirably considering how breathable the boots are. They probably wouldn't keep feet dry after miles of hiking through snow, but that's not what these boots are for. When it came to creek crossing, wet trails, and Portland area rain, they did quite well.
THE BOTTOM LINE:
The Breeze Gore-Tex XCR's from Vasque are comfortable hiking boots that are lightweight and agile. They break in surprisingly easy, and do a good job of keeping feet dry and ventilated. After four months of hiking, they show no signs of wearing out.
Breeze GTX features and specs:
- - Waterproofed nubuck leather uppers with Airmesh nylon panels
- - Extra-breathable Gore-Tex XCR seam-sealed liners
- - Wicking nylon linings
- - Gusseted, padded tongues
- - Padded collars
- - Removable DryTech footbeds
- - Shock-absorbing and lightweight Phylon midsoles
- - Thermoplastic urethane (TPU) midsole plate
Price: $140
Weight: 2lb. 9 oz.
Outsole: Vibram Contact
Last: Arc Tempo
Midsole: Molded EVA
For more of Adam's writing, reviews, and photography, visit AdamSawyer.com
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