hi tec altitude iv wp 3 some more thoughts

Sat, Oct 23, 2010

I wore these boots, kindly supplied by Fitness Footwear, on the Ben Suardal walk and although it’s not a big hill, it’s rough ground, boggy and wet and with steep limestone to descend if you so choose, which I did! The picture shows the descent ground, very steep with patches of wet rock.

When I first saw these boots, part of their Hi-Tec range and their extensive walking boots collection, I wasn’t sure what to expect but I actually love these boots now! On these cold days it’s nice to have a pair of warm boots that are also waterproof and yet aren’t too heavy. I’m really amazed that Hi-Tec can produce such comfy and practical boots at this price, around 50 pounds. They really are a bargain. I haven’t had any problems with grip and in fact, they grip far better on rock than the Merrells. I didn’t feel at all uncomfortable going down the steep rocks, even on the wet areas and there was a fair drop at one point.

If you’re looking for a pair of entry level hillwalking boots, you can’t really go far wrong with these. They don’t have the advanced lacing systems of more expensive boots but for me, they are very comfortable. They didn’t require any breaking in and they are warm and waterproof. Ideal for autumn/early winter hillwalking. I wouldn’t say they’re up to crampon use but I don’t think they’re really designed for that. These boots should be ideal for May ’til October, or until whenever the crampons need to go on. The uppers are quite soft so crampon straps would dig in and cut off circulation and they certainly won’t take step-in crampons. I just don’t think these are winter boots. All in all though, a great way to try out summer/autumn hillwalking and keep your feet warm and dry.