LOWAS #1 boot is lame - Renegade GTX

[@RoseAnvil]

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[@maxlemesurier]

A rep for Lowa explained to me why they use multiple pieces of leather on this boot: comfort. Acording to them, using multiple pieces they way they are cut makes the boot conform better to your feet. This confirms my experience wearing them compared to my other high quality Italian hiking boots made from 2 pieces. The Italian booths are much more rigid and a pain to wear compared to the Lowa. The Lowa are the most comfortable boots I own.

[@emc3065]

This is the major trend for most shoes - you don't need to break them in for that comfort. A boot with fewer panels may get to the same level of comfort eventually, but you really need to break them in a have a few painful hikes in them to get there. The compromise is longevity Vs comfort, and most people in today's society would prefer to buy a new set of boots in 3-5 years vs having the same set they have to really care for that would last 10+ years.

[@aaxa101]

Exactly, I had a pair of Renegades and they were comfortable out of the box. They lasted for 10+ years (not heavy use) until one day that, with snow, they failed catastrophically and I lost the soles on both boots. A good and comfortable boot for all the time i had it.

[@Matt18001]

Fair enough, having gone through the break in process on very sturdy work boots a couple of times, that first week of working in them is a literal pain. 3 years plus later though where the initially comfortable boots are falling apart, the sturdy boots feel like the most comfortable pair of slippers and still have over half their life left. I see the appeal in both options.

[@fridrekr7510]

It makes a lot of sense considering the rest of the technology. The glued on sole or the GTX membrane does not last forever either. In the real world, where people aren’t nostalgic hipsters sticking with old technology for fashion, comfort and ergonomics are nearly always chosen over maximum durability.

[@KristianGrSl]

Yet the new Renegade Evo has fewer panels. It looks like the inside of the Evo and toe box is one piece and the outside is made from two. On the old Renegade, reviewed in this video, both sides are made from three panels and a separate piece for the toe box.

[@omisan771]

Lowas are made in Europe, unlike many outdoor brands who make their boots in Asia. This is an important factor to many people.

[@mcmlxv9827]

Lowa Renegades are my favorite boots. I can wear them daily doing anything and have; work, hiking, bike riding, motorcycle riding, playing soccer with my son, etc. I can easily run in them. I have Nick's, Grant Stones, Red Wings and Ecco boots. If I'm going to do a lot of walking, I wear my Renegades. I've had the same pair for 2 years.

[@normis99]

Just goes to show that only looking at the material thickness is half the story. These boots have lasted me forever, no failures anywhere and super comfortable. Apparently they are simply well designed and well made. I love them

[@norbert_engel]

Honestly, I've had these Lowa Renegades for about 10 years now and they're still all in one piece. I used to wear them loads on fall and winter hikes and in town. Nowadays I mostly wear them during the worst winter weeks. I have not taken care of my boots at all and have no concerns about the seams, or other potential fail points you mentioned.

[@Alex-ky4bv]

I love these boots for hiking. They fill a prefect middle ground between lighter boots/shoes and some heavy duty options. Kind of, from the airport straight to trail boot for me. I have had mine for 3 years.

[@tactical_p0tato]

I have a pair of these renegade boots that I bought for work and I've loved them since they kept my feet from getting crushed by heavy objects

[@aaxa101]

If that is your use case you'd better get safety boots with reinforced toes

[@tactical_p0tato]

@@aaxa101 I have some I just liked my Lowas better because they were lighter

[@timpauwels3734]

@@tactical_p0tatothat’s until you drop something heavy on your foot. At my job a UPS driver arrived balancing a roll of packing plastic on top of a box and wasn’t wearing safety shoes (we all wear safety shoes). The roll rolled off and fell on his foot. Someone sat him up and kept him from going into shock while others cleaned up the blood. That thing splatted his foot! He went to hospital. A colleague of mine also got off with a bad bruise after the sole of his safety boot maintained rigidity when a massive steel slab fell on it (5cm thick and 1,5m tall -definitely over 100kg) Certified safety shoes will save you from being crippled by something you thought would never happen until it does.

[@stevenroche9874]

In my experience, no footwear company makes a better fitting boot than LOWA. I own eight different pairs, all a joy to wear !

[@MaxxSeemov]

I've hiked EBC, TMB, Kilimanjaro, and West Highland Way using a pair of Lowa Renegades. They are surprisingly comfortable, durable, and still look fairly new after some cleaning and conditioning. I'm very happy with my pair.

[@edxwinx]

Well I think the paneling has a reason and I actually really like the renegades. I have both Zephyr HI and Renegade HI (professional version). Both are law enforcement/ military boots made for different environments. The Renegade is my boot for autumn and winter, it’s a bit warmer and more waterproof then the zephyr. Great for hiking with heavy gear, going through rivers and they keep your feet warm and keep you mobile on almost every terrain. The Zephyr on the other hand is a light tactical boot for special operators and its specially designed for CQB. Foot is protected by the risen rubber cage. It’s light and extremely durable at the same time. But it comes with its issues. It’s not as waterproof, the suede leather is not as durable and the outsole is really bad at preventing mud to get stuck and it’s also a bit more flexible. To come back to the paneling I guess it’s easier to repair. I started wearing renegades as a kid and when a panel broke like got a cut or scratched really heavy my parents were able to send them in to Lowa and they just changed the panel.

[@enda0man]

I can’t wait for the Renegade RTX to come out

[@squrler]

Love the ray lacing on those

[@GrahamGibby]

I've been wearing & selling Lowas since 2000. Don't compare a combat boot (Zephyr) to a hiking (Renegade) boot. Not a valid comparison or recommendation. Lowa's factory in Slovakia delivers consistent fit and quality, so the boot you're trying on today fits like the one you bought years ago and have gotten hundreds of miles out of. You call it 'lame,' everybody who owns them knows they deliver on every step so you can get on with doing the thing, not thinking about your gear.

[@fridrekr7510]

The Zephyrs are a bad example of a classic combat boot, they are very much designed towards comfort, light weight, and more urban oriented than traditional hiking boots. The Z-6 and Innox were specifically developed as more durable alternatives to Zephyrs. It’s not uncommon for soldiers using Zephyrs every day to wear them out in a year or less.

[@kursantstrzelecki2958]

"Hundreds of miles" is what, a months worth of use? Two months?

[@philsmith2444]

I have a pair of Lowa Camino GTX boots that I bought 7 years ago, they’re some of the most comfortable boots I’ve ever had on my feet. They feel like there are air bladders inside that conform to my feet. The lacing system is divided into 3 zones, with the lowest zone having roller eyelets and the top has Lowa’s X-lacing stud that keeps the tongue in place and centered. You can really dial in the fit of the laces. The day after I bought them I went on an easy 2-mile hike, the next weekend I wore them up Mt Monroe NH with no blisters or even hot spots. I still wear them for most of my 3-season hiking, and also for winter hiking & snowshoeing when the temp is 20F or higher. Though I’ve been wearing my LL Bean all-leather Cresta hiking boots more often lately, and they might be Lowa-beaters if they could be resoled. The lacing system is very basic and is a little harder to tighten properly, but goes well with the old-school styling of the boot.

[@nagillig]

Being a hiking that spends almost everyday hiking in the woods I love this series you’re doing on hiking boots. I have had both the Lowa Renegades and the Camino. I believe the Camino is far superior. I’d love you see you do your cut in half to the Camino. Thanks

[@RandomGuy-qm3mg]

The Lowa’s I bought in 1972 were all leather with a Vibram sole. Great hiking boots at the time but now you want lighter weight and more cushioning. People buy the new ones because they know exactly what they’ll get with no unpleasant surprises. Personally I like trail runners better, very lightweight and good cushioning.

[@castorsia]

This is REALLY useful, not only about this specific boot but for building a "hiking boot knowledge base". Keep them coming, as a heavy outdoor boot user this is invaluable insight.

[@ericingersoll7243]

My wife has a pair of Renegade's she bought 7 years ago and they are still going strong. A year or two ago she did have to have one of the stitching on the toe piece of leather repaired, but it was minor and easy/cheap fix for a shoe repair shop. Seems like a great boot to me. She loves them.

[@wardw.]

The leather collar is on the leather lined non GTX version of this boot.

[@mathiasfait4718]

Warm greetings from Germany The Lowa Renegade are so popular here in the Black Forest because every dealer has them and they are cheap. Maybe the manufacturers: Salewa Tainer, Meindl Air, or Hanwag Banks.

[@ricodimaculangan4093]

Please cut up Zamberlan boots next. Like the Vioz 996 😊. One piece leather construction, very supportive and comfy.

[@CHMichael]

That's what I took to k2 base camp in the early 90s ... and from there on. Light, sturdy enough. Perfect mix for anything that might happen off trail up on a mountain. Not a forever boot. Buy new ones when worn out. Have one now. Super comfortable

[@randywatson5713]

I bought my first pair of Renegades 20 years ago in a small shop. The shop owner said, if you are looking for a good performing, highly comfortable boot, check them out. And I still can remember the feeling when I slipped into the Renegades. The did fit like gloves and the other pairs, that I bought after I had worn them, still do. Just fine boots. No issues with the stitchings. It's the Volkswagen Golf of hiking boots. Nothing fancy about it, but a solid standard in every way. I like them

[@Jimmy_Cream]

I've had many Golf's and find they don't stand up to lamp posts very well. It's not a deal breaker though 😂

[@mrhaftbar]

Still rocking my 10+ year old Lowa Topekas I bought in Austria. The sole has been replaced by lowa a couple of years ago because I wore it down. Also one of riveted lacing eyelets broke, Lowa repaired it. The stitches upper hasn't shown any signs of coming apart. Love em, would probably get another pair if the my current pair fails or is lost.

[@nirfz]

I have had and tried out several hiking boots over the years, and these are the ones that fit the best (when new and after years still) and the most comfortable of the hiking boots to actual hike for me. It's the way your foot roles from heel to toe that makes them less fatiguing to walk in my experience than other hiking boots. But as i said, nothing was as comfortable and still protective for your feet than these ones. Mine are quite old now, and in the last couple years i wasn't able to go hiking more than maybe once a year, but i did use them for something they weren'T made for and they still worked well in that regard: climbing radio antenna masts. (Have to do that at work sometimes). And they are grippy, comfortable, reduce the fatigue on your calves and even protect a little against banging your toes. And after a whole day, they still are comfortable. The leather panels i think have several reasons: you can use more of a sheet of leather as the parts are smaller and you can fit more of them on a sheet of leather. And as someone in the comments wrote: their parents had a damage on one panel and sent them in for repait: LOWA just replaced the damaged panel. Both of these reduce costs and waste. A few years back the Meindl boots of my father broke during a hike (the polyurethane dissolved into small granulate with every more step) And he tried out several boots. And he switched to these too. He always had Meindl ones before and was quite satisfied with them. But LOWA offers different widths (i think at least 2 different widths for each size are available in good sorted hiking stores where i live). And he was utterly surprised how comfortable and less fatiguing they are to walk compared to his previous boots. And they are not made in asia, but here in europe. Meaning people in europe buy those boots and other people in europe have a job and pay taxes and maybe go on vacation to the country of the boot buyers and spend money there and people can ahve a job and buy those boots. The circle of money. When i buy boots made in asia, the people working in those factories won't ever have the money or time to travel to europe and spend money here. So the money is gone and only has benefitted the asian country but i get no benefit back. Unlike with Slovakia (which is even a neighbouring country to mine, so it's even more likely for them to come here. And judging by the license plates on cars i see on our highways they do visit.)

[@Furniture121]

I think you might have hit the nail on the head toward the end of your conclusions, they are a reliable and comfortable boot that just get the job done. I'm on my second pair in 10 years, and the only reason I bought new ones is the old ones were starting to look a bit rough.

[@FTW1374]

Lowa Renegades are the most comfortable boot ive ever worn at work ive had mine for 2 1/2 years ..i wear 40lbs of body armor and these things are surprisingly light and have been super durable.

[@mmancino1982]

I wore a pair of zephyr in Iraq in 2010-2011 and they were by leaps and bounds the most comfortable boot I've ever worn and second in durability only to my Rocky S2V

[@danielrubio6675]

Hell ya man I ONLY wore Lowas in Afghanistan ‘10-‘11. Had the Zephyrs and Desert Elites. I just rotated daily use on them and also mett-tc. 🤢 damn I haven’t used that term in years 😂

[@combatboots101]

Goes to show that technical aspects do not necessarily translate to end user performance. If this comment section is anything to go by, the concerns in "lame" construction seem to be unwarranted.

[@JCesarH]

I work at an outdoor store in europe, and this is probably the most sold boot. The reason is that 'averageness'. Everyone that wants one hiking boot that they can put on for a walk with their dog to vacations in the mountains falls into this type of boot. More durable and stiffer than all the sports brand foam boots, but not as expensive and rigid as a mountain boot. Lowa seems to have nailed it on the shape too, since the majority of people fit well in this boot. More so than moost other boots. The leather panelling is something I've always thought must be a fail point too, which they do to save costs. That being said I've never heard of this actually failing. As far as i know this boot has always been like this, the pictures you showed are one older renegade that has the same panneling, and some models that aren't renegades. Like that camino evo, which more of a stiff mountain boot. A bit more high end and expensive and thus better built. Another point: it would be a good idea to change your waterproof test to get some realistic info. A static submersion test is too easy to pass. You can spray a can of DWR on a non waterproof sneaker and it will pass that test. start bending that shoe like it would while walking, while wet, and it will fail after 10mins. What will typically leak first is the crease between the toes and the midfoot, where the shoe wrinkles most, and materials are rubbing, stretching,...

[@connornewlands6587]

Had these boots for 3 years and had used them a lot for climbing up Scottish mountains and general walking around. Unfortunately after three years of hard use I had an issue around the seams at the sole of the boot. Phoned Lowa and they said they expected their boots to last longer than that and sent me out a brand new pair, which I’ve used heavily for the last two years including doing the West Highland way in Scotland! Still in excellent shape 🥾🥾

[@Ofenlicht]

Could you please take a look at the Hanwag and Meindl shoes as well? Those three are the best selling hiking boot brands in Germany. I got the Hanwag Tatra II non GTX and been loving it.

[@c0dy42]

funfact: the founders of Hanwag and Lowa are brothers. Hans Wagner and Lorenz Wagner. Pretty much the only Hiking Boot I ever had was the Hanwag Alaska. its a great boot so much so that I got 3 pairs by now and only ever had to get new ones because I needed a larger Size

[@Ofenlicht]

@@c0dy42 Yeah, the founders of Adidas and Puma were brothers as well. Love that Hanwag also does wide cuts of their boots. I tried Lowa, Meindl and Hanwag and found Hanwag to be the most comfortable for me. Meindl seemed very high quality too but just not cut for my feet.

[@PrVladimir]

@@c0dy42 Modern Hanwags are crap. The midsole started to crumble in the second season on my Hanwag Alaska GTX. Now $400 boots with 400 miles on them need a sole replacement (the tread shows no signs of wear). The manufacturer itself states the shelf life of the sole materials is 3-5 years. If your pair has been sitting in a warehouse for 3 years, get ready to pay $150 for resole. Shoe manufacturers have become too greedy these days. I would gladly join a class action lawsuit against the manufacturer for planned materials failure.

[@OddSheep-Out]

@@PrVladimir There's not much planned about this. Hydrolysis is a thing that happens in all those modern midsoles. If they really wanted to make more unjustified money the whole boot/shoe would quickly fall apart. But it's pretty hard to get Hanwags destroyed, at least the ones with all leather outer. Some of my Hanwag didn't see much or any care but the outer never failed, not the leather, not the stitching. Some of them I wear almost daily. Yes, after 10 years, the outsole was blank and then the midsole broke. Even the Gore Tex lining never failed with all mine -- the leather lined did though, I guess the lining really needs some care.

[@robdidopp7769]

@@OddSheep-Out Well, my Hanwag Tatras failed - fittingly while I was hiking in the Tatra - pretty early, considering they were not stored in high humidity. PU can be chemically protected from hydrolysis for a longish time but my Hanwags apparently weren't. Maybe too much stabilizer has other disadvantages, maybe it's a matter of cost, or possibly the shoes were stored for a long time before I bought them. In any case, I had to walk through a bit of snow and a lot of rough terain on my midsoles, the rest of which held up surprisingly well.

[@gregstephens4896]

I tried Lowa alpine plastic boots after trying many other brands torture alpine boots. They felt more akin to a classic hiking boot, since then I’ve been a big fan. I had to get my wife a pair of boots and she got these renegades and we did a big trip immediately (she had forgotten her old hiking boots at home) and she didn’t have any issues without any break in period. She said they were the most comfortable boot she’s had. They did last, yes the stitching did unravel eventually but with some maintenance they made it another year of trail packing in the PNW. For the price I would recommend them for avid hikers and backpackers.

[@SombrillAsesina]

My Lowa Renegade GTW were holding well until I wore them during a hike in the north of Norway. It was quite rainy during the hike and the boot did a good job at keeping my feet dry. I tried to dry the boots everytime I could but the PU part of the sole started breaking and literally decomposing and falling appart. It was surprising because the boot is supposed to be waterproof so I expected that it could handle it better. The upper is still good, no cracks but the style of construction of the sole makes it hard to replace the sole.

[@50beowulf]

I'm on my third pair of Renegade GTX boots. I have never had a stitch pop, so the paneling has not been an issue fo me. My first pair had the leather collar lining, which I do prefer. The sole has great traction, but wears surprisingly fast. The number one reason I keep coming back is fit and an extreme level of comfort. Tue insold doesnindeed conform to your foot nuchblikena slab of veg tanned leather. The Renegades maintain their comfort through the life of the boot, too. They require zero break-in for me and have been super consistent from pair to pair. They have a great classic look that improves with a little wear. I also like my Zephyrs but they are too tacti-cool for some settings. The Renegades look good even when not hiking. I get exactly what I expect when I buy a new pair of Renegades.

[@EricHartnett-wh1lv]

Have had a pair of Renegade GTX's for 5yr. They've been very reliable and I have only managed to wear out the heel. Testing cobbler/glue skills trying to replace them with a cheap SVIG heel

[@thirdmort]

I got a pair of these from an REI garage sale for $90 back in 2017. I've taken it to many places and currently have used it as my winter boot. Still looks good as new. The only eyindint use it much anymore is because I went to barefoot shoes and cant fit into them anymore. The Virbram base was very handy on ice in Iceland. Overall, super happy with them. It's a shame I can't really fit in them anymore.

[@MadamoftheCatHouse]

Finally a channel w some solid worthwile merch! Too many just slap some transfer print on a cheap tee or hoodie and charge the sky high price.

[@stephensakata7128]

I bought mine 10 years ago and they are still going strong. Hiked up Mt. Fuji with these babies. Hiked all around Taiwan and Malaysia. It is nice to see the company is still making the same boot with the same quality. Although mine were a lot cheaper. Thanks inflation......

[@harrysteve2696]

Big fan of Lowa boots, been wearing them for years. I do agree that the Renegade has gone downhill, that particular boot isn't what it used to be but the more expensive models like the Camino and Zephyr are still the quality boot I expect from Lowa.

[@CrazyLegs4001]

I have a four year old pair of Lowa Renegades that have seen all sorts of industrial chemicals outdoors at work. They have lasted longer than every other boot that I’ve used for work and have exceeded my expectations regarding comfort and durability. If the quality hasn’t changed since I originally purchased them, I would definitely purchase another pair when it comes time to get a new pair of work boots.

[@gaba023]

I have been happy with my pair. I needed a leather boot for hiking and working outside that was light(ish), had a stiff sole, and was not super expensive. It is much more substantial than those hiking sneakers, but not a hard-core mountaineering boot. Also, it was comfortable to me right away. But there is one minor flaw. The lace can catch the top of the first hook/eye (not sure what they are called) without being fully engaged. It is hard to see as you are lacing the boot. Later, when it comes off, all the upper laces come loose. Other than that, they have worked well.

[@davegray8451]

I'm on my third pair. Great boot. Wonderful fit. My only complaint is the stitching lets go way before the tread is worn out. I wear these on the ranch as a work boot as well as in the woods and yes, they're kind to my feet. I should disclose, because I purchased the first pair at REI, so taking them back asking if they would restitch them, they just gave me a new pair.

[@MrFowl]

Ive been using a pair of Asolo Thyrus GV's for the last 5 years and they've been amazing. I don't like much ankle support, but I do want protection and these are by far the best, most waterproof, most breathable hiking boots I've ever had. Almost a single piece of leather for the whole boot, and after waxing it, they are bombproof. The midsole does seam to be wearing out the quickest though. They have less support than they used to 5 years later...which is a shame because the rest of the boot is holding up amazingly

[@mistersmith3986]

I loved that Old School Jungle Boot. I used to wear those in the 80's.

[@esteurer1]

Absolutely love your videos, have you considered reviewing the Oboz Bridger hiking boot? Keep doing what you do sir, I applaud you!

[@mikelacross]

Great video, love the depth of your passion on this subject, thanks 😁

[@evanhaberlin1337]

Lowa Tibet seems like more of their flagship and I skipped out on the Renegade for the Camino. I love mine and I really would love to see you review them. Also a series after this of reviewing mountaineering boots would be awesome.

[@holladay67]

PLEASE DO THE VASQUE SUNDOWNER!!! Thanks! That would be such an awesome boot to see done!

[@matthewshedden3567]

The Renegade has actually been the most comfortable, easy to wear in boot I’ve ever had. Can’t fault them! Their Mountain Combat Boot is incredible but takes time to wear in. The Zephyr is without a doubt their best boot but I would recommend checking out the Mountain Boots and some of their new combat boots, like the breacher and the new Zephyr.

[@nicholaswoollhead6830]

I love me my Lowa Renegardes and have recommended then to anyone who has ever asked me for advice on boots. The rigid sole, the actual nubuck, the easy of breaking in etc all makesnit the perfect beginner hiking boot. I've had mine for 8 years now and I've never had anything except the isolere fail on me. Putting in a high quality insole is really good to do tho

[@namenloserflo]

What makes this boot stand out is that it basically fits everybody. It's the most comfortable hiking boot I've tried and most Lowa customers seem to agree

[@OddSheep-Out]

Would be cool, if you could also test Hanwag boots, preferably the Alaska GTX. Hanwag is short for Hans Wagner, the brother of Lorenz Wagner (yes, like Adidas and Puma, that seems to be a German thing with brothers and competing companies).

[@jsandbergl664]

I love my Zephyrs (the long C8Z model). Hands down the best boots I've ever owned.

[@Nemioke]

Derby cut is not marketing lingo. It's the way the upper is cut. Oxford places the lacing under the vamp, derby over it and allows for more upwards/sideways extension. So yes, Derby cut is more accommodating and allows for more adjustability for different socks, insoles and different foot arch heights. In this sense, whole cut or traditional mountaneering boot cut isn't as accommodating. I prefer the whole cut, but derby cut has its benefits.

[@fridrekr7510]

It’s interesting that such an extremely fundamental aspect of shoemaking would go past someone doing so much testing.

[@Nemioke]

@@fridrekr7510 They're professional regarding leathers, but sometimes I think that maybe reading some fundamental shoemaking industry books would benefit a lot, including the basic models and shapes, basic lastmaking theories etc., especially when there are "is this worth XXXX" regarding to those styles. I frequently roll my eyes on clothing reviews (my professional venue as a maker/writer), too, so it's not a deal breaker but would love to see some extra curricular reading having been done (like Marcel Mrsan's interview etc., he knows what he's doing). Still a great channel, still very good info but absolutely needs a filter - and USA filter - to be beneficial. And no, these aren't the best Lowas, but they're at least cheap.

[@andrewtarango4128]

I love LOWA and enjoy CAMINO EVO GTXand the ZEPHYR GTX they are very reliable boots and with proper care will last a long time. I have worn mine form WA to MT to Germany.

[@sagiganz]

I owned a Renegade for 10(!) years - walked more then 2000 Km in rocky trails (from New Zealand to Europe) and spent years with it as my go to for army reserve, winter or summer. The only thing that broke was that the rubber sole itself started to dry up and crumble - the leather, the springiness of the, the grip and even the water tightness held strong. Could not recommend it enough.

[@Gavanater7]

Lowa is my favorite boot brand hope to see you review the rest

[@KeyofDavid5778]

I've been in the backcountry in this boot through rain, snow 100° temperatures, and it works unbelievably. I remember on one 4-day trip it rained every day the boots were soaking wet for 4 days in a row and my feet were dry You can add a new software cushion insole after a few hundred miles but off Trail it's #1.

[@andreas1416]

Have a pair for years now as winter/rain boots. They're super comfy, but yes, a seam popped.

[@mikethemoomin8604]

I have a pair of Lowa mountain GTX Mid. It fits a lot better than the Renegade for sure, and quality; I feel, it's a lot better too.

[@heibk-2019]

You should also check out Meindl and Hanwag boots, these 2 and Lowa are the big 3 hiking boot brands of Germany.

[@michaelewert9038]

I wore Lowa Mountain GTX when I served in the army. They were my best boots so far but they are overkill for day to day civil use even for hiking. Check out his brothers brand Hanwag.

[@devlin2427]

Missed opportunity to cut a pair of better boots like Meindl...

[@siriosstar4789]

i bought a very expensive pair of hiking boots many years ago and threw them out after about a year of pain. i went back to using high top sneakers for a short hike and well broken in redwing work boots for longer trips with rough terrain .

[@dzxmr]

I hike around 200km a month, and it took 3 years for the sole the break. While hiking it just broke in two parts, felt mud in my boot and noticed the damage. Never had an issue with the stitching, but I did have issues with the synthetic fabric attached to the leather middle tongue part. It had holes in it after a while and water got in from there.

[@silasthomson7852]

As someone thats on a budget, i rely on any pair of boots lasting me at least 3 years use without blisters or leaking, in Scotland, 9 months a year i wear Lowa or iturri Brittish army surplus I'd love to see a lowa combat boot(mk1 not mk2) or mountain boot (2000s-2020ish) or iturri cold weather boot cut in half 🙏

[@user-ncswic]

Have you seen the crowdfunded startup company Flatstep? This guy is making a zero- drop, hard toe, no toespring, footshaped work boot that has a real rubber outsole! It would be so cool to see Rose Anvil get a first run model pair to review..

[@sasquatchoffroad2460]

Recently hiked 30 miles this past weekend with the Lowa Renegades. Incredibly comfortable, but the Vibram sole could have been a bit more grippy. No break-in period necessary. Also ran pretty hot on the inside. All in all, I'd rather wear these than the Salomon Quests.

[@TheVellar]

Thanks a lot,very informative. Love Lowa but sad to say their shoe last not fits on my leg, which is very sad.

[@HardTack808]

Why would someone buy these boots, you ask? Renegades are the most comfortable boots out of the box I’ve ever used. They are comfortable before they break in. They are comfortable after they break in. They are great in the wet with the Gortex lining. They are great in the desert without the Gortex lining (requires special order). They work on trail. They work off trail. They work under a load. Renegades are not the toughest boots I’ve owned - it’s a soft boot, and I suspect they traded some durability for comfort - but they last just fine. The Zephyr, however cool they may look, didn’t offer as much foot protection off trail, and for me the footbed wasn’t as comfortable as the Renegade. Top shelf comfort. Excellent utility. Decent durability. Those are my metrics. It seems like this review applies just about every other possible metic.

[@steveb4012]

Vibrate soles, my experience with these is they are a safety hazard. I usually have some waterproof boot or trainer for walking the dogs in the winter. They usually have vibration soles. I find that if you happen to step on wet manhole covers, wet tiled or smooth surfaces with a vibram sole you will slip. I dont find they offer good grip at all. What's your take?

[@ducktapedude2711]

Have you ever reviewed the Danner crater rim? I couldn’t find any videos of it from searching but I feel like I’ve seen one from you in the past.

[@marcelreijerse]

My feet preferred the direct competitor from Hanwag, the Banks model in narrow. Also a long running and not too heavy model

[@OddSheep-Out]

Another boot I'd love to see you test is the AKU Pilgrim HL GTX Combat.

[@Dyshof]

I have the Renegade GTX for some years. I think everthing is right what you said. What is special? It was the only boot I felt well, also walking every day up to 40 km on UK's south west coast path. I had previously tried dozens of shoes in the shop. And I own(ed) Meindls and Raichles and Merrells and Sportivas... they just don't feel as good.

[@namenloserflo]

I would really like you to cut open some boots from a local brand here in Lower Austria. Waldviertler/GEA are producing mostly zero drop boots with a wide toe box (different lasts available). The founder is a pretty interesting/weird guy and created jobs in an area where it's needed. The boots are made in Austria and all the parts are from Europe. Although they only offer Europe-wide shipping (afaik) I think the story alone could be interesting for international viewers

[@namenloserflo]

They have some wool lining options as well and their boots are known for repairability. I haven't tried them yet but I will as soon as it gets colder :)

[@aurtisanminer2827]

My Renegade GTX’s have done a great job of keeping my feet dry this moose hunting season. I went a week wearing them in wet swampy terrain every day and there was no leakage. I just hope they last a while. My two complaints are the outsole being slick on wet hard surfaces and the gusset doesnt go all the way up the tongue.

[@aurtisanminer2827]

I really like the higher top on the zephyr. I’m always worried about stepping in too deep of a puddle with my renegades.

[@algirdongas1]

I've got two pairs of Lowa Zephyrs, because I like them that much.

[@lifeontheX]

When will Rose Anvil start making holsters?

[@marcelreijerse]

Hanwag has the same kind of felted insoles and so does Meindl, although these feel a bit different. The lining in these shoes is surprisingly tough.

[@nickpro1]

I wore a pair of Renegades for just over 10 years and they were super comfortable. Only problem was that the PU in the sole deteriorated and the soles fell off, It broke my heart. Again, they did last for 10+ years but I had bought them hoping to have them longer.

[@aaxa101]

Exactly my case.

[@tjvhayes12]

I’ve put these boots through the wringer for years and they’re super comfortable and durable and have never lost their waterproof ability. I like seeing boots cut in half, but as you can tell by the other comments, you can’t always tell the whole story without putting a couple thousand miles on them. Not lame

[@big_neptune_g]

I have the LOWA Renegade 2 Hi, they look much better compared to the Zephyr for casual wear. I don't believe they are going to fall apart too easily. I trust them more than Dr. Martens and Timberlands. They might not be the most durable boots in the market but I don't think that "lame" is an appropriate word to describe them overall. You did review the Renegade 1 and Zephyr 1, you could also review the Renegade 2 and the Zephyr 2. But also the Z8, Breacher, Combat Boot MK2.

[@sillyness3456]

In my experience, the insoles don’t hold up at all. I currently have a pair of Renegade GTX Lo for slightly over a year and the insole has a torn up top layer. The soles are also pretty much gone. The leather held up remarkably well. I did about 1500 miles in these shoes.

[@Vladpryde]

I'm considering these because they come in a narrow size, and I have narrow feet. I wish more boot companies did that. Danner only has three pairs with narrow options.

[@TheFowlerAirgunChannel]

Have you made up your mind about what you'll do about the whole camera sling Twister deal?

[@JPTHRICE]

LOWA made some of the best shoes i have ever owned. Try MEINDL next, they are dope asf

[@afarce]

I'd be interested in your opinion about what the best hiking boot would be. Would it be a modern boot like a Solomon you might find at REI or would a PNW logger type boot be better? I imagine guys must've been putting miles on those logger boots back in the day.

[@Majkel2013]

since you're already cutting shoes for the trail, I'm curious about your opinion on these "Mammut Ducan high gtx" shoes

[@darrenhaywood9260]

Have a look at the Brandecosse boot range. They are well thought of, so would be interesting to see what’s in them

[@dreadnought8363]

I put another 220km on my renegades recently. Good boots.

[@ingentingtingeling]

Love your channel! Could you do more of the womens boots comparisons? It's so hard to find quality products for women in general.

[@Jimmy_Cream]

People likely rave about them because of The comfort out of the box. The paneling is what put me off buying a pair and, glad I went for Mammut, which were really comfortable out of the box but without 100 articulated fail points because of the construction. All of that stitching worries me and I feel there's probably an over reliance on the Gore lining, which is fallible itself and isn't 100% protective in wet and humid conditions.

[@Jimmy_Cream]

I'll add after reading the comments that my own worries about this boot might be unwarranted... Possibly worth a try if I could get a pair at discount

[@LetsDark]

Would love to see some boots from Salewa on here.

[@Samuelwarman90]

I’d like to see maybe either a pair of Italian diemme hiking boots 🥾 or maybe a pair of b2 grade mountaineering boots and see what goes into the construction of them, something like the scarpa Mont Blanc or the la sportiva Nepal gtx extreme 🙏🥾

[@WAFFLES081]

Unfortunately I agree with some of the points of this video. I had a pair for maybe 5 years, wore the sole out cause Id wear them in winter as waterproof wear. Not sure how these are meant to be hiking shoes, they are just soooo soft and lacking support after a couple wears. Unfortunately mine started ripping apart at the seams even if i tried to take care of them as best as I could.

[@Onimalap]

I got pair of those 3-4 years ago just because I needed a winter commuter shoe in wet close to freezing temp weather weather. Knew nothing about them but seemed ok and price was good. Overall they hold well but instant problem I had was that insole felt short after 2-3 weeks. It looks like it just moved backward leaving 1/2 inch gap at the toe. Supper annoying. Adjusted it few times but changed insoles altogether as I got spur problem. I am surprised how long lasting they are comparing to chinese Martens that broke sole after 4 months. Additional plus for sole at the heel that usually due to 100kg weight wears prematurly but on those it’s very decent. One thought I had about the shank being short is that a lot of new shoes having edge on the heel feel unstable clog like almost when your foot slaps against the ground. Maybe allowing for shank to be shorter it give more flex to reduce this effect of pointy hard sole edge and flapping feel.

[@UnknownUser-rb9pd]

If you like a more wholecut style look at the Scarpa Delta boot which should be only a little more expensive. They use 2.2mm to 2.4mm leather.

[@kendallisciousharrisonford8253]

Can you cut open the Adidas Terrex Free Hiker gore-tex 2.0?? I just bought a pair and I would love it if you chop them open!!