HomeOutdoorCrispi Briksdal GTX Boot Evaluation

Crispi Briksdal GTX Boot Evaluation


Discovering the correct boot for looking could be considerably of a maddening course of. I’ve been every part from extraordinarily disillusioned and in ache with a boot sole that got here off to feeling like nothing might cease me from traversing by way of the mountains. There’s a variety of potentialities and a variety of trainers to select from. The Crispi Briksdal GTX is certainly one of many, however one which deserves a more in-depth look.

Being an avid backcountry hunter who hunts every part from low desert to the steep alpine, I would like a boot that gives not solely consolation for lengthy hikes but additionally assist and sturdiness. These wants are what caught my eye in regards to the Crispi Briksdal GTX. It appeared like a winner on all fronts.

the drill, although. Time tells all. And after a couple of years of use and abuse, I’ve bought some ideas.

In brief: Hunters on the lookout for a boot that’s stiff sufficient for steep terrain however doesn’t sacrifice consolation will likely be pleased with the Crispi Briksdal GTX Non-Insulated looking boot. Simply be ready to dimension up as a result of these puppies may shrink.


  • Sturdy

  • Very snug for a stiff boot

  • Asymmetrical lacing system to attain the correct really feel

  • May shrink over time with moisture

Crispi Briksdal GTX Boot Evaluation

Overview

Crispi Briksdal GTX BootsCrispi Briksdal GTX Boots
We examined the Crispi Briksdal GTX boots over years of backcountry hunts in numerous terrains, from steep alpine to abandon trails; (photograph/Josh Kirchner)

The Crispi Briksdal GTX was constructed to deal with every part from steep craggy mountains to blistering desert flooring. This can be a 9-inch non-insulated boot that is available in at a stage 4 on the Crispi Flex Ranking, that means it’s on the stiffer facet. All boots are lined with GORE-TEX Efficiency Consolation Lining and have a sturdy Vibram sole on the underside.

The higher of the boot is comprised of a water-repellent Nubuck and is totally wrapped in a full rubber rand. By way of weight, the Briksdal is available in at 1 pound, 13 ounces (dimension 9). These are additionally appropriate with the brand new Crispi Strapless Gaiter Attachment System.

Crispi Briksdal GTX Options

Asymmetrical Lacing System

Crispi Briksdal GTX Boots Asymmetrical Lacing System Crispi Briksdal GTX Boots Asymmetrical Lacing System
The Asymmetrical Lacing System permits for custom-made pressure and match, enhancing consolation and efficiency on assorted terrains; (photograph/Josh Kirchner)

Boots usually are not a one-size-fits-all piece of drugs. So, the extra customization one could make to the boot, the higher likelihood there may be to get the precise really feel you want for you and your hunts. With the Asymmetrical Lacing System, hunters can tailor their lacing patterns and lacing pressure to match their wants.

A fantastic instance right here, apart from the lacing sample, is in the event you wanted a tighter toebox space, unfastened on the ankle however then tighter above the ankle. Lacing does make a giant distinction in efficiency and really feel.

Twin-Density Midsole

A standout characteristic of this boot is the dual-density midsole. Typically, the stiffer a boot will get, the extra consolation one offers up. It’s a give-and-take scenario.

Nevertheless, with the Briksdals, that isn’t the case. The twin-density midsole supplies simply sufficient give on the underside of the boot to not make you’re feeling such as you’re standing on a 2×4. This may assist hold foot fatigue at bay.

ABSS (Ankle Bone Help System)

man hiking in Crispi Briksdal GTX Bootsman hiking in Crispi Briksdal GTX Boots
The Ankle Bone Help System gently contours to the ankle for added consolation and stability throughout lengthy, technical hikes; (photograph/Josh Kirchner)

There’s no manner we are able to go anyplace with out overlaying the Ankle Bone Help System. In a nutshell, the ABSS is a system that permits the within of the boot to softly contour round your ankle evenly. That is big by way of consolation, particularly when mountaineering lengthy distances in technical terrain. It does all of this with out giving up assist, which aids in avoiding harm.

My Expertise

the Crispi Briksdal GTX Boot with sunset backgroundthe Crispi Briksdal GTX Boot with sunset background
We relied on the Crispi Briksdal GTX boots for numerous backcountry hunts, carrying heavy masses over steep and rugged terrains; (photograph/Josh Kirchner)

I’ve used a handful of Crispi boots at this level, and the Briksdals have been in my common rotation for the previous few years. Whether or not it’s mountaineering deep into the backcountry for black bears or spot and stalk looking within the desert for coues deer, the Crispi Briksdal GTX boots have turn out to be certainly one of my most trusted looking companions.

Initially, I used to be very skeptical of how snug these boots can be. In spite of everything, they’re stiffer boots, so my assumption is that consolation would sit on the lean facet. I additionally assumed there can be a wholesome break-in interval because of the stiffness. My assumptions had been completely flawed.

All boots get damaged in, however some really feel like they should be damaged in. The Briksdals didn’t maintain me again in any respect. On a number of events, with brand-new Briksdal GTX boots, I’ve hiked deep into the backcountry on hunts proper out of the field. Like a advantageous wine, they get even higher with time.

hiking in Crispi Briksdal GTX bootshiking in Crispi Briksdal GTX boots
These boots dealt with moist situations, from knee-deep snow to creek crossings, with no leaks and constant efficiency; (photograph/Josh Kirchner)

Elk, mule deer, black bear, and coues deer have all taken a experience on my again with the Briksdals beneath me. I’ve additionally carried out numerous week-long backpack hunts with them. Not as soon as have I ever felt like my foot fatigue from such occasions was out of whack. In actual fact, it’s been fairly nice, which supplies the power to go, go, go.

By way of total efficiency, I haven’t had any main points. I do tape up my toes, it doesn’t matter what boot I’m utilizing if looking in steeper terrain or doing lengthy backcountry hikes. So, take that for what it’s value. In moist situations, they’ve been nice. I’ve had them in knee-deep snow, torrential downpours, and plenty of creek crossings. No leaks in any respect.

What’s Mistaken With the Crispi Briksdal GTX?

Crispi Briksdal GTX on wet surface Crispi Briksdal GTX on wet surface
The boots can shrink after moist hunts, so sizing up and treating them with Crispi’s really helpful cream helps keep match; (photograph/Josh Kirchner)

An space the place these boots come in brief is that they shrink. In my expertise, this has occurred to me after moist hunts. I’ve spoken to Crispi about this, they usually knowledgeable me that I wanted to deal with the boots with a sure cream they promote, which might stop this from taking place.

If I’m being trustworthy, I haven’t carried out that, and I ought to. I do love this boot. Since studying this, I’ve simply purchased my boots a half dimension bigger, understanding they’ll finally shrink a bit.

That is one thing it is best to positively remember when shopping for yours. If you happen to’re somebody who retains up with boot upkeep, go forward and go true-to-size. If you happen to don’t, dimension up.

Closing Ideas

Dialed In Hunter Dialed In Hunter
The Crispi Briksdal GTX boots are versatile, sturdy, and dependable for rugged backcountry hunts; (photograph/Josh Kirchner)

I’m somebody who has a tough time letting go of a bit of drugs as soon as I discover one thing that works nicely for me. Boots are a biggie in that regard, and the Crispi Briksdal GTX is certainly one of my private favorites.

I’ve discovered them to be extraordinarily versatile and cozy. To not point out, they’re additionally smoking within the appears division. Whether or not it’s looking the rugged backcountry or a household turkey camp, the Crispi Briksdals are a winner for me night time and day.