Males’s LOWA Renegade GTX Assessment

Backside Line

For those who’re after rock-solid stability and all-terrain efficiency, the LOWA Renegade GTX is hard to beat. Of all of the boots on our Finest Males’s Mountain climbing Boots information, these are Senior Gear Analyst Ian Krammer’s favorites. He’s dragged them by 300+ miles of actually brutal terrain – from deep winter snow and whiteout situations above 12,000 toes to sketchy, technical ridge scrambles. Their burly nubuck leather-based uppers make for critically sturdy and comfortable boots, and the tall ankles are protecting however versatile. The Renegade’s lacing system is one in every of our favorites: they’re extremely adjustable to get a exact match. The GORE-TEX liner retains toes dry in moist and slushy situations, and the outsoles earn prime marks for reliable traction in most situations. This mixture of supplies and efficiency doesn’t compromise weight, although – these boots are hefty however nonetheless lighter than some all-leather boots – and gained’t weigh you down on lengthy days.

Nevertheless, this mannequin has a couple of drawbacks. Like most leather-based boots, the Renegades can get uncomfortably scorching above 75°F, so we don’t suggest them for summer season temperatures at decrease elevations and better humidity. We additionally discover the tight lug sample, whereas sticky and reliable, tends to gather particles, making them a bit much less efficient on muddy trails. Additionally they have a medium break-in interval, so it takes round 10 to fifteen miles earlier than they start to loosen round your foot. Lastly, these boots are spendy – at $250, they aren’t essentially the most accessible when you’re on a funds. However when you’re on the lookout for boots that final season after season for carrying heavy hundreds and tackling any route – on or off path – these are an funding that repay in dividends.

Consolation

The LOWA Renegade GTXs earn prime scores for consolation, particularly on difficult terrain. The mix of thick nubuck leather-based uppers with mushy nylon interiors gives a versatile however sturdy really feel from the toe field by the ankle. The mid-cut ankle offers excellent safety and stability, stopping fatigue throughout lengthy, tough hikes. A luxurious tongue and wonderful lacing system distributes strain evenly, caters to completely different lacing patterns, and adjusts to dial in an ideal match. The midsoles are agency, however have a little bit of give that nails an beautiful stability between help and adaptability that makes these boots versatile and comfortable in each rocky climbs and flat trails. The outsoles provide wonderful traction with a barely rockered toe that makes for a steady, snug stride on all the things from sidehills and scrambles to steep routes and lengthy, flat trails. Regardless of the gap, these boots will maintain you cozy on rugged, technical trails.

However, all-leather boots just like the Renegades require a bit of labor. The leather-based uppers are sturdy, however they’ve a ten to fifteen mile break-in interval earlier than they start to melt round your toes. As soon as they heat as much as your foot form, they match exceptionally nicely. Our lead tester loves the Renegade’s construct, however it may really feel cumbersome and extreme on strictly flat and groomed trails, which may result in discomfort after prolonged use. Not everybody wants a inflexible boot –  the Renegades have wonderful ankle help and safety, however they’re burly in comparison with extra versatile choices created from artificial supplies. Lastly, they’ve a dinky heel loop for serving to you pull the boots on – it’s simply large enough to suit a single finger by however powerful to seize onto with gloves. Nevertheless, none of those points are deal breakers. They’re cozy boots for many toes, and with sizes 7.5 to fifteen, these boots will match nearly everybody. 

Ankle Assist

Few boots ship the extent of ankle help of the LOWA Renegade GTXs. Due to a tall ankle peak, leather-based uppers, and a slim PU body, the boot wraps securely across the ankle for a safe however versatile really feel. The angled collar design provides flexibility, letting your ankle transfer naturally whereas nonetheless stopping ankle rolls. 4 sturdy steel grommets on the prime permit for exact lacing, so you may modify the match for heavier hundreds,  unpredictable situations, and technical routes. Inside, a layer of cushioned foam hugs your ankle, decreasing strain factors throughout lengthy treks. LOWA’s Monowrap® Body Know-how blends TPU and polyurethane to make soles that keep steady and resist twisting, giving your ankles further safety and stable footing on tough trails. In case your routes contain thick bushwacks, technical ascents or off-camber trails, these boots will maintain you feeling safe.

On the flip aspect, the identical options offering distinctive help make the Renegades really feel overly stiff on lighter, much less technical hikes. The leather-based uppers are protecting, however they take some time to interrupt in. We admire the extra inflexible construction, and their mid-cut is taller than most different boots on our information – however when you choose a extra agile, path runner really feel for informal day hikes, or when you spend most of your time on well-groomed paths, these may really feel overly supportive.

Weight

The LOWA Renegades begin round 2 kilos, 7 ounces per pair. That’s not as gentle as many hybrid and artificial fashions, however we predict that is the candy spot for mountaineering boots. The Renegade gives wonderful safety, stability, and sturdiness however stays versatile, snug, and versatile as soon as damaged in. The mix of a thick Nubuck leather-based higher, versatile however burly PU midsole, and Vibram outsoles drive the burden of those boots. Parts like a strengthened ankle and GORE-TEX lining – in addition to robust nylon laces, all-metal grommets, and double-stitched panels – additionally add to the heft.

Nevertheless, when you’re used to lighter footwear, over a pound per foot may be a downer relying in your route or mountaineering fashion. This design is nice for powerful, messy climate situations and stability with heavier hundreds, but it surely isn’t the only option for lighter, day-long excursions the place their weight will result in elevated fatigue.

Traction

For those who’re on the lookout for a boot that grips in virtually any terrain, the LOWA Renegades gained’t disappoint. Utilizing a mixture of geometric, rounded, and ribbed multidirectional lugs, these boots provide a stellar efficiency on most surfaces together with moist rocks, unfastened gravel, snow, and slick, muddy trails. The tread extends about an inch up the aspect of the boots, providing wonderful stability, and the marginally rockered design of the outsole slopes upwards on the toe, making these really feel extra ergonomic and pure to stroll in than comparable boots.

The deep ribbed heel part is a game-changer for downhill braking, with the identical design on the toe for tackling steep ascents. The midsole’s balanced stiffness retains this LOWA mannequin feeling steady with out sacrificing an excessive amount of flexibility. Plus, the Vibram rubber compound is extremely sturdy, making these boots dependable on the rockiest, sharpest routes.

Nevertheless, the intently spaced lugs are additionally one in every of our solely points. The tight design of the lugs generally is a little bit of a headache on muddy and gravelly routes  – the place they have an inclination to gather particles like rocks, sticks, and muck that may be gradual to shake off. The stiff sole provides stability, however it may really feel too inflexible on clean, hard-packed trails. These are minor points, although – we extremely suggest these boots for many surfaces and most routes.

Climate Resistance

In the case of braving the weather, the LOWA Renegade GTX boots are a frontrunner. The mix of a water-proof GORE-TEX lining paired with a high-quality Nubuck leather-based higher means they shrug off downpours, shallow river crossings, deep puddles, and icy slush with ease. The prolonged ankle protection prevents rain and snow from seeping in, making them good for shoulder-season mud and nasty winter treks. Whether or not you’re trudging by damp spring trails or navigating icy boulder fields, these boots will maintain your toes dry and heat. Their tightly sealed seams, gusseted tongue, and durable leather-based exterior is impressively proof against water saturation and maintains its integrity even after repeated publicity to soaking moist situations. For hikers needing dependable footwear in unpredictable situations, these boots ship mile after mile of safety. 

There’s a worth to pay for all that weatherproofing. The leather-based building, although nice for chilly, moist environments, turns sweltering in hotter temperatures. On summer season hikes above 70°F breathability is restricted, and your toes can get uncomfortably scorching, resulting in severe sweat buildup. In case your fundamental adventures embody light-weight backpacking in delicate situations, it’s price contemplating a lighter, extra breathable choice. Additionally, leather-based boots do require upkeep a few occasions a 12 months to maintain the waterproof, supple properties of the leather-based working for future hikes. Our information How one can Clear Mountain climbing Boots and Footwear is a good place to begin – with only a little bit of leather-based cleaner and conditioner, these boots will keep water-proof for a very long time.

Sturdiness

The LOWA Renegade GTXs earn a virtually good rating in relation to withstanding brutal situations. Almost bombproof full-grain nubuck leather-based with double-stitched seams ensures they stand as much as the relentless scrapes and abrasion of the path. Due to the GORE-TEX lining, water by no means seeps by, holding your toes dry by severe mud and rain. Metallic grommets and fast-drying nylon laces imply these boots gained’t give out whenever you’re deep into the backcountry. The thick, lugged outsole is engineered for lasting traction on rocky and uneven terrain, and it barely reveals put on after a whole bunch of miles. We’ve put these by all the things from moist snow to jagged scree fields, and so they’ve stored up with no hitch.  These are the boots you need when you want one thing to final season after season, irrespective of how tough you might be in your gear.

However sturdiness comes at a price, each actually and virtually. The heavy-duty leather-based and thick soles makes these boots a bit clunky in comparison with lighter artificial choices just like the Salomon X Extremely 4s or the HOKA Anacapa 2 Mid GTX, particularly on lengthy, scorching summer season hikes. These are usually not for informal day hikers who prioritize light-weight consolation over rugged longevity. Nevertheless, when you’re on the lookout for boots that may go the gap and  final for years of tough use, the Renegades set the bar excessive.

Ought to You Purchase the LOWA Renegade GTX?

The LOWA Renegade GTX is for hikers who need a top-performing mountaineering boot in relation to sturdiness, stability, and climate resistance for rugged trails. The boot’s thick, supportive soles, taller ankle collars, and durable leather-based building make them superb for carrying heavy hundreds and adventuring in unpredictable terrain and occasional off-trail adventures. For those who’re somebody who hikes in difficult situations like snow, mud, or rocky landscapes, these boots will maintain your toes protected, dry, and steady. The snug inside and dependable traction makes them an important selection for multi-day treks the place consolation and help are important.

Nevertheless, these boots aren’t for everybody. For those who’re a warm-weather hiker or somebody who prefers even lighter footwear, the Renegade’s heavier construct and leather-based uppers won’t be a great match. The boots can run scorching in summer season temperatures and have an extended break-in interval than many aggressive artificial choices. The traction is great, however the tightly-spaced lugs can entice particles like gravel and dirt and don’t shed it as rapidly as different designs. With a price ticket over $250, they’re not the most effective choose for hikers on a funds or those that solely hit delicate and average trails often. However if you would like mountaineering boots that can final for years and carry heavy hundreds, these boots are a long-term win for severe hikers.

What Different mountaineering boots Ought to You Think about?

For extra choices, please see our full information to males’s mountaineering boots.

Salomon X Extremely Mid GTX Assessment: The Salomon X Extremely Mid GTX is a greater choice when you’re on the lookout for a lighter mountaineering boot that doesn’t compromise on safety, traction, or sturdiness. They aren’t as climate resistant or snug as Renegades, however we choose the X Extremely Mids for quicker motion on long-distance hikes with average to technical terrain. 

Merrell Moab 3 WP Assessment: The Merrell Moab 3 WPs don’t present the identical stage of ankle help or sturdiness, however their’ mixture of leather-based panels and mesh on the uppers lend the boots superior breathability and adaptability. They’re an important selection for inexperienced persons and people on a funds.

KEEN Targhee 4 WP Assessment: These are an in depth competitor to the Renegades for consolation and stability. The KEEN Targhee 4 WP additionally gives comparable climate resistance, traction, and weight to the LOWA Renegade GTX. They aren’t as sturdy because of the mesh paneling within the uppers, neither is the ankle help as sturdy, however we extremely suggest these boots for many path situations. These are an important choose when you want a wider match, minimal break-in time, and a budget-friendly worth.