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"All you need is this pair of hiking boots" - Answers from a small Italian high-tech workshop
Looking at the current hiking boot market, we see a huge variety of styles tailored to different purposes and preferences. This is somewhat inevitable, given the diversification of both hiking styles and desired styles. However, this can lead to confusion among users, leaving them unsure of what to choose. This situation makes a versatile trekking boot that can perform at a high level in any situation somewhat inevitable. While this is easy to say, no one has actually managed to achieve this—until this boot arrived. The La Sportiva Trango Cube GTX is a response from a small Italian high-tech workshop to the sparse hiking boot market. Released in 2013 and garnering widespread media praise, this truly revolutionary trekking boot is a versatile choice for hiking, camping in tents in the Alps, and even walking with crampons in snowy conditions (without forcing it on).
Detailed review
Item name (price)
La Sportiva Trango Cube GTX (List price: ¥51,000)
Main Specifications and ratings
| item | Specifications and ratings |
|---|---|
| upper | Abrasion-resistant fabric + thermoplastic coating |
| Lining | GORE-TEX Performance Comfort |
| Sole | 3D Flex System, Vibram Cube, Impact Brake System |
| size | Men's 38-48, Women's 36-43 |
| weight | Men's: Approx. 675g, Women's: Approx. 600g |
| crampons | Compatible with semi-one-touch embroidery |
| Comfort (20 points) |
18 |
| Stability (20 points) |
18 |
| Stepping in (20 points) |
19 |
| Weight (10 pieces) |
9 |
| Waterproof (10 points) |
9 |
| Durability (10 points) |
7 |
| Design (5 pieces) |
3 |
| Price (5 items) |
2 |
| Overall score | 85 |
This is amazing!
Extremely versatile
I've been wearing these boots since 2014, and these the first boots I've ever worn that are as versatile and versatile as these trekking boots . While multi-purpose boots tend to be mediocre, these boots are completely different. Comfort, durability, cushioning, and lightness are all at a high level, making them suitable for any occasion. It's almost as if every element essential to hiking boots has been "reinvented." Even now, two years after their debut, I can't find a model from any other manufacturer that compares to these unique boots.
Durability and grip as an "ultra-lightweight alpine boot"
an ultra-lightweight upper (abrasion-resistant fabric + thermoplastic processing) that offers excellent durability and a comfortable fit, and a sole (3D Flex System, Vibram Cube, Impact Brake System) that offers excellent grip and shock absorption, you can run freely across any terrain in Japan, including high mountains and rocky ridges. The toe box is sturdy enough to dig into the snow when snow remains, and it is also suitable for walking with crampons The special Vibram sole easily grips tight, slippery holds even on variation routes over rocky terrain, and these boots offer the robustness, impact resistance, and durability of alpine boots, all at an astonishingly light weight, making them ideal for long-distance mountaineering with peace of mind.
Durable and ultra-lightweight upper made from a seamless combination of high-strength nylon, thermoplastic, and ultra-light lace hooks
Adjustable tongue that can be freely adjusted by removing the Velcro
The exclusive Vibram sole has been redesigned for improved shock absorption and grip. The impact brake system improves shock absorption and grip by slanting the sole's contact point. The toe area is flat to provide better friction on tight rock holds
Lightness and flexibility as "ultra-stable trekking shoes"
These boots are not only lightweight, but also have a stable fit that envelops the heel and instep when worn, making them so comfortable that it's no exaggeration to say they feel as light as a slightly thicker trekking shoe . Furthermore, despite their high-cut construction that covers the entire ankle, the 3D Flex System allows for surprisingly smooth ankle movement, making you forget you're even wearing a full-fledged boot.
The 3D Flex System provides a firm grip on the ankle while significantly increasing the degree of freedom. This increased range of motion makes it easier to maintain a flat foot when climbing, descending, and traversing
This is not good
To be honest, I have almost no complaints about the functionality or performance at present. However, I think that many people, including myself, may be a little hesitant about high price the coloring is psychedelic (although the yellow model is still better...).
Summary: What kind of activities do you recommend?
If you already have multiple pairs of hiking boots for different purposes and are looking for a specific pair, or if you never venture into high mountains or rocky terrain like the Alps, these boots may not be necessary. For everyone else, these trekking boots will undoubtedly be a great addition (assuming they fit your foot shape). Their primary use is in high mountain hiking above the tree line and rocky terrain, or long-distance traverses lasting more than one night. Of course, they're also perfectly suited for light hikes, early winter trekking, and trekking when snow still remains. Even if you only do light hikes, they're perfect for those with foot instability or who want good ankle support while still walking comfortably
The company also has a model with almost the same functionality, the " TRANGO S EVO GORE-TEX ." This model is also much more affordable. However, after trying them on, the deciding factor was that this model definitely felt like it fit my feet, including the heel, better and allowed more freedom of movement. And above all, the light and slim silhouette seemed like it would be suitable for light mountain hiking. Of course, everyone's experience will be different, so it's a good idea to try them on in a store and compare them for yourself.
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