It seems these days it is next to impossible to find a leather hiking boot with a toe cap. I have been on the hunt for a long time and finally have found my grail. I happened to be leaving Rocky Mountain National Park and saw a sign that said “We Sell Real Boots”, I had to stop in at the Warming House and see these supposed real boots. Well I was in for a surprise; they had a floor full of great boots and incredibly helpful staff. I left with a pair of Lowa Camino LL boots.
The Lowa Camino LL is a full leather boot with rubber toe caps and rubber heal caps. Why is this important? Because a leather boot without a toe cap is only good for the summer. You’ll kick rocks and scuff the leather of the toe, this lets water in no matter how much you seal them. By having a rubber toe cap you preventthat.
The boot is incredibly burly while still being light weight. The “LL” means Leather Lined. This makes a slightly warmer boot and very comfortable.
When I was looking at the boots at first I noticed that instead of d-rings for the laces the Lowa Camino LL has ball bearings in the lower laces. I wasn’t sure if this was just a gimmick, until I hiked with them, it makes tightening the laces a breeze.
The tongue is integrated in the boot, allowing no water or debris in. On the top of the tongue there is a post which you use to keep the tongue centered and apply the right amount of pressure.
With the lacing and construction of the boot they are comfortable and provide all the support you need.
The sole is from Vibram, which provides all the traction you need and can be replaced at a cobblers.
I have used these boots hiking and backpacking in everything from dry sunny days to snow and rain. They provide all the support you need and are incredibly comfortable. A genuinely great boot and I am sure it will be great for years to come.
Lowa Says: http://www.lowaboots.com/catalog/camino-ll-flex-leather-lined/2104619499/6
New! Handcrafted in Germany or Italy.
Distance hiking and trekking comfort with LOWA’s new, proprietary, technology for heel fit and in-step stability. The Camino’s forefoot design holds the foot securely, while reducing strain across the toes, especially going downhill.
- UPPERS: 2.2 mm Nubuck leather, soft leather trim at the instep.
- LINING: Glove leather lining.
- SOLE UNIT: Vibram® Apptrail Outsole provides increased contact area.
- A self-cleaning tread for excellent grip.
- Pronounced front heel edge for good downhill traction.
- MIDSOLE: PU Midsole provides cushioning and increased walking comfort.
- LOWA X-LACING: Two-zone lacing with locking eyelets deliver optimum heel fit and instep stability.
- Rubber toe and heel caps for durability.
- Carbon effect micro-fiber inserts in the heel for smooth transition to roll-off motion.