I talk a lot about my dogs gear but I’m excited to start touching base on my gear that I have had the opportunity to test and review some of my favorite gear that I use when I’d out with my desert dogs. Whether we are camping, hiking or backpacking hiking boots in my opinion is the most important happy feet make a happy hiker! I have three different sets of hiking boots and they are for three different uses but all share on thing in common they are used to keep up with my desert dogs.
The Voyageur Mid
Keen makes a rugged cruiser with tons of ventilation. There is no waterproof barrier in favor of mesh lining, the Voyageur Mid hiking boot allows for more ventilation on hot summer days which here in the Arizona desert is a must. The aggressive out sole has 4mm lugs to bite into the terrain, providing excellent traction while the ESS shank provides torsional stability for a secure ride from valley to mountaintop. I have never slipped or slid in my Keens the grippy sole is one to be desired. Even though this boot is not waterproof if the boot does get wet it drys very fast thanks to all the added ventilation. This boot is my go to hiking boot.
FEATURES
- Approximate weight per shoe: 13.7 oz/388.1 g
- 4mm multi directional lugs
- Cleansport NXT™ for natural odor control
- Contoured heel lock
- Dual density compression molded EVA midsole
- Mesh lining
- Non-marking rubber outsole
- Removable metatomical dual density EVA footbed
- Torsion stability ESS shankMeasurement Note: I found to go up half a size, due to thicker socks and to have enough room in the toe box when going down hill.
MSRP: $125.00
Making a leap in my Voyageur Mid’s by Keen
PC: @TrustYourTrail
Capra Rapid
Boots got wet from a stream crossing, dogs got them soaked after playing down at the river not to worry the Capra Rapid by Merrell has you covered. Super quick-drying, highly ventilated hydro-hikers with a grippy out sole and supportive upper are great for days a the river, or beach. The Capra Rapid from Merrell is a super cute and bright, this low top hiking boot perfect for short hike to the river or strolling along the beach. They are super light and dry very fast. The cord and locking system is great for a quick on or off.
FEATURES
• Synthetic and mesh upper for breathability and water capability
• Cord and lock lacing system for quick secure fit
• Rubber foam and mesh lining for padded comfort
• Perforated EVA removable footbed helps control moisture and drainage
• ESS arch shank
• Merrell air cushion in the heel absorbs and adds stability
• Drainage channel in outsole to manage water evacuation
• 3.5mm lug depth
• Vegan friendly footwear
• Weight: 1lb 2oz
MSRP: $100.00
Hanging out with the pups in Capra Rapid’s by Merrell
Capra Bolt Mid
The Capra Bolt is another great hiking boot if your looking for a waterproof option. Made for more intense hikes, its grippy outsole lets you move confidently on terrain and no slippage has occurred. The bright colors are amazing! I have gotten them fully wet and have not had any water seep into the boot, a great option for rainy hikes, stream crossings, or wet grass.
FEATURES
• Synthetic and mesh upper
• Metal hook and lacing closure for secure lacing
• Bellows tongue keeps debris out
• Breathable mesh lining
• Merrell M Select™ FIT.ECO blended EVA contoured footbed with organic odor control
• Molded nylon arch shank
• Merrell air cushion in the heel absorbs shock and adds stability
• TrailProtect™ pad offers additional protection off road
• 4mm lug depth
• Weight: 1lb 8oz
$140.00
Capra Bolt Mid Waterproof hiking boots by Merrell getting
broken in on an over nighter near the salt river.
PC: @TrustYourTrail
Overall
I love all three of these boots and have never gotten a blister in either pair. The break in period is nonexistent, I have put all three of these boots on and hiked in them that day and had no soreness or blisters to report. Keen or Merrell they both make great Hiking boots but take note Keen dose have a wider toe box great for toe splay, which I love! Merrell has a nice toe box too but nothing like a Keen and its spacious toe box. But Keen also doesn’t have a large array of bright colors to choose from, a lot of Keen’s boots are earth tones with pops of color. I’m super happy with my boots and hope this helps anyone looking for hiking boots so they too can keep up with there adventure hounds and crush some trails!