Product Review: Asolo Fugitive GTX Hiking Boots

Back in May I purchased the Asolo Fugitive GTX Hiking Boots from Rob's REI. I previously owned a pair of New Balance boots of slightly lighter construction. I destroyed those boots--literally shredding the sole and ripping chunks of rubber off. To recollect a particularly low point in my ownership of those boot, I was descending the Cat's Elbow near West Mountain when a big chunk of rubber came off and I almost rolled my ankle on the side of the cliff.

I decided I needed something tougher to stand up to the beating the Harrimaniacs would put my boots through. I settled on the Asolos through a combination of factors-- First, I wanted to be economical but I did have some money given to me at my birthday specifically for boots, so my budget was higher than it would have been on my own. Next, I wanted something that would hold together against the rock-bashing they would receive and would remain waterproof for all of the snow-slopping and torrential downpours they would endure. The New Balances lost their waterproofing quality after only a few dozen miles, eventually becoming no better than the average tennis shoe. Lastly I wanted something with better sole support-- I could feel everything through the New Balances and it think it precipitated a recurring strain in my foot.

I have worn the Asolos now for a few dozen miles of camping and another ten or so miles of hiking while birding. The are much more rigid in the sole than my previous footwear--a huge improvement. I feel the increased stiffness protects my foot better. In addition, the break-in period for my previous shoes was about 50 miles. The Asolos felt much better from mile one and have seemed to need less breaking in in general. My feet have not felt the pain of the break-in process they way they did last time.

Honestly I cannot yet comment on the water-proofing as I have not yet been in a very wet environment while wearing them as of yet. In the future I may update with respect to this aspect of their construction. I bought mine on sale for about $175. If you are an REI member, this is a good candidate for a regularly mailed 20% off coupon. In conclusion, the Asolo Fugitives are a little pricey, but are in the same range as other similar boots. The construction is solid and durable and the boots are comfortable. I would recommend these to any light backpacker or aggressive hiker.

Asolo Fugitive GTX Hiking Boots
http://www.rei.com/product/706762
$207.50 retail
Dan's Rating: 9.0 out of 10.0*

UPDATE:
*I finally got a chance to weather-test the Asolos on 116-111004 and wow did they impress! The vast majority of the 7-hour, 15.6-mile hike was spent in consistent, moderate rain. My British military-issue 'smock' started soaking through in the arms after about 6 miles. My pants started soaking up water through my rain-pants a few miles later. But the Asolos kept my feel dry right through to until I set foot back in the car! I can only hope they stay this waterproof for the life of the boot.