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LOWA vs. Salomon vs. Crispi vs. Kenetrek: Which Brand is Best for Hiking Boots?

LOWA vs. Salomon vs. Crispi vs. Kenetrek: Which Brand is Best for Hiking Boots?

    Comfortable feet are not only key to covering good ground on your next hike, but they’re also key to enjoying every mile. Having the right pair of hiking boots will allow you to lift your head up and enjoy the surroundings! The LOWA, Salomon, Crispi and Kenetrek are four of the most popular hiking boot brands in the market today. Their hiking boots all come with excellent functionalities and features that give you better hiking experience. But which brand is best? What's the difference between them? In this guide, I’ll be comparing LOWA, Salomon, Crispi and Kenetrek hiking boots from design , style, material and comfort to help you make a clear decision. Keep reading to find out!

Cover Photo:Toomas Tartes on unsplash.com

  • LOWA

History and Origin

Founded by Lorenz Wagner, brother of Hans Wagner who founded the Hanwag brand, Lowa is one of the world's leading manufacturers of outdoor footwear. The brand began in 1923 when a Bavarian cobbler began making heavy work brogues for his neighbors in the small village of Jetzendorf. LOWA has been committed to crafting the highest-quality boots and shoes for hiking, mountaineering, backpacking, everyday use and much more. By incorporating innovative technology with quality materials, LOWA has earned ISO 9001:2008 status, the highest standard of European boot-making craft. 

LOWA is paving the way in the boot industry, from inventing the air ski boot in 1972 to equipping history-making adventurers, such as Davo Karnicar, the first man to complete an uninterrupted ski descent of Everest, in 2000 (while wearing LOWA Struktura AT boots). LOWA has even branched out into manufacturing a line of tactical boots for police, the military and first responders. This line is called the Task Force series, and it delivers uncompromising performance, comfort and durability to meet the demanding needs of service professionals. Today, the brand diversifies its range of footwear with the help of more than 200 employees. Lowa wants to meet your expectations and needs for your outdoor activities.

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Source:lowaboots.com

Prices: depending on the design and features, both men's and women's hiking boots are range from $180 to $255.

Design & Style

With a reputation for crafting premium outdoor boots and shoes that blend outstanding quality and fit through innovative design and proprietary technology, LOWA has become the go-to choice for mountaineering, rock climbing, backpacking, hiking, mountain hunting, and all cold weather activities. There is a range of products for women and men and many of the shoes use Gore-Tex technology which ensures waterproof as well as breathable footwear, , creating the perfect environment for feet. The LOWA DynaPU® sole and stabilising frame combined with the LOWA MONOWRAP® create the perfect companion to tackle all kinds of outdoor activity.

Plus, Lowa's patented Monowrap construction wraps the foot in a lightweight, yet firmly supportive, PU frame that delivers excellent stability with very lightweight upper materials.  For women, footwear that is specially adapted to the female foot anatomy is needed - so LOWA offers models that are manufactured on a special women's last in all ranges and are in no way inferior to their male colleagues in terms of wearing comfort, fit and technical performance.

Quality (Mateiral Comfort)

LOWA carefully selects the materials it uses for its products. Many of LOWA's shoes and boots are made of leather, which is sourced from regional (European) producers that adhere to a sustainable manufacturing approach. Also, LOWA restricts the use of any harmful elements in all materials utilised, including wool and yarns, shoelaces, glue, and even dyes, and so excludes the use of Merino wool, nano-technology, antiperspirants and many more harmful substances.

With advanced cushioning, contoured footbeds, and breathable materials, Lowa hiking shoes and boots provide unmatched comfort and support. Their attention to every detail in design, sourcing and European manufacturing has earned their reputation for building the world’s most comfortable and durable hiking and hunting boots.

Size and Fit 

With the different foot in mind, LOWA have a variety of options in both standard and wide fit to ensure everyone can find the ideal compromise between good support and freedom of movement. The S shape is suitable for narrower feet with its narrower forefoot. The W shape is designed for people with a particular foot type (hallux valgus, rigid or flexible flat feet, etc.) and offers more width in the forefoot than usual shoes. Finally, the Standard shape is ideal for feet of ordinary width.

Where to Buy  LOWA Hiking Boots for the Cheapest?

lowaboots.com

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zappos.com9.5-11.5% cashback)

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  • Salomon

History and Origin

Salomon has been founded in 1947 in Annecy, France which started out as a simple metalworking shop. Later, it ventured into the skiing business and started making cable bindings and steel edges for skis, using its knowledge and experience in metalworking.The skiing equipment was Salomon’s main focus all the way until the late 1970s when the company launched its very first footwear product – the SX90 ski boot.By the early nineties, Salomon ventured into manufacturing hiking boots.  Salomon launched their first hiking shoes in 1992, many years after the company’s foundation. After that, they launched trail running shoes, winter apparel, softshell jackets, along with many custom technologies.In 2005, the company was bought by Amer Sports, based in Helsinki, Finland. However, its headquarters remained where they always were – in France.

Nowadays, Salomon is among the biggest and most renowned brands of its type on the planet. Salomon’s shoes and other products cater to a variety of sports markets, such as hiking, trail running, adventure racing, climbing, snowboarding, and skiing in over 40 countries.As a brand that was founded by those who knew everything there is to know about cold-weather conditions and alpine sports, Salomon is undoubtedly a trustworthy brand.

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Source:salomon.com

Prices: depending on the design and features ,the men's hiking boots are range from $105 to $230, while the women's hiking boots priced from $115 to $210.

Design & Style

Salomon shoes are known for their high-quality outdoor footwear, trail running shoes, and durable boots. They use GORE-TEX to ensure extreme climate comfort. This waterproof membrane is windproof as well as breathable. Advanced Chassis and SensiFit which help improve the stability and fit, are two other important names among the several technologies and features of Salomon’s hiking shoes, along with the protective toecap and the gusseted tongue.Salomon uses their own innovation for waterproofing their shoes. ClimaSalomon is a trademarked design that guarantees flexibility and complete weather protection. 

Instead of partnering with a renowned manufacturer, Salomon created their own, called Contagrip.This material provides different controls on the grip and flawless performance depending on the design.The company also uses Contagrip Winter Grip outsoles for their winter technical footwear. While not as durable as Vibram soles, Contagrips provide unmatched traction on wet and dry ice. Their OrthoLite die-cut insole technology also provides great cushioning to the foot, along with high breathability that makes this insole extremely comfortable.

Quality (Mateiral Comfort)

Salomon uses different materials on their shoes depending on their specific use, and the footwear ranges in performance, from lightweight shoes for short hikes in dry weather, to waterproof boots that are comfortable for many hours of walking. For example, if you plan to hike primarily in hot, dry weather, opt for boots without a waterproof membrane because they will be more breathable. On the other hand, if you hike in wet weather then you’ll probably prefer boots with a Gore-Tex type (GTX) membrane. 

Comfort is king when it comes to outdoor footwear that is going to put to the test week in and week out.  Salomon hiking boots offer an exceptional combination of comfort, on-trail performance, and durability for everything from casual day hikes to ambitious overnight missions.

Size and Fit

Salomon US sizes run true to size for a perfect fit right out of the box. No need to go up or down a size.Unless you have narrow feet, you might find that they feel a bit tight due to the form-fitting upper and arch support. 

Where to Buy  Salomon Hiking Boots for the Cheapest?

salomon.com

dickssportinggoods.com1.5-2% cashback)

zappos.com 9.5-11.5% cashback)

  • Crispi

History and Origin

Crispi is an Italian company known for its high-quality outdoor footwear. Unlike most boot manufacturers in the current hunting space, Crispi began with their roots in the outdoor sport and hunting industry. Founded in 1975 by Gigi Barocco in the small town of Volta Mantovana, Italy, it initially focused on manufacturing ski boots but later expanded its product range to include hiking and mountaineering boots. From the start "Progress, Evolution, and Innovation" have been the key words that guarantee success and rapid growth to the Crispi at international levels.

Crispi integrated features such as Gore-Tex waterproof membranes, Vibram outsoles, and shock-absorbing midsoles into its designs, ensuring superior performance and durability. These features can be found in popular models such as the Briksdal, Altitude, Lapponia, and Monaco. Today, Crispi continues to be a prominent player in the outdoor footwear industry, producing a wide range of boots for hiking, backpacking, mountaineering, and hunting. They combine traditional craftsmanship with modern technology to create boots that offer comfort, protection, and performance in challenging environments.

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Source:salomon.com

Prices: Crispi pay attention to every detail so as to create a shoe that is defined by excellence. So Crispi boots are a little bit expensive, the price are range from $245 - $530.

Design & Style

Every pair of CRISPI boots is hand-crafted in Crespignaga, Italy. The CRISPI has developed a new constructive technology of the inner lining that associates a kind of GORE-TEX® footwear characterized by high thermic insulation and extreme resistance to abrasion with a GORE-TEX® footwear coupled with naturally comfortable real leather. The result is 100% waterproof, breathable, long-lasting and healthy footwear products.C.C.F. CRISPI® Crossbow Frame brings an innovation on the shock absorbing system sole by associating the request of stability, comfort and technology in a high quality product. 

A.B.S.S. revolutionizes the comfort and protection of the entire ankle area thanks to a combination of innovative materials that allow the footwear to contour gently your ankle. CRISPI® Anatomic Fit System - Born from the concept of wrapping the foot of its full naturalness and anatomical shape, developing a sensation of immediate and long lasting comfort.CRISPI® Thermo Wire Technology - An innovative system developed by CRISPI® which permits to support the upper by giving extra structure, better stability, protection and support to the shoe.

Quality (Mateiral Comfort)

Thanks to its multiple layers of breathable Italian leather and a patented coating, Crispi boots are not only water and windproof but also supportive of your feet. Featuring an innate arch system, superior flex and cushion, and shock absorption, you're sure to stay comfortable even with all-day wear. 

Since 1975, CRISPI'S Italian artisans have put their know-how into creating every single boot. Best known for their amazing out-of-the-box comfort, these handcrafted hunting boots are built with craftmanship that does not forget the importance of solid traditions.Crispi Boots is a premier brand of high-performance outdoor and tactical boots which are robust and made to withstand even the most extreme conditions.

Size and Fit

In my experience, generally CRISPI boots tend to run true to size. I find that CRISPI boots' standard width models are a little on the wider side of things when compared to other hunting boots designed for the mountains. Their standard width models will fit the majority of people, usually in the standard street shoe size.

Where to Buy  Crispi Hiking Boots for the Cheapest?

crispius.com

scheels.com(4-5% cashback)

blackovis.com (4-6% cashback)

  • Kenetrek

History and Origin

Kenetrek Boots were born out of founder's passion for sheep hunting and their desire to find a pair of boots that wouldn't leave their feet all beat up and screaming in pain when they strapped on a heavy pack, picked up a rifle or bow and headed above the tree line for a week of chasing sheep in rough weather. And since then, they have continued to design, test in the field, modify and repeat repeat. . . regularly. Kenetrek's customers began sending their demand.  They wanted the same lightweight comfort and durability their recreational boots gave them in their work boots.  So Kenetrek answered with the Lineman Extreme, an ASTM approved safety-toe boot that linemen and other outdoor workers countrywide are raving about.  

But the letters kept coming.  Their Wildland Firefighter friends asked for a firefighting boot with the same features as their mountain boots, so after two years of a meticulous design process, they passed rigorous heat and flame testing and proudly introduced their Wildland Fire Boot.  After that, their guide and outfitter friends kept pushing them to build a boot that kept Kenetrek's legendary all-day comfort, but in a platform with stability that matched a plastic boot. So they have introduced the Guide Ultra - combining their EverStep removable nylon braces, providing incredible support for heavy pack loads with our Kenetrek K-73 outsole - the gold standard for high traction yet comfortable outsoles. Now, Kenetrek carry a variety of Kenetrek boots from stiff and stable all-leather mountain hunting boots to safety toe Lineman boots (and everything in between) to keep you upright and comfortable in every aspect of daily life.

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Source:kenetrek.com

Prices: The initial investment in Kenetrek boots will be higher, the price are range from $265- $450, but you will find that the long-lasting quality, comfort, and performance justify the expense over time.

Design & Style

Kenetrek boots are specifically designed for hunters, hikers, and other outdoor enthusiasts. From waterproof and insulated boots to those designed for specific outdoor activities, each pair is equipped with cutting-edge technology and ergonomic designs to keep you comfortable throughout your adventures.

Kenetrek integrates advanced technology and innovative design features into their boots. This includes waterproof and breathable membranes, insulation for varying climates, and ergonomic designs that prioritize comfort and functionality. They are built to withstand rugged terrain and harsh weather conditions, while providing maximum support and protection.

Quality (Mateiral Comfort)

Kenetrek boots are crafted using top-notch materials, such as high-grade leather and specialized fabrics. These premium materials enhance the boots' durability, providing long-lasting performance in challenging outdoor conditions.

Kenetrek boots are also known for their sturdy and supportive construction, and they often feature a degree of stiffness that is intentional and beneficial for specific outdoor activities. The stiffness in Kenetrek boots is designed to provide stability and support, particularly in rugged terrains and challenging conditions. However, this stiffness does not compromise comfort, contributing to Kenetrek boots' popularity.

Size and Fit

Kenetrek Boots are made according to US sizing. They are known for their true-to-size fit, but individual preferences and foot shapes can vary. It's recommended to start with the size of boots you normally wear.

Where to Buy Kenetrek Hiking Boots for the Cheapest?

kenetrek.com

scheels.com(4-5% cashback)

blackovis.com(4-6% cashback)

Bottom Line

LOWA vs. Salomon vs. Crispi vs. Kenetrek: Which Brand is Best for Hiking Boots?

LOWA, Salomon, Crispi and Kenetrek are four of the most popular hiking boot brands in the market today. They all offer comfortable boots that are fit for a wide variety of activities. There is no saying who is the definite winner in this whole LOWA vs. Salomon vs. Crispi vs. Kenetrek situation. It all comes down to personal choice and needs.

With over 90 years of hiking boot making experience, Lowa Boots have been acclaimed as the finest hiking boots in the world by climbers, mountaineers, hikers, the media and certified quality testers. Every LOWA shoe is a masterpiece of manufacture quality, robustness, durability and wearing comfort. People who plans challenging undertakings in extreme terrainwill find the perfect companion in LOWA boots.

Salomon hiking boots offer an exceptional combination of comfort, on-trail performance, and durability for everything from casual day hikes to ambitious overnight missions. No shoes available on today’s market are as feature-rich as the ones offered by Salomon. If you want your trekking shoes to be jam-packed and useful on pretty much all kinds of terrain, Salomon is a great option.

Crispi Hunting Boots are built in Italy and use the finest materials and construction available. Durability, comfort, and performance is what sets Crispi apart. From dependable winter hunting boots to rugged hunting hiking boots,  Crispi have got your adventures covered. If you want a hunting boot that offers waterproof protection, ankle and arch support, abrasion resistance, and a shock-absorbing footbed, you’ll find it in Crispi designs.

Kenetrek is a brand inspired by sheep hunting and the desire for a pair of hunting boots that offer incredible support and protection during a tough and rugged hunt. If you're planning on hunting in rugged terrain or taking the trail less traveled, be sure to invest in a pair of high-quality and durable Kenetrek hunting boots.

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2024-04-28 21:05219