CMP Rigel Trekking Shoes: Stylish Comfort on the Trail? My Take
ReviewOkay, so I’m a bit of a hiking addict. From those quick weekend escapes to the local trails to full-blown, multi-day adventures, I’m always searching for that perfect pair of hiking shoes. When I first laid eyes on the CMP Rigel Trekking Shoes, I gotta admit, I was hooked by the looks. They seemed like they could handle business on the trail, but still wouldn’t look out of place when grabbing a latte afterwards. But, you know how it goes – looks can be deceiving. So, did they actually deliver? Let’s dive in.
First Impressions Matter:
Right out of the box, the Rigels definitely have a certain something. The suede leather upper? It just gives them a classier vibe compared to some of those super-aggressive, techy-looking hiking shoes. And those contrasting details? A nice touch, for sure. Plus, they felt pretty light in my hands, which is always a promising start.
Hitting the Trails:
I’ve clocked around 50 miles in these bad boys now, throwing them at everything from smooth, easy trails to some seriously rocky and uneven terrain. Here’s the lowdown:
- Comfort Factor: The EVA midsole does a solid job of cushioning your feet. Even on those longer treks, I didn’t run into any major comfort issues. And that ankle support? You definitely notice it, especially when you’re picking your way across tricky ground. Big thumbs up there.
- Grip, Grip, Grip: The CMP FullOn Grip sole mostly held its own. I felt pretty confident on dry trails, and even managed okay on some damp rocks. But, and this is a but with a capital B, things got a little dicey when I hit mud or anything seriously slippery.
- Waterproof Wonders: I haven’t been caught in a total downpour yet (thankfully!), but they handled stream crossings and general dampness like champs. Dry feet are happy feet, right?
- Built to Last? Those abrasion-resistant stripes seem to be doing their job, because these shoes are still looking pretty fresh, even with the miles I’ve put on them. The suede leather’s holding up well too, just a few minor scuffs to show for it.
- The Fit is Just Right: I’m usually a size 10, and the size 10 Rigels fit me like a glove. The toe box has enough wiggle room, which is crucial for those long days on the trail. No cramped toes here!
A Few Little Things:
- That grip issue on slick surfaces is a real thing. I wouldn’t even think about taking these on any serious mountaineering trips.
- The short shaft design? It might not be ideal if you’re someone who likes a lot of ankle coverage.
The Verdict:
So, here’s the deal: the CMP Rigel Trekking Shoes are a great option if you want something that looks good and feels good on the trail. They’re perfect for day hikes and less technical terrain. Sure, they might not be the most hardcore hiking shoes out there, but they strike a good balance between performance and style, and they won’t break the bank. If you’re after a versatile hiking shoe that can handle a bit of everything and still look stylish, you should definitely give these a look.
Who’s gonna love these?
- Casual hikers who like to look good
- Anyone who values comfort above all else
- People sticking to well-maintained trails
And who should probably pass?
- Hardcore mountaineers
- Hikers tackling super-challenging terrain
- Those who need maximum ankle support – these might leave you wanting more.