Cotswold Kingham Mid: A Sustainable Step Forward (Review)
ReviewOkay, so I pound the trails pretty regularly. That means I’m always scouting for boots that can handle the miles and keep my feet happy. Lately, though, I’ve been trying to be a bit more mindful about my gear choices, you know? Enter the Cotswold Kingham Mid Mens Hiking Boots. What caught my eye? They boast being made with 85% recycled plastic bottles. Seriously! My first thought was, “Can these eco-warriors actually perform?” Time to find out.
Right out of the box, these boots aren’t going to win any style awards. They’re a bit understated, a bit… practical. The brown synthetic material isn’t exactly flashy, but they seem solid. The ankle height feels right – enough support without making me feel like I’m wearing ski boots.
So, I laced ’em up and hit the trails. I’ve put them through their paces on everything from easy, groomed paths to some seriously muddy scrambles. And honestly? I’m genuinely impressed. The rubber soles? Grippy as all get-out. There was this one hike after a downpour, and the trail was basically a swamp. The Kinghams? They just shrugged it off. No slips, no drama. Plus, that waterproof membrane? A lifesaver. My feet stayed bone-dry, which is a huge win in my book. Nothing ruins a hike faster than soggy socks.
Those speed lacing hooks are a godsend, too. Getting these boots on and off is a breeze. The fit? Spot on. And the mesh lining? It breathes! I’ve had boots in the past that turned into foot saunas, leading to blisters and general misery. These Kinghams seem to let my feet breathe, which makes a world of difference on longer hikes.
But let’s be real, the big story here is the recycled thing. It’s awesome to see Cotswold walking the walk when it comes to sustainability. It’s hard to say exactly how much of an impact it makes, but knowing I’m rocking boots made from recycled plastic? It just feels good.
Now, if I’m being picky (and I usually am), the synthetic material doesn’t have that luxurious feel you get with leather. But hey, that’s a trade-off I’m happy to make for the eco- cred and the friendlier price tag. Also, if you’ve got super weak ankles, you might want something with a higher cut for extra support.
Bottom line? The Cotswold Kingham Mid Mens Hiking Boots are a fantastic pick for anyone who wants a solid, comfy, and eco-conscious hiking boot. They handle all sorts of terrain, keep your feet dry, and are made with recycled stuff. They might not turn heads on the trail, but they’ll get you where you need to go without emptying your wallet or trashing the planet. Definitely worth a look!