LOWA Renegade Evo GTX Mid: Still a King on the Trail? (Review)
ReviewAlright, let’s get real about hiking boots. You see a lot of fancy gear out there, but some boots just become legends. The LOWA Renegade? That’s one of ’em. I finally snagged a pair of the Renegade Evo GTX Mids in that Espresso Seagrass color (which, by the way, looks even better in person), and I’ve been giving them a proper workout. So, the big question: Does this boot still reign supreme, or has the competition finally caught up? Let’s find out, shall we?
First Impressions: Hello, Comfort!
Seriously, the moment I slipped these on, my feet sighed in relief. I’ve had boots that felt like medieval torture devices fresh out of the box – you know, the kind that require industrial-strength blister bandages. But the Renegades? Nah, these were comfy from the get-go. The nubuck leather upper feels soft and supple, and that Gore-Tex lining? It’s like a cozy hug for your feet. And let me tell you, as someone with slightly wider-than-average feet, that generous toe box is a godsend.
Hitting the Trail: Where the Renegade Really Sings
I’ve been putting these boots through their paces on all sorts of adventures, from easy-breezy day hikes in the Smokies to some pretty gnarly climbs up in New Hampshire’s White Mountains. And you know what? The Renegades are true all-rounders.
- Support When You Need It: That mid-height shaft? It’s like having built-in ankle insurance. Seriously, it provides fantastic support, which is a lifesaver when you’re picking your way across a boulder field. I remember one particularly hairy section on the Franconia Ridge Trail – those Renegades kept my ankles feeling rock-solid, even with a pack full of gear. And that LOWA Monowrap frame? It’s the real deal, adding noticeable stability without making the boot feel like you’re wearing ski boots.
- Goodbye, Soggy Socks! The Gore-Tex lining is a game-changer. I’ve tromped through stream crossings, been caught in sudden downpours, and my feet have stayed bone dry. Now, I will say that on those scorching hot days (think 80 degrees and humid), my feet did get a tad sweaty. But hey, you can’t win ’em all, right?
- Grip Like a Mountain Goat: The Vibram Rene Trac outsole is like having superglue on your feet. I’ve felt totally confident scrambling over rocks, sloshing through mud, and even tiptoeing across some icy patches (though I wouldn’t recommend these for serious winter hiking without crampons).
- Miles of Smiles (and No Blisters!): This is where the Renegade really shines. That LOWA DynaPU midsole strikes the perfect balance between cushioning and support. I’ve clocked some serious miles in these boots – 10+ mile days, no problem – and my feet have felt surprisingly happy at the end of it all.
A Couple of Tiny Niggles
Look, no boot is perfect, and the Renegade Evo GTX Mid has a couple of things worth mentioning:
- Durability Doubts? I’ve seen some chatter online about the rand (that’s the rubber bit around the edge) and the stitching giving up the ghost a little early. I haven’t had that issue myself yet, but it’s something I’m keeping an eye on.
- Hot Feet Alert: Like I said before, these boots can get a little toasty when the mercury really climbs. If you’re mostly hiking in the tropics, you might want to think about a non-waterproof boot or something a little lighter.
The Bottom Line: A Legend for a Reason
Even with a couple of minor gripes, the LOWA Renegade Evo GTX Mid is still a top contender in the hiking boot world, hands down. The comfort is off the charts, the support is spot-on, and the waterproof performance is rock-solid. If you’re hunting for a versatile, tough, and comfy boot that can handle everything from weekend strolls to proper backpacking trips, you seriously need to check out the Renegade Evo GTX Mid. You won’t regret it.
My Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Who Should Buy These Boots:
- Hikers who want a comfy, supportive boot that can handle pretty much anything.
- Backpackers who need a waterproof boot they can rely on for those multi-day adventures.
- Anyone with wider feet who struggles to find boots that don’t pinch.
Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere:
- Hikers who spend most of their time in super-hot, humid climates.
- Those who are obsessed with shaving every ounce and need a super-lightweight boot.
- Hikers on a super-tight budget (these boots are an investment, no doubt).
Happy trails, everyone!
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