Northside Benton Mid: A Budget-Friendly Boot That Surprised Me
ReviewOkay, so I’m not exactly scaling K2 anytime soon, but I do love a good weekend hike. That means I’m always hunting for gear that’s both capable and, let’s be honest, easy on the wallet. The Northside Benton Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot? It definitely caught my eye because of the price. I recently laced these up and hit a local trail – nothing too crazy, just a decent workout near Nashville – and I’ve got some thoughts to share.
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Right off the bat, these boots aren’t going to win any beauty contests. The nylon and synthetic suede combo isn’t exactly high-end, but they seem put together well enough. The mid-ankle height is a plus for me, offering a bit more support where I like it, and the 8-inch shaft? Fits my leg just right – not too snug, not too loose. And those speed laces? Seriously handy. Getting these boots on and off is a snap, even when the laces are a bit damp from the morning dew.
But how do they actually perform? That’s what really matters, right? My chosen trail had a bit of everything: some sharp rocks, a few muddy surprises, and a small stream to navigate. Honestly, the Bentons did better than I expected. That multi-directional rubber outsole really gripped the ground, giving me confidence on most surfaces. Now, I wouldn’t take these up a sheer cliff face, but for the moderate ups and downs and the uneven bits, they were spot-on.
That “waterproof” claim? Totally legit. My feet stayed dry as a bone during that little stream crossing. Big win! And the inside lining? It actually breathes! Even after a few hours of hiking in fairly warm weather, my feet weren’t swimming in sweat. The EVA midsole is okay for cushioning, but I definitely felt the rocks poking through on the tougher sections. Pro tip: invest in some thick hiking socks. Your feet will thank you.
Okay, a couple of minor complaints. Let’s be real, these aren’t the comfiest boots I’ve ever worn. The materials feel a little stiff, and the cushioning is decent, but nothing spectacular. Also, while the ankle support is good for day hikes, I wouldn’t trust these for carrying a heavy pack on a multi-day trek.
So, the bottom line? The Northside Benton Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is a surprisingly good pick for hikers who are just starting out or who stick to well-maintained trails and are watching their budget. They grip well, keep your feet dry, and offer reasonable comfort – all for a price that’s hard to argue with. If you’re dreaming of conquering the Appalachian Trail, you’ll need something more substantial. But for weekend warriors like me? These are a solid choice. I’m giving them 4 out of 5 stars. They seriously over-delivered for the price.