Oboz Sawtooth X Mid B-Dry: A Trail-Ready Workhorse (with a Conscience!)
ReviewI’ve tromped through enough trails to know a thing or two about hiking boots. From scrambling up sun-baked rocks in Arizona to sloshing through the rainforests of the Pacific Northwest, I’ve learned that your boots can make or break the whole experience. So, when I got my hands on the Oboz Sawtooth X Mid B-Dry, I was itching to see if they could handle whatever I threw at them.
First off, these boots just look ready for anything. That oiled nubuck leather? It screams quality. And when I slipped them on? Snug as a bug in a rug! Now, they do fit close, so if you’ve got wider feet or just like a little wiggle room, you might think about going up half a size.
My chance to really put them to the test came on a backpacking trip in the Smokies. We’re talking everything from rocky climbs that made my calves scream to creek crossings that threatened to swallow my boots whole, plus plenty of soft, forgiving forest paths. And you know what? The Sawtooth X Mid didn’t even flinch. That mid-height cut gave me the ankle support I needed when the trail got dicey, especially with a pack full of gear.
What surprised me most was how comfy they were. That ACT+ midsole is no joke! It’s like Oboz snuck tiny marshmallows in there. Seriously, my feet felt way less beat-up at the end of the day compared to my old boots. And the outsoles? They gripped everything! Wet rocks, loose dirt, you name it – I felt like Spider-Man scaling those hills.
Of course, no trip to the Smokies is complete without a little rain, right? That’s where the B-DRY waterproofing came in clutch. My feet stayed bone-dry, which is a major win in my book. Now, let’s be real, these aren’t the most breathable boots I’ve ever worn. If you’re hitting the trail in scorching heat, you might want something lighter. But for moderate temps and wet conditions? These are golden.
Here’s the thing that really sealed the deal for me: Oboz plants a tree for every pair of boots they sell. How cool is that? It’s good to know my purchase is helping the planet, even in a small way. Plus, they use recycled stuff and get their leather from responsible sources. It just feels good to support a company that cares.
Okay, so are they perfect? Nah, nothing is. That snug fit might not work for everyone, and the laces were a little stiff out of the box. But honestly, those are minor quibbles.
Bottom line? The Oboz Sawtooth X Mid B-Dry is a tough, comfy, and reliable hiking boot that’s ready for almost anything you can throw at it. Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or just enjoy a weekend hike, these boots are worth a look. And with Oboz’s commitment to the environment, you can feel good about lacing them up.
The Lowdown: If you need a boot that can handle tough trails, keep your feet dry, and support a company with a conscience, the Sawtooth X Mid is a solid bet.
The Good Stuff:
- Ankle support for days
- Cushioning that actually works
- Waterproofing that doesn’t quit
- Built to last
- Eco-friendly vibes
The Not-So-Good Stuff:
- Might be too snug for wide feet
- Breathability could be better in hot weather
My Verdict: 4.5 out of 5 stars – Highly recommended!