Skechers Deere Terraform Dunlow Hiking – Tested and Reviewed
ReviewSkechers John Deere Terraform Dunlow Hiking Shoe: Surprisingly Good for the Trail? Here’s the Lowdown.
Okay, let’s talk hiking shoes. I recently laced up a pair of Skechers Men’s John Deere Terraform Dunlows, and honestly? I went in with a healthy dose of skepticism. John Deere and Skechers – it’s not a combo you see every day, right? I’m used to John Deere being all about tractors, not necessarily conquering trails. But hey, I’m always game for a surprise, and these shoes definitely threw me for a loop.
First Impressions: Like Slipping into a Cloud (Almost)
Right off the bat, these shoes look the part. The mix of leather and mesh gives them that classic hiking shoe vibe, without feeling clunky or overbuilt. And the fit? Seriously comfy. I’ve got slightly wider feet, and usually, hiking boots feel like a medieval torture device after a few hours. But these? The “Relaxed Fit” is no joke. They felt good from the get-go. Plus, that “AIR-Cooled Memory Foam” insole is like walking on a slightly firm cloud. I wore them on a recent day hike – nothing too intense – and my feet didn’t feel like they were suffocating, which is always a win.
Hitting the Trail: Traction and (Almost) Waterproofing
So, I’ve taken these bad boys out on a few different trails now. We’re talking packed dirt, a little bit of rock-hopping, the usual. And you know what? The Goodyear rubber outsole actually grips! I felt pretty sure-footed, even on some of the looser stuff. I even had to navigate a couple of shallow stream crossings, and they handled it like champs. Now, I haven’t gone full-on swimming in them, but they are waterproof, which is a lifesaver. I got caught in a quick downpour last week, and my socks stayed bone dry. Huge points for that.
Eco-Friendly Bonus Points!
Here’s something that really caught my attention: Skechers is trying to do the right thing with their manufacturing. The leather in these shoes comes from a Leather Working Group (LWG) certified tannery, which basically means they’re trying to be more responsible with resources and waste. In today’s world, that’s a big deal, and I’m happy to see a company making an effort.
Okay, a Couple of Minor Gripes
Alright, nothing’s perfect, right? If I had to pick a few nits, I’d say the laces could use an upgrade. They feel a little flimsy, and I had to double-knot them to keep them from untying themselves every five minutes. Also, while the cushioning is great for most hikes, I wouldn’t choose these for anything super technical or gnarly. You’d probably want something with more support and ankle stability for that kind of terrain.
The Bottom Line:
So, what’s the final verdict? The Skechers Men’s John Deere Terraform Dunlow Hiking Shoe is a surprisingly good choice for anyone who enjoys a casual hike or just wants a comfortable, everyday shoe for the trails. They’re well-made, the traction is solid, and that relaxed fit is a game-changer. Plus, you can feel a little bit better about your purchase knowing they’re trying to be eco-conscious. Are they the ultimate mountaineering boot? Nah. But for moderate hikes and kicking around town, these are a solid win. If you’re looking for a reliable and comfy hiking shoe that won’t empty your wallet, give these a shot. You might just be surprised.