Let’s Dive into LaCrosse Footwear Trail 2650 GTX Mid Boots – Men’s
The LaCrosse Footwear Trail 2650 GTX Mid Boots – Men’s are designed for those who demand versatility in their footwear. Inspired by the iconic Pacific Crest Trail, these boots aim to bridge the gap between lightweight trainers and sturdy hiking boots, promising a blend of agility and support. The LaCrosse Footwear Trail 2650 GTX Mid Boots – Men’s retail for $199.95.
I was in need of a boot that could handle both quick day hikes and longer backpacking trips without feeling clunky or overly heavy. I wanted something waterproof and comfortable. I needed a boot that would provide excellent traction on various terrains.
My first impression upon unboxing the LaCrosse Footwear Trail 2650 GTX Mid Boots – Men’s was positive; they appeared well-constructed and lightweight. The suede and textile upper felt durable, and the Vibram 460 outsole instilled confidence. The boots felt surprisingly light.
I considered the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX and the Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof before settling on the LaCrosse Footwear Trail 2650 GTX Mid Boots – Men’s. I chose these due to LaCrosse’s reputation for quality and the promise of a more versatile design compared to the others. I was also enticed by the Danner PlyoGo Midsole, hoping it would provide a good balance of cushioning and responsiveness.
I was excited to try them out on the trail. I hoped they would live up to the hype of being both lightweight and supportive. I was looking forward to experiencing their waterproof capabilities.
Real-World Testing: Putting LaCrosse Footwear Trail 2650 GTX Mid Boots – Men’s to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the LaCrosse Footwear Trail 2650 GTX Mid Boots – Men’s on a weekend hiking trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The terrain was varied, including rocky trails, muddy sections, and some stream crossings.
The boots performed admirably in wet conditions thanks to the Gore-Tex Liner. My feet stayed dry even after prolonged exposure to rain and shallow water. The boots felt secure and grippy.
The boots required minimal break-in time, and I experienced no blisters or hot spots during the initial hike. The OrthoLite Footbed provided adequate cushioning. There were no surprises or issues upon first use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the LaCrosse Footwear Trail 2650 GTX Mid Boots – Men’s have held up well. I’ve taken them on numerous day hikes and a few longer backpacking trips.
The durability is impressive, with only minor signs of wear on the suede upper. The Vibram 460 outsole still provides excellent traction.
Maintenance is simple; I usually just wipe them down with a damp cloth after each hike and occasionally use a suede cleaner. The boots are easy to clean.
Compared to my previous hiking boots, the LaCrosse Footwear Trail 2650 GTX Mid Boots – Men’s offer a superior blend of lightweight agility and waterproof protection. They are a significant upgrade. They outperform my previous boots in terms of comfort and versatility.
Breaking Down the Features of LaCrosse Footwear Trail 2650 GTX Mid Boots – Men’s
Specifications
- Manufacturer: LaCrosse Footwear
- Gender: Male
- Weight: 28 oz (per boot)
- Activity: Hiking
- Color: Dusty Olive
- Footwear Upper Fabric/Material: Suede
- Outsole Material: Vibram 460
- Age Group: Adults
- Men’s Shoe Width: Medium
- Boot Shaft Height: 4 inches
- Boot Style: Shoes
- Footwear Closure: Laces
- Seasonal/Temperature Use: Winter
- Water Resistance Level: Waterproof
- Lining: Gore-Tex
These specifications are crucial for the boot’s overall performance. The lightweight design (28 oz) allows for agility on the trail. The Gore-Tex lining ensures waterproof protection in wet conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The LaCrosse Footwear Trail 2650 GTX Mid Boots – Men’s excel at providing a balance between lightweight agility and supportive stability. The Vibram 460 outsole offers excellent traction on various terrains. The waterproof Gore-Tex lining keeps feet dry.
The main strength of these boots lies in their versatility. They are comfortable enough for day hikes and supportive enough for longer backpacking trips. One minor weakness is that the lacing system can sometimes loosen during extended use.
The boots meet and even exceed my expectations for a lightweight hiking boot. They provide the support and protection I need without feeling bulky. They are very comfortable and functional.
Design & Ergonomics
The LaCrosse Footwear Trail 2650 GTX Mid Boots – Men’s feature a well-thought-out design with a focus on comfort and performance. The EXO Heel System provides a secure and comfortable fit. The OrthoLite Footbed offers ample cushioning.
The suede and textile upper is both durable and breathable, and the Dusty Olive color is aesthetically pleasing. The boots are fairly user-friendly. There is no significant learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The LaCrosse Footwear Trail 2650 GTX Mid Boots – Men’s are built to last. With proper care, they should provide several seasons of reliable use.
Maintenance is straightforward; regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional use of suede cleaner will keep them in good condition. The boots are easy to repair, with resoling being a viable option.
Accessories and Customization Options
The LaCrosse Footwear Trail 2650 GTX Mid Boots – Men’s come with a removable OrthoLite Footbed, which can be replaced with aftermarket insoles for a customized fit. The lacing system can be modified with different colored laces for a personalized look.
The boots are compatible with most standard hiking boot accessories. These include gaiters and trekking poles. There are currently no known options for extensive customization beyond insoles and laces.
Pros and Cons of LaCrosse Footwear Trail 2650 GTX Mid Boots – Men’s
Pros
- Gore-Tex lining provides excellent waterproof protection.
- Vibram 460 outsole offers superior traction on varied terrain.
- Lightweight design allows for agility and reduces fatigue.
- The EXO Heel System gives a secure and comfortable fit.
- Minimal break-in period.
Cons
- Lacing system can sometimes loosen during extended use.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy LaCrosse Footwear Trail 2650 GTX Mid Boots – Men’s?
The LaCrosse Footwear Trail 2650 GTX Mid Boots – Men’s are perfect for hikers and backpackers who want a versatile, lightweight boot that offers waterproof protection. They are also great for those who prefer a more agile feel on the trail.
Those who need maximum ankle support or require extensive customization options should skip this product. Those with particularly wide feet might find the medium width constricting.
A good pair of hiking socks and gaiters are must-have accessories. Trekking poles are also recommended for challenging terrain.
Conclusion on LaCrosse Footwear Trail 2650 GTX Mid Boots – Men’s
The LaCrosse Footwear Trail 2650 GTX Mid Boots – Men’s are a solid choice for anyone seeking a versatile and lightweight hiking boot. They provide excellent waterproof protection, superb traction, and a comfortable fit.
The price of $199.95 is justified given the quality of materials and the performance of the boots. They offer a great value proposition.
I would definitely recommend the LaCrosse Footwear Trail 2650 GTX Mid Boots – Men’s to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile hiking boot. Give them a try and experience the difference on your next adventure!