Let’s Talk About Oboz Sawtooth II Mid B-DRY Hiking Shoes – Women’s
The Oboz Sawtooth II Mid B-DRY Hiking Shoes – Women’s are designed as a mid-height, waterproof light hiker. Manufactured by Oboz, these boots offer a balance of stability, support, and comfort. They’re instantly recognizable for their styling and aim to be an ideal choice for weekend section hikes.
My adventures often take me off the beaten path, and finding a hiking boot that can withstand unpredictable weather and varied terrain is crucial. I needed a boot that could keep my feet dry, provide ample ankle support, and offer all-day comfort. The promise of waterproof protection, combined with a mid-height design for added stability, drew me to the Oboz Sawtooth II Mid B-DRY Hiking Shoes – Women’s.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the apparent quality of the materials. The nubuck leather upper felt supple yet durable, and the overall construction seemed robust. The boots had a substantial but not overly heavy feel, suggesting a good balance between support and agility.
I considered the Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Women’s and the Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Women’s. I chose the Oboz Sawtooth II Mid B-DRY Hiking Shoes – Women’s because of Oboz’s reputation for excellent footbed support and the promise of a more stable platform for carrying heavier loads.
My first impression was positive; these boots felt like they were built for serious hiking. The fit was snug but comfortable, and the design was aesthetically pleasing, making me excited to hit the trails.
Real-World Testing: Putting Oboz Sawtooth II Mid B-DRY Hiking Shoes – Women’s to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test of the Oboz Sawtooth II Mid B-DRY Hiking Shoes – Women’s was on a day hike in the Appalachian Mountains. The trail involved rocky terrain, stream crossings, and steep ascents. The boots were immediately put through their paces.
The B-DRY waterproof membrane proved effective during several stream crossings, keeping my feet dry and comfortable. The trail also had some muddy sections from the recent rain. The traction of the Sawtooth Outsole was impressive. I felt confident and sure-footed even on slippery surfaces.
The boots felt supportive straight out of the box, and I experienced no hot spots or blisters during the initial hike. The O FIT Insole seemed to provide ample cushioning and arch support, contributing to overall comfort.
After the first use, I noticed a small amount of debris collecting in the gusseted tongue area, but nothing significant. Overall, the initial performance was excellent, and the boots lived up to my expectations.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Oboz Sawtooth II Mid B-DRY Hiking Shoes – Women’s have proven to be reliable and durable. I’ve taken them on numerous day hikes, as well as a multi-day backpacking trip in the Adirondacks. The boots have consistently performed well in various conditions.
The nubuck leather has held up well against abrasions and scuffs, showing only minor signs of wear. The Sawtooth Outsole continues to provide excellent traction, even after significant mileage. The waterproofing remains effective, keeping my feet dry in wet conditions.
Cleaning the boots is relatively simple. I typically use a soft brush and mild soap to remove dirt and grime. The O FIT Insole can be removed for airing out, which helps prevent odors.
Compared to my previous hiking boots (a pair of Salomon Quest 4D GTX), the Oboz Sawtooth II Mid B-DRY Hiking Shoes – Women’s offer a more stable platform and better arch support. While the Salomons were slightly lighter, the Oboz boots provide superior comfort for longer hikes, especially when carrying a heavier pack.
Breaking Down the Features of Oboz Sawtooth II Mid B-DRY Hiking Shoes – Women’s
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Oboz
- Gender: Female
- Age Group: Adults
- Women’s Shoe Width: Medium
- Boot Style: Hiking Boot
- Color: Brindle/Tradewinds Blue
- Footwear Type: Boots
- Toe Type: Closed
- Activity: Hiking
- Weight: 15.5 oz
- Footwear Closure: Laces
- Fabric/Material: Nubuck Leather
- Fire Resistant: No
- Footwear Upper Fabric/Material: Waterproof Nubuck leather & highly abrasion-resistant textile
- Insole Material: O FIT Insole
- Water Resistance Level: Waterproof
- Condition: New
- Midsole Material: Duel-density EVA
- Outsole Material: Sawtooth Outsole
- Lining Material: Oboz B-DRY Waterproof/ Breathable Membrane
These specifications translate directly into real-world performance. The Waterproof Nubuck leather and Oboz B-DRY membrane keep feet dry, while the mid-height design offers crucial ankle support. The weight of 15.5 oz is a good balance of durability and lightweight performance.
Performance & Functionality
The Oboz Sawtooth II Mid B-DRY Hiking Shoes – Women’s excel in their primary function: providing comfortable, stable, and waterproof support for hiking. The boots offer excellent traction on various surfaces, thanks to the aggressive Sawtooth Outsole pattern. The mid-height design provides ample ankle support, reducing the risk of sprains and twists on uneven terrain.
The boots’ strength lies in their combination of comfort, support, and waterproofing. The weakness is the potential for debris to collect in the tongue area, requiring occasional cleaning. The boots meet, and in some cases exceed, my expectations for a mid-range hiking boot.
Design & Ergonomics
The Oboz Sawtooth II Mid B-DRY Hiking Shoes – Women’s feature a well-thought-out design. The materials are high-quality and the construction is solid, resulting in a durable and aesthetically pleasing boot. The weight is manageable, and the O FIT Insole contributes significantly to overall comfort.
The lacing system allows for a secure and customizable fit. There is a slight learning curve in finding the optimal lace tightness, but once dialed in, the boots provide excellent support.
Durability & Maintenance
The Oboz Sawtooth II Mid B-DRY Hiking Shoes – Women’s are built to last. The nubuck leather upper is resistant to abrasions, and the Sawtooth Outsole is made from a durable rubber compound. With proper care and maintenance, these boots should provide several years of reliable service.
Maintaining the boots is relatively simple. Regular cleaning with a soft brush and mild soap is recommended. The O FIT Insole can be removed for airing out. Conditioning the leather upper periodically will help maintain its suppleness and water resistance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Oboz Sawtooth II Mid B-DRY Hiking Shoes – Women’s do not come with a wide range of accessories. However, the O FIT Insole is removable and replaceable, allowing users to customize the fit and support with aftermarket insoles. The lacing system can also be customized with different laces to match personal preferences.
The boots are compatible with most standard hiking socks. Choosing the right socks is crucial for optimal comfort and blister prevention.
Pros and Cons of Oboz Sawtooth II Mid B-DRY Hiking Shoes – Women’s
Pros
- Excellent Waterproofing: The Oboz B-DRY membrane keeps feet dry in wet conditions.
- Superior Comfort: The O FIT Insole provides ample cushioning and arch support for all-day comfort.
- Stable Platform: The mid-height design and supportive midsole offer excellent stability on uneven terrain.
- Durable Construction: The nubuck leather upper and durable outsole are built to withstand rugged use.
- Great Traction: The Sawtooth Outsole provides excellent grip on various surfaces.
Cons
- Debris can sometimes collect in the tongue area.
- The lacing system requires some adjustment to find the optimal fit.
Who Should Buy Oboz Sawtooth II Mid B-DRY Hiking Shoes – Women’s?
The Oboz Sawtooth II Mid B-DRY Hiking Shoes – Women’s are perfect for weekend hikers, backpackers who prioritize comfort and stability, and anyone who frequently hikes in wet conditions. They are an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and durable hiking boot with excellent waterproof protection and arch support.
These boots might not be the best choice for hikers who prioritize lightweight performance above all else. Those with very narrow feet may also find the medium width to be too roomy.
A must-have accessory for these boots is a good pair of hiking socks. Investing in high-quality socks will enhance comfort and prevent blisters.
Conclusion on Oboz Sawtooth II Mid B-DRY Hiking Shoes – Women’s
The Oboz Sawtooth II Mid B-DRY Hiking Shoes – Women’s are an excellent choice for hikers seeking a comfortable, stable, and waterproof boot. The price of $155.00 is justified by the quality of materials, durable construction, and overall performance. These boots offer exceptional value for the money.
I would highly recommend the Oboz Sawtooth II Mid B-DRY Hiking Shoes – Women’s to anyone looking for a reliable and supportive hiking boot. They have proven to be a valuable addition to my outdoor gear, providing comfort and confidence on the trails. If you’re ready to upgrade your hiking experience, give these boots a try – you won’t be disappointed!