First Impressions of Sorel Kinetic Impact II Wonder Lace Shoes- Women’s
The Sorel Kinetic Impact II Wonder Lace Shoes- Women’s are immediately eye-catching, a modern take on the classic sneaker with a blend of athletic performance and street style. Sorel, a brand known for its durable and stylish footwear, seems to be targeting a woman who wants both comfort and fashion in her everyday wear. I was drawn to these shoes because I needed a versatile sneaker that could handle light outdoor activities while still looking presentable for casual urban settings.
My current daily drivers were either too clunky for everyday wear, or lacked the support needed for longer walks. The combination of mesh, suede, and leather promised breathability and durability, while the bold outsole hinted at decent traction. Upon unboxing, the Sorel Kinetic Impact II Wonder Lace Shoes- Women’s felt surprisingly lightweight. The materials looked and felt premium, and the stitching appeared clean and robust, suggesting good build quality.
Compared to my older New Balance sneakers, which prioritize pure athleticism, the Sorel Kinetic Impact II Wonder Lace Shoes- Women’s offer a more refined aesthetic. I considered the Adidas Ultraboost as well, but preferred the unique design of the Sorel, and the promise of better durability for light trails. My initial impression was positive; I was excited to see how these shoes performed in real-world conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Sorel Kinetic Impact II Wonder Lace Shoes- Women’s to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Sorel Kinetic Impact II Wonder Lace Shoes- Women’s on a weekend trip to a local state park. The weather was mixed, with dry trails in the morning turning to light rain in the afternoon. The shoes performed well on the initial hike, providing ample cushioning on the hard-packed dirt trails. The lace closure offered a secure fit, preventing my foot from sliding around inside the shoe.
The breathable mesh upper kept my feet relatively cool during the warmer parts of the day. However, in the light rain, the shoes did start to absorb water, and my socks became damp. I didn’t expect them to be waterproof, but the suede overlays seemed to soak up water faster than I anticipated.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including daily walks, errands, and a few more trips to the park, the Sorel Kinetic Impact II Wonder Lace Shoes- Women’s have proven to be quite reliable. The outsole shows minimal wear, and the upper materials have held up well despite exposure to dirt and moisture. The shoes are easy to clean with a damp cloth, although the suede requires a bit more attention to remove stains.
Compared to my previous experience with similar sneakers, these Sorels outperform in terms of style and comfort. However, they fall slightly short in terms of weather resistance, which is something to consider if you frequently encounter wet conditions. The shoes are very comfortable for everyday wear and light outdoor activities.
Breaking Down the Features of Sorel Kinetic Impact II Wonder Lace Shoes- Women’s
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Sorel
- Gender: Female
- Age Group: Adults
- Color: Sea Salt/Gum 16 (tested)
- Footwear Type: Shoes
- Activity: Outdoor
- Weight: 10.1 oz (per shoe)
- Footwear Closure: Laces
- Fabric/Material: Mesh, Suede, Leather
- Footwear Upper Fabric/Material: Mesh, Suede, Leather
- Outsole Material: Rubber
- Midsole Material: EVA, 10% Bloom (algae-biomass-containing material)
The weight of 10.1 oz is a significant factor, making these shoes comfortable for all-day wear without feeling heavy or cumbersome. The blend of mesh, suede, and leather in the upper strikes a balance between breathability, style, and durability. The EVA midsole with 10% Bloom demonstrates a commitment to sustainability while providing adequate cushioning.
Performance & Functionality
The Sorel Kinetic Impact II Wonder Lace Shoes- Women’s perform admirably in their intended role as versatile everyday sneakers. The lace closure allows for a customized and secure fit, while the EVA midsole provides sufficient cushioning for walking and light activities. The rubber outsole offers decent traction on various surfaces, though it’s not designed for serious hiking or trail running.
The main strength of these shoes is their versatility, seamlessly transitioning from outdoor excursions to casual urban settings. A minor weakness is their limited water resistance, which could be improved with a more water-repellent treatment on the upper materials. The shoes have exceeded my expectation in terms of comfort and style.
Design & Ergonomics
The Sorel Kinetic Impact II Wonder Lace Shoes- Women’s boast a modern and stylish design. The combination of mesh, suede, and leather creates a visually appealing and tactilely interesting upper. The shoes are comfortable to wear for extended periods, thanks to the well-cushioned insole and supportive midsole.
There is virtually no learning curve; the shoes are comfortable and easy to wear right out of the box.
Durability & Maintenance
The Sorel Kinetic Impact II Wonder Lace Shoes- Women’s appear to be built to last. The materials feel robust, and the stitching is clean and reinforced in key areas. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional use of suede cleaner should keep them looking their best for a long time.
The molded Evertread rubber outsole is designed for long-lasting wear, adding to the overall durability of the shoe.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Sorel Kinetic Impact II Wonder Lace Shoes- Women’s do not come with any specific accessories. However, the removable molded EVA insole allows for customization with aftermarket insoles for added arch support or cushioning. While there are no specific customization options offered by Sorel, the standard design is compatible with most generic sneaker accessories, such as replacement laces.
Pros and Cons of Sorel Kinetic Impact II Wonder Lace Shoes- Women’s
Pros
- Stylish and versatile design: Suitable for both outdoor and urban settings.
- Lightweight and comfortable: Great for all-day wear.
- Durable construction: Built with quality materials for lasting performance.
- Good traction: The rubber outsole provides reliable grip on various surfaces.
- Supportive midsole: Offers adequate cushioning for walking and light activities.
Cons
- Limited water resistance.
- Suede material requires extra care to maintain.
Who Should Buy Sorel Kinetic Impact II Wonder Lace Shoes- Women’s?
The Sorel Kinetic Impact II Wonder Lace Shoes- Women’s are perfect for women who value both style and comfort in their everyday footwear. They are ideal for casual outdoor activities, such as walking, light hiking, and exploring urban environments. These shoes are also well-suited for individuals who want a versatile sneaker that can be dressed up or down for various occasions.
Anyone needing serious waterproof footwear or rugged hiking boots should probably skip this product. Must-have accessories include a good suede cleaner and potentially aftermarket insoles for enhanced arch support.
Conclusion on Sorel Kinetic Impact II Wonder Lace Shoes- Women’s
The Sorel Kinetic Impact II Wonder Lace Shoes- Women’s are a stylish and comfortable option for women seeking a versatile everyday sneaker. While they may not be ideal for wet conditions or demanding outdoor activities, they excel in providing a balance of style, comfort, and durability for everyday wear. At the price of $66.00, these sneakers offer great value, making them a worthwhile investment for fashion-conscious individuals seeking all-day comfort and support.
I would personally recommend the Sorel Kinetic Impact II Wonder Lace Shoes- Women’s to anyone looking for a versatile and stylish sneaker. It is the perfect pair for a daily casual use and light outdoor adventure. Go ahead and treat your feet to a new level of comfort and style.