By Brady Kennedy
This was a unique trip passing more than 10 mini-lakes, traversing picturesque meadows, steep inclines and eventually joining the Pacific Crest Trail, the marshy and rocky terrain made for the perfect environment to test the Breeze 2.0. Upon trying the boots on, I was pleased to find that the boots fit true to size with ample toe room and minimal wiggle. No more sizing up to accommodate for thick hiking socks, online shoppers can order their normal shoe size with confidence.
Any hiker knows, too much shoe room can mean chaffing and blisters, and not enough room can lead to aching and swollen feet. I was initially nervous to be breaking in boots on a long trip with a heavy pack, but by the end of my first day of hiking, my only body part that was sore was my back and shoulders from a loaded down pack.
The lightweight boots prevented the feeling of lugging around heavy footwear, and the use of sturdy materials provided protection when charging up uneven trails. I felt surprisingly agile and secure so that I was able to focus on the scenery around me, as opposed to my feet.
These Vasque Breeze 2.0 GTX boots are waterproof with the combo of a GORE-TEX membrane and a seam sealed base. This was especially useful when walking in the cold early morning hours of the day, when the ground was soaked with dew and lakeside moisture. My hiking companion chose to wear his running shoes one morning and found his feet soaked within 15 minutes. My feet, however, remained dry and warm all morning long.
An extensive lacing system and foam-padded ankle gave a welcome snug, cushiony fit. Wearing thick socks, I found that the boots were comfortable and breathed well due to the strategically placed side nylon mesh panels. Sweat was minimal, even by the end of a long day of hiking in the heat.
The Breeze 2.0’s thick Vibram rubber outsole was extremely handy for walking through small creeks and across slick moss-covered rocks. With tapered ridges at the toe and heel of the boots, I had the traction I needed while hopping across river rocks on a quick detour to one of the many lakes along the way.
Shock absorbing dual-density EVA footbeds and molded thermoplastic urethane plates are an extra layer of support and a barrier from uncomfortable and jagged ground. By my last day of backpacking, this support was a welcome escape for weary legs.
Attractive nubuck leather and contrasting blue fish lacing and details was a feminine alternative to the utilitarian aesthetic that some hiking boots have. With a price point of $160, these boots are well within reach for your next adventure outdoors, with an abundance of features to keep your feet happy for years to come.
Specifications:
Price: $160.00
Weight: 2 lbs. 3 oz. (1000g)
Outsole: Vasque Exclusive Vibram Contact
Last: Arc Tempo
Midsole: Dual Density EVA, Molded TPU Plate
Sizes: Women’s Medium 6-11, Women’s Wide 7-10
