Aigle Bekard MTD Hunting Boots

It’s been quite a while since I last tested a pair of Aigle boots, those being the popular Altavio GTX; available in mid or high leg configuration, they are both lightweight and flexible. I specifically mention them because, in contrast, you could say that the Bekard MTD show a much more traditional hunter mid-height design and certainly have a very robust heavy-duty build.

Measuring 8-inches high at the front and curving down to 6¼-inches at the rear, the Bekards use what is termed a split leather and polyamide upper. This being, the polyamide (a synthetic material) is overlaid and perfectly complimented by the rich brown leather, which results in the boots having a high strength durable base, plus a stylish and very cosmetically attractive outer. This build is interrupted at the very top, where a generously padded wraparound rear collar with Cordura/ Nylon outer meets up with the split leather/polyamide at the front and main mid-section.

Fit for purpose

The MTD denotation refers to the waterproof, windproof and breathable membrane that’s installed, which also waterproofs all the double stitched seams. The lower section is reinforced with a very generous and contoured strong black rubber rand, which extends to its very tough looking and chunky rubber outsole. The insole has a polyamide top on a foam base for added comfort; plus, this construction offers a good level of shock absorbing properties.

The welded assembly used in bonding the rand and outsole gives 360-degree, all-round synthetic stone guards for added resistance and protection. This lower combination of rand and outsole isn’t the most flexible but the Bekards are designed for maximum protection and that’s exactly what is felt while wearing them. However, wearer comfort isn’t sacrificed for build strength, as is proven by the well-designed collar, which provides a very high level of support and comfort for the ankle while operating over the harshest of environs.

All terrain

As you’d expect, Aigle have cut no corners and equipping these boots with a heavy-duty rubber, grip outsole. An in-house design, it boasts very deep-set lugs and cleats that are configured to give a very high level of traction on wet, muddy and harsh terrain but equally are easy to clean.

Lacing is catered for by four pairs of captive metal hasps, while three pairs of open metal hasps continue to the top. The thoughtfully designed layout of the lacing points helps draw the boot securely and snugly to your foot and ankle. A standout feature is the upper open hasp ‘speed lacing’ system, which, combined with the generous, articulating padded tongue, makes getting into and out of the boots a cinch.

Recommended

Aigle are a very well-respected brand in the manufacture of outdoor wear with a long and equally fine pedigree in the design and production of footwear. In that respect, the Aigle Bekard MTD Hunting Boots are yet another impressive example of the company’s exacting standards, both in materials used in manufacture and the overall attention to detail.