Ridgeline Arapahoe Boots

Ridgeline Clothing from New Zealand have a huge selection of attire for the hunter and outdoorsmen yet it’s only more recently that they’re boots have also (courtesy of distributor Highland Outdoors) been imported into the UK. So, while once they had the Warrior EXP and Cam-Lite you can now add to that list the uniquely named Arapahoe Boots.

Nice Design

Measuring 8-inches at the front and dropping to 6-inches at the rear of the well-padded collar this mid-height boot are constructed from a combination of 900D with a camo outer and a high-quality olive green coloured Nubuck Leather.

Upon initial inspection it’s immediately apparent that the design layout of the materials is what adds strength and support to the boots and therefore the foot.

Nubuck can clearly be seen where it wraps around the ankle, heel, diagonally at the mid-side sections, down the front from upper to rand to strengthen the side lacing points and of course covering the instep.

More protection is applied to the boot via a semi-rigid black rubber toe cap which is double stitched (as are all seams) over and onto the very front.

Mix ‘n’ well matched

This mix of materials also results in the Arapahoe’s being relatively light in weight plus the use of camo and the colour of Nubuck gives them a very stylish yet ‘hunter’ practical appearance. They have a waterproof membrane and Thinsulate inner to ensure breathability plus also to gain extra protection from the elements.

There’s a generous (at the rear) to modest rubber rand for all-round lower protection and support prior to its meeting the hi-performance Vibram outsole. There’s also a toe buffer and a recess at the rear heel section for ease of removal plus it has a slight heel and toe rise. Incidentally, the footbeds are particularly wellpadded which also gives a nice cushioned feel as you walk.

Trekkies

The Arapahoe’s feature an XS Trek Vibram outsole, which is often referred to as being a market leader when it comes to performance and durability. This has been specifically designed to offer outstanding grip and 360-degree traction. The design uses multi-traction lugs which enhance grip where and when needed, making it perfect for a wide variety of terrain, including mud, operating over rocky areas, climbing and rough working. Also, while the generous amount of cleats and lugs are very thick and deep-set – due to the overall configuration – it still allows for easy cleaning.

The well-padded tongue is complemented by a very sensible and useful lacing system that consists of 4x pairs of metal eyelets and 2x pairs of open metal hasps at the top all of which are weather proofed. Combined with the articulated padded tongue, the boots have a wide throat therefore getting into and out of them is a quick and easy affair.

Conclusion

As mentioned at the start of this test - Ridgeline might not have a vast selection of footwear but considering the options now available – they’ve pretty much got your feet covered for a wide variety of hunting and outdoor situations.