Vasque boots

Richard Lee (Arc Consultants) has sourced a range of Rivers West hi-tech camo clothing and to complete the set - two pairs of boots. It’s the latter I’m looking at here, though I will be showcasing the Rivers West gear in the September issue. Made by a company called Vasque we have the Wasatch and Breeze GTX, which represent winter/summer-style options; both are ankle-height.

The Right Approach

Vasque are aimed at the serious outdoors person who is looking for technical footwear, so well suited to the active hunter too. Typically the build is practical with Vibram soles, EVA mid-sole and Gortex waterproof linings to keep the feet, warm and dry, plus removable, shaped insoles. First up we have the light weight Breeze GTX 7476, which puts me in mind of an approach shoe or super trainer, weighing just 1 ½ lbs. The build shows a padded nylon mesh upper, with a protective web of nubuck leather over the top. The toe is semi-rigid and shows a kick plate, there are two colour options a dark grey Beluga/gun metal and taupe/burnt orange. The fully padded tongue is ¾-stiched in and lacing consists of four sets of fabric loops below with three speed hooks above.

Wasatch?

The Wasatch GTX are a heavier hiking-style, though only weigh 2lbs each. The build is a brown (Moss Brown), nubuck-type leather with the kick plate on the toe plus a heavy rubber cap to give further protection. The tongue is ¾-stitched in and extra ankle padding is included on the outside. Lacing is more technical with four hinged, metal eyelets below and three speed hooks above. 

Both models show a fairly rigid sole, which along with the solid shank does give a lot of support when moving over broken ground. Useful is the fact that Vasque offer three width sizes. Narrow, medium and wide along with a sizing range of 7 to 14 (men’s sizes).

From The Box

Pleasing was the fact that neither boot required any breaking in period, so good to go from the box. Lacing however does need a double knot, as the cord they use is quite slippery and prone to coming undone if a single knot is employed. Being a dedicated hi-leg boot man support was good from these ankle-height designs. OK in the winter you might want to get some gaiters to give more protection to the calf but apart from that no complaints.

Given what you have here, pricing is very good, likewise the build quality, practicality and ability. Quick and easy to put on, they offer good ankle support and are light in weight. Arc are trade only so ask at your local gun shop about Vasque boots or contact them direct for details of your nearest stockist.

PRICES:
Breeze GTX 7476 - £115
Wasatch GTX 7166 - £125

FOR: - Two useful outdoor boots
AGAINST: - As of yet no hi-leg option
VERDICT: - Price and quality make them a winner