Viper Venom Boots

Viper has recently launched clothing that has seen them step into what can be termed as active sport leisure wear. However, their latest footwear, the Viper Venom Boot shows a marked return to their established tactical tack.

These mid-height, yet lightweight boots use a very well-considered combination of materials that give a unique, fresh design for footwear of this type. A very hard-wearing 1000D Cordura is used for the entire upper and it is stylishly configured throughout. It is perfectly complemented by the added protective material used in the build. This consists of an external moulded TPU heel stabiliser and a modest but practical rubber toe cap with buffer. The boot also has a generously padded collar and a strong canvas pull-loop at the rear. To further support your feet, they’ve been designed using an internal nylon stabiliser shank, while the heel stabiliser also gives support as well as protection.

To further increase comfort and offer even more support, they have an integrated EVA midsole. The boots also boast a HydroGuard waterproof membrane, are seam-sealed and have a high abrasion, moisture wicking lining. This combined technology helps the user comfortably negotiate rough and uneven ground in all weather conditions.

Got good grip

The outsoles are of an interesting and very practical design, as combined with the rand, toe buffer and heel support offer a high level of performance. The outsole itself consists of random patterning of deep cut traction lugs while flanking these around the perimeter are aggressive inward facing lugs.

The sole sensibly features a generous toe rise while a uniquely configured heel protector rises up to meet the very substantial heel/ ankle support. This rear section is actually a very well thought out design because extra protection is offered here by grip panels that extend to partly wrap around the sides. All this moulding is complemented by a contoured rand that sensibly allows this robust sole to flex, which is certainly felt and fully appreciated when worn.

This aggressive rubber outsole design offers multidirectional grip, which is one of the most superior designs I‘ve come across in quite some time. Not only is it very secure when moving over muddy or slippery grass but also on wet smooth rock or stone.

Nice tie up

The lacing system consists of five pairs of captive canvas retainers and two pairs of open metal weatherproofed hasps at the upper. Also positioned centrally on the body of the boot between the lowest pair of retainers is a metal D-ring for lace location, but its main job is to be used as an anchor point, which comes into play once the laces are being tightened up.

This neat lacing arrangement draws the boot fully onto your foot, yet it’s forgiving nature allows a good level of flex. All of these features add together to make the boots very comfortable to wear, plus combined with the well-padded articulating tongue they are also easy to get in and out of quickly.