Zamberlan GTX RR Boots

Originally founded by shoe repairer Giuseppe Zamberlan, the company he formed have a long and prestigious history in the manufacture of boots. Fast forward over 80-years since Zamberlan was founded, distributing to over 40 countries, and widely accepted as manufacturing the best traditional and prestigious footwear in Italy.

Measuring 8” at the rear and rising to 9 ½” at the front, the Vioz Top GTX RR are a compromise between a high leg and a standard height field boot. The rich dark brown leather upper, Cordura collar, outer sole and rand leave you in no doubt these are a rugged and robust design. Extra protection is provided from the ankle up due to the Hydrobloc® full grain leather upper that is overlaid and meets with a soft Nubuck leather collar and notch to afford maximum wearer comfort with a good level of flexibility of movement.

HYDRO WHO?

Hydrobloc is the name given to their strict quality control of the hides selected for manufacture, which certifies the superior quality and distinctive water and abrasion resistant specifications. The Rubber Reinforcement System (RRS) is clearly seen as the high rand protecting the upper therefore preventing the leather from deterioration caused by use over tough ground and weather conditions.

The lacing system uses special anti-corrosion treated enclosed clasps over what is termed a wrapping tongue design for better comfort and fit. These consist of five sets of fixed loops and four speed hooks that combine to allow the exterior of the boot to be drawn in securely to the foot.

The build incorporates an exclusive Zamberlan® Vibram® rubber outsersole with special structure midsole.

SOLE MAN

The sole shows a pattern of deep cut broad outer and smaller inner lugs. The toe rise has two ridges for aiding climbing; I found this a practical design for rocky areas, equally giving good grip on mud – also easy to clean due to the spacing between the lugs.

A GORE-TEX® lining provides the utmost in protection and breathability, which is termed as an insulated comfort lining, including a patented ‘Z-Comfort fit footbed. The boots now go all ‘techy’ as the specification sheet lists a host of nifty company-named features both externally and internally such as a ‘ZAS’ Zamberlan Air System (this relates to the build and structure of the internal padding which gives unrestricted air flow resulting in temperature regulation). Zamberlan Z-Flex GT’ a name given to the Insole/Shank of the boot and relates to both properties of strength with flexibility.

I’ve detailed enough of these self-proclaimed ‘techy’ features to illustrate how much the company stand by their products. Testing showed a very high level of build quality, comfort and an unrivalled level of foot protection and grip. Zamberlan’s Vioz Top GTX RR is top end footwear no doubt, and aimed at those who want the best regardless of cost.