Harkila Reidmar Mid & Pro Hunter Ridge GTX Boots

For the autumn/winter season, Harkila has launched a series of topquality footwear. Two models that stand out are the Harkila Reidmar Mid 2.0 GTX and the Pro Hunter Ridge 2.0 GTX. While the former are somewhat a departure from the standard field boot design, the latter follows a similar blueprint to the high-leg established boots the company is renowned for.

U-turn

The Reidmar Mid 2.0 GTX Boots use a lace-less system that has started to integrate itself into the design of outdoor footwear. Not a company to be left behind, it’s no surprise Harkila has a couple of new models using a similar lacing system, with the Reidmar arguably being the flagship of this design in their range.

Designed and manufactured in Europe, the Reidmar boots only weigh around 640-grams per boot, despite their oiled, Nubuck leather construction. They have a medium-length, 8” shaft and a standard-width last. The boots feature UTURN wire closures and are secured with a couple of turns on the button. They are loosened by turning the button in the opposite direction. This system is guaranteed, so, in the unlikely event that the wire or reel fails, you can always have them replaced by one of Harkila’s authorised dealers.

They also feature a waterproof Gore-Tex Sierra membrane for performance and comfort, while the semi-stiff Vibram Campus soles ensure a good grip on a variety of terrain. They also have a lightweight, comfortable and cushioning midsole for long-distance walking. A new moulded footbed cups the foot for superior wearer comfort, plus they have extra toe and heel reinforcement and are of a regular fit. The Reidmar go down to an EU size 36, so as well as being Unisex, they are suitable for older children.

At the very top

The Pro Hunter Ridge GTX boots only weigh around 770-grams per boot and have a durable, medium-tostiff leather construction. They show a tall, 11” shaft and a standard-width last. They also feature a waterproof Gore-Tex Ultimate membrane, which is stronger and more hardwearing than membranes of the past. The upper is made of Nubuck leather and features a soft leather tongue and gusset. The stitching is also reinforced, plus they have an improved fit.

The Pro Hunters feature semi-stiff Vibram Campus soles with MegaGrip, plus the EVA midsoles are lightweight and shockabsorbing, for long-distance walking over tough terrain. A new moulded footbed is used in blown PU with Poron cushioning that cups the foot.

The lacing system includes steel articulating hasps at the bottom, a locking hook in the flex, plus open hasps on the shaft. They are reinforced with an extra robust material. The boots also have a steel eye for attaching gaiters, to prevent wear to the laces. Extra reinforcement comes from a suede leather mudguard around the boot, which shows a PU coating and triple stitching. Both boots have rear loop pulls.