Backpacker Magazine – Fall Gear Guide 2009

Gear Review: Kamik Snowpass Snowshoe Boot

Ideal for snowshoeing, or wintry day hikes, this boot keeps your feet dry and warm.

by: Testers Jim Berkeley, Rachel Brodlie, Tyler Cohen, Dennis Lewon, Rahel Wood

Tags:
• Gear
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• Hiking Boots
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• Mountaineering
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• Winter Camping
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• Adventure
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Bargain Backpacker
On frigid summits throughout the Northeast, the Snowpass kept our testers warm and dry through wintry mixes of slush, ice, and snow. It's a bulkier boot than the Lynx, but also warmer and more supportive. The suede-and-nylon upper is lined with Thinsulate insulation, and an OutDry membrane keeps wetness from penetrating. A heavy-duty Vibram sole and nylon shank protected testers' feet from icy obstacles and exposed rocks from New Hampshire to Quebec–without limiting flex for comfortable walking.

The high-cut ankle and stiff midsole make it an ideal boot for snowshoe outings and light overnights with a pack of up to 30 pounds. (For multiday snowshoe trips, go with an insulated mountaineering boot.) Bummer: Laces got hung up in the boot's raised hardware, which caused pressure points with some snowshoe bindings. Bonus: These boots will last through many winters; our well-used samples still look new. Best for wide feet. $130; 2 lbs. 15 oz.; men's 7-14; kamik.com

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