Gear Review: LOWA Terek GTX Boots

Same experience as Frank with Lowa Terek: I bought my first pair of Terek in 2010. After first tour, my shoes (both!) were not waterproof anymore and were send back, Lowa admitted that shoes were not good and I got a new pair. Now, 2.5 years later, my shoes are again totally leaky: just put them in a bucket with water and within 5 min the shoes are not just wet inside, but there is a cm of water insight!

I tried a second pair, but had the same issue, so I had a refund. I went to a more specialized shop and tried/compared Hanwag Tatra gtx, Lowa Tibet gtx and TNF new Verbera Backpacker gtx shoes. Difficult choice really, because their all 3 great purpose-made shoes. I finally went for the TNF's. Men! They differ day and night with the Terek's. Same price but: better finished, padded inner, far better fit and definetely a superior support of the ankle due to the orthopedic detailed inner sole. No expensive Superfeet-replacements required. First impressions are great. It looks like TNF did their homework véry well before entering this specialist market. Of course only time willl tell, but it looks to me that the renowned brands today better watch their backs as TNF might pass them full-speed with far more elaborated and balanced shoes...

Checked and compared Meindl MFS Vakuum's and Lowa's Terek C-shoes and finally went for the Terek's because it had a better fit. Seriously dissapointed, though. After 10km walking the inner Goretex-liner loosened at the right foot tip and pushed on my toes at each step. Not so comfortable and a first dissapointment. I then decided to submit them to a waterproof test by submersing both shoes halfway in a bucket of water. Guess what? The nubuck parts started to absorb water and 2 minutes later, the inner and sole lining of both shoes were soaking wet. 2nd MAJOR dissappointment and simply not acceptable for 230€ shoes from a renowned manufacturer, which Lowa is. If one pays a premium price, he/she expects premium and faultless shoes! I'll return them and will go for something else (Meindl???)