Backpacker Magazine – March 2006

Hiking Boots Review: Lafuma Active Raid GTX XCR

Light boots that are good for medium-sized feet.

by: Steve Howe, BACKPACKER Rocky Mountain Editor

Tags:
• Gear
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• Hiking boots
|

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Looking for something light, fast, and flexible with more ankle support than the average dayhiking shoe? The Active Raids are built on a trail-running platform, but feature midheight cuffs that locked down our wobbly joints almost as well as full-on backpacking boots. The high collars and Gore-Tex XCR linings also make them perfect for snowshoeing and sloppy spring trails, as our Northwest editor discovered when a few inches of wet snow hit him in Hells Canyon. After 15 miles, his feet were still dry and warm, even without gaiters. A fairly stiff, well-armored midsole protects your feet from sharp rocks and provided enough arch support that one tester comfortably carried 35 pounds over 56 miles in 4 days. Only complaint: The novel cordlock lacing system makes the shoe harder to get on your foot. Best for medium-volume, medium-width feet.

Price: $110

Weight: 1 lb. 12 oz.

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