Protection

4.4 A stiff, 1-inch-tall rubber bumper protects the 1.7mm full-grain leather upper, which offers more substantial protection than boots with synthetic uppers.

Support

4.3 These boots excelled at crossing tough terrain with heavy packs (up to 40 pounds). With a snug collar that rises 2 inches above the ankle, the Coburn provides insurance against sprains. “It’s like an Ace wrap,” one tester said after a 2,000-foot, off-trail descent to the bottom of Red Canyon. Two triangular foam plugs buttress the heel to reduce lateral movement and boost security.

Traction

4.3 The cleat-like tread proved exceptionally grippy in sloppy mud and slush, thanks to deep lugs under the forefoot and 5mm (about 1mm more than average) lugs on the heel brake. The U-shaped lugs were also quick to shed mud.

Comfort/Fit

4.1 “I could actually wiggle my toes,” said a tester who appreciated the Coburn’s spaciousness through the forefoot. The supple leather upper conformed to each tester’s foot for a custom-like fit. A 10-mile dayhike is sufficient for break-in; best for high-volume feet.

Overall Score

4.3

$175; 2 lbs 3 oz.; ahnu.com


The Scale: 1=save your money – 5=perfect gear.

*Overall score is not an average of others scores; It’s a gut-level assessment of performance and value.