Protection

4.7 “My feet felt immune to everything,” said a tester after 4 miles of postholing to reach a class 4 canyon climb. The 1.3mm yak leather upper is stronger and more breathable than cowhide, and the 2-inch rubber toecap gave extra armor when jamming into footholds.

Support

4.3 A unique construction process fuses the PU midsole and ¾-length plastic shank to the outsole and creates an ergonomic support system that noticeably hugs the arch. The rigid sole (stiffest in the test) supported testers with 40-pound loads, while an external TPU heel cage adds lateral stability. Tradeoff: The complex process increases cost, which lowered the BIOM’s overall score.

Traction

4.3 “As sure as the hooves of a desert bighorn,” says one tester. Nickel-size lugs gripped on slippery rocks, steep talus, and during class 5 scrambling across slickrock.

Comfort/Fit

3.8 If you hike on rough terrain and carry big loads (up to 40 pounds), you’ll appreciate the midsole’s rigidity and forgive the minimal shock absorption. Allow 25 miles of dayhiking for break-in. Best for long and narrow feet.

Overall Score

3.8

$230; 2 lbs. 8 oz.; us.shop.ecco.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.