Gear Review: Patagonia Das Boot

[most versatile]

“Shockingly light, impressively warm, fabulously supportive,” reported our tester after tromping her way across Norwegian glacier fields, and through snowstorms and scree. “Usually I have cold feet, but regardless of how thick my sock, in these I was always warm.” Credit the Primaloft Eco insulation that’s made from 50% recycled post consumer polyester, the cozy Polartec 200 fleece lining , and the imperceptible heat reflective foil that’s hidden inside the boot–it never crinkled, but kept body heat from escaping on the coldest days.

The fabric and leather uppers were waterproof and didn’t show any wear even after a winter of adventures. The EVA midsole was cushy, but it had enough stability and support to carry a fully loaded winter pack. Rounded laces slid through webbing guides for single finger tightening. After wearing these boots for a week of hiking in Idaho’s Sawtooths, one tester reported, “I’m normally a person who futzes with her boots – before, during, and after a hike –but these fit perfectly from the get go with no hot spots or irritation.

And, they had plenty of support for carrying 40 pounds.” Vibram’s new Ice-Trek sole did well in a mix of wintery weather. “The sole? I never thought about the sole,” said out tester. “It kept me steady and I never slipped. Medium width and volume. Bonus: mesh gussets and EVA in the footbed and midsole are 20% recycled, and leather is the most eco available. Medium width and volume with a spacious toebox. $175; 2 lbs 6 oz.; men’s 7-12,13,14,15; Patagonia.com