New Balance New Balance 875
If you need boots for wet, soggy conditions, these winners are a bargain.
Brand: New Balance
Model: New Balance 875
Wet-Weather Bargain
Get the reliable waterproofing and ankle protection of a midcut for the price of a low-cut. “These shoes never leaked, even when I stood in a stream while lending a hand to my hiking companions,” reports one Maine-based tester.
Columbia’s Omni-Tech waterproof/breathable membrane proved totally reliable, and the relatively high ankles prevented water from sneaking over the top. But the Pole Creek isn’t just a wet-weather shoe. The nylon mesh-and-nubuck leather upper helped the membrane breathe on hot days, too. After a hike in Sedona, Arizona, one tester said, “My feet never felt clammy or sweaty.” Rubber reinforcements in the toe, heel, and ankle add wear protection and stiffen the upper for stability. Underfoot, the Pole Creek has closed-cell foam—denser and reportedly more durable than standard EVA at the same low weight. (We can confirm the cushion, but we didn’t have our samples long enough to test long-term midsole durability; watch for a report in a later issue.)
Underfoot support is adequate for light loads and moderate terrain. Pronators beware: Lugs extend a bit beyond the sole on the outer edge of the boot—great for traction, but they can roll your foot slightly inward, especially if you’re prone to it. $120; 2 lbs. 6 oz.; m’s 7-15The 875 features a LockDown Liner, an upper technology that integrates the shoes liner into the lacing system to offer a better fit. This liner has been reconfigured from the predecessor to provide for even greater mid-foot support. A full length ABZORB® Strobel board provides premium cushioning and shock absorption. The Rock Stop plate runs from mid-foot to forefoot creating mid-foot stability and forefoot protection while providing for an easier heel/toe transition. This same piece also wraps up on the toe to protect the foot from impact with rocks, roots, and other obstacles. A combination of solid and sticky rubber ensures exceptional ground contact and traction, while an N-durance® outsole ensures long-wearing durability. A SURE LACE keeps shoes tied, a Lightning Dry lining provides moisture management, and 3M reflectivity ensures athlete visibility.