Zamberlan 1025 Tofane NW GT RR

“These are great for people who tackle big miles with substantial packs,” says one Oregon mountaineer who wallowed through deep mud and snow on the steep Ruckel Creek and Ruckel Ridge Trails in the Columbia River Gorge. “A 45-pound pack, hours of snow, and 3,700 feet of elevation gain in 9 miles: no problem,” he says. All testers raved about the comfort of the mostly nubuk leather, Gore-Tex-lined Tundra. “I wore them as camp shoes, even after a long day,” says one.

“The supple leather gives, like it’s been worked or massaged, but it’s thick and substantial enough to provide solid protection, even in the toebox.” Says another: “They conformed beautifully to my feet almost instantly, and the underfoot cushion feels decadent.” Testers appreciated the details of fine Italian craftsmanship, like the perfectly sculpted padding around the anklebone and the way the bellows tongue folds smoothly into the one-piece leather upper. “I’m typically not a big fan of boots that are primarily leather, because I find synthetic fabrics more breathable,” another tester said after enduring rain, ice, snow, and mud on Colorado’s 9,237-foot Emerald Mountain.

“But the four small Cordura mesh windows let heat escape so my feet stayed plenty dry.” Testers agreed that their feet felt armored in these boots, thanks to the supportive and well-contoured heel pocket (which is reinforced with hard plastic TPU), a stiff but cushioned PU midsole, and a durable Vibram tread. $240; 2 lbs. 14 oz.; m’s 40-48, w’s 37-43; zamberlanusa.com

Recently recognized with the prestigious Outdoor Industry Award 2010 and part of Zamberlan’s new Norwegian Welted boot line, the 1025 Tofane NW GT RR is one of the most capable and beautiful boots ever made by Zamberlan. Using Norwegian Welted construction to apply a new, lightweight PU sole to waxed Tuscan leather uppers, Zamberlan has created a truly a unique combination that includes a rubber toe rand and Gore-Tex liner. The Zamberlan Vibram NorTrack sole is a lightweight, dual-density PU sole with a tread ideal for navigating a variety of terrain. Hydrobloc waxed tuscan leather adds a layer of water-resistance to the very capable Gore-Tex liners. Norwegian-welted construction provides a lasting quality that will ensure you enjoy your boots for years to come and are easily re-solable. A rubber toe rand helps ensure the leathers on the front of your boot don’t wear out before you do. Available in Waxed Brick. Hand-crafted in Italy.