Zamberlan  Trail Lite GTX Hiking Boots - Men's

Recently purchased these as a step up in support from Asolo Space hiking shoes. Initial quality very impressive. Comfortable out of the box, but feel like they will become even more so as they continue to break in. More cushioning than expected in the midsole, although not soft, stable and confidence inspiring. Shockingly light for a full leather boot with substantial sole. So far mostly used hiking logging roads and short moderate trails. My first pair of Zamberlan’s and impressed so far. Look forward to putting more miles under them this fall.

Oh man, let me tell you about these hiking boots my wife bought for my Birthday—they’re an absolute game-changer for anyone who lives for the trail! As an avid hiker who’s tackled everything from rocky mountain scrambles to muddy paths, I can say these boots are the real deal. The moment I slipped them on, I knew I was in for something special. They’ve got that classic, rugged Italian look that screams durability, and they back it up with performance that makes every step feel like a dream. First off, the craftsmanship is unreal. Handmade in Italy, these boots are built with a single piece of full-grain leather that’s as tough as it is gorgeous! Literally no break-in time and fit great out of the box.

Despite the name these are not light boots. Only in comparison to some other Zamberlan full grain all leather boots (Sella, Guide, Tofane, Vioz) can these be considered light. And they are barely lighter than the Vioz despite the Vioz being an inch taller. In fact my present pair of Zamberlan Storm Pro GTX RR boots are four inches taller but weigh the same as these. The taller boot however is cordura and split grain. Also like those other models the sole is stiff. In spite of those seemingly bad observations I love these boots. The boot cradles my foot in the soft leather. And because the first lug is a “locker” it’s possible to lace the forefoot differently than the upper. And these fit my feet perfectly right out of the box. There is enough room inside for my prescription orthotics plus socks of my choice. I don’t anticipate much of a breakin period. The stiff sole, thick leather and aggressive tread will facilitate those times I get off trail up a steep hillside. The shorter height (5”) will be welcome in the summer heat.

I rarely write reviews but this boot is definitely worth it, as was the REI service. I just received them today and love the rugged yet refined look. They are the most comfortable hiking boots I have ever worn. I opened the box and went for a 3 mile walk on an uneven trail immediately, not usually a good idea for new leather boots but these Lite GTX’s were comfortable the whole time. They have just the right support, weight and look I wanted! If boots/shoes were automobiles, the Zamberlan Lite GTX would be the Toyota Tacoma TRD with AT truck tires!! I tried on the Vioz 996 GTX(Toyota Tundra) in the REI store to figure out my size, which I also really liked but I knew they were stiffer and heavier than what I want most of the time. I liked the classic Italian all leather style of the Lite GTX, so ordered them through REI since they were very helpful and friendly to help me with finding the right size. I also tried on boots from La Sportiva, Lowe,