Oboz Sawtooth X Mid B-Dry Walking Boots, RRP £143.99
If you like your feet to feel well protected on hikes, these mid-priced boots from Montana bootmaker Oboz may be worth a look.
First impressions
Low-key styling, muted colours and robust uppers give these boots a no-nonsense air. Substantial nubuck leather and tough Cordura fabric uppers combine with cushioning in the upper foot to swathe your feet in thick layers of protection. More nubuck stiffens the ankle collar and shields from toe-stubbing rocks.
Are they waterproof?
Oboz’s own waterproof B-Dry membrane does a good job of keeping your feet damp-free, even in sopping conditions such as wet grass.
Do they grip well?
Oboz’s own rubber outsole is grippy, even on wet rock, and did ok in slimy mud too.
Will they fit me?
There are two width fittings, regular and wide. Certainly, there’s plenty of volume inside the boot, with plenty of room in the forefoot especially; if the build of your feet is slim, these aren’t for you.
How do they feel?
The midsole is well cushioned for comfort, but not overly, so you retain some feeling of connection with the trail.
Those beefy uppers have a flipside. For me, these boots are too well-upholstered for warm summer weather.
While my heel felt secure in the heel cup, the uppers also don’t encourage grip in the ankle cuff so the fit feels a bit imprecise. The lacing system is simple with two pairs of metal hooks and five pairs of eyelets, but not the quickest or most flexible to use.
At 544 grams per boot, they are pretty light, but somehow feel heavier in motion. If you like to move fast, you may find the Sawtooth X Mid feels sluggish compared to more athletically minded options such as Hoka One One’s Anacapa Mid Gore-Tex (for few quid extra).
Will suit….
If you want something keenly priced and reliable for ambles in wet weather, the Sawtooth X Mid may suit you.
Facts at a glance...
- Uppers: Nubuck leather and Cordura fabric
- Outsole: Oboz's own TrailTread rubber compound
- Midsole: Rubberized EVA
- Waterproofing: Oboz's own B-Dry breathable membrane
- Fitting: Regular and wide fittings available
- Weight: 544g per boot
Also consider: Sprayway Iona Mid women's Hydrodry
If you’re looking for something lighter and nimbler than the Sawtooth – and relatively inexpensive at under £100 – the Iona boot from Manchester outdoor gear maker Sprayway could be a good option. Instantly comfortable, they will cope well with moderate conditions, being reasonably grippy and waterproof. Not one for epic slogs though sopping bogs – as moisture will eventually penetrate the uppers – but ideal for shortish walks when weather and ground conditions are not too harsh. Good for occasional walkers or rookie hikers. Review Camilla Brock.
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