Full Leather vs Goretex/Cordura Boots

[Benjblt]

I've been debating weather it is worth spending a lot of money on a higher end, more breathable, cordura/leather boot vs an all leather boot. I've looked at the Crispi Idaho's. That's a $350+ boot. What do you guys think? With longevity and durability being the number 1 concern next to comfort what would be the best option? For instance the Crispi Idaho vs the Crispi Nevada?. . I have the Kenetrek 400 gram Mnt Extremes, now I need a warmer weather do-it-all boot. My boots usually last a long time as I'm a lighter guy but it seem all leather would give more options for even resoling later.

 

[Benjblt]

Also, I realize that the Nevadas are insulated so maybe that isn't the best comparison. Maybe the Kenetrek Hardscrabbles vs the Crispi Idaho's for non-insulated boots.

 

[derland]

I might be wrong, but as far as durability and longevity, isn't the midsole the most important thing to consider?


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[belly-deep]

All-leather boots are the only ones I seem to get multiple seasons of dry feet with. FWIW.

 

[derland]

Ahhh. Just saw your part about getting the soles re done.

Yeah, leather is definitely gonna last longer. But if your main goal is breathable and lightweight and comfortable, then maybe you don't want leather. No free lunch...

I have the lows cevedales and scarpa trilolets for any rugged intensive use. I think if you're looking for something lightweight and comfortable just go with a cheaper boot knowing you'll have to replace it down the road. Solamons, lowa zephyrs, under armour extremes. All lightweight and comfy (and relatively cheap in comparison)


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[Desk Jockey]

I held the view that all leather was the way to go but not sure I think that still holds true with current materials and manufacturing.

My favorite boot in .mil for years was a danner Acadia. For some reason I had worn full leather hikers for years. When I started hunting I used a combo of hikers and old .mil boots. I now own a set of crispi idahos. As I said elsewhere, I am only about 50 miles into them and love them. Can't speak to durability yet but they are awesome. I would be wearing them but it is now cold enough for me to want some insulation. I am a big fan.

 

[Benjblt]

I might be wrong, but as far as durability and longevity, isn't the midsole the most important thing to consider?


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I'm not sure. I guess that's why I'm asking.


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[Benjblt]

I held the view that all leather was the way to go but not sure I think that still holds true with current materials and manufacturing.

My favorite boot in .mil for years was a danner Acadia. For some reason I had worn full leather hikers for years. When I started hunting I used a combo of hikers and old .mil boots. I now own a set of crispi idahos. As I said elsewhere, I am only about 50 miles into them and love them. Can't speak to durability yet but they are awesome. I would be wearing them but it is now cold enough for me to want some insulation. I am a big fan.

I was really interested in the Idaho's. I'm curious to see if you can resole them. . . And if they will last a while. If I spend $350 on a pair of boots if like them to last 6 years at about 50-60 miles a year.

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[wapitibob]

Nylon mesh will never be waterproof so you're at the mercy of the tissue paper Goretex liner from day one. I bought full leather after sending back my leaking Cevedales.

 

[cnelk]

I went to all leather boots - LaCrosse
Best thing ever.

Field Supply
Home | Field Supply

These things are like iron.
Dont leak, wear well

 

[Benjblt]

Thanks for the feedback guys. I was starting to lean towards all leather.

 

[blackovis]

Having used and beaten the tar out of my Crispi Idahos I can definitively say that they are very durable and will last. Pushing 280 miles on mine right now and they have absolutely no signs of letting up anytime soon. The next point I'd like to address is that even the Idaho can be re-soled affordably and with a quick turn around time to boot- pun intended. Typically around $100 dollars to resole.

They are also very comfortable and breathable compared to an all leather un-insulated boot. They feature a Gore-Tex waterproof bootie rather than Kenetrek's Wind-Tex. The Vibram outsole without a doubt has better overall traction than the Kenetrek but is still extremely durable. Last but not least the Idaho and most of the Crispi boots feature their Crispi Crossbow Frame with PU which is more stable and maintains the same cushion throughout the life of the boot. EVA midsoles like the Kenetrek features start out great but loose their cushioning and stability over time.

Don't think that I'm bashing Kenetrek at all, they are great boots but for what they cost they could definitely be better IMO

 

[Benjblt]

Having used and beaten the tar out of my Crispi Idahos I can definitively say that they are very durable and will last. Pushing 280 miles on mine right now and they have absolutely no signs of letting up anytime soon. The next point I'd like to address is that even the Idaho can be re-soled affordably and with a quick turn around time to boot- pun intended. Typically around $100 dollars to resole.

They are also very comfortable and breathable compared to an all leather un-insulated boot. They feature a Gore-Tex waterproof bootie rather than Kenetrek's Wind-Tex. The Vibram outsole without a doubt has better overall traction than the Kenetrek but is still extremely durable. Last but not least the Idaho and most of the Crispi boots feature their Crispi Crossbow Frame with PU which is more stable and maintains the same cushion throughout the life of the boot. EVA midsoles like the Kenetrek features start out great but loose their cushioning and stability over time.

Don't think that I'm bashing Kenetrek at all, they are great boots but for what they cost they could definitely be better IMO

I guess I just need to find a place that carries my size. Nobody carries them in Eugene, Oregon.

 

[blackovis]

I guess I just need to find a place that carries my size. Nobody carries them in Eugene, Oregon.

What size do you typically wear in running shoes or just everyday shoes?

 

[Benjblt]

8.5 but boots often run big in me. That said I have slightly wider feet.

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[blackovis]

8.5 but boots often run big in me. That said I have slightly wider feet.

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Unless you normally wear a wide I would suggest going either standard width 8.5 or 9. The Crispi boots typically run more true to US width (wider) than their other European counterparts like Lowa and Zamberlan in standard width boots.

 

[Benjblt]

I've heard that. Do they make wide sizes?

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[texag10]

I have never owned a pair of "waterproof" boots made from synthetic materials that didn't quickly spring a leak on top of the toes. My FIL has done a ton of hiking in various Asolo boots that are typically suede with a cordura upper, and his experience mirrors mine.

It's too bad everyone has bought into the lie, because I'd love to have many of the lighter weight options sans goretex for better breathability and reduced dry times once the inevitable soaking happens.

I'm hoping a pair of Crispi Valdres will be the answer for me.

 

[Benjblt]

I have never owned a pair of "waterproof" boots made from synthetic materials that didn't quickly spring a leak on top of the toes. My FIL has done a ton of hiking in various Asolo boots that are typically suede with a cordura upper, and his experience mirrors mine.

It's too bad everyone has bought into the lie, because I'd love to have many of the lighter weight options sans goretex for better breathability and reduced dry times once the inevitable soaking happens.

I'm hoping a pair of Crispi Valdres will be the answer for me.

If you get them let me know how they turn out for you.