Vasque Breeze at Mid GTX Hiking Boot

9.3
9.3 score
[Editors rating (9.3)] = (TheGearHunt) score (9.3)/10


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Editor rating: 9.3 / 10
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Editor’s Conclusion
The Vasque Breeze at Mid GTX hiking boot is full of features to ensure a comfortable protective hiking experience. For protection against water, the uppers are 2mm thick nubuck leather. Consider that this is a double feature - great protection in combination with waterproofing.

Breathability comes from the air mesh uppers which allow for feet to stay cool through a subtle flow of air ventilation. Megagrip and Vibram Contact-Grip ensure adhesive traction on multiple terrain surfaces.

The boots come with all-terrain midsoles cushioning pods from the tried and trusted EVA. Moreover, support is granted through the built-in Thermoplastic-polyurethane-shanks.
Vasque Breeze at Mid GTX Hiking Boot Review Facts
Editor's Pros & Cons
Pros

Good stability

Very supportive

Vibram outsole

Nubuck leather upper

Gore-Tex wet weather protection

All-day comfort

Good traction

Buyer-friendly price tag

Cons

Wide lugs-tricky to walk on softer surfaces

Key Features

Comfort

The Vasque Breeze at Mid GTX is a little stiff when first taken out of the box. However, some short distance hikes clocking up around 20 miles will break these in and the result is worthwhile. After this brief break-in period, the hiking boots are seriously comfortable.

Ample padding is evident and feels good; the boot is clearly sturdy and contours well to the feet; protection is in place under the feet for gritty tough trails, and you won't get tired sore feet when hauling heavy loads over long distances.

The midsole is a hiker's pleasure since the EVA foam gives ongoing firmness and support for terrains ranging from moderate to really challenging.

Weight

These are 2 pounds 10.7 ounces, meaning this is a mid-weight boot that gives lots of comfort and impressive stability. The slightly higher weight is just something that fades away as not being an issue.

Traction

The Megagrip compound means impressive traction. The lugs are large and bite deep on loose surfaces while gripping rocks and other challenging terrains. The soles are seriously durable, long-lasting and up for any challenge.

Stability

You won't get the stability of a heavy-duty boot weighing in at over 2 pounds but for a mid-weight boot, you get very close. The design in TPU shanks give a good stiffness and a nice sturdy feeling. On extended climbs, you will appreciate that your heel does not dip and flex as it would in a less stiff boot. The designed-in ankle support gives performance on lateral trails and when hauling heavy hiking backpacks.

Waterproofing

A tried and tested Gore-Tex liner speaks for itself since waterproofing is solid and dependable. For hot weather, the combination of leather uppers and Gore-Tex means that the feet can run a bit warm.

Seasonal hiking will often involve rain and wet ground and Gore-Tex has more than proven itself to be an incredibly effective waterproofing for footwear.

Ankle and Foot Protection

A solid rubber toe cap extends around the lower foot area to give substantial protection from sharp objects and rocks. The underfoot of the boot offers the same levels of high protection while the Nubuck leather encases the feet for added stability. The padded collar gives full protection from hurtful ankle brushes against hard rocks.

Fit

These boots fit for average width feet. They give a snug fit, lots of comfort in the heel and appropriate space in the toe-box. If you need to adjust the tension for fit, this can be done with a little practice using lace-up system.

Lacing is easy to adjust. A lot of users state that once secured, the lacing system does not loosen. The feel is very much like a trimmed version of a good mountain boot.

Comparison to Other Hiking Shoes and Boots

This is a mid-weight boot that works well for hikers and backpackers. You get a durable boot that gives impressive support, durability, comfort, nice traction, reliable waterproofing and in comparison to other mid-weight boots, this model edges forward in terms of value for money since the price is certainly buyer friendly.

Another great product we reviewed is the Vasque Juxt Men’s Hiking Shoe, so make sure to check it out as well.

Verdict

If you're not looking for a full-blown mountain boot but something which comes very close in terms of performance, comfort, protection, support and durability, the Vasque Breeze at Mid GTX will work just fine.

The durability results from a careful selection of high-performing materials. The boot works on multiple terrains and is sure to give many seasons of enjoyable hiking and this goes for backpackers carrying heavy loads as well.