Haglöfs New Boots For Winter 2009

Haglofs launched a range of outdoors boots and shoes in the UK this spring and so far we've been very impressed, with the models we've tried, the good news is that there's more on the way for autumn/winter 2009, most notably a higher-cut version of the Vertigo GT we tested back in June in the shape of the Vertigo HI GT.

As with this spring, the boots come complete with an excellent heat-mouldable SOLE footbed, which would retail separately for around £32.

Haglofs Vertigo HI GT

We've found the Vertigo shoes extremely stable and stiff in the sole unit for a low, but still with good grip and shock absorption from the EVA mid-sole unit. The new higher cut version should have the same basic characteristics, plus added protection for your ankles and better resistance to invasive stray stones and gravel.


Haglofs say the new boot is designed for 'hiking and climbing on demanding trails' and we reckon the stiff sole is well up to use on rocky terrain. Uppers are Nubuck leather and a 'star-shaped' design gives good flexibility with a PU heel-cup adding to stability. We've found Haglofs generous fit to work well for classic UK feet.

At a claimed 1300 grammes per pair in the men's version, they're not super lightweight, but if the performance of the Lows is anything to go, they should make for a cracking all-round mountain hiking boot. They're also available as a women's specific 'Q' version.

Haglofs Crag HI GT

The other new addition to the range is a high version of the Crag GT, a lightweight fabric and sueded-uppered boot based on the shoe of the same name. Sole unit appears to be the same as the Vertigo with a similar roomy fit, but the lighter uppers save weight with Haglofs quoting around 1080 grammes per pair in the women's Q version - below.


Again a Gore-Tex membrane should keep things dry and combined sticky rubber outsole and EVA mid-sole unit promise grip and cushioning. Toe and heel reinforcements are aimed at extending durability in scree-type terrain .

We've used the low version of the Crag and really like the combination of sturdiness underfoot and lightweight feel, so the boot version, again, looks like a good mountain walking option.

Both new boots should be in the shops in early autumn 2009.

More Haglofs information at www.haglofs.se.