Zamberlan's New Boots

Zamberlan is one of those boot brands with a glorious past - they've been making boots since 1929 and are still family owned - but a slightly low key present in the UK at least, but that, we're promised, is about to change with improved distribution and some interesting new boots for spring 2010. It's also worth noting that Zamberlan is one of the relatively rare brands still producing leather boots without a waterproof liner.


In particular, the existing Vioz boot line is being expanded with two new models, the Vioz Plus and the Vioz Lite.

The basic Vioz boot - above - is a classic three-season walking boot with full grain leather uppers, it's also, in a world of waterproof membranes, unusual in being available as a Gore-Tex lined or unlined model. For 2010 though, the new Vioz Plus arrives.


The Plus version of the boot uses the same basic chassis as the Vioz, but uses a slightly heavier, tougher full-grain Nubuck leather upper along with a full rubber rand, which the basic Vioz lacks. That makes it very slightly heavier, but should add durability and waterproofing if that bothers you. The Vioz Plus will sell for £170, which is £20 more than the basic Vioz.

That's not cheap, but a quick look and feel of the boot confirms that it's very nicely made, as you'd expect from a company with Zamberlan's experience. Technically it's not crampon compatible, but we suspect you'd be able to use a lightweight flexible trekking crampon for short spells if necessary.


The final member of the Vioz trio is the new Vioz Lite GT. As you'll have deduced from the name, it's a lightened up version of the original but with added Gore-Tex liner. It saves some weight with a shaved-down sole albeit with the same tread depth and EVA cushioning. There's no rand either.

All the above will be available in both men's and women's versions. The Vioz is out now, but you'll have to wait until early 2010 for the Vioz Plus and Vioz Lite variations.

Details of the current Zamberlan range at www.zamblerlan.uk.com