It's back to the future for Brasher next year - alongside their
new
Performance range they're also bringing back the very
first Hillmaster in the guise of the Hillmaster Original, a
retro-style classic with the original features of the first Brasher
boot plus some modern improvements.
The boot, first launched 15 years ago, features all the classic
specifications of the original design including an EVAlution sole
unit with the distinctive non-clogging tread and a shock-absorbing
REVA mid-sole.
It will have a full-grain leather upper with a nubuck ankle cuff
and an abrasion-resistant fabric lining. Last and not least, there is
NO Gore-Tex or other waterproof liner.
We've had enough e-mails bemoaning the demise of the Hillmaster to
know that this is going to be one popular relaunch. The bad news is
that you won't be seeing the Hillmaster Original in the shops until
around March 2008 when it will cost £95. Available
in both men's and women's versions.
Other Classics Tweaked...
Other boots in the Classic range get tweaked along the way - the
Classics include the 'Master' series and the SupaLites by the way -
including the Hillmaster GTX, the boot that the original
Hillmaster has evolved into.
For next spring it gets a new full leather lining, a nubuck cuff
and, as the name suggests, a Gore-Tex lining. The Trailmaster
GTX - above - is revamped too, it says here, and will feature a
memory foam ankle cuff as used in the Performance range, for improved
comfort.
Last but not least, there's a new Classic multi-activity shoe
called the Tolowa, which is designed for strolling along canal
paths and easy tracks as well as everyday use. It's made from a mix
of suede and nubuck, has the same sole unit - we think - as the more
performance-orientated Calusa, and again there's no Gore-Tex lining,
so it should be more comfortable in hot conditions. Again it's not
due until March 2008 when it will set you back £70 in
both men's and women's versions.
Finally there' a classic hill/valley boot called the Lairg
GTX, but made in fabric and complete with a Gore-Tex liner for
just £70.
None of this stuff is out till next spring, but we thought you
might find it interesting to see what's in the pipeline.
Current Brasher information at www.brasher.co.uk
Ian Iles
