Brasher Freelite GTX First Look

Whatever, the pair are Brasher's solution for those who liked the idea of the radical all-leather Supalite boot, but were put off by its single purpose nature, or more likely the fact that it looks singularly weird and curves upwards like a mutant duck's foot. The Freelite, by contrast looks very conventional. Not like a traditional Brasher boot at all.

It uses the lightweight focus of the Supalite to good effect and first impressions are generally very positive. The OUTDOORSmagic test foot felt immediately at home with no breaking in required of either foot or boot for instant comfort. For a light quite flexible boot, it feels very stable and the high, soft ankle cuff adds to the feeling of support.

The stability we thing, comes from reasonable lateral stiffness and a whopping great Nylon heel counter that holds things together. In the testing battleground that is Glossop High Street, the Freelite held its own with the tough rubber toe bumper dispatching several aggressive grannies and an over inquisitive dog with no ill effects.

Seriously, it feels tough, despite the lightness. The rough Cordura-type fabric is similar to that used by Berghaus in the Storm and should last ages and the toe bumper is a good chance. The sole is a new design, but like Brasher soles of the past should be a good mud-shedder on soft ground with big gaps between the cleats. Whether it will wear well in rockier terrain though, it's too early to say. Certainly grip feels reassuring. Looking good.

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