What's It For?
The new Explorer Trek GTX is just one of three models replacing the classic Explorer Boot, the other two are a lightweight version called the Explorer Light and a leather version dubbed the Explorer Ridge.
The Trek is arguably closest to the original and much loved Explorer and like its dad is an all-round hill and fell-walking boot designed for use below the snowline.
The Techy Bits
The new Explorer looks smarter than the old version, but there are changes beneath the surface too. For starters, Berghaus has revised the lasting so that the interior of the boot is 3mm deeper and the shape more ergonomic, making it a better match for the classic high volume British foot.
Then there's EHS or Ergonomic Holding System, a posh, technical way of saying that the upper is designed to hold the forefoot in place and the heel down. Cushioning is courtesy of PU rather than the EVA which is increasingly being used in lightweight footwear, but tends to break down and lose its cushioning effect more quickly.
How They Performed
It's relatively early days, but we found the Explorer Trek comfortable straight out of the box. There's enough padding for a cushioned fit around your foot, but not so much that they feel sloppy.
The new lasting worked well for this particular OM test foot. As well as a little more internal volume than before, the shape seems, well, just more foot-like than it used to be and we found them comfortable - clearly though, it's all about fit, so it's imperative that you try before buying.
The lacing system's good and slick making it easy to get a comfortable tension on the laces and EHS or not, or heels felt well anchored and we had no issues with heel lift. Underfoot the boot feels reasonably light and very well cushioned on harder ground. There's a lot of longitudinal flex which we like and makes for comfortable walking, though those who prefer a really stiff sole unit in the mountains should steer clear.
There's still plenty of torsional stiffness though and we found them fine on all sorts of terrain with decent grip from the deeply indented sole unit, which will also accommodate a Yeti Gaiter if needed. The footbed doesn't give much arch support, so some buyers might benefit from a more defined aftermarket replacement.
Finally the Gore-Tex liner has kept our feet dry so far, though previous experience suggests it may feel hot in really warm conditions. Berghaus suggests the Gore-Tex XCR-lined Light version for hotter climates.
Initial Verdict
So far so good - the Explorer Trek does a capable, comfortable job straight out of the box pretty much anywhere below the snowline from low-level paths to rocky mountain walks with grip and cushioning to match both.
The revised last means it should suit more Brits, but as with all boots, it's crucial to try before buying if you're not to repent at leisure. Our one question mark is over the level of support from the factory footbed / insole which is quite flat, we'd swap it out, but others might find it fine. It is quite flexible lengthways, so if you believe that rocky ground requires a traditional stiff sole, then it may not suit you. We don't.
Buy if... you want a reasonably but not ridiculously light, all-round hill and fell boots with instant comfort and decent underfoot cushioning on all surfaces and if it fits your foot.
