Gear Review: Brasher Supalite II GTX

Brasher Supalite II GTX SRP £130 4/10

These are the lightest waterproof leather boots on the market, 'everyone' seems to want them, I don't.  The leather is soft so they provide an 'out the box' fit too soft to really provide much support to your fit, so this boot is, in my book, just for the easy trail walker. In which case I'd suggest going for something lighter still, like the Inov8 Roclite GTX or plump for a comfortable trail shoe.  It has a shock-absorbant midsole, which again provides that 'comfy' feel, but which, after long wear, doesn't do much.  The sole unit is 'anti-clog' Brasher's own, which therefore means the lugs aren't big enough to provide much grip, especially on wet rock as there's only a little 'ankle lock' to stop you slipping, a vibram sole on this boot would have made it better, it would have been heavier, but a lot more supportive.  For £30 extra I'd get the Meindl Burma GTX any day, a proper leather boot.  The reason I say this is not just because they have a Vibram sole unit with better ankle support, and my support underfoot, it is also because the leather is tougher, and more weather resistant- the Supalite's soft leather is  reknowned for absorbing water, and taking AGES to dry out and won't last anywhere near as long as traditional leather.  This boot has a placebo effect, it feels comfy, supportive, light but after a hard slog, in wet conditions they aren't.  Probably after 5 miles around Chatsworth in the summer, they'd be fine, but then so would your old trainers. 

Weighing only 1122grams,this is the lightest,waterfroof,breathable leather walking boot we know-ideal for rough paths and long days out. GORE-TEX® lined for performance and comfort.


SPEC:

• Full grain leather upper
• Supalite sole unit with REVA which is a high density midsole offering long-lasting energy return and shock absorption, reducing foot fatigue on hard or uneven terrain.
• Leather lining with Microspike. GORE-TEX® footwear lining provides comfort and protection from the elements whilst retaining breathability.
• Injected 3D nylon fibre glass insole
• Careful consideration during design and construction has eliminated unnecessary weight to offer lightweight footwear yet still giving support and protection.