FOOTWEAR 2022

FOOTWEAR

by Peter B. Mathiesen

Footwear manufacturers expect to be able to deliver more goods in the coming year.

During the second year of Covid 19, high demand for footwear outpaced production as limited space at western port facilities reigned. Compared to the U.S. and some Asian countries, European factories struggled with intermittent closures. On the manufacturing side, obtaining raw materials was a challenging task across the category. Although demand was high throughout the segment, retailers were hampered by inventory selection. But the coming year promises increased retail traffic as consumers continue to set records for spending time outside. Meanwhile, they’ll be searching for what’s new on your shelves. Here’s a look at some of what they may find.

5.11 TACTICAL

The A/T 6-inch no zip boot is a warmer-weather boot constructed of nylon with high abrasion air mesh and a water-resistant suede upper. The high-traction outsole lets you run headlong into the day’s challenges. In addition, the All-Terrain Load Assistance System (A.T.L.A.S.) is a force multiplier for those who carry heavy weight on long shifts.

These boots were developed to align with your “work weight,” as the Echo Foam uses high rebound/energy-return polyurethane (PU). The Force Foam lightweight PU improves impact and cushioning. Available in coyote regular. Sizes are 5 to 14; half-sizes are 9.5 to 11.5. SRP: $155. Booth #10334

(511tactical.com)

FOOTWEAR

2022

DANNER

Inspired by traditional styling, the Recurve Moc Toe boot draws design and technology cues from Danner’s best-selling hiking boots. The classic Moc Toe boot delivers outstanding performance for upland birds or mid-terrain big-game hunting.

The Recurve Moc Toe features a Vibram SPE midsole and TPU heel cup to ensure long hours of comfort on pre-season scouts and extended treks. With seven inches of height for ankle support, it will keep you in the wild and on the hunt longer.

Waterproof versions sport a full-grain leather and nylon upper combined with Danner Dry, the company’s proprietary waterproof system. A super-breathable mesh lining works in tandem with Thinsulate Ultra insulation, and a cushioning open-cell OrthoLite footbed is welded to a Vibram SPE midsole for maximum rebound, comfort, and support. The nylon shank and TPU heel frame enhance support and stability. Finished with a Vibram Recurve outsole, its Megagrip technology uses adaptive lugs and flex lines for stability in wet and dry terrain. Available in sizes 7-14 (half-sizes 7.5–12), in brown and olive. SRP: starts at $200. Booth #5155

(danner.com)

GARMONT TACTICAL

Built for law enforcement, military personnel, and tactical personnel who demand high-performance, versatility, and full-ankle support, the all-weather mid-cut T4 Groove G-Dry boot can handle every step of the trail, hillside, or concrete.

The ultralight boots use Garmont’s proprietary technology, including its G-Dry breathable and waterproof construction. The 1.6mm suede-leather upper features a liquid rubber toe cap and seamless TPU heel cap for lightweight protection. The A.C.E. sole system provides all-day comfort. The GTF OPALE rubber outsole has an exceptionally large contact area for dependable traction, added foot support, and cushioning. Colors include black and coyote. Sizes are 4 to 14 (half-sizes are 5.5 to 13.5). SRP: $160. Booth #31306

(garmonttactical.com)

Wildland firefighters subject themselves to one of the most physically demanding jobs in the world. Certified NFPA 1977-2016 for wildland firefighting, the Missoula 2.1 women's firefighting boots are up to that task. The tough European split bull leather is water-resistant, hydrophobic, and breathable. The Missoula 2.1’s lighter weight helps alleviate leg fatigue while on long hikes. The newly designed, heat-resistant (up to 572 degrees F.) Vibram anti-slip sole offers greater footholds across dynamically different terrain. The special heel design offers strong footholds on steep and uneven surfaces.

In addition, the sturdy and stable midsole ensures shock protection. A built-in bootjack at the boot’s rear makes it easier to remove after a long day. The two-zone lacing system allows separate tension adjustment for the upper and the lower parts of the boot. For downward descents, tighten the upper and the lowers evenly. For upward ascents, leave the upper a little looser to prevent shin constriction. The two-zone lacing aids in preventing potential ankle injuries out on the line. The new roller-ball eyelets on the lower part of the lacing system offer minimal friction, reducing wear and tear on the flame-resistant Nomex laces. Women’s sizing includes half, narrow, medium and wide widths from 5 to 10. SRP: $325. Booth #20571

(haixusa.com)

KENETREK

When some hunters hear the words “light hiker,” all they can think of is “under performance.” Not in this case. Weighing in at only 3.2 pounds per pair, the Corrie Hiker is built for long, arduous hauls while delivering excellent agility and control.

The word “Corrie” is Scottish and means “a half-open steep-sided hollow on a mountainside.” Its Grapon outsoles delivers excellent traction, and the K-Straps tie the base of the heel to the seven-inch, double- and triple-stitched padded upper, providing complete comfort and control.

The Corrie boasts a waterproof and breathable Windtex membrane with a 5mm full-length nylon midsole and a reinforced toe and heel atop Kenetrek’s supportive footbed. This 7-inch-tall light hiker becomes a serious tool for those who trek the high ground for elk and deer.

Sizes are 5 to 13 (half-sizes are 5.5 to 11.5) in medium and wide widths. SRP: $300. Booth #41916

(kenetrek.com)

LACROSSE

Combining high-quality, scent-free rubber with naturally insulating neoprene, the LaCrosse Alpha Burly Pro is a staple among seasoned hunters. This year, LaCrosse has added a solid brown option to this popular family of rubber boots. It features hand-laid premium rubber over a 3.5mm neoprene core for flexible, waterproof, scent-free comfort.

The embossed liner increases air circulation inside the boot and wicks moisture, making them quick to dry. In addition, an adjustable neoprene gusset helps with easy on and off. Available in non-insulated and insulated versions with 1,600 grams of Thinsulate Ultra. Sizes are 6 to 15. SRP: $160-$190. Booth #15155

(lacrossefootwear.com)

LOWA

The Maddox Warm GTX Hi is a cold-weather boot with an elastic lacing system over the instep/forefoot and two Velcro closures on the cuff, all of which make it very easy to put on and take off the boot. As an added plus, the lined boot is toasty warm, thanks to Gore-Tex Partelana and the DynaPU midsole with Monowrap construction. The Lowa Kid Winter Trac lugged sole provides reliable traction on wet surfaces. The upper fabric is synthetic. The insole is Lowa’s cold-weather DynaPU midsole. The easy-to-wear-all-day boots are green with orange trim and designed for children. SRP: $150. Booth #10162

(lowaboots.com)

MERRELL TACTICAL

Warm, supportive, and grippy on slick surfaces, the Thermo Rouge Tactical Water Ice+ makes Merrell an ideal choice for anyone who needs a tall, supportive, tactical boot in cold, icy conditions. The footwear features a full-grain leather upper with M insulation. It’s combined with a waterproof membrane for exceptional breathability and waterproof performance. Metal hook and eyelets secure lacing, and a generous thick tongue helps keep debris out.

Below, a molded nylon arch shank meets Merrell’s FLEXconnect dual-directional flexgroove EVA midsole for agility. A Vibram Arctic Grip Dura ice outsole provides generous shock absorption and superior adhesion to icy surfaces. Available in men’s medium and wide widths from sizes 7.5 to 15. SRP: $220. Booth #60509

(merrell.com)

REEBOK DUTY

Reebok, which revolutionized cross training, brings its versatility and resistance to the tactical market in the Nano Tactical series. Constructed for high impact, it’s one of the lightest shoes of its kind on the market.

The 6-inch tactical boot offers breathable uppers, roomy toe boxes, and a minimal drop outsole. The upper uses microfiber and mesh with a soft toe. A moisture-wicking liner is welded to a MemoryTech removable cushion footbed on a slip-resistant sole. The zip allows for a perfect fit and quick on and off.

Reebok has co-branded the Nano Tactical with the Navy SEAL Foundation. Every boot sold supports Navy SEALs and their families as they return and adjust to civilian life. Sizes are 8 to 16 in medium and wide widths (half-sizes are 8.5 to 11.5). SRP: $123.99. Booth #75807

(reebokwork.com)

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