Thanks for the thoughts guys, I ended up going for it! Super excited to try them out
Hello
I am balling on a budget and have found the lowa clearance sale. Their renegades seem to tick every box for me (I’m a more flat footed person, I work trails/backpack so I need stability and like a boot over a sneaker style) however, the only ones on sale are the goretex version. My previous hiking boots (which I have been in a terrible relationship with for like 4 years) also have goretex, (Merrel Moabs) and I have found that my feet get hot in them.
My main issue with the moabs is the agressive arch support and the flexibility(not stable enough and puts pressure on my arch), but I know the feet getting hot issue is not ideal either. So I’ve come to ask all you renegade wearing people, do your feet get miserably hot? Or just warm? I have read so many reviews of the people who -love- their Renegades but I’m not sure if I’m just reading all the alaskan hiker reviews or something. I do need a versatile boot as someone who backpacks/hikes/camps for work, we don’t always get to choose fair weather days. So while I can end up hiking through a stream/in the rain/in the cold, I also hike in fairly hot temps (80s to sometimes low 90s). While I may be able to purchase another more fair weather option in the near future, I’m wanting to start with the more versatile pick if it won’t be absolutely miserable.
Have hiked and backpacked in the Renegade GTXs for over two decades, mostly on hot SoCal and Eastern Sierra trails, and my feet have never felt overly hot. I even got a pair for my daughter who worked in a New England camp with cooler weather, and she reported no issues. I’m planning to buy another pair soon.
I used them while doing forestry work in Southern California. They’re warmer than unlined boots, but not unbearably so. The sole’s tread is quite shallow and wears out fast on harsh terrain, but they’re excellent for general trail use.
Gore-Tex works well if the boots are well-made, like the Renegades. I’ve had less breathability issues with them compared to other brands. Lower-end brands like Salomon and Merrell often have poor breathability.
Soren said: @Taylor
Interesting, I’ve noticed my Merrells make my feet burn! They’re comfy but hot. Thanks for the insight.
Merrells are okay for short term use but they tend to lack durability and proper waterproofing, which affects both breathability and long-term comfort. If you’re looking for high-quality alternatives, check out brands like Asolo, La Sportiva, Lowa, and Scarpa.
I’ve been using my Renegades for casual hiking for over a year and they’re great. They’re not too heavy, provide good grip and support. They don’t get too hot for me either.