Shoes are probably the most important of all outdoor clothing. With bad shoes a trip like this one could be drawn to a halt. I needed something that would provide adequate support and comfort for walking/riding day after day, be tough enough to bare the brunt of the journey whilst being waterproof and breathable, and still be acceptable as a riding boot.
Lowa offers the widest and most suitable range of boots that I could find. They do not use traditional leather-boot designs, but Nubuck Leather, which is far easier to maintain, wears longer and is more waterproof. They use Vibraam soles and adhere them to the boot in a way that prevents separation (with many boots the rubber sole begins to peel away from the boot, especially at the toe). Their attention to detail means that everything is comfortable, functional and extremely tough. The eyelets for the laces for example are some of the sturdiest and well-attached I have seen. Even my old trusted Zamberlan boots do not match up to Lowa from what I can gather so far.
I have two pairs of Lowa boots, thanks to Reflex Sports: a hiking boot, and a low-cut model. Both have a Goretex breathable layer and are waterproof. Quite honestly they are the best and most comfortable shoes I have ever owned. Look out for reviews from the road to see how they perform.
REVIEW FROM THE ROAD
My hiking boots so far have been absolutely brilliant. They are tough, comfortable, and have been so waterproof that wandering through streams has never posed any problems. These are the best boots I have ever owned. 3000km down and they are still showing very little sign of fatigue. I would definitelky recommend them as a general use boot from mountain hiking, to riding, and generakl travel use. Thanks to Reflex sports for these boots that I appreciate every time they are on my feet.
