Are you looking for lightweight boots that can handle tough hikes? The Berghaus Supalite II GTX might be just what you need. These boots are designed to be comfortable and durable, even on the most challenging trails. With features like waterproof protection, great grip, and supportive cushioning, they’re built to keep your feet happy. In this review, we’ll dive into what makes these walking boots special and share our personal experience using them in different conditions.
Upper: One-piece leather construction with GORE-TEX Performance Comfort Footwear lining
Cushioning: Memory foam in heel and tongue, OrthoLite footbed
Outsole: Vibram XS Trek Supalite with anti-clog lug pattern
Weight: Approximately 1070g/pair (size UK 9)
Features: Waterproof, breathable, lightweight, durable
See the Berghaus Supalite II See the Women’s Supalite II
Boot Features and Technology
The Supalite II GTX boasts a durable, one-piece leather upper with GORE-TEX technology for waterproof protection. Its memory foam cushioning and Vibram outsole provide comfort and grip, while OrthoLite footbeds keep feet fresh and dry.
One-piece leather upper
The boot offers a single-piece leather construction for exceptional durability and water resistance. This design eliminates weak points where seams might typically occur, ensuring your feet stay dry and protected.
GORE-TEX technology
Integrated into the leather upper, GORE-TEX technology is the heart of the boot’s waterproof performance. This advanced membrane allows sweat vapour to escape while blocking out water droplets, keeping your feet dry and comfortable in various weather conditions.
Memory foam cushioning
For added comfort, Berghaus has incorporated memory foam into the heel and toe areas of the Supalite II GTX. This soft, responsive material moulds to the shape of your foot, providing personalised cushioning and reducing impact shock.
Vibram outsole
The outsole is made from high-performance Vibram rubber, renowned for its grip and durability. This ensures excellent traction on a variety of terrains, from muddy trails to rocky paths. The outsole is also designed to shed mud effectively, keeping your feet clean.
OrthoLite footbeds
To complete the comfort package, the Supalite II GTX features breathable OrthoLite footbeds. These insoles provide cushioning, moisture-wicking, and odour control, creating a healthy and comfortable environment for your feet.
Fit and Comfort
The Supalite II GTX is designed with comfort in mind. The streamlined one-piece leather upper moulds to your foot over time, offering a customised fit. This, combined with the memory foam cushioning in the heel and toe, provides exceptional comfort even on long hikes. The boot’s lightweight design reduces fatigue, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor adventures without discomfort.
Construction and Durability
The Berghaus Supalite II GTX is built to withstand the rigours of the outdoors. Its one-piece leather upper offers exceptional durability, resisting abrasions and tears that often plague traditional stitched boots. The GORE-TEX membrane is seamlessly integrated into the leather, providing a robust waterproof barrier without compromising the boot’s strength.
The Vibram outsole is renowned for its durability, offering excellent traction and protection against wear and tear. The overall construction of the boot is designed to provide long-lasting performance, making it a reliable choice for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Traction on Different Terrain
The Berghaus Supalite II GTX is equipped with a Vibram outsole. It offers excellent traction on a variety of terrains.
- Muddy Conditions: The outsole’s aggressive tread pattern efficiently sheds mud, preventing build-up and maintaining grip. This makes the boots ideal for hikes through wet and slippery conditions.
- Rocky Terrain: The Vibram rubber compound provides a reliable grip on rocks, preventing slips and ensuring stability. This is particularly beneficial for hikes in mountainous regions.
- Grassy Slopes: The boot’s traction is equally impressive on grassy surfaces, offering confidence-inspiring grip even on inclined terrain.
- Wet Surfaces: The combination of the Vibram outsole and GORE-TEX technology provides exceptional performance in wet conditions. The outsole maintains grip while the waterproof membrane keeps your feet dry.
Value for Money
The Berghaus Supalite II GTX offers excellent value for money, providing a balance of performance, comfort, and durability. While it falls into the mid-range price category for walking boots, it justifies the investment with its exceptional features.
- High-quality materials: The use of premium leather, GORE-TEX technology, and Vibram soles ensures long-lasting performance and protection.
- Comfort and fit: The boot’s design prioritises comfort, making it suitable for extended hikes without sacrificing support.
- Versatility: The boot excels in various conditions, from muddy trails to rocky terrain, making it a versatile choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Durability: The robust construction and high-quality materials suggest a long lifespan, making it a worthwhile investment for frequent hikers.
While there are more expensive options available, the Supalite II GTX offers a compelling package without breaking the bank. It’s a solid choice for hikers seeking a reliable and comfortable boot without compromising on performance.
Comparison with Other Similar Boots
The Supalite II GTX competes in a crowded market of lightweight hiking boots. While direct comparisons are essential for definitive conclusions, we can analyse general trends and potential competitors.
Key Competitors
- Merrell Moab 3 Mid GTX: Known for its comfort and versatility, the Moab 3 is a popular choice. It often offers a slightly stiffer sole, providing more support for heavier loads. However, it might be less breathable and slightly heavier.
- Trespass Finley: Compared to the Trespass Finley, it offers a lighter, more flexible design without compromising on waterproof performance.
- Salomon X Ultra Pioneer GTX: Emphasizing agility and responsiveness, the X Ultra Pioneer is designed for faster-paced hikes. It’s generally lighter but might sacrifice some underfoot cushioning and durability for increased speed.
- Hanwag Tatra II GTX: This boot leans towards a more traditional hiking boot design, often with a higher ankle collar for added support. It might be slightly heavier but could offer superior ankle stability for technical terrain.
Comparison Points
- Weight: The Supalite II GTX excels in its lightweight category. While competitors like the Salomon X Ultra 4 might be even lighter, they often sacrifice cushioning or durability.
- Comfort: The boot prioritises comfort with its memory foam cushioning and one-piece leather upper. While other boots offer comfortable options, the Supalite’s focus on comfort is a key selling point.
- Waterproofness: All three mentioned competitors feature GORE-TEX technology, ensuring reliable waterproof protection. However, the specific implementation and material choices might vary, affecting breathability and durability.
- Traction: Vibram soles are common in this category, but the specific tread pattern and rubber compound can differ. Each boot offers adequate traction, but performance in specific conditions might vary.
- Durability: Assessing durability requires long-term testing. However, the Supalite II GTX’s one-piece leather construction suggests good durability, comparable to other premium boots in this category.
Conclusion
The Berghaus Supalite II GTX holds its ground in a competitive market by offering a strong balance of comfort, lightweight performance, and durability. While other boots might excel in specific areas, these boots provide a well-rounded package suitable for a wide range of hikers. Ultimately, the best boot depends on individual preferences and specific walking needs.
