If you think Mother Nature is through with winter, think again. The Rocky Mountain region is still getting pummeled with snow, even as spring flowers start to bloom, which means that this shoulder season is going to be a wet, cold one in the mountains.
If you just can’t wait to get out on the hiking trails, we’ve got a recommendation for a pretty stellar hiking boot to keep your feet warm and cozy as winter melts into spring. Lowa’s Locarno Ice GTX Mid is a “winterized” version of the boot maker’s popular Locarno style. It features a fuzzy, uber cozy lining that hugs your feet in soft warmth, and Vibram’s Artic Grip technology that provides excellent traction on those inconspicuous patches of ice along the trail.
If you’re in the market for a comfortable, waterproof boot that is breathable enough to tackle whatever Colorado’s shoulder season throws at you, take a look at the Locarno Ice GTX Mid.
MSRP: $270
Pros: My favorite feature of this winter hiker is hands down the oh-so-soft interior lining made up of GORE-TEX® Partelana lining (a cozy combination of polyester and wool). Not only does the lining add an extra layer of comfort to the boot, but it also provides breathable warmth for those super cold winter days. The upper material of the boot is made with Nubuck Leather which provides dependable waterproofing, even on the wettest of trails. And Vibram’s Arctic Grip Trac® strategically placed along the sole of the boot offers a unique level of traction. The innovative technology is designed to be ultra grippy on wet ice, which you’ll most likely find on longer mountain hikes this time of year. I’ve owned a few pairs of Lowa hiking boots in the past, and unlike other hiking boot brands, Lowa’s have always taken a little longer to break in. But I donned the Locarno Ice’s and took them for an eight-mile spin right out of the box without any blisters or discomfort. While I definitely still suggest allowing the boots proper time to break in, I did appreciate the all around level of comfort right out of the gate.
Cons: At $270 a pair, Lowa’s Locarno Ice’s fall on the pricier side for hiking boots. If you’re not an avid cold weather hiker, the spend might not make the most sense for you, but if you can typically be found on the trails year-round, these boots might be a great fit.
Where We Took It: Winter hiking on snowy trails along Colorado’s Front Range.
