Vasque St Elias Gtx Review: A Heavy Hiker
This post contains affiliate links. If you click on a link and make a purchase, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Learn more.
You know the name Vasque, but with such an extensive collection of hiking boots, how do you know which model to land with? We dont have to convince you your time is better spent on the trail.
In our Vasque St. Elias GTX review, were going to break the popular hiking boot down section by section so you can decide whether this model is worthy of tagging along on your next epic adventure.
Our Analysis And Test Results
The Vasque St. Elias proved to be a worthy competitor in our hiking boot review, scoring well in most of our metrics. They were out-shadowed by several notable models that offered similar comfort and stability at a lower weight, but their durability and waterproofness make them well worth considering in your quest for the right hiking gear.
Things To Consider Before Buying The Vasque St Elias Gtx Boot
The most important consideration to make before getting the St. Elias GTX is what adventure youll be taking with this boot.
At 1,400g total , theyre not exactly lightweight. To me, this weight isnt an issue, as the longest hike Ive gone wearing them is six miles. However, this extra weight might be a problem if youre backpacking.
For longer distances where the weight starts to add up , something more lightweight helps stave off fatigue. For those trips, I have the Vasque Clarion 88, which weighs about 20% less but still has many of the same features.
Don’t Miss: How Many Miles Should I Put On My Running Shoes
Vasque Stelias Gtx Review
Whether youre just out on a day hike with your friends or backpacking across a challenging trail, theres nothing that will ruin your adventure than a bad pair of boots. For most trails, you will need boots that are comfortable, lightweight, and have good water-resistance, stability, and traction. And thats where Vasque St. Elias GTX comes in.
Anyone searching for a pair of mid-weight boots for summer backpacking or hiking big miles must consider Vasque St. Elias GTX. These shoes have Gore-Tex waterproof membrane that will keep your feet dry. And, their full-grain leather looks great. But above all, they are comfortable right out of the box and always ready for any challenge.
But aside from those, Vasque St. Elias GTX has more benefits to offer. In this review, we will provide you an in-depth review of these high-quality boots. These include specs, pros, cons, additional features, and many more!
Who Should Buy The Vasque St Elias Gtx
The mens Vasque St. Elias GTX hiking boots are definitely ones to consider if you are seeking:
- a solid, well made, comfortable backpacking boot made to go a distance on rough terrain
- a boot that would perform well with both light and heavier loads and provide great ankle protection
- waterproof yet breathable boots
Read Also: How To Buy Bots For Shoes
Final Thoughts / Conclusions
The Vasque St Elias GTX Waterproof High-top Hiking Boot is my go-to footwear for most of our waterfall hikes, which are primarily day hikes with trail lengths of about 1-8 miles as well as overnight backpacking trips with durations of over 10 miles.
I found the boots to be pretty comfortable despite the weight and sturdiness, but I didnt need long to break them in. I also appreciated the stability and protection that they offered me.
While the waterproofing was great for keeping my feet dry, it could also be a curse if I didnt come prepared with a lightweight water shoe or sandal as a backup. This was definitely not the kind of boot I would want to ruin by water inundation since the boots then act like water buckets.
I also have to pay attention to the boots traction, which depends on how much use I put them through. Thats usually the first thing that goes as the boots age.
Finally, I realize that choosing footwear for hiking very much comes down to individual preferences, especially as it pertains to comfort and fit. But in addition to that, I prefer function over form, and I tend to err on the side of caution even if these boots might be considered overkill in some situations.
So they may not be fashionable on the trail, but this is generally not something I consider when it comes to the overall experience of enjoying waterfalls.
Vasque Hiking Boot Review
Ive worn these boots for several low-mile hikes. It was rainy and wet on a few occasions, with outside temps ranging from 45 to 60 degrees. And while I wasnt hauling much gear for these outings, I did have my daughter in a child carrier on my back .
The Best Baby Carriers for Hiking in 2021
The St. Elias boots fall in the middle on weight. At 2 pounds 15 ounces per pair, theyre not ultralight by any means, but they wont weigh you down either. I was pleasantly surprised out how light and flexible they felt right out of the box.
The most surprising thing, though, was the immediate comfort. I slid my foot in initially, ready for a heavy, tight-boot squeeze. But it never came. From the very first moment I laced them up, these boots felt great so much so that I happily continued wearing them around the house post-hike.
You May Like: What Shoe Stores Do Afterpay
Vasque Stelias Gtx Detailed Review
The Vasque St. Elias GTX is a quality pair of boots manufactured by a prominent footwear brand Vasque. It is an excellent option for backpackers who need great performance, comfort, and stability. Its a little bit hefty, but this trait makes it a more suitable pair of boots when the trails are rough, and you are carrying a heavy load.
To further understand what Vasque St. Elias GTX can really provide, lets take a look at the following features.
Cognac Mens Vasque St Elias Fg Gtx Boots Review
There are certain things you want in a hiking boot when youre more than a casual hiker.
Taking on serious trail will destroy a lesser-made boot. The St. Elias FG GTX is a hiking boot that does not disappoint with features even a novice can appreciate. Some of the trails I hike take days to complete. That sort of long-distance durability requires premium materials that also encourage comfort.
In other words, they have to be able to hike all day, for days on end, and still be comfortable. This is no easy feat, since the most durable of fabrics and materials are rougher and stiffer than considered comfortable.
These boots have an unusual upper-hand on backpacking as well. Long hikes must entail a heavy backpack that never gets lighter which you carry for miles and miles. This takes a real toll on hiking boots, especially those that arent crafted with skill and quality material.
The sole and mid-sole technique on these St. Elias FG GTX hiking boots offers unstoppable support and comfort despite the load your carrying.
One surprising feature of this boot is the straight out of the box usability. So often I have had to condition and prepare a hiking boot before I could give it a good use. Not so with these guys. They were ready to go as soon as I opened the box. Talk about a timesaver.
Also Check: How Much Are Red Wing Shoes
What Do Other Reviewers Say
At the time of writing, the Vasque St. Elias FG GTX has a 4.2 star average with over 25 reviews. After pouring through them all, Ive extracted a few nuggets of wisdom.
If you plan on wearing these often , get some extra laces now. The eyelets are excellent for keeping your heel locked in, but the hardware takes a toll on your laces. Many reviewers said the laces go about 6-9 months before they give up the ghost.
The happiest reviewers are folks who do a ton of outdoor travelling and hike wide ranges of climates and terrains. If youre interested in the Appalachian Trail, Zion National Park, and Yosemite, the St. Elias is an attractive option because it has no specialty.
Vasques Exclusive Durable Outsole
The Vasque Exclusive Vibram Frontier with XSTrek Compound is resistant to abrasions and therefore, enhances the long-term durability of the backpacking boot. The technology works in synergy with the lug pattern on the outsole to provide sufficient traction and prevent slippage on wet surfaces or dangerous slopes.
Recommended Reading: Are Bobs Shoes Slip Resistant
Why We Like The St Elias Fg Gtx Hiking Boot
Why mess with a good thing? To make it even better. That’s what Vasque did with the new-and-improved St. Elias FG GTX Hiking Boot. Not only do these boots have comfort upgrades like the All Terrain Compound midsole which combines a TPU shank with foam cushion pods, they also cut weight to make their most lightweight boot even lighter. While the A.T.C. midsole gives backpackers athletic flexibility and even more comfort, the new rubber toe-cap protects the foot from rocky terrain or those tree roots that seem to pop up out of nowhere.
Details
- Rugged waterproof hiking boot for long treks with a heavy pack
- Flexible leather provides durability and comfort
- Rubber toe cap protects boots from scree and rogue tree roots
- GORE-TEX membrane keeps feet dry in creek crossings or rainstorms
- Vibram outer with multi-directional lugs help maintain stability
- Dual-compound midsole prevents foot fatigue for high mileage days
Compare To Similar Products
| Very durable, stable, great foot protection | Top-level hiking boot performance, excels in all metrics | Incredibly lightweight, comfortable | Excellent waterproofing, deep lugs for solid traction, heel brake in outsole | ||
| Cons | Expensive, not as great for hot and dry climates | Less durable than heavier models, thin sole | Heavy for their height, feet get especially sweaty | Average stability, difficult to lace up | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom Line | A beefy boot that provides excellent structure and support for carrying heavy packs in rough terrain | The gold standard of what a great hiking boot should be, and we heartily recommend it for those seeking the best possible performance on and off the trail | This mid-top hiking boot is ridiculously lightweight, though it offers excellent stability and traction for fast and light objectives | This affordable boot is super comfortable right out of the box and has the durability to go the distance | These high-ankle hiking boots are a great option for excellent waterproof protection in a relatively lightweight package |
| Rating Categories | |||||
| 2.41 lbs | |||||
| Boot Type | |||||
| A.S.E. with EVA cushioning pods | EnergyCell | ||||
| Vibram Nano XS-Trek rubber compound |
Also Check: Is Dhgate Legit For Shoes
Vasque St Elias Gtx Hiking Bootbackcountry Edge
Washbasin st. Hiking boots gtx as stated in Rei.Although this is the lightest washbasin backpack, st. Gtx has to take difficult trails in alaska to get to the appalachian trail terrain.
Washbasin st. Hiking boots gtx pursuant to Rei.Although this is the lightest washbasin backpack, the st. Gtx is taking difficult trails from alaska to the appalachian trail.
Learn More
Specs & Features Overview
|
|
| Materials |
|
Recommended Reading: How To Reserve Nike Shoes
Vasque Men’s St Elias Fg Gtx Mid Hiking Boots Wide
Color:
The St. Elias Full-Grain leather boot pushes the boundaries of performance with premium materials that deliver long-distance durability and all-day waterproof comfort with GORE-TEX. The updated St Elias FG GTX skips the break-in period and delivers all-day comfort with the first wear. Straight out of the box and onto the trail, the midsole and outsole systems provide athletic flexibility and foot comfort for long distance hikes. A waterproof nubuck leather upper and GORE-TEX membrane stand up to the rigors of backpacking and ensure peace of mind in wet conditions.
Description
The St. Elias Full-Grain leather boot pushes the boundaries of performance with premium materials that deliver long-distance durability and all-day waterproof comfort with GORE-TEX. The updated St Elias FG GTX skips the break-in period and delivers all-day comfort with the first wear. Straight out of the box and onto the trail, the midsole and outsole systems provide athletic flexibility and foot comfort for long distance hikes. A waterproof nubuck leather upper and GORE-TEX membrane stand up to the rigors of backpacking and ensure peace of mind in wet conditions.
Vasquest Elias Fg Gtx
- No break-in period needed, just lace up the Vasque® St. Elias FG GTX hiking boots and hit the trails!
- Rugged trail boot in a high-top silhouette.
- Rugged, waterproof full-grain leather and molded rubber toe cap provides the ultimate in durability.
- GORE-TEX® lining for breathable wear and all-weather comfort.
- GORE-TEX® membrane guarantees protection from the elements and overall climate comfort.
- Supple glove leather collar and tongue gussets deliver exceptional out-of-box comfort by conforming to your unique foot shape.
- Dual-density EVA footbed for those long days on your feet.
- Midsole molded in an All-Terrain compound offers lightweight comfort and support.
- Comfort pods at the heel and midfoot use a softer EVA cushion density for all-day comfort and less foot fatigue.
- Vibram Frontier sole with XSTrek rubber compound delivers the perfect balance of performance and durability on the trail with a lug pattern designed to maximize efficiency and traction.
- Product measurements were taken using size 12, width M. Please note that measurements may vary by size.
- Weight of footwear is based on a single item, not a pair.
- Weight: 1 lb 11 oz
- Shaft: 6 12 in
Read Also: What Are The Best Cheap Basketball Shoes
Vasque St Elias Fg Gtx Hiking Boot Specs
- Weight: 2 lbs 15 oz
- Upper: 2.2mm waterproof, full-grain leather with Nappa leather collar
- Footbed: Dual-density EVA
- Width options: Narrow, regular, wide
- Mens / Womens
These boots provide full ankle support without rubbing or feeling overly constrictive. The collar is soft in all the right places, and I was able to adjust the laces to easily find the sweet spot of a snug yet comfortable fit.
I found it offered a good combo of sturdy support needed for carrying heavy loads and the impact cushioning necessary for all-day comfort. This makes the St. Elias a good choice for multiday backpacking or hunting trips.
I didnt do any major river crossings, but I never had a problem with slipping on rain-soaked, mixed terrain. The molded rubber toe cap keeps toes protected and should help with overall durability.
I can vouch that the GORE-TEX membrane did keep my feet dry while puddle-hopping. But the main concern with waterproof hiking boots is overheating. I never had any problems with this, but I also didnt test these in temps over 60 degrees. On a hot summer day, these might be too much boot. But thats really a matter of personal preference.
Things To Be Aware Of About The Vasque St Elias Gtx Hiking Boot
As far as some things that I didnt like about the Vasque St Elias Hiking Boot, the boots did weigh a lot, which we measured on our scale at 3.4 pounds. The Vasque website had it a 2 lbs 15oz. which might be the result of a later version or maybe a smaller sized boot than what I wore. Anyways, the heavier weight meant that the boots could cause me to spend more calories and drag my legs more, especially towards the end of the hike.
On my last two pairs of these Vasque boots, I also had a particularly annoying problem with my ankle bone hitting the wall of the boot just right , which caused some pain and discomfort until the boots were broken in and my swelling in my ankles went down. This is something I dont know how to fix, but it eventually went away after continued use though it sucks during those episodes where I had to deal with the pain.
The boots waterproofing was also an issue when I had allowed water to get into the boot from its top, especially in deep crossings or floods. Thats because the waterproofing held onto the water, which caused conditions ripe for fungus to grow for as long as the hike persisted.
It also further weighed down an already heavy boot. Thus, this wouldnt be ideal on those situations where we managed to get water into the boot early on in a long or moderate hike.
Recommended Reading: How To Measure Kids Feet For Shoes
Vasque St Elias Gtx Overview
The Vasque St. Elias GTX is the brands all-round, middle-of-the-road hiking boot. While Vasque offers lightweight boots, full winter boots, entry-level boots, and more, the St. Elias stands as a solid hiker thats designed to handle a variety of terrains in a multitude of climates.
The latest version of the boot is the St. Elias FG GTX. The FG stands for full grain, which is the highest grade for leather. The GTX means the boot is fully lined with Gore Tex, which helps with waterproofing, moisture-wicking, and adds some insulation.
Vasque Men’s St Elias Fg Gtx Hiking Boots
- GORE-TEX with Extended Comfort Technology
- Vibram Frontier with XSTrek Compound
- All Terrain Compound Midsole with EVA Cushioning Pods TPU Shank
- 2.2 mm Waterproof Full Grain Leather Upper, Nappa Leather Collar
- Lace-up with heel loop for easy off and on
- No break-in period needed giving you all-day comfort on the first wear
- Positive lock heel pocket
- Weight: 2 lbs. 15 oz.
Read Also: Mens Flip Flops For Beach
