Lightweight, comfortable, protective, eco-friendly, versatile
Picture this: a renowned running shoe brand, Saucony, ventures into uncharted territory, introducing the hiking world to their first-ever creation, the Ultra Ridge GTX.
Imagine you're a hiker who cherishes lightweight footwear, gracefully traversing landscapes with ease. Saucony's Ultra Ridge GTX is an ode to those who appreciate a well-crafted boot, balancing comfort and lightness like a fine wine.
Inspired by their popular trail running shoe, the Xodus Ultra, Saucony's debut hiking boot is a work of art, crafted meticulously over 18 months. The Ultra Ridge GTX doesn't disappoint, boasting several impressive features in one seamless narrative.
This lightweight boot, with a mere 12.6 ounces per boot for men and 11 ounces per shoe for women, alleviates the burden of foot fatigue. Its GORE-TEX mesh upper acts as a shield, providing a reassuring barrier against wind and water. The marriage of premium PWRRUN PB foam and responsive PWRRUN foam delivers a lightweight, cushioned underfoot experience, while a plush mid-collar lends welcome ankle support. All the while, the boot is mindfully designed, being vegan-friendly and partially constructed from recycled materials.
While the Ultra Ridge GTX might not be the top choice for those seeking the ultimate long-distance, hardcore hiking experience, it caters beautifully to a more casual hiking audience. Focusing on durability, breathability, and elemental protection, this versatile and comfortable boot offers a little something for everyone.
So there you have it, the Saucony Ultra Ridge GTX – a testament to the fusion of running shoe expertise and hiker-centric design. A welcome newcomer to the world of hiking footwear, it's the perfect companion for those in search of comfort and style on their outdoor adventures.
Pros:
- Lightweight: The boot's low weight reduces foot fatigue, allowing hikers to travel more comfortably over long distances.
- Weather protection: With a GORE-TEX mesh upper, the Ultra Ridge GTX provides excellent protection against wind and water, ensuring a comfortable hike even in adverse conditions.
- Comfort and support: The combination of premium PWRRUN PB foam and responsive PWRRUN foam offers a cushioned underfoot experience, while the plush mid-collar provides ankle support.
- Eco-friendly: The boot is vegan-friendly and partially made from recycled materials, making it a sustainable choice for environmentally conscious hikers.
- Saucony's expertise: Drawing from the brand's long-standing experience in crafting running shoes, the Ultra Ridge GTX benefits from a well-thought-out design focused on comfort and performance.
Cons:
- Not suited for hardcore long-distance hikes: Although lightweight and comfortable, the Ultra Ridge GTX may not be the best choice for those seeking an ultra-light boot specifically designed for long-distance, high-speed thru-hiking or FKT-setting (Fastest Known Times).
- Targeted at a more casual audience: While the boot offers durability, breathability, and elemental protection, it may not be ideal for advanced hikers or those looking for specialized features tailored to specific hiking challenges.
- Price: With an MSRP of $190, the Ultra Ridge GTX may be considered a pricey option for some hikers, particularly those on a budget or new to hiking.
