R
Rickford
December 12, 2024
Exceptional Comfort and Durability in a Lightweight Waterproof Hiking Boot
The Northside Men’s Alpine Ridge Waterproof Hiking and Work Boots are a standout choice for anyone in need of versatile, high-performance footwear. These boots seamlessly combine rugged durability with a sleek design, making them suitable for both demanding outdoor trails and everyday work environments. Their lightweight construction enhances mobility, while the attention to detail ensures they hold up under intense conditions.Crafted from full-grain leather, the upper provides a premium, durable exterior that resists scuffs and abrasions, prolonging the boots' lifespan. The material also conforms well to the foot over time, ensuring a custom fit that enhances comfort. The waterproof membrane is one of the most impressive features, effectively keeping feet dry in wet or muddy environments without compromising breathability. This makes them an excellent option for year-round use, whether you’re hiking through rain-soaked trails or navigating snowy conditions.Comfort is at the forefront of the design. The interior cushioning is thoughtfully placed to support the foot during extended wear, reducing fatigue even after hours of activity. The boots fit true to size, with ample room in the toe box to prevent discomfort on long treks while still providing a snug, secure feel. A padded collar and tongue add an extra layer of comfort and prevent any chafing around the ankles.The high-grip rubber outsole ensures stability on a variety of terrains, from loose gravel to slippery rocks. The tread pattern is designed to maximize traction while also shedding dirt and debris efficiently. Whether climbing steep inclines or navigating uneven trails, these boots instill confidence with every step.Versatility is another strong point. While their robust build makes them ideal for rugged outdoor use, the understated design allows them to double as work boots or casual footwear. They strike a balance between form and function that is rarely achieved in this category.These boots exemplify outstanding quality and value. They are an investment that pays off in performance, comfort, and durability, meeting the needs of both outdoor enthusiasts and professionals who require reliable footwear. Northside has created a product that not only meets expectations but redefines what lightweight, comfortable, and durable hiking boots can deliver. Highly recommended for those who prioritize quality and dependability in their gear.
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C
Customer Review
December 19, 2024
4.5 stars. Pretty impressive
I'm an outdoor enthusiast, but am only vaguely aware of the Northside brand. I see their snow shoes at REI, but wasn't aware they made boots.So I was pretty impressed when I had the opportunity to inspect these. They are really built well. They're not perfect, but they're definitely in the same class as a Columbia or even Merrell mid hiker.The thing about boots, though, is that you gotta try them on. I can make all sorts of observations and comparisons about construction quality, but how it fits (and what you're doing in them) is really what matters.The sizing seems perfect - order your normal size.These have a very rigid sole, appropriate for a multi-day hike. But it's not Vibram - and if I'm investing in a boot, I'm pretty picky about getting a Vibram sole.Also the tread is very aggressive. They call it a work boot or hiker - and please note it does not have a reinforced toe (steel or otherwise).It's waterproof up to about 5 inches deep.It's an all season boot. It's not necessarily built for warmth, but you'll be fine in the snow with some merino socks.The heel is a great design - you can see in the photo, the leather stops low, and the main part of the achilles is all soft padded flexible neoprene. I love it, this is great for people like me who tend to get blisters.It's got a heel stabilizer - which greatly reduces your chances of a twisted ankle. But it doesn't have any sort of heel lock feature (like you'd find in a Vasque which, sadly, is going to close its doors at the end of 2024).I find the tongue a bit thin, a bit disappointing.The construction and materials are terrific - my initial impression is that this is a very well built boot.The sole and TPU bumpers not only look great, but they're thick and durable. They're glued on.The leather is stitched, and well done. However, out of the box I already see some wrinkles and cracks in the leather - is this intentionally distressed? Is the leather thin (it's difficult to tell). I know it has the waterproof membrane underneath, but I still don't like the idea of thin spots in the leather.The inner layer is probably a gore-tex style fabric, which I suspect has forever chemicals. I'm not a fan of forever chemicals - I always look for brand statements about things like this, I prefer for the brand to have a clear statement about avoiding or phasing out forever chemicals.Final note - Merrell, North Face, Asolo, and Timberland all make mid hikers for under $100. Columbia, Keen, Sportiva, and Lowa all make mid hikers for under $75. I would keep these other brands in mind (especially the ones with Vibram soles), and try on as many as possible to pick out the one that fits you best. My biggest complaint about this Northside is probably the thin tongue, but it's undeniably a well built boot.
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A
Always honest
December 15, 2024
Very well made! Please see update!
I got these shoes for my husband but unfortunately they are a tad too small for him... He usually wears an 11.5 to 12, these are a little to tight in the toe box for him. The size 12 wasn't available to me, so I thought I would take a chance on the 11.5, he's super disappointed because they are perfect! They are lightweight and well made. He hates heavy shoes and these are not at all heavy, although upon trying them on, he said the soles felt hard, but guessed they would soften up after a few times of wearing them.I sure hope I find someone who these will fit, because they are nice shoes!UPDATE: My husband really liked these shoes so much that he thought he would try wearing them around the house to see if they would stretch to fit him better. It worked!!! He's been wearing them daily now and says they stretched enough for him to be able to wear. He really likes these shoes!!!!
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J
John Elliott
January 12, 2025
Comfy work Boots
Boots now a days are not like the old ones. Which isnt exactly a bad thing FYI. True they dont last as long, but they do however FIT and FEEL much better. My old school boots laster forever but also at the cost of comfort. These do seem to be the best of both worlds. Comfort and quality.Pros:-Very affordable-Substantially well made-Very comfortable-Looks great-Good sizing and fitCons:-NoneAll in all a solid work boot that is working great thus far and is insanely comfortable.
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