Our verdict
The Lowa Tibet GTX's ultra-expensive price is worth the investment as this boot is sure to enhance the backpacking experience of users through its well-thought-out construction and superb waterproofing. While it's not always a "thumbs up" for this backpacking boot, the support and right-out-of-the-box comfort were highly applauded.
Pros
- Mar 7, 2018
- Supportive hiking boot
- Zero break-in period
- Width options
- Our 1st pick in
- Waterproof
- Durable
Cons
- Top 8% in
Who should buy the Lowa Tibet GTX
The Tibet GTX is a workhorse of a boot, logging in miles without problems. It is a solid option if you:
- Prefer a hiking boot that is ideal for outdoor activities as it provides support even with a heavy pack.
- Top 8% in.
- Prefer a hiking boot that promotes proper gait and stance to prevent injuries.
- Lowa hiking boots.
Excellent grip on ground conditions
Vibram Masai’s large, aggressive lugs make it a hit for uphill and downhill slopes. Its self-cleaning treads are able to grip on a range of ground conditions.
Secure footing
The Climbing Zone under the toes renders support and allows for a more secure footing when scrambling.
Shock-absorbing and comfortable cushioning
With Lowa’s signature DuraPU midsole, the Tibet GTX provides shock absorbency and comfort. It is also armored with the Supination Pronation Support (SPS) System. TPU inserts are applied within the softer PU mold, helping wearers control the rotation of the foot. This technology prevents overpronation and supination—the causes of fatigue and foot pains.
Excellent ventilation
The insole of the Lowa Tibet GTX is called Climate Control Footbed, a breathable top layer. Its foam conforms to the foot's shape for customization. This footbed works with Lowa’s Climate Control System, making it able to keep feet dry and fresh. It also promotes ventilation in and out of the boot.
Using a 5mm, full-length, hard, nylon stabilizer as its support, this hiking boot takes on challenging terrains. It also provides torsional stability.
Resilient and breathable
Lowa’s Tibet GTX upper is crafted using lightweight nubuck leather. This material is both resilient and breathable. When it gets wet, the color of the material darkens. However, this does not affect its durability. As soon as the material dries, it gets back to its original color. Reinforcing and providing protection in the upper is its high wall 360-degree rubber rand.
Excellent ventilation and waterproof
Using the Gore-Tex Performance Comfort membrane, Lowa combines waterproofing, insulation, and breathability in this backpacking boot. Its construction allows moisture from the inside to escape while it keeps water outside from seeping in. With its moderate insulation, heat is retained in colder conditions. This design makes this pair suitable for a wide range of outdoor activities.
Flexible
The Tibet GTX also has the C4-Tongue and X-Lacing for its upper. Its C4-Tongue is anatomically contoured making it able to absorb pressure. Its significant features include asymmetrical padding which gets thick towards the outside of the foot, higher ankle areas inside the shoe than the outside, a notch in the instep for flexibility, and soft padding on top of the tongue. This design increases the walking comfort of the user. The X-Lacing maintains the tongue’s position. It helps eliminate friction while distributing pressure evenly.
Prevents pressure points and hot spots
The patented FlexFit technology of Lowa is also incorporated in this boot. It has a Flex Zone area that promotes easy ankle movements and a flexible Lace Loop for better heel fit. This technology helps maintain the boots’ stability. With all these features, Lowa ensures that the construction of the boot utilizes the least number of seams possible through its Minimal Seams technology. It prevents pressure points and hot spots.
