IT'S GOOD a resonably lightweight boot at 1356g (pair, size 11); Gore-Tex waterproof lining; Vibram sole unit with good cushioning; very supportive upper, stiff toe box and heel cup;good aggressive lug pattern; good sole stiffness.
VERDICT buy it if you want a lightweight boot with excellent stiffness and support for use on valley or hillside paths.
Treat your feet to some of the most comfortable walking boots around
Treat your feet to some of the most comfortable walking boots around. A Vibram sole and suportive midsole enable these hillwalking boots to tackle tough terrain with ease and a Gore-Tex waterproof lining means foul weather shouldn't present problems either. High ankles offer good protection and Meindl's extended lacing system keeps your heel safely in place. Their broad fit will suit walkers with wider feet. Available in mens and womens fit.
Source: The Independent - Active Traveller
I'm a bit of a traditionalist when it comes to boot choice:
I like to wear a mega-supportive and warm, full leather boot at colder times of the year, but I always appriciate the lighter weight and additional breathability of a fabric upper when it's a bit milder. The Softline has quickly become a real favourite, especially as it feels almost as supportive as my full leather boots. The Gore-Tex liner has always kept my feet dry - something I've appreciated on dew-soaked grass as well as bogs in mid Wales - and the midsole is firm enough to iron out the sharp edges of a typical day in the Glyders or Rhinogs.
VERDICT: Well, I'm on my second pair....
I knew exactly what I wanted from the winner of this test: a boot that could definitely cut it as an all-rounder, but that would excel once it got up into the mountains. And the Softline fits the bill to perfection.
It's just about light enough to be called lightweight when compared to the Asolo and Lomer, yet it somehow offered a bit more when cruising along skyline ridges than a Scarpa. The last is pretty neutral - neither narrow or wide - and I found it easy to get a stable fit. The midsole took the edge off the worst ground but didn't feel clumpy, and the Gore-Tex liner worked perfectly.
BEST in test
Vibram
Vibram is the world leader in high performance rubber soles, targeted to the outdoor, work, recreation, fashion, repair and orthopedic markets.
GORE-TEX®
Gore-Tex fabrics offer a guaranteed waterproof and breathable lining, giving your feet maximum protection against the elements.
DIGAfix®
The flexible, pressure-free, diagonal fixing – ensures “all-round and more adjustable” lacing. Tightening takes place at the correct point, the hook is higher and protrudes less.Lightweight walking boot with velour leather and mesh uppers. Waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex lining. Meindl Multigrip 2 sole unit by Vibram with EVA/PU midsole. Digafix lacing system.
A range of super-light, stable, well cushioning models. All that at less than 500g! Softline boots are super light, stable, soft and comfortable and have good grip, thanks to Meindl Multigrip® profile.
