I’ve now accrued approximately 400 miles on my Asolo Fugitive hiking boots and they are holding up very well.   I generally hike with a pack weight that ranges between 35 and 45 pounds depending on time of year or where I’m going and these shoes have kept my feet steadfast with no issues that come to mind.  They have a ton of support and required very little break-in time for me.  I’ve worn them in Garden of The Gods-Illinois, Big South Fork (multiple times), Linville Gorge (twice), Joyce Kilmer-Slickrock, Smoky Mountains, Dolly Sods as well as several sections of the AT.  A lot of these trails have their share of rocks and some, like the AT are composed of a lot of rock.

 

At first I was  unsure about these boots because they don’t have Vibram soles but I figured I’d give them a shot because that many great reviews can’t be wrong!  The proprietary Asolo sole has been okay so far and seems to be pretty sticky and have good grip.  Now, I’ve heard other people say that the soles wear out too quickly but I’ve yet to see any issues at this point.   I’ve had them in mud, dirt, snow and on rock with absolutely no issues whatsoever.  Are they as sticky or tough as Vibram soles?  Probably not but they are holding up very well so far and I’ve yet to land on my bum because of their lack of traction.  The lugs aren’t nearly as deep as some of my other boots with Vibram soles but I don’t recall an instance where that was an issue either.

 

Recently I noticed that Asolo has a somewhat comparable yet slightly lighter-built boot to the Fugitive and it’s called the Drifter.  It has an Asolo/Vibram sole and it’s getting some really good reviews.  It’s a little more expensive because of the Vibram soles but by the looks and weight of the boot it appears to be built on a lighter scale.  The Asolo website suggests the Fugitive for winter and summer walking where as the Drifter is only suggested for summer walking.  Now, I’m not sure if that lighter weight means this boot isn’t as supportive as the Fugitives but I’d be willing to give it a shot if the Fugitives bit the dust.  And judging by the reviews I’d say it’s well on its way to becoming another success just like the Fugitive.

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So far the only problem I’ve had with these has been caused by operator error, lol.  I just happened to be camping in a very cold valley at the Garden Of The Gods, Illinois, last February and it was so cold everyone was stepping up next to the fire and I ended up resting my boot on a hot rock and the glue that binds the sole to the plastic toe cap was compromised.  Even with that, they are still hanging in there because these boots are tough.  Fortunately for me I found some Mcnett Gear Aid Freesole and they are as good as new.

 

Where to Buy:

Asolo Fugitive Hiking Boots at EMS

Asolo Fugitive Hiking Boots at Backcountry.com

Asolo Fugitive Hiking Boots at Campsaver

Asolo Fugitive Hiking Boots at REI

Asolo Fugitive Hiking Boots at Amazon

 

 

I put a set of Superfeet insoles in mine because I like the added support and underfoot protection they provide.  Plus the fact that Superfeet insoles soak up very little to no water compared to stock insoles that are usually spongy foam. Don’t get me wrong, the stock Asolo insoles aren’t that bad but they are definitely no match for Superfeet.   If you’re looking for a supportive, mid-weight leather and nylon boot then definitely give these a shot because they are really good boots.  The construction and the materials are all top-notch and made to stay together.  They tend to run a little slim as they are more of a European fit so consider that if you buy a pair.