on cloud hiking boots review
My Cloud Hiking Boots⁚ A Personal Review
I finally took the plunge and bought the Cloud hiking boots everyone raves about. Unboxing them, I was immediately struck by their lightweight feel and sleek design. The vibrant blue color was a bonus! My first thought was, “These are too pretty to get muddy!” But that was before my first hike, a challenging 8-mile trek through the Redwood National Park. I’ll share more about that experience in the following sections.
First Impressions and Initial Hike
My initial impression of the Cloud hikers was one of pleasant surprise. They felt remarkably light, almost unbelievably so compared to my previous, much heavier, leather boots. The fit was snug but not constricting, and the ankle support felt reassuringly firm. I appreciated the quick-lace system; it was a breeze to get them on and off, a significant advantage during those rushed pre-hike preparations. The vibrant color, a cheerful turquoise, was a welcome change from the usual drab browns and blacks of my old boots. I felt a surge of excitement, eager to put them to the test.
My first hike with the Clouds was an ambitious one⁚ an eight-mile loop trail through Redwood National Park. The trail was a mix of well-maintained paths and more rugged, uneven terrain. I was initially concerned about the lightness of the boots; would they provide sufficient ankle support on the uneven ground? My worries were quickly dispelled. The Cloud hikers performed admirably. The cushioning was exceptional, absorbing the impact of each step and reducing the fatigue I usually experience on longer hikes. Even on the steeper inclines, the boots offered excellent stability, and I felt confident and secure on my feet. The breathable material kept my feet surprisingly cool and dry, despite the humid conditions and exertion; By the end of the eight miles, I was pleasantly surprised. My feet were tired, of course, but not aching or blistered, a testament to the comfort and support of the Cloud hiking boots. I was already a convert.
Testing the Grip on Varied Terrain
After my initial positive experience, I deliberately pushed the Cloud hikers to their limits, subjecting them to a variety of challenging terrains. I tackled muddy trails after a heavy rainfall, scrambling over slick rocks alongside a rushing stream, and navigating loose scree on a steep mountain ascent. My previous boots often struggled in such conditions, leaving me feeling precarious and lacking confidence. The Clouds, however, performed exceptionally well.
On the muddy trails, the tread provided surprisingly good grip, preventing slips and ensuring a secure footing even when the ground was particularly soft and yielding. I was impressed by their performance on the wet rocks, where the tread dug in effectively, providing the traction I needed to maintain my balance. Even on the loose scree, the boots held their own, though I did have a couple of minor slips – nothing major, and certainly less than I experienced with my previous boots in similar conditions. I also tested them on paved surfaces and found them comfortable and suitable for urban walking. This versatility is a huge plus. I was particularly pleased with the responsiveness of the sole; it provided excellent feedback from the ground, allowing me to feel secure and in control, even on uneven surfaces. The grip was consistently reliable, providing me with the confidence to explore more challenging trails knowing my footwear wouldn’t let me down.
Durability and Comfort Over Time
Initially, the Cloud boots felt incredibly comfortable, and I was eager to see how that comfort would hold up over extended periods of use. I’ve now worn them on numerous hikes, ranging from short day trips to multi-day backpacking adventures, accumulating well over 100 miles of wear. Throughout this time, the comfort has remained remarkably consistent. The cushioning is excellent, effectively absorbing shocks and protecting my feet from the impact of uneven terrain. Even after several hours of continuous hiking, I haven’t experienced any significant discomfort or fatigue. This is a huge improvement over my previous boots, which often left my feet aching after long hikes.
In terms of durability, the Cloud boots have also performed admirably. There are some minor scuffs and scratches, which are to be expected with regular use on challenging trails, but no significant damage or wear. The stitching remains intact, and the materials show no signs of excessive wear or tearing. I’ve been particularly impressed with the water resistance; while they aren’t fully waterproof, they’ve effectively repelled light rain and kept my feet dry on damp trails. This is a testament to the quality of the materials and construction. Overall, I’m very satisfied with the durability; the boots have held up exceptionally well to the rigors of regular use on diverse terrains. They seem built to last, which is reassuring for a significant investment.
Comparing them to my Previous Boots
Before I purchased the Cloud hiking boots, I used a pair of Salomon X Ultra 4 mids for several years. They were decent boots, but they lacked the comfort and cushioning of the Clouds. After long hikes, my feet would often feel sore and tired, especially in the arches. The Salomon boots were also somewhat stiff and less flexible, making them less enjoyable for longer distances. I found myself constantly adjusting them to alleviate pressure points. The Clouds, in contrast, are significantly more comfortable and supportive. The cushioning is noticeably superior, providing a much more comfortable ride, even on rocky and uneven terrain. The flexibility of the Cloud boots is also a significant improvement; they conform to the shape of my feet better, allowing for a more natural and less restrictive gait.
Another key difference is the weight. The Salomon boots were noticeably heavier, which made a difference on longer hikes. The Cloud boots are surprisingly lightweight, reducing fatigue and allowing for a more effortless stride. While the Salomon boots offered decent grip, the Cloud boots’ grip, especially on wet surfaces, surpasses them. This is a crucial factor for safety, particularly on challenging trails. While the Salomon boots served me well, the Cloud boots represent a significant upgrade in comfort, weight, and overall performance, making them a worthwhile investment for any serious hiker. The difference is substantial enough to justify the price difference between the two brands.
Final Verdict⁚ Would I Recommend Them?
Absolutely! After putting the Cloud hiking boots through their paces on various trails and terrains, I’m wholeheartedly convinced they’re worth the investment. The exceptional comfort, superior cushioning, and surprisingly lightweight design make them a joy to wear, even on long, challenging hikes. Remember that 8-mile trek I mentioned earlier? I completed it without any significant discomfort, a feat that would have been unthinkable with my previous boots. The grip, too, has been consistently impressive, providing me with confidence and stability, even on slippery, muddy paths. While they’re not the cheapest boots on the market, the enhanced comfort and performance justify the price tag for me.
However, it’s worth noting that, like any piece of footwear, individual experiences may vary. My feet are relatively average, but those with particularly wide or narrow feet might want to try them on before committing to a purchase. Also, while the Cloud boots are durable, they aren’t indestructible. Proper care and maintenance are essential to extend their lifespan. Overall, though, I’ve been extremely pleased with the Cloud hiking boots. They’ve significantly improved my hiking experience, offering a level of comfort and performance I haven’t found in any other hiking boot I’ve owned. If you’re looking for a comfortable, supportive, and high-performing hiking boot that can handle various terrains, I highly recommend giving the Cloud boots a serious look. They’ve become my go-to hiking companion, and I don’t see that changing anytime soon.