Reviews by User: Wunderkind (3)

I bought this primarily for a travel bag in S. America, but have used it on some weekend trips when we were going slow and heavy. It has held up quite well, but I would look elsewhere if you're going to be using it primarily for big loads. The frame stays work, but they're flimsy and I think there are better options for a bit more coin. In terms of durability I give this one a 5, no issues after repeated trips through the baggage check and some backcountry travel as well. Comfort is a 3 - you don't get as good of a fit with this budget package and the hip belt is not premium. Overall though, it is a very servicable pack for those on a budget. I think I may put this one back into service when I learn to climb big mountains and need more room, but right now I'm sold on the ultralight way of life so this pack sees little trail use.

Gripes are that they rub the achilles quite badly and have neoprene construction back there that probably won't break in. They are also made partially of very fine mesh (you can see your socks when they are on) and thus cannot be worn if it is cold outside. Due to the rub, I can't recommend these for trail runners or hikers. Still, they look cool and I'm keeping them as casual shoes - for 40 bucks they're a steal and seem to be well made (except for the design flaw with the rubbing in the back).

I love these. For times when you want a bit more stiffness in the sole than is provided by a trail runner (fastpacking with ~20 lbs), they can't be beat. Very comfortable and I was worried on sizing but the 11.5 fit me great. I usually wear an 11 running shoe and size up 1/2 size for boots, but I had read that Lowa fits big. These seem to fit true to size. The previous reviewer ranting about goretex hasn't ever tried the shoe on evidently, b/c the material is only used in the footbed. So you still get a very fast drying shoe b/c the upper has no gore tex. The negative is that you get wet if you step in water. Positive is that the water stays out of the footbed and the shoe dries super fast. Haven't had time to test durability, but they look rock solid. I might snag another pair.