Salewa Men's Crow GTX Waterproof Gore-Tex Trail Boots for Trekking, Climbing, & Mountaineering

My past hiking footwear has often resembled a reluctant truce. My previous boots were either overly rigid, resembling miniature concrete bunkers for my feet, or possessed waterproofing capabilities akin to a colander in a rainstorm. Navigating anything more challenging than a well-paved sidewalk typically resulted in suboptimal kinetic performance and a high probability of developing localized epidermal friction anomalies (blisters, in layman's terms). A significant upgrade was necessitated. My search protocols, prioritizing robust construction and advanced moisture ingress prevention technology, yielded the Salewa Crow GTX Hiking Boots.Upon receipt and initial inspection, the units presented a formidable yet aesthetically pleasing profile. The upper construction, a composite of what appears to be durable suede and wear-resistant synthetic textiles, suggests a high degree of abrasion resistance. The integrated GORE-TEX membrane, a critical component in the moisture management subsystem, promises a differential permeability – allowing water vapor efflux (sweat) while preventing liquid water influx (puddles, unexpected stream crossings). This is a significant functional advantage over passive hydrophobic coatings which often degrade over time.Field testing commenced on a moderately challenging trail featuring variable terrain and intermittent hydration hazards (mud puddles of questionable depth). The multi-directional lug pattern on the outsole provided exceptional traction across diverse substrates, exhibiting a high coefficient of friction on both damp earth and dry rock surfaces. Ascending inclines felt secure, with minimal heel lift observed, a testament to the lacing system's effective foot lockdown mechanism. The semi-rigid midsole provided adequate torsional stability, mitigating excessive pronation or supination on uneven ground, thus reducing the biomechanical stress on my ankle and knee joints. My feet, previously prone to complaining about minor topographical variations, remained remarkably stable and comfortable.Analytically, the power transfer from leg muscles to ground propulsion felt more efficient compared to my previous footwear. The boot's structural integrity maintained foot alignment, allowing for a more direct application of force. The GORE-TEX layer performed as specified; despite intentionally stepping in a puddle that could rival a small pond, the internal microclimate of the boot remained within acceptable parameters for thermal and moisture regulation. My socks concluded the hike in a state of dryness previously only achievable under laboratory conditions. The weight per boot, while noticeable, felt appropriate for the level of protection and support provided, a favorable mass-to-utility ratio.Subjectively, the experience was transformative. I felt more confident navigating technical sections of the trail, less concerned about footing or moisture intrusion. The boots felt like a natural extension of my legs, rather than cumbersome external attachments. There's a certain humorous satisfaction in striding through conditions that would have previously resulted in soggy socks and existential dread, all while your feet remain in their own perfectly regulated micro-environment.If your current hiking footwear is a source of operational inefficiency or discomfort, you require reliable moisture protection, and appreciate a boot engineered for performance across varied challenging terrains, the Salewa Crow GTX is a highly recommended investment. Its technical features translate directly into enhanced trail performance and foot comfort. My feet are happier, my hikes are more enjoyable, and I am thoroughly impressed by this piece of technical footwear.

The platitudes this boot deserves have not been created yet. There are levels in the world of hiking footwear. If you’re hiking on a trail that has exercise stations or information signs about the wildlife, then you don’t need these boots. These boots are for the people that make the trails. I have worn the top rated hiking shoes and boots since I retired from 23 years of wearing combat boots in the military. I have been to the highest peak of 42 different states… I do a lot of hiking. These boots have stiff shanks and will need to be broken in. They are lightweight considering how durable and rugged they are. The anti-blister technology must be effective… 12 miles no blisters. I think the anti-blister technology actually allows the inside of the boot to conform to your foot and it feels like little leprechauns are massaging your feet as to go. I used to compare my boots to strapping jeeps on my feet so I could navigate rough terrain. These Salewa’s feel like strapping light-armored bulldozers on… I can go anywhere with these on my feet. One of the worst trail scenarios for a hiker is a rock field; from ankle-breakers to hop-n-step, rocks can be felt through a medium grade hiker… not these. This is not a medium grade hiker; this is the boot you buy when you decide to take hiking seriously.

This is my third pair of Salewa Wildfire GTX boots. The local outdoor outfitter suggested these boots when I wanted to explore options beyond my Merrells that were okay but nothing great. I am glad that they made that recommendation. I have only had one blister in the time that I've worn these, and I credit that to hiking 40 miles in 19 hours. (Disclaimer: I rarely get blisters anyway but only getting one is amazing.) Otherwise, through multiple shorter day hikes (up to 25 miles) up to week-long backpacking trips, these boots stayed comfortable. They are lighter that I prefer, but everyone has their own opinions and comfort what shoes they prefer when hiking or backpacking. Yes, my last pair got a bit dinged up after backpacking and climbing in the Grand Canyon and Canyonlands, but they are still waterproof and comfortable. The traction of these boots is great too. I rarely have issues with mud or other slick spots and when there's snow or ice, Ice Trekkers easily fit on them. The black sides and toe are great for gripping when climbing/bouldering during hiking or backpacking.The new color is great especially when compared to the watermelon green and red of the last style. I generally don't care what they look like, but light green is a strange boot color.in terms of fit, these are great for my narrower feet. You may want to try the extra inserts or a wider boot if you have wider feet.

I have about 100 snow and ice miles on these boots, which I bought as an entry-level moutaineering boot for winter travel in Southern California and the Sierra. I hate heal-lift and these boots have a narrower profile in the ankle which helps prevent this. I substituted a Green Feet insole for the stock ones, though Salewa provides a few options in the box to build out the boot. They work well with my Grivel G12 semi-auto crampons and I haven't gotten wet from moisture infiltration yet. The rand is pretty solid and the boot has sustained a lot of abuse without any problems. The stiff sole is perfect for edging, kicking steps, and ascending rocky trails. My only complaint is that they do run a little small (which I knew), and the toe box could be wider for sure. If you are looking to start serious mountaineering, then these boots are a good tool to have on the trail with you.