Scarpa Delta GTX Hiking Boots

Owner:             Thomas
Used since:    March 2024
Tested by:        Thomas
Review by:       Thomas
Primary Use:    Multi-day and hard-core terrain hiking

Review:
After 10 years of heavy use, my previous trusted pair of Scarp hiking boots (Scarpa Tech Kineses GTX) finally gave up as the sole separated from the main boot on the right show. A repair may have been possible but for the quoted $200 I decided to buy a new pair. After some research I decided to go with the Delta GTX model as this was not only the most suitable and comfortable for my feet but also the only model in the same category of the previous tech Kinesise. Both models are more for rough terrain hiking and the hard core stuff for which you want something really rugged and durable. Most other Scarpa models are more light-weight hiking boots that would wear down a lot quicker when used frequently on such rough trips (like my Scarpa ZG GTX boots). Only tried the new boots out over a weekend hike and so far pretty happy with the level of comfort and protection. Inside they feel very much like the old Tech Kinesis GTX (which is what I wanted). Looks wise - well, not a fan of the brown and they look pretty ugly to be honest. But good looks ain’t helping out in the bush, so not much I can do about that part. Time will tell how these go over time.

Pros:
- Super comfortable from the get to
- Excellent protection and water repellency (at least while they are still reasonable new)
- Sole is rugged and super grippy

Cons:
- Expensive (although I got a good deal)
- Fairly ugly looks
- Heavy but I guess thats what it is when you need a rugged boot thats durable

Comment:
Super sturdy book with the expected high quality from Scarpa. Love it from the outset.

Website:
https://www.paddypallin.com.au/scarpa-delta-gore-tex-leather-boot-men-s.html

Saucony Peregrine 10 Trail Running Shoes

Owner:             Thomas
Used since:       2020
Tested by:        Thomas
Review by:       Thomas
Primary Use:    Trail Running

Review:
As I was recently getting back into a bit more trail running and all of my previous trail running shoes had been quite old and worn out, I chose a pair of Saucony Peregrine shoes based on the recommendation of the bloke at the running shop. For someone like me with a slim foot, the fit of these Peregrines is quite snug and supportive, so I felt immediately comfortable in them.

The grip of the rubber sole is absolutely fantastic and they used a really good rubber compound cause you can literally feel how the show grips and digs into the ground underneath (try running with them on a paved surface and you feel how they slow you down).

I used them on several occasions now for a few years and they still hold up great after 3 years (yes, I only use them maybe once a month as I have plenty of other shoes I also use alternate).

Pros:
- Super grippy rubber compound and sole
- Feels more like a running shoe than a trail shoe (pretty light)

Cons:
- None so far
-

Comment:
For people with really slim feet (like myself), the shoe fits great and snug.

Manufacturer Website:
https://www.saucony.com.au/categories/collections/trail

Hoka One One Speedgoat 4

Owner:             Thomas
Used since:       2020
Tested by:        Thomas
Review by:       Thomas
Primary Use:    Trail Running

Review:
As I was recently getting back into a bit more trail running and all of my previous trail running shoes had been quite old and worn out, I chose a pair of Hoka One One Speedgoat 4  shoes based on a lot of research I did to find a shoe that suits my feet and purpose. I have to admit I was not too sure about these shoes when I tried them on in the running shop as they feel quite different to what you would be used to in regular type shoes. The foam of the sole is really thick and at first it feels like you are walking on clouds.

After using them a few times on the trail, I can understand why this makes a great long distance running shoe. They absorb shock very well, which is especially noticeable on steep downhills or jumping over rocks, etc. I can imagine how this would add up on long runs and really protect your knees and feet from the impact much better than shoes with a traditional build.

The grip of the rubber sole is absolutely and they used a really good rubber compound cause you can literally feel how the show grips and digs into the ground underneath (try running with them on a paved surface and you feel how they slow you down).

I have yet to see how durable they are and how well they really are on super long runs but so far it has been a good purchase. I should also add that I have a few issues with chronic inflammation on my feet ie. around the Sesamoid bones and this shoe makes it a lot more bearable as well as protects feet from the impact better than shoes with a thinner sole.

Pros:
- Super grippy rubber compound and sole
- Excellent shock absorption due to thick foam

Cons:
- Unconventional design and build of the shoes takes time getting used to
- Expensive

Comment:
For people with really slim feet (like myself), the shoe may feel a bit loose on the top and not be as snug as you would want it.

Manufacturer Website:
https://shop.hokaoneone.com.au/speedgoat-4-black-iris-bright-marigold/

Scarpa ZG GTX Hiking Boots

Super comfortable and supportive boots even without any break-in time.

Brilliant Grip

Owner:             Thomas
Used since:     Sept. 2020
Tested by:        Thomas
Review by:       Thomas
Primary Use:    Hiking

Review:
After quite a lot of research, and based on good experience with my older Scarpa hiking boots http://machinesdownunder.org/product-reviews/2015/3/2/scarpa-tech-kinesis-gtx?rq=scarpa , I purchased another pair of lighter weight Scarpa boots. I wanted something that provides great support for multi-day hikes, can cope with rough terrain, has good grip but with a lot less shoe weight overall. While my older Scarpa Tech Kinesis are an excellent boot for anything that nature throws at you - they are quite heavy and it can add to increased fatigue after some long days on the trail.

I’m super pleased with the purchase of the ZG GTX boots, they do exactly what I was looking for and most of all (like in my other Scarpa boots), they had literally no wear-in time. Comfortable and blister free from day one. I bought them a bit too late and had only a few days to wear them at home before setting out on a 4 day hike, and I had no issues with friction points or blisters. Highly recommended boot from Scarpa.

Pros:
- Excellent grip and support while keeping the weight of the shoe fairly low

Cons:
- Expensive but you get what you pay for

Manufacturer Website:
https://www.scarpa.com/zg-trek-gtx-men-s