Asolo PowerMatic 200

This 3-season boot came fourth in 2007 and is the Gore-Tex version of the PowerMatic 250 that came fifth in April 2006. It has a PowerMatic sole, which is triple-density PU (meaning you get cushioning where you need it) and it won’t degrade with use. The ride height is low, so you get the feeling of being close to the ground, too.  The sole is stiff enough to make rocky ground comfortable, and there’s a good depth of lugs for mud and grass. The upper is a virtually stitch-free leather design with a solid toe box and lots of support for the foot. You get a Gore-Tex waterproof lining too, so this is ideal for a wide variety of conditions. It’s a great boot for general hill and mountain walking, backpacking or scrambling. However, it’s heavier than some options. Also, some may not want a Gore-Tex lining (they should try the £130 Asolo PowerMatic 250 NBK). The fit is perhaps a little slimmer than some, so this may not suit everyone’s feet. There is no rubber rand around the boot and the boots in our tests have a slightly more aggressive lug pattern, too.

Upper: 2.8mm full-grain leather, Gore-Tex waterproof lining
Sole: Asolo Vibram triple density PU PowerMatic
Sizes: 6-13 (men’s); 3-9 (women’s)
Weight: 1892g (pair, size 11)
Made in: Romania
Stores in the UK: 40