Kayland Titan K GTX (2014)

The Kayland Titan K GTX is designed for general mountain hiking with a technical edge to allow it to cope well on a broad range of terrain. It has a synthetic and suede leather upper to keep the weight down, and this is protected by a large rubber rand at the toe for durability on scree and rocky ground. The heel cup is very supportive, and better for rocky ground than many lighter boots. The ankle cuff is higher than in most boots, again better for those rough walks across rockier and more uneven terrain. All that upper performance is then combined with an outsole that has an excellent set of deep lugs that are widely spaced to ensure the boot provides a good grip on softer ground as well as rock. There is plenty of stiffness in the sole, both laterally across

the foot and toe to heel to ensure this is ideal when scrambling or just backpacking over scree and boulders. The lacing on the upper extends down toward the toes for a more precise fit when scrambling, but you don’t get the smooth climbing zone under the toe or the profile at the toe of a more dedicated climbing boot. Overall this makes the Kayland Titan K GTX ideal for typically rocky ground found on British mountains, with the additional benefit of great grip below the crags. The price is a notch high compared to others though.

Specifications:

Upper materials suede leather, synthetic fabric

Waterproof lining Gore-Tex

Sole unit Vibram Tork

Men’s sizes 6-12.5

Women’s sizes 3-8.5

Weight 1457g (pair, size 8)

Website www.kayland.com

Verdict

Excellent performance on a wide range of mountain terrain makes the Kayland Titan K GTX a good all-rounder, although it’s a little pricier than the competition.

Review by Graham Thompson

Published in Trail magazine May 2014