Technica
Well-Known Member
- Joined
- Jan 13, 2016
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I have a Coniston in tan grain, Snowdon in zug grain and a Meindl Norwegian welt hiking boot.
The Coniston never get worn for anything heavy duty but I’m happy wearing them on country tracks and in foul weather. I’m sure they could hold up to more abuse if needed though. The Dainite sole doesn’t particularly lend itself to hiking though.
The Snowdon are a lot tougher feeling than the Coniston and more supportive due to the higher shaft. These are zug though so I can’t personally comment on the oak waxed leather, although it seems to be plenty durable. The commando sole on the Snowdon also lends itself to more serious outdoors useage. I use mine for fairly rough off road use and they can handle wet conditions no problem at all.
The Meindl are always my 1st choice for more serious walking and are more supportive, more flexible, lighter (although not light by modern standards). They are leather lined rather than gore tex as it keeps them cooler and I hear a lot about gore tex being the 1st point of failure. I have never had wet feet in these and that includes submerging them above ankle height. I do think the Snowdon’s may be equally water resistant.
So all in all the C&J options are up to the job, especially the Snowdon, although the purpose built hiking boot is probably better. Also I tend not to care about scraping the Meindl on rocks etc whereas it would bother me more with the C&J as they’re a lot nicer.
The newer Ross boot might be an option as it has a Vibram lug sole and a padded collar for comfort. I have that Vibram sole on a Red Wing boots and it is impressive in most conditions and has more shock absorbency than a itshide commando.
Thanks for the input! I think the Snowdons are a good options as you say, rather than Coniston.
Did you get the Snowdon via a GMTO? What do you think about the Zug leather? Much hardier and waterproof than normal?
Which Meindl is it that you have that you can recommend? Are they also repairable goodyear welted? Thanks!