A workhorse. No frills. Count on them.
Three years in, looking to replace my Renegades after hundreds of miles of excellent service. Kilimanjaro, Ilinize Norte, the Inca Trail, Alta Via Uno, John Muir, Mt. Whitney, multiple Mt. Baldy (a local peak). Rugged, super comfortable, waterproof, supportive and a decent weight (size 12) if not the lightest (leather isn’t). The stitching is finally giving out here and there and I’m worried about a Bhutan trip in September and don’t want to wear new boots on that hike. I’m fairly wide footed but the regular toe box suits me fine. I wear silk under socks and medium to heavy weight calf socks over that. I don’t have any real gripes, maybe the vibrant sole would be a little stickier but then they wouldn’t hold up as long as they have. These aren’t approach shoes ... MoreThree years in, looking to replace my Renegades after hundreds of miles of excellent service. Kilimanjaro, Ilinize Norte, the Inca Trail, Alta Via Uno, John Muir, Mt. Whitney, multiple Mt. Baldy (a local peak). Rugged, super comfortable, waterproof, supportive and a decent weight (size 12) if not the lightest (leather isn’t). The stitching is finally giving out here and there and I’m worried about a Bhutan trip in September and don’t want to wear new boots on that hike. I’m fairly wide footed but the regular toe box suits me fine. I wear silk under socks and medium to heavy weight calf socks over that. I don’t have any real gripes, maybe the vibrant sole would be a little stickier but then they wouldn’t hold up as long as they have. These aren’t approach shoes anyway. The eyelets are fussy, can’t buy any kind of laces. Some larger diameter laces won’t through the odd shaped eyelets. Small thing. Lowe laces are fine. Solid, reliable every day backpacker and hiker go to Mids for a day pack hike or a 40lb week trek in rough terrain with all the gear.... Show more
Eurofornian
originally posted on REI
Best boots ever
i am ordering my third pair of Lowa Renegade GTX hiking boots. Clearly, i really like them. The fit is wonderful, i don't bring camp shoes on backpacking trips anymore. Loosen the laces, put on fresh socks and they are as comfortable as slippers. They are well built and durable as well. These boots last me around 8-900 miles. Most of my hiking is off trail, in the brushy, rocky hills and streams of southern illinois, with 2-3 long backpacking trips per year. They would definitely last longer if you are a trail hiker.If they are cleaned and treated with a waterproofing wax a couple of times a year, they hold up better than any other boot I have ever owned and I've been buying hiking boots for 50 years. After a few hundred miles of rocks and woods, the stitching gets ... Morei am ordering my third pair of Lowa Renegade GTX hiking boots. Clearly, i really like them. The fit is wonderful, i don't bring camp shoes on backpacking trips anymore. Loosen the laces, put on fresh socks and they are as comfortable as slippers. They are well built and durable as well. These boots last me around 8-900 miles. Most of my hiking is off trail, in the brushy, rocky hills and streams of southern illinois, with 2-3 long backpacking trips per year. They would definitely last longer if you are a trail hiker.If they are cleaned and treated with a waterproofing wax a couple of times a year, they hold up better than any other boot I have ever owned and I've been buying hiking boots for 50 years. After a few hundred miles of rocks and woods, the stitching gets worn and the rand starts to separate, but a bit of shoe goo keeps them going for much longer. My experience is that after roughly 800 miles (about 3 years for me) the leather across the top of the forefoot starts to crack and collapse, the waterproofing goes and it's time to turn them into shop and garden boots. Still comfortable!The only downside i have found is that they get stuffy in hot weather, 80 degrees F and up. If you are a desert hiker, probably not the best choice. However, with good socks, they are plenty warm for temps down to 20 degrees F or so, at least for me.Take it from an old guy who has bought and trashed many pairs of boots, these are the best of the bunch.... Show more
dustdevil
originally posted on REI
Big on comfort, weak on durability
I bought the 10 wide, which is what I usually get. They were a tiny bit big for me, but I was planning a multi-month trek and anticipated my feet swelling a bit. There was no real break-in period, they were comfortable from the beginning. I got Superfeet trekking insoles to replace the stock ones, which worked well. However, after only about 6 weeks of hiking the seams on both sides of the toe split open leaving gaping holes that allowed dirt and water in very easily. I was out of the country and couldn't return for a warranty right away. I ended up getting them sewn by a shoe repair guy, and so far his job has held up better than the original construction. My girlfriend got the women's 8 wide of the same model and the same thing happened to her, so I think it is ... MoreI bought the 10 wide, which is what I usually get. They were a tiny bit big for me, but I was planning a multi-month trek and anticipated my feet swelling a bit. There was no real break-in period, they were comfortable from the beginning. I got Superfeet trekking insoles to replace the stock ones, which worked well. However, after only about 6 weeks of hiking the seams on both sides of the toe split open leaving gaping holes that allowed dirt and water in very easily. I was out of the country and couldn't return for a warranty right away. I ended up getting them sewn by a shoe repair guy, and so far his job has held up better than the original construction. My girlfriend got the women's 8 wide of the same model and the same thing happened to her, so I think it is just bad design to begin with. It is disappointing because otherwise they are very comfortable boots.... Show more
Michael M
originally posted on backcountry.com
Good grip, great comfort.
Bought these boots after an initial strong recommendation from a friend who camps and backpacks frequently, with additional recommendations from online reviews and MEC staff. I was in between sizes for the regular width, mainly due to the fit around the toe box. I tried the Wide version in the smaller size and it felt great with regular socks but a little snugger with my thicker hiking socks. Decided to go with the half size larger and the regular width for the roomer toe box to account for my feet expanding during longer hikes with thicker socks (hopefully not a mistake).Have not had a chance to take this on a hike yet but so far just walking around town they have been extremely comfortable right out of the box. Haven't tried the Vibram sole on ice/snow yet, but ... MoreBought these boots after an initial strong recommendation from a friend who camps and backpacks frequently, with additional recommendations from online reviews and MEC staff. I was in between sizes for the regular width, mainly due to the fit around the toe box. I tried the Wide version in the smaller size and it felt great with regular socks but a little snugger with my thicker hiking socks. Decided to go with the half size larger and the regular width for the roomer toe box to account for my feet expanding during longer hikes with thicker socks (hopefully not a mistake).Have not had a chance to take this on a hike yet but so far just walking around town they have been extremely comfortable right out of the box. Haven't tried the Vibram sole on ice/snow yet, but everything else it seems to grip well so far. Ended up going with the colourway with the red laces (i.e. mahogany/red) and have had a few compliments already (a first for hiking boots!).... Show more
Daniel C.
originally posted on altitude-sports.com
Great
I decided to do a few day hikes (15 to 19km) before submitting my review. My main concern was whether I had made the right call in ordering the Wide model, instead of the regular one.Of course, the temptation was there to get the regular one, because it is offered in more colours, but my previous experience with Lowa boots found them to be a bit tight in the toe-box. I had a pair of Lowa INOX Pro GTX mid boots, and found them to be particularly tight on my left foot, usually mid-way through a day hike. I must admit that I do have a slight bunion on my left foot.That being said, I don’t think that I have a particularly wide foot, but it’s also not slim. I wear a size 11, and I don’t usually buy wide shoes. But of course, not all brands are made equally. For ... MoreI decided to do a few day hikes (15 to 19km) before submitting my review. My main concern was whether I had made the right call in ordering the Wide model, instead of the regular one.Of course, the temptation was there to get the regular one, because it is offered in more colours, but my previous experience with Lowa boots found them to be a bit tight in the toe-box. I had a pair of Lowa INOX Pro GTX mid boots, and found them to be particularly tight on my left foot, usually mid-way through a day hike. I must admit that I do have a slight bunion on my left foot.That being said, I don’t think that I have a particularly wide foot, but it’s also not slim. I wear a size 11, and I don’t usually buy wide shoes. But of course, not all brands are made equally. For example, Sportiva, Zamberlan, or Arc’teryx shoes and boots will not fit.So, how do these Renegade GTX Wide boots stack up. Well, they are definitely wide, as I feel like there is more room for movement in the heel. This isn’t necessarily a good thing, but I was able to remedy this by ensuring the laces are extra tight around the ankle. Fortunately, the toe box is wider, and it has alleviated most of the pressure off my bunion, which is a welcome relief.Not surprisingly, the boot is well built and sturdy, and actually lighter than I thought. The Vibram sole is also a huge improvement over the regular sole on my INOX Pro GTX. The Vibram sole has more grip and slip resistance but is also tougher and absorbs the impact of walking on rocks and roots, especially while on the descent.Overall, it is a great boot, and l look forward to using them more.... Show more
Raffi Z.
originally posted on altitude-sports.com
LOWA renegade GTX
This is my 5th lowa renegade. I use them for about 500 miles and then unfortunately give them away. The soles are in excellent shape but the upper begins to deteriorate. Why?? it is heavy use in waterlogged ground which tests the waterproofing to its limit. Also the hikes are in thorny areas which rip through the uppers. Still, having tried several boots on offer at REI over the past 20 years, I always go back to a tried and trustful Renegade GTX. BTW mine are 10.5 wide and sometimes I settle for any available colour. it doesn't matter because after a few hikes, they are muddy and brown. Strongly recommend this boot and normal hiking on trails will last for years. BTW my daily routine is 2-3 miles per day, sometimes extending to 4-5 miles on weekends. The boots are ... MoreThis is my 5th lowa renegade. I use them for about 500 miles and then unfortunately give them away. The soles are in excellent shape but the upper begins to deteriorate. Why?? it is heavy use in waterlogged ground which tests the waterproofing to its limit. Also the hikes are in thorny areas which rip through the uppers. Still, having tried several boots on offer at REI over the past 20 years, I always go back to a tried and trustful Renegade GTX. BTW mine are 10.5 wide and sometimes I settle for any available colour. it doesn't matter because after a few hikes, they are muddy and brown. Strongly recommend this boot and normal hiking on trails will last for years. BTW my daily routine is 2-3 miles per day, sometimes extending to 4-5 miles on weekends. The boots are never a limiting factor.... Show more
Daily Hiker
originally posted on REI
Pull these boots from your shelves REI!
I loved this boot - until I didn’t! I kept the boots at our cabin in north Idaho. Wore them hiking and working around our property. Not daily, and maybe some years not more than a few days a year. The soles and uppers show little wear. Today I was working to clean up some trees we had someone drop for us, and I wore the boots. When I came in after a couple of hours of work, the soles had delaminated and were breaking apart. The boots are shot. For boots I likely paid $150+ for 8 or 9 years ago, and the uppers are in great shape, I’m amazed that anyone can sell this ——. That REI, where I’ve been a member since 1974, will sell this defective product is amazing. Apparently, after doing some reading, this is a common problem with LOWA Renegrade GTX boots, and they thumb ... MoreI loved this boot - until I didn’t! I kept the boots at our cabin in north Idaho. Wore them hiking and working around our property. Not daily, and maybe some years not more than a few days a year. The soles and uppers show little wear. Today I was working to clean up some trees we had someone drop for us, and I wore the boots. When I came in after a couple of hours of work, the soles had delaminated and were breaking apart. The boots are shot. For boots I likely paid $150+ for 8 or 9 years ago, and the uppers are in great shape, I’m amazed that anyone can sell this ——. That REI, where I’ve been a member since 1974, will sell this defective product is amazing. Apparently, after doing some reading, this is a common problem with LOWA Renegrade GTX boots, and they thumb their nose at anyone who complains about this issue. Use them every day, or they will fall apart! If anyone at REI questions my comments, I’d be happy to provide photos. You need to stop selling this product.... Show more
Bob
originally posted on REI
Same quality with extra space
These are the same as the regular-width Renegades so look there for general comments. I'll focus more on the wide aspect here. Overall I found the regular-width Renegade's fit a bit snug in my usual size so I tried the wide version and it was noticeably roomier in the toebox. I'd say if you're in between half-size increments to give the wide option in the smaller size a try as well.The wide fit very well in regular socks, just about perfect really. But with my thick hiking socks I could feel it had once again gotten a bit snug. I ended up sizing up a half-size larger with the regular width but it was a close call.Quality of the boot is fantastic, and they are immediately comfortable. The break-in period is minimal to none. The Lowa brand was recommended ... MoreThese are the same as the regular-width Renegades so look there for general comments. I'll focus more on the wide aspect here. Overall I found the regular-width Renegade's fit a bit snug in my usual size so I tried the wide version and it was noticeably roomier in the toebox. I'd say if you're in between half-size increments to give the wide option in the smaller size a try as well.The wide fit very well in regular socks, just about perfect really. But with my thick hiking socks I could feel it had once again gotten a bit snug. I ended up sizing up a half-size larger with the regular width but it was a close call.Quality of the boot is fantastic, and they are immediately comfortable. The break-in period is minimal to none. The Lowa brand was recommended independently to me by a few hikers - it's easy to see why.... Show more
Daniel C.
originally posted on altitude-sports.com
Solid out of the box!
I've long heard how amazing these boots are and finally picked up a pair for myself. I hiked several miles in the Smoky Mountains (lots of wet spots on the trail) and had zero issues. I did not break them in beyond just trying them on. The were extremely comfortable, protected my feet from rocks and roots, and kept them dry but not hot. My feet generally sweat a lot when hiking so I was worried about the waterproof/breathability factor. Gore-tex nails the ratio and my feet stayed dry without being too hot.One note/issue - there was a pressure point, likely from a seam, near my pinky toe on the right foot. However, it went away after the first couple miles and I have not experienced that since.Overall I'd recommend these boots to anyone of any skill level. I know ... MoreI've long heard how amazing these boots are and finally picked up a pair for myself. I hiked several miles in the Smoky Mountains (lots of wet spots on the trail) and had zero issues. I did not break them in beyond just trying them on. The were extremely comfortable, protected my feet from rocks and roots, and kept them dry but not hot. My feet generally sweat a lot when hiking so I was worried about the waterproof/breathability factor. Gore-tex nails the ratio and my feet stayed dry without being too hot.One note/issue - there was a pressure point, likely from a seam, near my pinky toe on the right foot. However, it went away after the first couple miles and I have not experienced that since.Overall I'd recommend these boots to anyone of any skill level. I know they'll last a long long time due to the quality Lowa construction and reputable Vibram outsole. I can't wait to use them again!Note on fit: the only other Lowa's I own are the Alpine Expert II's, which run big. I wear an 11 in those but 11.5 in the Renegade GTX (11.5 is my standard size).... Show more
Tyson A
originally posted on backcountry.com
Tough boots
A bit tough to break in but with over 100 miles on these now and like them a lot. These have been across snow, through water, on gravel, pavement, rock scrambling, up and down some pretty ugly mountain washes around Salt Lake City, the Grand Tetons, Yellowstone and Glacier National. The tread grips very well on all types of terrain and also wears well. I hiked about 26 miles in two days and never a hot spot blister or anything else. One thing to note, we hiked an 9 mile loop and it had rained the night before. The grass and weeds were dripping wet but no water puddles on the trail. After 3 hours in this stuff the leather had stopped repelling the water and the whole boot got wet...the outside. Seems the gortex liner did its job and kept the moisture at bay. I dried ... MoreA bit tough to break in but with over 100 miles on these now and like them a lot. These have been across snow, through water, on gravel, pavement, rock scrambling, up and down some pretty ugly mountain washes around Salt Lake City, the Grand Tetons, Yellowstone and Glacier National. The tread grips very well on all types of terrain and also wears well. I hiked about 26 miles in two days and never a hot spot blister or anything else. One thing to note, we hiked an 9 mile loop and it had rained the night before. The grass and weeds were dripping wet but no water puddles on the trail. After 3 hours in this stuff the leather had stopped repelling the water and the whole boot got wet...the outside. Seems the gortex liner did its job and kept the moisture at bay. I dried them and treated with lowa active cream. Several days later on an 11 mile trail in similar conditions I had no issues at all. I would certainly buy these boots again.... Show more
troubled waters
originally posted on REI