In my previous posts, I’ve discussed how all weird wanderers should value–and own–a comfortable pair of walking shoes. After all, ghost tours and creepy outdoor excursions are easier if your feet aren’t aching the whole time. But truth be told, for the past few years, I’ve been on a personal quest to find a good pair of shoes for my myriad of travels. This is easier in theory. In reality, I’m hard to fit–and admittedly hard to please. Add into the mix a nasty case of tendonitis (brought on two summers ago by a cute yet disagreeable pair of pumps), and I started to think I’d never find the ever elusive perfect shoes.
Enter Lowa Boots to assuage my woes. Founded in Germany almost a century ago, the company produces a variety of shoes and boots that maximizes comfort and durability. From snowboarding to rock climbing, Lowa caters to every kind of outdoor activity and even offers a Task Force brand that was first designed for British Special Forces, making these the most hardcore boots you could ever wear.
The Lowa Innox GTX is the pair that changed my life. After two months of wear around the house, up and down miles of trails, and through the varied terrains of cemeteries, urban hideaways, and historical locales, I’ve never once felt anything less than pure comfort; contrast that to most other shoes that enflame my tendons in less than five minutes. Plus, the Innox GTX is super fun to wear. With its patented Gore-Tex lining, I can’t wait to put on my pair each morning. The soft soles conform to the shape of the foot, which means that even if you have narrow arches like me, these shoes will still ensure a great fit.
Offering a range of colors, Lowa Boots appeal to everyone from the more demure (go charcoal!) to the more flamboyant. As you can see, I chose the bright blue, so you can guess to which of those two categories I belong. But more important than style is the support these shoes offer. During wear, my arches never feel strained, and the ankle support is equally reliable. After years of settling for brands that never quite fit or last, I’m amazed at the difference the right shoes can make.
So whether you’re in pursuit of ghosts or simply hanging around the house, the Lowa Innox GTX hiking books are a perfect choice. No promises you’ll meet an otherworldly spirit while wearing your pair, but at least you’ll look and feel good trying.
If you want your own pair of LOWA boots, in September 2014, you can win a pair. Click here to find out how.
Just so you know, Lowa provided me with shoes for this review, but all opinions are my own.
Happy haunting!