Kayland Vertigo High

*Est. $225
Reviewed
September 2011
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Kayland Vertigo High

Pros
  • Breathable eVent waterproofing
  • Supports pack loads up to 50 pounds
  • Lacing extends to toe for precise fit
  • Gender-specific lasts
Cons
  • May not fit extra-wide feet
  • Some women need a size larger
 
 
Where to Buy
 
 
 

The award-winning Kayland Vertigo High hiking boots have proven their worth as excellent mid-weight leather boots for backpacking. Their big advantage is the use of an eVent membrane for waterproofing, which provides better breathability than Gore-Tex. Editors and field testers at Backpacker magazine say this hiking boot is well constructed and provides enough support for carrying 50-pound loads. Owner-written reviews are also positive, praising the boot's traction, warmth and comfort. Owners also confirm that the waterproofing is excellent. If you hike a lot in hot weather, though, you may prefer a backpacking boot with waterproofing in the leather itself, without any membrane to impede sweat release, such as the well-reviewed Scarpa SL M3 (*Est. $255) .

We found the best review of the Kayland Vertigo High hiking boots in the 2007 gear guide issue at Backpacker magazine, where editors recommend them for off-trail hiking and backpacking with heavy loads. Based on field tests of 110 hiking boots, editors give the Kayland Vertigo High the 2007 Editors' Choice award, praising the sturdy construction, eVent lining and good fit. We also found a few detailed and enthusiastic owner-written reviews, including one report on wearing the Kayland Vertigo High boots in Antarctica.

     
 
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SCARPA Men's SL M3 Backpacking Boot
Average Customer Review:  
 
 
 
 
Where To Buy
 
 
Kayland Men's Vertigo High Backpacking Boot,Rope/Cocoa,10 M US

 (4 reviews)
Buy new: $239.95   1 New from $119.97

In Stock.

 
 
 

Our Sources

1. Backpacker Magazine

This backpacking magazine tests more hiking boots than any other publication, putting dozens of models through rigorous field testing (for a total of 5,000 miles in all). After comparison tests of 110 different hiking boots, editors give the Kayland Vertigo High hiking boot the 2007 Editors' Choice award.

Review: 2007 Gear Guide, Editors of Backpacker magazine, March-April 2007

2. Are we there yet?

Written by an experienced backpacker and blogger, this two-part review covers initial fit and impressions, with praise for the boot's waterproofing -- plus a report on field tests of the Kayland Vertigo High boots while hiking in Antarctica. This is the most detailed review we found, and it also includes several photos.

Review: Kayland Vertigo High Review, Gerrit Padgham, March 2008

3. Trailspace.com

In this detailed review, an experienced climber reports that this hiking boot "strikes a nice balance between providing support and allowing me to remain nimble." He also finds the Kayland Vertigo High waterproof but breathable. A couple of other reviewers give the Vertigo High 5 out of 5 stars, praising them in particular for their comfort.

Review: User Review: Kayland Men's Vertigo High, "STW", June 2007

4. Backcountry.com

The handful of men and women reviewing the Kayland Vertigo High praise the waterproofing and overall comfort, but recommend ordering a full size larger than usual.

Review: Kayland Vertigo High Backpacking Boot -- Men's, Contributors to Backcountry.com

5. Zappos.com

About a dozen men review the Kayland Vertigo High boot here. Most are satisfied, especially with the breathability of the eVent lining. However, we did find a few complaints regarding fit; one owner finds ankle support lacking and another says the boots run narrow.

Review: Kayland Vertigo High, Contributors to Zappos.com

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