ASOLODrifter GV Evo MM Graphite/Gunmetal 11 D (M)

I bought these boots for linework after having the fugitives for a year. I really loved the fit and durability of the fugitives but the long soft swoop of the arch made my gaffs slip around on them while I was climbing. I bought the drifter because it had a more pronounced heel to catch the gaff and it worked perfectly. The fit is a little bigger than the fugitives in width and length but because they lace to toe, you can get them where you need them. They are the most comfortable, breathable and durable boots I’ve had at work. The thick sole compensates for a shank, making them do-able for climbing. Being 240lbs, I’ve had better boots for long jobs on the pole but then you get down and they’re super uncomfortable, heavy and sweaty. The drifter is the perfect medium for me.

I really wanted to love these boots. They’re awesome build, and made for rocky abuse when climbing uphill or hiking through the woods. The only reason I can’t is because my left foot is slightly wider than my right one, and the Drifter isn’t made in a wide size. Any more than three hours on my feet and my left foot starts to swell and the boot becomes uncomfortable. If you have a traditional D width foot, these will be perfect. However if you’re a wider D, but not quite EE, look elsewhere or purchase the Asolo Fugitive in wide sizes. This is my third pair of Asolo hiking boot, and I have a lot of faith in the brand. Also, if you have a high arch, aftermarket insoles like the Superfeet are the way to go, for support while carrying a substantial backpack.

This is an initial out of the box review. Will submit an update as I wear these...I am pretty rough on my hiking shoes, spending this amount was no problem based on the reputation of Asolo. I like that these are able to be resoled (we shall see if they stand by that).These were visually inspected by me, no flaws and the construction is impressive. Added bonus - these are made by our European kin!I tried to include a photo angle for the soles of these because the online photos do not do the "grips" on the outsoles justice - they are impressive and they remind me (a bit) of the outsoles on my USMC issue jungle boots back in the day with the Panama style pattern - if you know, you know!I am quite confidant these will provide a safe grip for my hiking/camping needs. Put these on and walked around the house, they feel comfortable, overall. I will definitely need to buy a pair of insoles with support I want (this is NO fault of the product, every foot is different).Will come back to edit as these get used in the field. I suggest you also edit your reviews so we can compare. Lets see if they stand by their name.

This is a great, well balanced backpacking boot. One step above a 'hiking' boot, these are heavier for when you are actually hiking with a heavy backpack, but one step below a 'mountaineering' boot. I purposely got this bc of the upgraded Vibram Mega Grip. Just go back from 24 miles (with heavy pack) in NH white mountains, notorious for dry-wet-snow-sleet-moss-mud over rocks all in one day (and I had them all). I slipped way less than my friends that had other boots. Highly recommend. Medium width and size seemed 'normal' to me (using 2 pair socks, one super thin and one normal hiker).

Have put about 45 miles on these boots already in mixed terrain and am very happy so far.The break in period is quick and they were very comfortable for me right out of the box. Heel brake provides good traction on descents and the lugs are good on all the trails I have put them through. I expect boots to be tough enough to protect my feet for an aggressive hike but I try not to abuse my gear so feel these will last me quite a while. Good support and no pinch points or hot spots yet.They get an overall five star rating from me so far and would recommend to others. The only draw back (pun intended) are the laces. They seem to be thin and not as robust as I am used to on other boots and will most likely replace them but that is not much of a down side.

I looked for this boot specifically to replace the last pair that lasted 12 years! Felt like walking on clouds the first day. Amazing boot. With some boots the “water proofing” last a few years then they leak. Not these! After 12 years they still kept my feet dry even when the soles wore all the way down. It was sad throwing them away. Perfect boot.

Size 11M These guys run a bit longer than Danner, Vasque and Oboz hiking boots do.Fortunately I was sent the wrong size (10.5) first go around so I have a size to compare.The size 11 has an extra inch inside beyond my big toe it feels.The size 10.5 is a bit snug in the toe box, and the sides make a snug contact cutting off air flow.Need more toe box room for sure.Mesh vents would help a lot with this boot for the heat they produce.I have not worn them outdoors yet, but wearing them in the house at 70ºF they feel quite hotwhile wearing white, Gold Toe cotton socks. Any sock thicker than that would not work for me, likemy Danner marino wool hiking socks. Those would make these boots too darn tight.On the fence whether to keep or send back. Not a Summer boot for work outdoors.

Husband loves these! He wanted to try this out for more ankle supper compared to a cowboy boot he wears daily! He works on power lines and climbs poles he feels that the support in the show is great and will buy again.