By many comparisons, I’m in no way a “hiker.” Sure, I spend my weekends in State Parks and on regional trails. I’ve traveled days to hike paths through some of the most beautiful scenery that our country has to offer…but compared to true “hikers” I don’t even sit at the same table. I don’t think that I’m alone in the search for a hiking boot that could also double as a daily piece of footwear for work and play. I’m excited to share my Ridgemont Outfitters Outback review with anyone who can relate to my quest.
At first glance, the Ridgemont Outback’s look like pretty fashionable streetwear. The mid-top shoe is constructed of full grain leather with a 100% rubber outsole. The pair that I’ve been wearing came in a black, oiled leather finish – complimented with grey. I’m not going to lie. The first day that I received them, I actually wore them to a fairly high profile business meeting – and they fit in perfectly. Great daily shoes? Check. My next test had to be beyond industrial carpet.
About a week ago, I had the opportunity to venture into the Wasatch Mountains of Utah for a night of camping. A perfect opportunity to test out the traction, and see just how comfortable these could be for an extended period far removed from concrete. When we arrived at camp, the rain was just finishing up – but the ground was saturated. Our site was on the top of a hill, overlooking the Pineview Reservoir – and surrounded by (now) wet sand. The traction was great! Both on hard and soft ground, my “inside” shoes suddenly became a great solution for my “outside” shoes as well.
If I were to give any criticism at all, it would fall in a few minor, yet solvable areas. I wear a size 13 shoe, something that I’ve at times found impossible to fit. The sizing of the Ridgemont Outbacks is a little snug. Not small, just snug. This could be easily overcome by purchasing the next ½ size up. Secondly, the laces. The shoes come stock with a round, braided lace. Although they’ve performed great so far, I have had issues with this style of lace fraying. Again, completely solved by simply replacing laces with a style that suits you.
Overall, these are a great crossover boot. Maybe someday I’ll advance my status to “hiker”, and purchase a specific pair of boots strictly for hiking. Today, I’ll take these great looking crossovers – and who knows, maybe try them out with a suit.
