Review : Mens Hounslow Sympatex Hiking Boots

A friend of ours recently bought a pairs of Hounslow Mens, Sympatex from Kathmandu. I asked her how they faired on a recent five-day hike.

What is the brand and model of the boots?

Mens Hounslow Sympatex from Kathmandu - you can get ladies, but my feet are broad & the mens fitted better.

When did you buy them?

About a year ago.

Did they need breaking in when you bought them?

Not really, but I did wear them often for short walks & day walks... they were comfortable right from the start and I used the recommended stuff to waterproof them.

How much did they cost?

The price on the box is $299.90 .... I paid $140 on special! (proper Goretex are double the price).

You had no leaks?

No! Water that we went through just ran off. My two mates got wet feet on our five-day hike.

However, on a previous day walk when it rained all day, I had dry feet for half the day, but then got boot-fulls of water as the track was continuous pools and streams of water. I didn't have gaiters on either.

Can you describe the worse conditions you went through?

On this trip I tested the mud and puddles with a walking stick, so dodged getting my boots totally covered and I also wore gaiters that stopped splashes and rain running into the boots.

What are the negative aspects of the boots, that is, what are the worst features of the boots?

When your legs/feet are tired it's still easy to trip on roots, rocks etc.

Would you recommend them to others?

Yes!

Are they good value for money?

For me, yes. But maybe not if you paid the full price!

What are the best features of the boots?

They're breathable, good tread, firm but flexible, good cushion effect on feet, comfortable, dry feet, and no blisters.

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