New version of lightweight walking boot is tougher and grippier and out soon.
The original Berghaus Pro Rush Mid GTX is one of our favourite lightweight walking boots, but was starting to look slightly dated, cue the new Pro Rush Mid II GTX, a completely revamped take on the original for spring 2010.
What we like about the first version is the combination of the ultra-capable Opti-Stud sole unit with a chassis and upper that manages to keep the boot light, but still feels stable and capable and more reassuring underfoot than some lighter alternatives. It works really well pretty much anywhere below the snowline, though it’s better on soft ground than on rocky surfacesThe new Pro Rush II sticks with the Optistud sole, but it’s been revised for 2010 with better mud-shedding, particularly in the heel area and a revised rubber compound for improved grip on rocky surfaces. The new sole is the product of a lot of sports science research and links high force studs with support bars, which prevents distortion on impact and gives better grip on rough terrain. The mid-sole uses dual-density EVA cushioning along with a performance plate to give optimum stiffening.
Ruggedised…
The boot as a whole has been ‘ruggedised’ – sorry – with a more contemporary looking and toughened upper which includes the EHS, Ergonomic Holding System, an external brace designed to hold the foot securely in place. There’s also an integrated toe bumper to hold things together in the face of scree. A Gore-Tex liner keeps the water at bay.
The new version is slightly weightier than its predecessor, but the pay-off should be better performance. The looks, we reckon, are maybe a tad Marmite, but we like them.
Berghaus footwear is often overlooked in favour of specialist footwear brands, but over the past few years, their lightweight shoes and mids have really moved on with a much improved last and performance as good as anything else on the market.
The new version of the Pro Rush Mid GTX together with its low-cut equivalent will be in the shops shortly and we should have a pair for review in the near future. If they’re better than the original, we reckon Berghaus will be onto a winner. Retail price is 120.