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SCARPA Moraine Hiking Shoe: Personal Review
Hiking up a steep mountain trail for five miles can be a real test of endurance and gear. On a recent hike, I laced up my brand-new SCARPA Moraine Hiking Shoes straight out of the box, and to my delight, they performed exceptionally well. No blisters, no discomfort, just solid support and comfort from start to finish. Even when I accidentally took a plunge into a creek, the shoes stayed comfortable despite getting wet. This personal experience solidified my confidence in the SCARPA Moraine as an outstanding hiking shoe.
Design and Build
The SCARPA Moraine Hiking Shoe is crafted from premium oiled Nubuck leather, which not only looks great but also offers excellent water-repellency, durability, and breathability. The special tanning process bonds the leather fibers, ensuring long-lasting performance. The shoe features a PFAS-free waterproof membrane that effectively keeps water out, making it perfect for unpredictable weather conditions.
The construction of the Moraine is top-notch. It includes a supportive midsole made from 2D EVA, providing excellent shock absorption and reducing stress and fatigue on long hikes. The PRESA HIK-04 & SuperGum outsole delivers exceptional traction on both wet and dry surfaces, while the injected TPU heel counter offers stability on uneven terrain. At just 1 lb. 4.6 oz. (men's size 9), the Moraine is impressively lightweight, ensuring you stay nimble on the trail.
Performance on the Trail
Comfort and support are paramount when it comes to hiking shoes, and the SCARPA Moraine excels in both areas. From the moment I put them on, I felt no pinches or hot spots. My feet felt stable and well-supported, even on rocky riverbeds and alpine scree. The SuperGum outsole provided impressive grip, allowing me to confidently scramble over wet rocks without slipping.
The waterproofing of the Moraine is also worth noting. Although I didn't hike in extended rainfall, I did test the water repellency by kicking around in a creek. The Nubuck leather shed water effortlessly, and what little did seep in didn't penetrate to my socks. Despite getting wet, the shoes remained comfortable and breathable, preventing any discomfort from hot feet.
Innovative Safety Features
One of the standout features of the SCARPA Moraine Hiking Shoe is the built-in RECCO reflector. RECCO technology has been around since 1983, primarily used in ski equipment for locating individuals buried in avalanches. With the introduction of the helicopter-based RECCO SAR system in 2015, the technology expanded to other outdoor gear. The Moraine is the first lightweight hiking shoe to incorporate this life-saving feature, adding a crucial layer of safety for hikers.
Knowing that the RECCO reflector could help search and rescue teams locate me in case of an emergency provides immense peace of mind. While I thankfully haven't needed to use this feature, it's reassuring to know it's there, enhancing the overall safety of my hiking adventures.
Versatility and Style
The SCARPA Moraine is not just a trail performer; it’s also stylish enough for everyday use. The Nubuck leather and recycled nylon materials make for a sleek design that fits right in at a casual restaurant or brewery. Available in both low and mid heights, and in different color options, the Moraine offers versatility for various preferences and activities. Whether you're hiking, camping, or just running errands around town, these shoes are up for the task.
Final Thoughts
The SCARPA Moraine Hiking Shoe combines comfort, durability, and innovative safety features into one impressive package. My personal experience of hiking up a mountain and navigating through a creek without a single blister speaks volumes about its quality. The stable and supportive design, excellent traction, and waterproofing make it a reliable choice for any hiking enthusiast. The added RECCO reflector offers a safety net that could potentially save lives, making it an invaluable addition to the shoe.
If you're looking for a dependable, versatile hiking shoe, I highly recommend the SCARPA Moraine. It's a solid investment for anyone who loves the outdoors and values both performance and safety. Give them a try on your next adventure and experience the difference for yourself.
Conclusion
Quality gear can make or break your outdoor experience, and the SCARPA Moraine Hiking Shoe is a testament to this truth. By combining robust construction with cutting-edge safety features, SCARPA has created a shoe that enhances your hiking experience while providing peace of mind. So lace up, hit the trails, and let the Moraine take you further, safely and comfortably.
- EVA INSERT: LOW DENSITY EVA INSERT FOR CUSHIONING
- TPU INSERT: FOR STABILITY AND ANTI-TORSIONAL CONTROL
- MIDSOLE: MEDIUM DENSITY EVA MIDSOLE FOR CUSHIONING AND STABILITY
- OUTSOLE: RUBBER OUTSOLE WITH SUPERGUM RUBBER COMPOUND, WHICH COMBINES HIGH GRIP AND DURABILITY
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