Run Oregon sometimes receives products to review. In this post, Run Oregon provides some initial impressions on a pair of Lems Boulder Boots in their new leather version. We recommend checking out our initial review of the Lems Boulder Boots that was completed in early 2016.
When I tried out a pair of the Lems Boulder Boots, I was a big fan of their portability and comfort:
Keeping this boot simple makes it collapsible – that’s to say you could stuff it into your running pack for wear after a run (which I TOTALLY plan on doing), or in your backpack for kicking back after a long hike up into the Wallowas. It has kept my feet warm and dry, even when walking in the Oregon rain. I wouldn’t say they are waterproof – more “repellant”, but they definitely offer some protection and keep my feet toasty at the same time. While it may not completely replace a serious technical hiking boot, it is a solid change of pace for casual terrain and wearing around town. Yet it is so comfortable that it begs to be worn a LOT. Despite my propensity to utilize arch support for comfort reasons, it has been really surprising how a boot with so much simplicity can provide the comfort that it does.
These traits carry over to the new leather version. If you choose to, they are extremely packable and even able to fold a bit to get into suitcases. They are constructed with a 100% cotton liner, full grain leather on the upper, and air-injected “LemsRubber”. This keeps things extremely light for a boot – only about 11.5 ounces (depending on size). I have some running shoes heavier than that! And dang do they look good. The boots come in two different colors – raven (black) and russet (brown). I was sent the russet and received 2 pairs of laces – chocolate-brown & gold – (the raven comes with black and red laces). The inside is a nice red plaid that really gives off a casual style, whether you are on a trail or wearing casually out and about.
Once again, I really don’t have a lot of cons with Boulder Boots Leather. I suppose would be the fact that these may not be your go-to boot in the middle of Oregon weather. While they appear they will do the job, they are not waterproofed, so getting caught in an Oregon rainstorm may leave your feet not entirely free from the elements. However, I would venture a guess that most of PNW-ers probably have our high-tech hiking boot that is geared up for those nasty treks. Make sure you check them out, as they do have a 45-day exchange policy.
The Boulder Boot Leathers run about $140, a completely reasonable price for a well-constructed and functional piece of footwear to add to your NW arsenal. Make sure you check out the Lems Store Locator and go try on a pair at one of several Portland area shoe stores!
Thank you to Lems for providing us with samples. Please read our transparency page for info on how we do our reviews.
