Hi-grip soles on off-road trails
This sole’s design is the result of long-term research carried out in our labs. It is composed of a specific rubber formula that optimizes grip and resistance. Given the variety of different needs, we always seek the best compromise between muddy off-road trails (like a forest path) and stony trails (like a coastal path).
Designed for use on off-road trails.
Our walking boots are designed for use on off-road trails. We select the components of the sole and upper of our boots and test them to ensure that they are ideally suited to walking on loose trails (e.g. unpaved forest paths) or rocky trails (e.g. rocky coastal paths). Road use (asphalt) may lead to premature wear on your boots and cause discomfort. They are not suitable for mountain walking.
Reducing our environmental impact
For these NH500 2018 boots, we have selected more environmentally friendly elements:
- Upper: 52% recycled polyester and 48% polyamide dope dye (dye that uses less water)
-Tongue and neck lining, laces and loops: 100% recycled polyester
-Insole: 85% recycled polyurethane foam
-Outsole: 30% recycled rubber
Using recycled materials helps to reduce resources depletion, by re-using end-of-life materials.
Where does our leather come from?
We use a leather known as “nubuck”. It has a soft and silky touch.
The leather used for these boots is of bovine origin. We do not kill any animals to obtain this leather: we only use leather waste from the agrofood industry. The leather for these boots comes from French hides that are then tanned in Spain.
How to care for your leather boots
After hikes, we suggest that you:
- Leave your boots to dry near a heat source
- Using a hard-bristled brush, brush the dry leather vigorously to remove any mud and dirt
- Use a soft-bristled brush or nubuck eraser to remove any stains
- For stubborn stains, clean using a brush and a little warm water.
- Leave to dry
- Brush again using a hard-bristled brush
- Spray with a waterproofing product: this will make the leather shine and bring out the colors
Waterproofing test
These boots feature a membrane that has been laboratory and field tested to ensure optimal waterproofing and breathability. First, the boot is immersed in water while internal air pressure is applied to check that no bubbles form on the surface of the footwear. Next, boots are fitted to a mechanical arm that simulates walking and half immersed in water so we can test that the inside remains perfectly dry.
3 levels of waterproofing
When tested for waterproofness, we test 3 levels of waterproofness:
- Flexed 2000 times, approx. 2 hours’ walking
- flexed 4000 times, approx. 4 hours’ walking
- flexed 8000 times, approx. 8 hours’ walking
The NH500 Mid WP Women’s Boots were laboratory tested to withstand being flexed 8000 times. This means that they stay waterproof for up to 8 hours’ walking
Obviously, once they have dried out, they regain all of their original waterproofing properties.
How to keep your boots waterproof
We recommend you use a waterproofing spray product on your boots several times a year, to restore their water-repellent properties and to prevent staining.
Laboratory tested
Laboratory trials are conducted to test the following elements: tearing of the eyelets and straps, bonding, toxicology, UV resistance, abrasion of the sole and components of the upper, accelerated aging. We use these tests to improve the quality of our products and prevent the premature wear of our hiking boots.
How to choose the size of my walking boots
Try on both boots, standing up, with the socks worn for hiking. Try several models, several sizes if necessary. Check 2 comfort points:
base of heel
- front of foot when downhill
Avoid any compression points when trying on Feel free to walk around the store. Break your boots in gradually on your first hikes so they can adapt to your foot.
The boot/sock combination plays an important role
There are multiple factors that may cause blisters when you are walking: We test them in the field with other hikers to make sure that they are comfortable and durable.
How to choose the size of my walking socks
You need to choose the correct sock size for your feet to avoid any extra folds forming. These folds may form because the sock is too big and therefore there is too much material around your foot, or because the sock so small and is pulled toward the inside of your foot.
How to choose the material of my walking socks
Moisture must be managed effectively when walking: We all sweat - it’s bound to happen. If your boot is breathable, it will wick away the moisture caused by your sweat. You should therefore choose a lightweight, yet breathable sock. If your boots are generally waterproof, to provide rain protection, you’ll need to opt for something different: choose a sock that will absorb your sweat, and keep it as far as possible away from your foot.
Which pair of socks goes well with the NH500 boot?
Although the waterproof membrane of these boots is breathable, they do not eliminate moisture from sweat as effectively as a ventilated boot. Therefore, you should opt for the NH500 high socks. These contain cotton, which absorbs moisture, and have a loop construction, which keeps moisture away from your foot. They are high enough to protect your ankle from the boot. This is an excellent combination for minimizing the likelihood of blisters.
Guarantee
Our hiking boots are guaranteed for 2 years.
Our promise To design long-lasting products suitable for all your country and outdoor walks. Because our favorite products are always the ones that we’ve used the most and go on forever!