Summary
Editor's rating
Value for Money
Design and Aesthetics
Comfort and Fit
Materials and Build Quality
Performance on the Trail
Pros
- Comfortable fit
- Good traction
- Reasonable price
Cons
- Not for extreme conditions
- Limited style options
Specifications
View full product page →| Brand | NORTIV 8 |
| Department | mens |
| Date First Available | December 4, 2020 |
| Manufacturer | NORTIV 8 |
| ASIN | B08PPBJMYY |
| Best Sellers Rank | See Top 100 in Clothing, Shoes & Jewelry |
| Sole material | EVA,Rubber |
| Shaft circumference | 34.55 inches |
First Impressions
I got my hands on the NORTIV 8 Men's Ankle High Waterproof Hiking Boots, and I was eager to see how they perform. As someone who spends a fair bit of time hiking and exploring the outdoors, I've tried my share of boots. These ones promised a mix of comfort and stability, so I was curious if they'd live up to that.
Right out of the box, the boots felt lightweight, which is a good start. With some brands, you get a heavy clunky feel, but that wasn’t the case here. This was a promising sign for someone who’s often on their feet for hours. The design is pretty standard, nothing flashy, yet they seem well-put-together.
Over the next couple of weeks, I planned to test these boots to their limits, both on local trails and tougher terrains. I wanted to see if they could handle different weather conditions and varied surfaces without letting me down.
The real test, however, would be the comfort over longer hikes. Would the cushioning hold up, and would my feet be happy after a full day out? Stay tuned as I break it all down below.
Value for Money
Considering what you get, these NORTIV 8 boots are pretty good value for money. They're not the cheapest option on the market, but they’re certainly not the most expensive either. For what they offer in terms of comfort, traction, and overall performance, they hit a reasonable price point.
Compared to other boots in the same price range, these have the edge in comfort and fit, especially with the cushioning and support they provide. They’re ideal if you’re hiking casually or moderately and want something reliable without spending a fortune.
That said, if you're an avid hiker tackling extreme conditions regularly, you might want to invest in something more robust. These are more for the weekend warrior or someone who hits the trails occasionally.
Overall, if you’re looking for a decent pair of hiking boots that won’t drain your wallet, these are worth considering. They provide a good balance of features and price, making them a solid option for most casual outdoor enthusiasts.
Design and Aesthetics
The design of the NORTIV 8 Men's Ankle High Waterproof Hiking Boots is pretty straightforward. They don’t aim to catch the eye with anything fancy, but the taupe-suede finish gives them a classic, rugged look. These boots seem to focus more on function than form, which is usually a good thing in the outdoor gear world.
The lace-up closure is standard and effective, providing a snug fit. It's nothing revolutionary, but it gets the job done. If you're someone who values a no-nonsense design that won't go out of style, these boots fit the bill. On the other hand, if you're looking for something with modern flair, you might find these a bit plain.
What I liked about the design is the ankle height, offering that extra support, which is essential when you're tackling uneven or rocky trails. The color might not be to everyone's liking, but it does a decent job at hiding dirt and mud, which is practical for outdoor use.
Overall, the design reflects the boots' purpose: durability and function. If you're after a flashy aesthetic, these might not be for you, but if you want something that looks like it means business, these are worth considering.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort is where the NORTIV 8 boots stand out. From the first time I put them on, they felt comfortable, which isn't something I can say for every pair of hiking boots I've tried. The removable and shock-absorbent insoles make a big difference, providing ample support for my feet even on rocky terrains.
During a couple of long hikes, ranging from 5 to 10 miles, my feet didn't feel overly fatigued, which speaks volumes about the boots' comfort level. The cushioning is decent, and for someone who prioritizes comfort on the trails, these boots delivered.
The fit was pretty accurate to size, which is always a bonus when buying shoes online. The ankle support was noticeable, and although they’re lightweight, they still give you that secure feeling, reducing the risk of sprains on uneven ground.
If there’s one thing to note, it’s that during heavy rain, while the boots are waterproof, they aren’t completely immune to moisture seeping in after prolonged exposure. Overall, if comfort is a top priority, these boots do a good job.
Materials and Build Quality
When it comes to materials, the NORTIV 8 boots use suede for the outer material, along with EVA and rubber for the soles. The suede gives it a decent look and contributes to the boot's durability. It's not the toughest material out there, but it does the job for casual to moderate hiking. The suede might not be for everyone, especially if you need something that can withstand extreme abrasions.
The rubber soles were a highlight here. They provide decent traction on wet and muddy surfaces, which is necessary for anyone tackling slippery trails. During my hikes, I felt confident even on the more challenging paths, thanks largely to these soles.
The EVA midsole is another solid feature, offering cushioning that helps reduce foot fatigue over long distances. I found this to be particularly beneficial on longer treks where comfort can make or break the experience.
Overall, the materials used strike a balance between affordability and performance. These aren't top-of-the-line boots in terms of material quality, but they’re reliable enough for the average hiker.
Performance on the Trail
Performance-wise, these boots are pretty solid. I tested them on various trails, from muddy paths to rocky inclines, and they handled themselves well. The non-slip rubber soles provide great traction, which gives you confidence when navigating tricky terrain.
On wet surfaces, they performed better than some of the other boots I've tried in the past. There was minimal slipping, and I felt stable even when the ground was slick. This is a major plus if you’re hiking in wet or unpredictable conditions.
While they aren’t the toughest boots out there, for the price, they offer good value. They can take a bit of a beating and still go on, making them suitable for the occasional hiker looking for reliability without breaking the bank.
In terms of durability, they’ve held up well after a few weeks of regular use. The build is sturdy enough to withstand moderate hiking adventures, though if you're planning more extreme outings, you might want to consider a heavier-duty option.
Pros
- Comfortable fit
- Good traction
- Reasonable price
Cons
- Not for extreme conditions
- Limited style options
Conclusion
Editor's rating
The NORTIV 8 Men's Ankle High Waterproof Hiking Boots are a solid choice for those who enjoy casual hiking and outdoor activities. They offer a good blend of comfort, traction, and durability at a reasonable price point. If you're someone who heads out on the trails on weekends or needs a reliable pair of boots for moderate outdoor work, these are worth considering.
However, they might not be the best choice for extreme hikers who need something that can withstand more intense conditions. The materials, while durable for everyday use, might not hold up as well under constant heavy use or in very demanding environments.
In conclusion, these boots are best suited for the casual to moderate hiker looking for comfort and functionality without a hefty price tag. They perform well for regular use and offer decent value for the money, making them a practical option for many outdoor enthusiasts.