NORTIV 8 Men's Hiking Boots Review: Sturdy and Simple Outdoor Footwear

When I first got my hands on the NORTIV 8 Men's Ankle High Waterproof Hiking Boots, I wasn't quite sure what to expect. The brand isn't one I've extensively used before, but the promise of a durable, waterproof boot at a reasonable price had me curious enough to give them a shot.

After wearing them for a couple of weeks, both on trails and around town, I’ve gathered some thoughts on how they stack up against other boots in a similar price range. Spoiler: they’re not too shabby, especially for the price, but they’re not without their quirks.

These boots boast features like slip-proof rubber soles and lightweight EVA midsoles, which sound impressive on paper. In practice, they do a decent job of providing stability and comfort on various terrains, from muddy trails to rocky paths.

In this review, I'll break down the design, comfort, and overall performance of these boots, giving you a straight-up perspective on what works and what doesn't. No fluff, just the facts from my own experience with these boots.

The NORTIV 8 Men's Ankle High Waterproof Hiking Boots offer good value for the price. They’re not the cheapest on the market, but they provide a decent mix of features for the cost. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option that can handle various outdoor activities, you might find these boots to be a decent investment.

Compared to more expensive brands, these boots hold their own fairly well. They might not have the advanced technology or premium materials of high-end boots, but they perform adequately for the price. For someone who’s just getting into hiking or needs a pair of boots for occasional outdoor use, these are a practical choice.

That said, if you’re an avid hiker who spends a lot of time on challenging terrains, you might want to consider investing in a more durable and supportive pair. These boots are more suited for moderate use rather than extreme conditions.

In conclusion, while they're not top-of-the-line, they offer solid performance at a reasonable price. They’re a good choice for budget-conscious adventurers who need reliable footwear for the outdoors.

The design of the NORTIV 8 boots is very practical. They’re not flashy, but they have a rugged look that fits the outdoor aesthetic. The color scheme of brown, black, and tan is pretty neutral, making them versatile enough to pair with most hiking gear. While they won't turn heads, they do have a solid, no-nonsense appearance that suggests they mean business on the trails.

The ankle-high design is meant to provide additional support, and it does that to some extent. In my experience, the ankle support is pretty decent for casual hikes. However, if you’re tackling more challenging terrains, you might find the support a bit lacking compared to more specialized hiking boots.

One thing I noticed right away is the attention to detail with the laces and hooks. They’re sturdy, and they hold the tension well, so I didn’t have to constantly stop to retighten them, which is a plus in my book. The overall build quality seems reliable, though not premium, which is fair for the price point.

Overall, the design is utilitarian. It’s not going to win any style awards, but it gets the job done without any unnecessary frills.

Comfort is a big factor when it comes to hiking boots, and the NORTIV 8 boots deliver mixed results here. On the plus side, the lightweight EVA midsoles do help reduce foot fatigue, which is noticeable after a few hours of trekking. The boots feel reasonably light, which makes a difference when you're covering long distances.

The cushioned insoles are removable and provide decent shock absorption. I appreciated this feature during hikes on rocky paths, as it reduced the impact on my feet. However, if you're used to more cushioned hiking boots, you might find these a bit basic in terms of cushioning.

One downside is that the boots can feel a bit snug, especially if you're wearing thick hiking socks. I’d suggest trying them on with the socks you plan to use to ensure they fit comfortably. After breaking them in, they did become more comfortable, but there was definitely a period of adjustment.

In summary, while these boots are comfortable enough for moderate hikes, they might not provide the plush feel some hikers prefer. They’re functional and offer decent support, but there’s room for improvement in overall comfort.

Performance-wise, the NORTIV 8 hiking boots are pretty solid. They claim to be waterproof, and in my experience, they held up well in wet conditions. Walking through puddles and mud, my feet stayed dry, which is crucial for any hiking boot. They certainly live up to their waterproof label, at least in moderate conditions.

The rubber soles provide good traction, which is important for safety on slippery surfaces. I tested them on wet rocks and muddy trails, and they didn't disappoint. The grip is firm, and I felt secure even on steeper inclines, which is what you want in a hiking boot.

However, they're not the most breathable boots out there. After a few hours of hiking, especially in warmer weather, my feet did feel a bit warm. This isn't a dealbreaker for everyone, but it's something to consider if you're hiking in hot climates.

Overall, the performance is adequate for casual hikers who don’t need the most advanced features. They’re reliable enough for most outdoor activities without any major performance issues.