Gear review: For the feet

Footwear is essential for comfortable adventures, and this variety of men’s and women’s hits on an array of recreation — plus they come in various colorways.

Zamberlan Circe Low GTX (men’s and women’s)

I am selective about women’s footwear due to my narrow foot — and even narrower heel — but this Italian-made, lightweight, breathable, comfortable, fast hiker fits wonderfully. It does have a wider Vibram Junko outsole and forefoot for stability, but that doesn’t affect the inner fit. Rubber toe boxes and uppers protect from rocks while hiking, and the uber-grippy rubber prevents sliding, particularly when headed downhill. Suede-effect microfiber avoids the use of leather and holds up wonderfully, and Gore-Tex makes it waterproof. Plus, it looks great with jeans, shorts, and pretty much anything else I wear on or off the trail. $260, zamberlanusa.com.

Danner MOTO GTX (men’s and women’s)

When it comes to motorcycle boots, it’s crucial not only to wear something you love, but also something that keeps you protected. From the moment my husband slipped into the Moto GTX boots, he found his all-time favorite. He’s worn Danner’s Striker and Thorogood Deuce models, and though he really liked them both, they don’t come close in comparison to Danner’s Moto-GTX. Designed for riding motorcycles — they’re made in the USA, come with a one-year warranty, and are recraftable. They’re also waterproof, have a fitted ankle guard and Vibram Magagrip, and are great in both warm and cool weather. He assumed they’d need some break-in time, but from the moment he put them on, they became a part of his feet (his words, not mine). “There’s no fighting with the laces from the toe upward. You feel confident with the Vibram sole, and I also appreciate the height from the heel to stand on my motorcycle.” He adds that the boots are stylish and provide extra protection where needed for both safety and durability. He also attests that the price point is completely worth it in terms of comfort, safety, and durability. The boots come in men’s and women’s sizes: $500 (check for women’s sale), danner.com.

Altra Experience Wild II

First of all, I’ve never heard so many guys commenting on other guys’ shoes. Two separate days wearing these, my husband received two different comments on how cool these shoes are. I don’t have a huge preference for running shoes that add a few millimeters of height, but I do like the fact that these zero-to-low drop shoes place your foot in a natural position, like running barefoot, only with cushion and protection. They’re both fashionable and functional, with a heel-to-toe drop rocker shape to propel each step. This shoe emphasizes connection to the ground, which I’m all about for safety and overall satisfaction, as well as a GaiterTrip to keep out debris. The roomy toe box especially suits my husband. Breathable mesh, lacing for improved fit, and increased TPU overlay to enhance toe protection complete the new version of this shoe. Available in men’s and women’s, $140, altrarunning.com.

La Sportiva Bushido III

This third installation of the Bushido includes a new, high-traction, fun-looking outsole that wraps around the side of the shoe to better prevent slippage if your foot happens to move a bit to the side, as well as a lug pattern with various angles to increase traction and reduce impact. Side and heel venting that blends right into the design is also a new feature in this iteration. They’re easy to slip on and provide great support. And, they’re made of recycled and/or environmentally responsible materials with an eco-friendly Ortholite Hybrid breathable and washable insole. Comes in men’s and women’s and wide. $160, lasportivausa.com.

Mykos Ciara Women’s Hook & Loop Sandal

Like the compliments my husband got on his shoes, I’ve received plenty on these. They only come in full sizes, and I usually take a 7 ½, but the 7 fits great due to the three different adjustable straps over the foot and around the upper heel. The suede is soft, comfortable, and casual for everyday wear, and also complements sundresses beautifully. The thick outsole absorbs shock, so it’s perfect to wear walking around town, and the molded footbed adds even more cushioning and support. And I love what they call the “crochet” details around the straps, as it adds more style. $84.99, mykos.com.

OOFOS OOMY Stride

OOFOS’ OOfoam technology absorbs 37% more impact than traditional shoes. It’s akin to walking on clouds with a springy step, and these newer Strides up the ante by improving impact, partially with the rounded OOfoam heel design. I use them just about every day, either to walk my dog or to help my feet recover from being crammed in figure skates (never did anyone say landing on ice on a blade is healthy for your feet). And, with all that use, the antimicrobial footbed comes in handy. Four-way stretch and breathable mesh above the shoestrings add comfort when walking, and the pillowed heel with arch support cushions the foot. Comes in men’s and women’s, $159.95, oofos.com.

OKA Recovery Flip Flop

I can’t wear just any flip flop due to discomfort between my big and second toe, so I was a little skeptical. But from the moment I tried these on to walking along the beach and roadside, I was impressed. The soft, thick thong moves with me, so it doesn’t bother me at all. They also help with recovery, with shock-absorbent foam, a deep heel cup, and a slightly textured insole to increase circulation a bit. Plus, they’re made in the USA, which I love. unisex, $49,95,okarecovery.com.

Astral Loyak AC 

With a zero-drop, level footbed, these water shoes provide that stable, balanced barefoot feel, while still delivering the kind of grip that’s important when walking down slippery wood stairs, rafting, SUPing, or adventuring on other watercraft (or wet, slippery boulders). The sticky G.15 rubber technology stays put without tripping me up on both wet and dry surfaces and doesn’t leave marks. Even the inner sole has grippy bumps, which, surprisingly, I don’t feel, even when barefoot. The shoes are flexible with a wider toe box for greater comfort, and since my heel is the most narrow, the wider toe box works great, without slippage. Strategically placed mesh also makes them breathable. Comes in full sizes only; 7 fits me well. $110, astraldesigns.com.

Lowa Maddox Pro GTX Lo

With the type of stability and beefy outsole made for security on technical trails, these are great for fast hiking. GORE-TEX keeps your feet dry, and the microfiber toe cap is made for durability and protection. They provide comfortable arch support and should be a joy for anyone who doesn’t have an extra-narrow heel; mine slips just a bit in these, but a friend with a size 7 ½ shoe tried them and absolutely loved them. $240, lowa.com.

Kimberly Nicoletti is a freelance writer, editor, and writing coach. She can be reached at kim@kimberlynicoletti.com.