GoLite Shoes

Golite shoes made their reputation early on as the absolutely least durable shoe ever made. In 07, I wore out two pairs in 140 miles. That is, each pair lasted 70 miles before the fabric of the uppers was ripped to shreds.

Golite has replaced the fabric and they have changed the design of the uppers – which relied excessively on the fabric supporting the vamp (where the laces go. Maybe that fixed the problem.

Golite has kept the distinctive high cleats. Admittedly, I have used them for only 140 trail miles, but that included snow, mud, loose rock and wet rock. I didn't like the cleats. They so reduce the contact area that they are dangerous on wet rock. They also raise the foot bed too high for stability on challenging terrain. It's like walking on stilts.

Some people like them. Some people will like anything. P.T. Barnum was right.

They have also changed the company that manufactures their shoes. I think it used to be Colombia and now they have moved it to another company. It is too early to see if that helped.

I would have to agree with whats been said. I got some SunDragons in 07 and I ripped them to shreds in under 100 miles. They had a poor design across the toes and the fabric that they used was very destructable. I hear the new line will be better but, i am waiting to get some feedback before going forward. On another note, I will say that I really liked how they fit. They were comfortable and they come in 1/2 sizes which I loved cause I am a 12 1/2 which they made and they also have inserts so you can customize your fit.

That's pretty much the feedback I've gathered.

But, if anyone's interested, 6pm is selling almost every model of GoLite shoes for $24.95

But if I can't at least rely on them for a 70 mile six day hike, I won't touch them.

Wasn't a golite brand shoe in Carol Crookers top three for 2008?

John:

I have very flat feet but got a pair of golite hikers off ebay brand new. Put them on and after walking around the house starting feeling a significant ball in my foot. I brought them to work and did my lunch-hour hill walks and barely made it back. I mean, I thought I was going to cry. Felt like there was a rock in my shoe – took them off and gave them to my brother who wears them around town and hasn't had a bit of problems with comfort. My step-father got some and he hated them as well – complained about the arch support being too forward for his feet. I'd try them at a store before I bought them – or, if you're buying on line – ensure you can return.