Lems Boulder Boot

I wear the Boulder Boots to work every day.  I do concrete work for a living and can be pretty hard on boots but the Lems hold up surprisingly well.

I find them super comfy but if you’re used to max cushioned trail runners then you probably would not agree.  The Lems have a 10mm stack height which is probably less than half of what you’re used to. However, I bought a pair for my Dad who is also accustomed to super over built shoes.  He loves the Lems now.

Not much traction on the Boulder Boots. I find that the flexibility and thinness of the soles allows my foot to form around stuff, which I feel increases traction.  If your adding orthotics then you’re probably going to lose that flexible traction.

I don’t know how cold it is where you hike in snow but if the snow is very wet you may not like the Boulder Boots.  They are not waterproof.  The new all leather ones could probably be waxed or oiled enough to work in anything but slush.

I have to wear thin socks, and take the insole out, just so my feet fit. Having done so, they fit great, but there’s no cushioning. I can feel the blades of grass scrape the bottom of the boot as I lift my feet and walk. Not sure I’d recommend and serious hiking in them. Also, If I walk around town all day in them, my feet hurt, but they feel amazing just hanging out in the wilderness.

Thanks Nick and Chris,

Sounds like I’ll keep looking.  Are there any hiking boots with decent cushioning and a wide toe box you would recommend?  I will still use hiking shoes when I can, and the boots when it’s expected to be wet and cold over a longer period of my hike.

Lems is a minimalist brand. If you’re looking for a max cush shoe, have you looked into the Hoka boots?

edit: Altra has a mid neoshell shoot that fits your criteria