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Wenger Interlaken Trail Shoe : For Men and Women
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Maybe it's my Scandinavian blood, but I love getting bundled up and exercising in cold weather. Plus, I need to burn off those extra calories from holiday meals and parties. (Doesn't everyone?)
So, I've been hiking in Carkeek Park near my home in Seattle, wearing Wenger's Interlaken amphibious trail shoes. With several miles of trails that wind up and down through the hilly forest, it's easy to get a good workout and put these shoes to the test.
Wenger is, of course, known for making the Swiss Army Knife, the gold standard for pocket knives. I'm pleased to report that they've brought the same precision and care to their shoes. From the moment I first put them on the Interlaken trail shoes fit like a dream, required no break-in period, and make me feel nimble and secure dashing along uneven dirt and gravel trails.
The molded insoles are contoured to the foot bed and seem made just for my foot. (I've heard the same from other people who wear Wenger shoes.)
With the skid-free lug/high-traction soles, my feet land and stay put--no sliding around. Wenger's footwear technology allows the sole to adapt to different climates by hardening in cold weather and softening in hot weather to offer exceptional traction in all conditions.
Since I have a fairly casual work environment and lifestyle, I've worn the Interlaken shoes most of the day, almost every day since I got them. They're sleek and attractive instead of clunky like so many trail shoes I own, so I don't feel like an outdoors geek wearing them around town. I love not having to fiddle around with shoe laces that come untied; the Interlaken shoes feature a one-pull, lockable, adjustable "speed-lace." I just slip them on and pull the plastic tab down to tighten the laces.
With our cold weather lately, I haven't been too concerned with keeping my feet cool as I work out, but the Interlaken has a mesh upper over an internal stretch "booty" for breathability and moisture-wicking. These shoes are definitely going with me on my upcoming vacation to warmer climes.
The Interlaken is available in men's whole and half sizes 6 - 12 and 13, and women's whole and half sizes 5-10 and 11. Choose from five cool multi-tone colors: beige, persimmon, black, blue, and cool gray
Bottom Line: I'm confident that the well-made Interlaken is perfect shoe for me, whether for light hiking or trail running. These amphibious shoes have great traction and have performed well through wet and dry conditions. Finally, I have to admire a company that posts their environmental policy on their Web site! --J.I. (Dec 09)
BUY ONLINE : $95, various sizes/colors on sale at amazon.com
Manufacturer's Site: www.wengerfootwear.com
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When hiking or camping, always carry the "10 Essentials": Extra clothing, extra food and water, lighter or water-proof matches and fire starter, map in waterproof envelope, compass, pocket knife, sunscreen and sunglasses, flashlight or headlamp, first aid kit, emergency shelter. Source: Seattle Mountain Rescue and Seattle Mountaineers. |
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