If you’ve ever wondered what a benchmark feels like, you’ll find out when you slip these on. Meindl’s Air Revolutions are the boots to beat, and thoroughly justify their price tag. Like the Mammuts, they offer a high-tech ventilation system, but these lose nothing in performance either. The Air-Revo system uses the natural pumping motion of walking to suck air in and out of the boot, ensuring a circulation of freshness around the foot. But by far the most impressive thing about these boots is the way they balance strength with comfort. The outsole is sturdy enough to deal with gnarly terrain, and the suede leather upper combines with the mesh tongue to pull snugly over the foot, holding it in place. But against the rugged exterior comes the soft centre: every part of these boots is luxuriously cushioned. The insole is wonderfully supportive, the ankle cuff is spongy, and even the tongue has removable padding. Compared to their rivals, these are weighty, but who cares when they’re this good?
SPECIFICATION
RRP: £200
Sizes: 3.5-10 (including half sizes)
Weight: 1200g
Waterproof/breathable lining: Gore-Tex
Outsole: Vibram
Men’s version: Yes
Contact: 01539 560214, www.meindl.co.uk
VERDICT
The perfect fabric boot: well-ventilated, comfy and mountain-ready. You’ll wear them everywhere.