John Muir referred to the Sierra Nevada as the ‘Range of Light’ and the 400-mile-long phalanx of craggy peaks and awesome landscapes still tugs mightily at the hearts of visionaries, wanderers and those hungry for adventure – or tranquility. It will also put a pounding on even the most durable of hiking boots, which made it the perfect setting to test the new Bridger hiking boot from Oboz.
On Performance and Design…
A dozen or so miles of rugged, roadless wilderness can’t be safely traveled with just any shoe. So Oboz designed the all leather Bridger for men and women to provide a grippy, stable platform for hauling yourself deep into your own private patch of earth.
Classic leather styling gives a nod to the legendary hiking boots of yore, while the Bridger’s modern fit and design ensured a worthy performer that easily fended for itself over the course of more than 100 miles and seven summits in California’s Desolation Wilderness.
Through it all, the true highlight for our team was Oboz’ high-friction, non-marking rubber outsole. The toothy lugs gripped with ease in all directions and never left us worried about foot placement, and that’s a huge bonus because there’s plenty of other things to worry about on the trail. Simply put it’s one of the best outsoles we’ve ever put through the paces.
Whether we were stuck crossing mountain streams, puddle-riddled trails, or forced to venture over snowy summits, the Oboz proprietary BDry waterproofing system ensured we never had to slog extra water weight back home. And unlike some other waterproofing systems, the BDry system truly remained breathable making the Bridger a tremendous choice for year round tromping.
Oboz also outfits the Bridger with their BFit Deluxe footbed. Not only does this footbed provide essential cushioning for challenging terrain and extended miles, but it has outperformed most aftermarket inserts we’ve used in the past. Nylon shanks and thermoplastic urethane forefoot plates offer torsional stability and protection underfoot, increasing surefootedness on varied terrain.
As if the boot isn’t durable enough, the Oboz design team topped off the Bridger with rubber randing on toes and heels to protect the both your toes and the uppers from the bumps and bruises of a life on the trail.
Notes from the Trail…
At 19 ounces per shoe in a men’s size 9, and 16.2 ounces per shoe in women’s size 7, the Bridger isn’t a featherweight contender. Indeed when our team first slipped into the boot it was a bit reminiscent of stepping into a raised 4×4 and they do require a break-in period.
And, while the Bridger isn’t the ideal option for day-hikers striving for minimalist perfection, this boot took a beating unlike any other that we’ve dished out and kept pushing forward. It’s that type of relentless performance that easily wins the hearts and ‘soles’ of any outdoor enthusiast.
Bottom Line…
Heavy-duty support, unflinching protection and long-haul comfort, the Oboz Bridger is one boot that will help conquer the mountains in your life.
*Gumption Gear Review received a product sample of the item featured in this review from Oboz Footwear at no cost, and receives no monetary compensation for this or any related review. The item featured was provided solely in return for our honest views and opinions.