Winston Churchill once said, “The farther backward you can look, the farther forward you can see.”
In 1978 Hi-Tec changed the game. With the introduction of the athletically inspired “Sierra Lite,” Hi-Tec became the first manufacturer of lightweight hiking shoes and boots. The creation of the Sierra Lite represented a tectonic shift in the industry’s approach to the “hiking” category. ‘Lighter Faster Comfortable’ were now mantras applicable to the world of hiking. Flash forward to 2012 and Hi-Tec is re-introducing the original classic that literally revolutionized an industry.
This modern version of the original light weight hiker pays homage to 1978 version, but has been radically updated with the addition of new technologies like a rugged Vibram outsole, co-molded injection EVA, full-grain Nubuck leather and ion-mask over the entire shoe.
Brazen Style…
The Sierra Lite i WP is a bold breakout from the world of brown and beige that seem to typically dominate the world of hiking boots. Like a streak of gold lightning that flashes across the cold midnight sky, the modernized Sierra Lite is emblazoned with the transcendent Hi-Tec logo. It’s a sharp flash of color across the black and grey background of waterproof nubuck and durable mesh uppers that not only provide a consistent supportive fit, but send one simple message: Time to get serious about your hiking.
Fit and Performance….
When you step out on trail wearing The Hi-Tec Sierra Lite i WP Boot, you can rest easy knowing that you are well-prepared for whatever conditions you might encounter. Inside these supportive hikers you’ll find lightweight comfort, durable support, and a waterproof breathable membrane to keep your feet dry and protected.
As consumers we are all subjected to the ‘out-of-the-box comfort’ phrase with seemingly increasing frequency. So we want you to know, that our crew member quite literally took these boots from the box to the trails of the Sierra Nevada and they felt great.
In large part, that level of comfort is a result of the OrthoLite footbed, which incorporates the brand’s 3D Counter-Balance technology. The 3D footbed technology creates a smoother, straighter center of pressure and more efficient gait cycle. Moreover, the Hi-Tec designers have reminded us that the ortholite has practically no degradation (like EVA) so the result is that the footbed/midsole will keep its shape well of the lifetime of the boot.
For those that appreciate a quality outsole, you’ll love what the Sierra Lite i WP has to offer. Featuring unique custom molded Vibram® rubber outsoles, the Sierra Lite provides sure footed traction and dogged determination mile after mile. Each cleat stands like a strategically placed show of force prepared to grip rock, sand, mud, and scree keeping you stable and upright.
Innovative Thinking…
When wearing a stiff, overbuilt hiking shoe, there are moments that can leave you feeling like a Giant stomping through a delicate garden. Hi-Tec’s design team has gone in the opposite direction incorporating a lower heel-to-toe ratio to bring the heel closer to trail for a more light footed, natural feel and stride.
In essence the ‘reduced drop’ concept centers attempts to more closely mimic the natural position of the foot, allowing the foot and body to operate with a more natural and efficient stride. While the idea is making waves in the world of running, it also applies to hiking. By dropping the heel closer to the ground the Sierra Lite gives the hiker greater feel of the ground underfoot and an easier stride. If you’ve made the transition to lower drop running shoes, you’ll love the feel of these hikers.
Moreover while providing the support you need to carry a moderate load, the Sierra Lite is flexible enough to keep you nimble on quick hit mountain excursions. With the Sierra Lite i WP, your foot controls the boot, not the other way around. Kudos to the design team for creating a boot durable enough for a world of terrain without sacrificing flexibility in the forefoot that provides comfort and enhanced toe-off.
Technology has changed dramatically since 1978. Yet some of the waterproofing agents and technologies used to keep our feet dry, still result in added and unwanted weight. Hi-Tec circumvents this issue by utilizing Ion-mask™ technology, what Hi-Tec refers to has a “breakthrough in surface enhancement” – making the shoe completely hydrophobic.
Originally developed for military clothing designed to repel chemical agents, Hi-Tec is on the forefront of pioneering the introduction of ion-mask™ in the footwear industry. What you need to know is that this cutting edge technology helps keep you drier and means you’ll end up carrying less of the muck and mire from wet Spring trails back home. Want to learn even more? Watch the following video:
watch?v=ktMTk9PmRL4&feature=youtu.be
Room for Improvement…
While the world’s fit paradigm seems to be shifting slightly towards a lower heel-to-toe ratio, not everyone will instantly fall in love with the ‘reduced drop’ feel on the trail. For those looking for a boot with a stiffer shank and outsole to carry heavier loads, this boot may not fit the bill. Yet, we believe the lower heel-to-toe ratio not only provides a fit you’ll notice right away, but one that you’ll appreciate for it’s ability to leave you a greater sense of connectedness with the trail underfoot.
More specifically to the design of the shoe, the only specific fit issue was a desire for slightly more vertical space in the toebox. That being said it should be noted that the pair of Sierra Lite i WP’s provided were a pre-production model. As such this may be an issue that was addressed in the production model that will hit the showroom floor.
Finally, and unfortunately for the ladies, this boot has been reserved for the man cave. On the bright side, you’ve just stumbled upon a great gift for you outdoor lovin’ dad, hubby, brother or significant other.
The Bottom Line…
The lighter you keep your footwear, the more energy you’ll have to enjoy your hiking experience. Unburden the feet, and you unburden the entire body. The 2012 version of the Sierra Lite i WP is perfect for the outdoor enthusiast looking for a mid-cut hiker that is light, fast, and offers all day comfort. Simply put… we love these mountain kicks.
MSRP: $180
RELEASE DATE: April 15, 2012
MANUFACTURER: Hi-Tec http://www.hi-tec.com/us/
AVAILABILITY: Locate a retailer near you using Hi-Tec’s Dealer Locator http://www.hi-tec.com/us/stockists/
SIZES: Men’s 7-12, 13
COLORS: Charcoal/CoreGold/Black; Cobalt/Charcoal/CoreGold; Black/CoreGold