Exclusive First Look: Hi-Tec Total Terrain Mid-Profile Hikers

posted by gumptiongear August 16, 2011 0 comments

Nature is constantly changing. The trail you took yesterday is not the same today. For the ever changing dynamics of an outdoors world Hi-Tec is introducing the Total Terrain Waterproof Mids. These mid-profile hikers emphasize breathability, comfort and support during high-exertion action.

This new addition to the Hi-Tec lineup includes some of the following features:

– Waterproof suede and mesh uppers

– Ghillie and double eyelet lacing system
– CMEVA midsole for lightweight cushioning
– MDT carbon rubber outsole

While there’s still no official release date for the shoe, the good people at Hi-Tec afforded our team an exclusive first look at these athletic inspired hikers. So, in order to provide a proper christening, our crew headed into the Tahoe National Forest for a week of rock hoping, crisscrossing streams, assailing gravel laden fire trails, and cruising the historic streets of downtown Truckee.

First item of note was the lightweight compression molded EVA midsoles which provided out-of-the-box comfort. The support and cushion granted our feet the hall pass necessary to ramble blister free across any mountain line we set our eyes upon. The lightweight and agile nature of the Total Terrains ensured that daily treks along abandoned fire trails were devoid of any cramping or stiffness.

Large mesh panels maximize comfort and breathability on days when the mercury was rising and still provide ample warmth on cold nights spent rustling up ingredients for smores around camp. The waterproof suede and mesh uppers shield your feet from sudden drizzles or unexpected puddles without leaving you with hot, clammy toes.

The carbon rubber outsole bit into challenging and varied terrain while the multi-directional tread and deep lugs virtually exterminated traction loss and delivered solid braking on grit, gravel, sand and mud all while maintaining a nimble and flexible feel.

Despite the worthy performance of the tread, one issue did arise during the review process. As demonstrated by the picture, some of the multi-directional lugs are coated with a green rubber protective layer. It was this layer that demonstrated a tendency to chunk away from the outsole in small bits during more aggressive pursuits raising some concerns about long-term durability of the outsole. However after consultation with the Hi-Tec team, we are hopeful that this wear is due to the fact that our test pair of Total Terrains are a pre-production test sample.

Time is money. The lightweight and sturdy Hi-Tec Mids are designed to adhere to that mantra delivering top-performing trekking technology at a stellar price. If you’re looking for an agile hiker that will get you out and back with ease, the Total Terrain has one direct message for their future owners: “Stomp through mud and puddles and we will keep your feet dry. Scramble on a hot day, and we will keep your feet cool.” So keep your eye out because once these hikers hit the market, you’re going to want a pair.