Our verdict

67
Bad!

Adventures across treacherous terrain warrant something unshakeable—something like the Explorer II GTX Mid from Lowa. Straight out of the box, this beefy backpacking boot offers stupendous comfort and an amount of adhesion that sticks to practically whatever surface you land on. And as far as weight goes, the Explorer II GTX Mid undercuts most of its kind, which is simply astounding!

Pros

  • Massively comfy
  • Breaks in instantly
  • Not for narrow heels
  • Mighty grippy
  • Gives remarkable balance
  • Supportive collar
  • Exceptional craftsmanship
  • Fences out debris

Cons

  • Its footbed lacks support
  • Not for narrow heels

Who should buy the Lowa Explorer II GTX Mid

An intimidating pack hiker with a fluffy core is the Lowa Explorer II GTX Mid. Purchase it if:

  • You're a conscious adventurer when it comes to gear weight.
  • Detailed finish in every pair.
  • Backpacking boots that loosen up after a couple of uses are what you're after.

Lowa Explorer II GTX Mid buy

Same brand only

With zero complaints about its footbed, the Explore in pure comfort is for you. Also, you're better off getting the Quest 4D 3 GTX from Salomon if a snugger heel-to-toe fit is what you're after.

Lowa Explorer II GTX Mid noa

An ill-fitting kick around the heel

Total day-one pampering is yours in the Lowa Explorer II GTX Mid. A seasoned trail-goer says, "I have never had shoes/boots this comfortable before." Another one says that it provides "unparalleled comfort linked to the brand."

Lowa Explorer II GTX Mid comf

Among the lightest backpacking boots

Many trekkers are very impressed with the Explorer II GTX Mid lightness. Their observation is backed by data, too, as the featured boot is 87 grams lighter than the average weight of backpacking boots.

Lowa Explorer II GTX Mid light

True tenacity in the Lowa Explorer II GTX Mid

Based on reviews, the featured trekking boot gives incredible footing control on shifting terrain. The comments "excellent tread" and "The grip is phenomenal" support this statement.

Lowa Explorer II GTX Mid grip

Stable explorations for you

One of the things that make the Explorer II GTX Mid's a compelling kick is its ability to sustain balance on rugged terrain. A Lowa fan says that it delivers "great foot stability."

Lowa Explorer II GTX Mid stab

Explorer II GTX Mid: A curious case support-wise

When it comes to ankle support, backpackers adore the Lowa Explorer II GTX Mid. One of them says that it gives "awesome support."

That said, there are those who find the boot's stock footbed too flat and plain. One of them says, "You will likely need to replace the insole with something more supportive." Another reviewer is more blunt about it, saying that it's "essentially a piece of cardboard."

Lowa Explorer II GTX Mid supp

Lowa Explorer II GTX Mid

The Lowa Explorer II GTX Mid is a showcase of great workmanship, and commenters agree. An experienced trail-goer among them says that it comes with "no material or structural defects."

Not a thing gets inside it

Not only is the Lowa Explorer II GTX Mid fully waterproof, but it is also debris-preventive. An experienced backcountry explorer says that the hiker in question "deters instances of vegetation burs & thorns."

An ill-fitting kick around the heel

It's been reported that the Explorer II GTX Mid has a too-roomy rearfoot fit. A non-professional reviewer says that, in this area, it has a "bit too much slop."