Our verdict
Being a lightweight, comfortable, and waterproof pair, the X Ultra 4 Mid GTX positively won the liking of outdoorsmen, both experts and newbies. The boot may not be as rugged as its heavier counterparts, but it makes for a solid option if you are after a nimble all-arounder.
Pros
- Asolo Falcon GV
- Durability is not X Ultra 4 Mid GTXs forte
- Very lightweight
- Adequate ankle support
- Effective waterproofing
- Good traction
- Sharp-looking
Cons
- Lacks durability
- Lacks grip on loose terrain
- Thin laces
Who should buy X Ultra 4 Mid GTX
The Falcon GV boot from Asolo is a suitable option for hikers looking for the following:
- a boot for moderate day hiking and backpacking where you dont need a lot of support
- a boot for moderate day hiking and backpacking where you don't need a lot of support
Who should NOT buy the boot
If you do need a more protective boot with aggressive traction, consider the following options from Salomon: X Ultra 4 Mid GTX and Quest 4 GTX. Another highly rated boot with similar characteristics as the Falcon GV but a more durable build is the Top 18% in.
From the box to the trails with no blisters
A vast majority of reviewers had the pleasure of hiking in the X Ultra 4 Mid GTX straight from the box. The fact that it requires no breaking in and feels at home from day one is one of the boot's major highlights.
It also runs true to size and fits medium-width feet like a dream.
Lacks grip on loose terrain
"Super tiny," "break way too easily," "too skinny for a hiking shoe," "round and very narrow," - this is how many hikers describe the laces used on the Falcon GV. This is unfortunate given that it is harder to cinch them tightly and is especially difficult if you are wearing gloves. Some also mentioned that the laces get untied unless you use a double knot.
X Ultra 4 Mid GTX is blissfully comfortable
In the words of an expert, this boot is “extraordinarily cozy.” A lot of reviewers subscribe to this claiming that it is one of the most comfortable hiking boots they've ever had the pleasure to wear. "Akin to giving your feet a pair of clouds to walk on," says one of them.
Weares said that the Falcon GV is well-padded around the foot and ankle, and just as well-cushioned underfoot. That way, it helps your feet feel less fatigued and sore at the end of the hike.
Impressively light for what it's got
One of the first comments that the reviewers gave about the Falcon GV referred to its amazingly light build. Tipping the scales at 490 g, it is 12% lighter than hiking boots on average (558 g). This boot has been described by wearers to be very nimble and much lighter than anticipated.
Top 18% in
With its lightweight design and soft suede/nylon upper, this Asolo boot is not the most supportive one on the market. As one reviewer well describes it, "ankle support seems like just enough."
On the downside, some people find it underwhelming for their needs. "I roll my ankle in these more than any other hiking boot," complains one of them.
Top-notch waterproofing from Gore-Tex
Hikers are pleased with the waterproofing capacity of this hiking boot. They say that it is effective in keeping their feet dry and warm even when going through heavy mud and stream crossings. At the same time, the membrane allows for a bit of ventilation too to prevent your feet from suffocating.
One tester went as far as submerging his feet into an alpine stream for 10 minutes. He was astonished to find out that the Falcon GV gave no signs of leakage.
The grip is just fine
The Vibram Megagrip compound used in the outsole of this Asolo boot performs well on hard-packed trails, slabby rocks, and snow. However, it is not the best companion on loose and icy terrain because of the shallow nature of its lugs. More than a few hikers agree that you need a much toothier tread pattern than what the Falcon GV provides.
One really cool feature of this boot's outsole is that it is proven to be "self-cleaning." Based on the wearers' feedback, it doesn't hold mud and quickly releases stuck pieces of it as you walk.
Durability is not X Ultra 4 Mid GTX's forte
Despite some positive feedback that this boot is capable of lasting beyond 100 miles, the majority of reviewers were disappointed in its quality, especially for the high asking price.
The biggest gripe concerned the hollow treading which gets worn too fast, decreasing the boot's traction. The rest of the complaints were more individual: sole separating from the upper, toe bumper crumbling, failed stitching, etc.
Overall, the wearers agreed that the boot doesn't live up to its sturdier counterparts from Asolo.
