Our verdict
Perhaps during their creation of the Ranger III GTX, Lowa engineers put special emphasis on performance on multiple fronts. Fortunately, This superb footwear also Hikers need protection from wet elements and ankle support. One thing about the boot that might irk some patrons, however, is its unamusingly plain default insole. Overall, the Lowa Ranger III GTX marches proudly with its synergy of fine qualities.
Pros
- Outstanding ankle support
- Relentless waterproofing
- Good investment
- Impressive surface traction
- Exceptional lockdown security
Cons
- Insole lacks performance
- Heavy
- Narrow
Who should buy Lowa Ranger III GTX
The backpacking boot is part of the Ranger line that feature a classic look. If you don't mind its steep pricing, we highly recommend it when:
- You prefer a full-leather boot.
- Hikers need protection from wet elements
- You're going on multi-day adventures
- Insole lacks performance
Updates to the Lowa Ranger III GTX
- Compared with the Ranger II GTX, the third-generation Ranger GTX has a slightly slimmer profile, especially around the shaft. That said, this latest Lowa offering is heavier than the previous model.
- The boot provides stability and underfoot cushioning thanks to its DuraPU midsole with SBS System. It comes with a stabilizer at medium rigidity for additional balance support.
- This version is still equipped with a Vibram outsole. This time, however, it is one Vibram Natural instead of its older sibling’s Vibram AppTrail.
- Making a welcome return from the old model is the boot’s iconic tongue stud (called X-Lacing system in this version). Its function of securing the tongue in deal remains the same as seen in the Ranger II GTX.
Top 9% in
The Lowa Ranger III GTX can help backpackers conquer virtually all sorts of terrain with its grippy Vibram Natural outsole. This trekking-specific, resolable component (meaning, the sole is replaceable), aside from its multi-directional lugs, features aggressively grooved heel and forefoot zones for extra ascent and descent control. In addition to traction, this proprietary outsole also doubles as the boot’s toe bumper.
Lowa Ranger III GTX's cushioning is amazing for supinators and pronators
The Ranger III GTX’s DuraPU midsole helps maintain the user’s balance with as much cushioning as possible. It is engineered with the SPS System—a technology that sees TPU inserts installed at key points for supination and pronation support.
Boosting comfort for the user is the Lowa-exclusive Climate Control footbed. It can be trimmed to better suit the user’s cushioning needs.
Robust upper
Lowa’s Ranger III GTX largely owes its tough looks and durability to its waxed nubuck leather upper. It has a 360-degree rubber rand at its base for scuff and abrasion protection.
Its main liner features a Gore-Tex membrane for waterproofing. Its main defense against intrusive debris, on the other hand, is thanks to its gusseted (C4) tongue.
Lowa Ranger III GTX's secure lace-up
A fairly straightforward classic lacing system completes the boot’s upper. It consists of synthetic laces, open hooks, roller eyelets, and the X-Lacing system—the tongue’s stud.
