The Asolo Powermatic 200 GVs are a flash-free zone. There’s no fancy colours, no integrated liners or innovative honeycomb constructions here – just a traditional leather hiking boot designed to deliver and built to last. Pulling on the Powermatics is a bit like taking a step back in time to a pre-‘fast and light’ age where reliability and durability were more of a priority than speed and bright colours.
The Italian heritage of Asolo means you can rely on the construction of the Powermatics to be top-drawer. Well thought out and innovative where they need to be, the full grain leather Powermatics may look old-school but they pack a decent punch when it comes to features. The outsole is made up of different PU densities to deliver stability and absorb shock where it’s needed most and the micro pulley lacing system ensures a comfortable and precise fit. The Powermatic last is definitely on the wide side though so if you’ve got narrow feet, you might need to look elsewhere.
A winter walking boot needs to be able to withstand the weather and the GORE TEX membrane liner delivers waterproof protection, ensuring your feet stay warm and dry on cold wet days. Whilst the Powermatics are just about stiff enough to wear with a strap-on crampon, you’ll need a more mountaineering specific boot if you’re hoping to travel regularly in seriously steep icy and snowy terrain.
Ideal for long distance backpacking and cold, wet rambles in the UK hills, the Powermatics will appeal to traditional hikers looking for a warm boot to withstand the elements. It is worth bearing in mind that the downside of a solid boot like this is that it will require a bit of a longer breaking in period than other more modern, flexible boots.
