These classic leather walking shoes from Craghoppers offer lightweight walking comfort and stability from a mix of supple full grain leather in the upper and a lightweight EVA midsole. Despite being leather and looking achingly middle-aged, the Lite shoes are in fact quite lively and agile underfoot. There’s energy return from the sole and a good balance between trail feel and cushioning.
Being equipped with a Vibram outsole, grip is excellent and the heel brake and climbing zone help with ascents and descents.
The fit is neither too narrow nor too wide, so the Lite shoes will fit a wide range of foot shapes. Once the leather loosens up enough to cinch the laces in tight, you're unlikely to experience blister-inducing heel slip.
Baked in Nosilife protects from biting critters, a rare but useful addition in a pair of shoes likely to see plenty of undergrowth. There’s also Craghoppers own Aquadry waterproof membrane. This protects the feet from moisture by lining the shoe with waterproof, breathable material. The leather itself is, of course, a good first line of defense. Although not of the highest quality we have found the leather capable of taking a few knocks and abrasions without looking too sorry for itself.
Overall, a surprisingly decent pair of walking shoes that feel a lot more agile and lively than they look.
