It’s pretty hard to ignore the Haglöfs Grym Keprotec. Big, bulky and butch, this dark and slightly menacing looking hiking boot reminds us of Darth Vader and much like the Dark Lord, it has hidden sides.
For such a burly boot, the Grym Keprotec’s have an impressively low weight of just 845g per boot in a UK size 8. This will please anyone looking for a robust and durable hiking boot that won’t slow you down on the hill.
They may be lightweight but Haglöfs have gone heavy on innovation with the Grym Keprotecs. From the integrated RECCO searchable technology to the use of Kevlar in the protective Schoeller upper fabric, the Grym Keprotecs are clearly attempting to blaze a new trail when it comes to outdoor footwear technology.
It may all look good and sound very impressive but does this translate into winter performance out on the hill? With their high ankle cuff and significant forefoot flex, these boots are fantastic for long winter yomps. The high ankle cuff keeps snow on the outside of the boot and reduces the need for a gaiter, unless you anticipate encountering seriously deep snowdrifts.
The Vibram sole is grippy and stiff enough to cope with challenging terrain, but the Grym Keprotecs still offer a generally flexible and comfortable ride thanks to the EVA midsole and memory foam around the ankle. The GORE-TEX Performance Comfort liner ensures that feet are kept dry and warm when winter unleashes her wrath.
The Grym Keprotec is a butch of a boot so it comes as no surprise that it’s not designed for delicate feet. Whilst the integrated SOLE heat mouldable footbed will help customise fit to a degree, the high volume interior of the Grym Keprotecs will suit broad feet better.
Although they take a strap-on C1-style crampon, the Grym Keprotecs are not designed for serious alpine use, so don’t expect to be ice climbing in them this winter. Think log cabins in snowy Swedish forests and long frosty walks in the UK mountains and you’ve got it spot on. As long as your expectations are in line with the intended purpose of these boots, we defy anyone not to be impressed by the Grym Keprotec.
