Once you get past the mouthful of a name there's plenty in the Impulse Texapore 02+ Mid boot to catch the eye. It carries a waterproof, breathable membrane; the Vibram sole has defined lugs to potentially offer good grip on the trail and it weighs an appealing 690g per boot. Trekkers who prefer textile footwear to a full leather alternative could find much to please them here.
From a comfort point of view the Impulse boot is moderately impressive. The tongue, ankle cuff and upper lack the smooth and supple feel of a full leather boot, but there's still a good amount of support here and it's possible to put the Impulse on and forget about it in the manner of the best footwear. The inner cushioning isn't as cosseting as more expensive alternatives either, but that's reflected in the price.
The Vibram sole is impressive, and bears a good amount of toothy lugs - although we'd prefer a more pronounced heel brake for use on steep, grassy ground. However, for the primary purpose - which seems to be treks on rough ground in warmer climates - the Impulse is more than adequate.
The breathability is the big appeal, as the textile gaps in the upper suggest, and we found them pleasingly cooler to use than boots, which make more concessions to protection, durability or technical ability. Despite that the Impulse does carry a Texapore 02+ waterproof lining, which didn't seem to inhibit that breathability too badly, but did keep out moderate amounts of rain and groundwater too.
There's a good sized and impressively stiff toe box and a good reinforced heel, which offers some protection from pointy bits of terrain, while the lacing system is standard and effective.
In conclusion: While not a class leader for comfort or technical ability, if you're looking for a breathable boot that can tackle trails worldwide while keeping the weather off and your feet protected... then Jack Wolfskin's Impulse boot should prove a good investment.
