The Vasque Inhaler II GTX is boasted to be a lightweight waterproof hiking boot. I wasn’t convinced that a boot could be lightweight but the Inhaler II GTX proved me wrong.
Vasque Inhaler II GTX Features
- Megagrip sticky rubber compound
- 3D mesh panels for excellent breathability
- Low friction lacing
- GORE-TEX® with Extended Comfort Technology
- Vasque’s most breathable hiking boot
- WEIGHT : 1 lb. 14 oz. (860g)
- LAST : Equalizer
- UPPER : 1.6mm Waterproof Leather, Air Mesh
- FOOTBED : Dual Density EVA
- MIDSOLE : Molded EVA
- OUTSOLE : Vasque Exclusive Vibram® Pneumatic with Megagrip Compound
- MSRP: $159.99
Stable, Secure and Lightweight
As I was doing my preseason planning for my first elk hunt this fall I knew I was going to need a boot to handle the wear, tear, and heavy loads that a hunt would bring.
I haven’t worn a boot hiking for at least a decade. Long ago I converted the benefits of lightweight, nimble trail runners on all hikes and backpack trips. I preferred the flexibility, breathability, and lightweight of a trail run shoe.
When searching for a boot I wanted something lightweight, waterproof, yet breathable. The Vasque Inhaler II GTX fit the bill on all these requirements.
I was surprised to find that out of the box the break-in period was next to nothing. The boots were comfortable wearing and walking right away. So it would come as no surprise that the Inhaler’s are comfortable all day. I logged a handful of all day excursions with great results. Not hot spots, blisters, or foot fatigue.
The Inhaler boasts good support, especially under heavy loads. From 30 lbs of toddler and kid carrier to 60 pounds of game I had the support I needed.
So far durability has been strong. I’ve had the Inhaler’s out for days hiking with the kids, backpacking, and hunting and the boots have held up great. From scrambling through rock fields, hiking across sharp rocks, and a few missteps in cactus the uppers and soles have held up great. In sole you can see some impressions but they’ve held up well for the abuse they’ve been through.
My biggest gripe with GORE-TEX shoes is my feet usually overheat. I found the breathability to be good, even when hiking in 60+ degree temps.
The Good
- Comfortable, even right out of the box
- Durable uppers with proven Vibram outsoles
- Surprisingly-breathable
- Versatile design
The Bad
- Of course they can get toasty in really hot conditions
The Bottom Line: Vasque Inhaler II GTX Boots
These boots have swayed me from anti-boot to being a fan. If you’re looking for a comfortable, versatile, waterproof boot, these would be the way to go.
Buy Now: Available at REI
