Patagonia Boaris A/C Shoes Review

The whole pigskin theme with Patagonia’s line of skate-inspired casual shoes is hard to miss. The Snoutler and Boaris both feature pigskin and I’ve now had a chance to give the Boaris A/C (Air Conditioned) a whirl. With the A/C you get extra breathability, which is more than welcomed for my hot feet.

Patagonia Boaris A/C Shoes Features:

• Durable and abrasion resistant full grain leather upper; pigskin leather panels are stain resistant and perforated for breathability
• Durable nylon eyelets for abrasion resistance and leather eye row protection
• Trek-Dry® mesh lining wicks moisture and controls odor; POLI-CORK 70% recycled open cell foam footbed with carbon to neutralize odor and cork to move moisture naturally
• 2.5mm nylon 6.6 injection molded arch shank provides support under the arch and a natural flex at the ball of the foot; 100% recycled insole provides support and underfoot protection
• Patagonia Air Cushion Plus provides shock absorption
• Low Profile Vibram outsole provides ultimate traction with self cleaning lugs; stitched outsole construction provides durability while minimizing the use of solvents and adhesives
• Medium width, full toe box, medium arch/instep
• Colors: Sable Brown (tested), Gravel
• Weight: 425 g (15 oz) – pair
• MSRP: $115

Patagonia Boaris A/C Shoes Review

Patagonia makes a ton of great outdoor products but oftentimes their footwear gets overlooked. Over the years, I’ve tried a handful of their shoes and have been impressed with their unique designs and materials. The Boaris A/C has been on my radar since seeing them at Outdoor Retailer some time ago.

Offering casual skate-inspired styling with loads of perforated leather and pigskin trim for a natural feel and excellent breathability. On top of the natural materials, the rest of the shoe is constructed smartly with Air Cushion Plus midsole and a 70% recycled insole. After all is said and done, the entire package works well and though it does have skate-inspired looks, it doesn’t look or feel like a skate shoe.

Some shoes require minimal break-in — just slip them on and head out. These shoes, however, do require a short break-in period. At first, they weren’t nearly as comfortable as they are now. This is primarily due to the insoles as they do take a few wears to conform to your feet. I’ve worn these completely stock and have found them good for my super-flat feet. I do wish for just a little more overpronation support in the shoe’s design. Perhaps just an extra pigskin band that crosses the uppers in the middle of the arch?

Traction is great all-around with the low-profile Vibram outsoles. It’s always nice to get a name-brand outsole and these are offering excellent durability and traction in mixed terrain.

Overall, my favorite feature of these is the built-in A/C. The little ventilation holes really allow this shoe to breathe for all-day comfort. Omit the vents and these shoes would get downright toasty on warm days. As it stands, my feet feel just right.

The lacing system provides a quick, secure fit and the uppers overall really feel nice. I haven’t had any hot spots or any comfort issues to speak of. The only thing I’ll note is these do run small, so size up 1/2 at least. I think I would be best in a 10.5, as the 10’s feel a little snug in anything but ultrathin socks.

Good Boaris A/C

• Breathability superpowers for all-day comfort
• Vibram outsole provides excellent traction
• Once broken-in, these things are super-comfy
• Subtle, skate-inspired design

Bad Boaris A/C

• Bit of a break-in period (2-3 uses)
• Runs small

Bottom Line: Patagonia Boaris A/C Shoes

Looking for a good pair of casual shoes that can walk the line between kicking it with the bro’s and hanging in the office? The Boaris A/C just might do the trick. You’ll appreciate the subtle outdoorsy style and your feet will appreciate the all-day comfort with built-in A/C.

Buy Now: Visit Patagonia.com