Nike Air Takao Mid GTX

Picked it up in a Nike Factory Outlet when I was looking to replace my old Hi-Tec Eco Challenge lightweight hiking shoe.

First impressions were that the shoe fits nicely (although this is pure subjective of course), it is water resistant due to the Gore-Tex lining, and looks nice. Not too flashy, but sporty enough.

I often use this boot for short hiking, city trips, but also for everyday walks (I kind of walk everything if it can be walked within a 30 minutes time-frame ;-)

The grip on outdoor paths, sand/grass/mud is good, but grip on slippery rocks is lacking. Before you know it you'll be waving your arms, hoping to regain your balance. Or fall flat on your face if you're unlucky. You have been warned.

Another thing I noticed, is that the soles are wearing out quickly. I have this pair for about 3 weeks, in which I have walked approx. 30 km on outdoor paths, and 20 km on regular pavement. I already notice wearing patterns on the sole which kind of puzzles me, since this would be a hiking shoe, and especially the lightweight shoes should endure regular tracks well. Why did my Hi-Tec's last for 6 years (everything wore out except the soles!) while I doubt whether this shoes will last this season. Strange, especially when I have another Nike ACG with an All-Trac sole, which lasts almost 2 years now.

Anyway, when you're an occasional hiker, use this shoe just for outdoor use, and are on a budget, this might be the one for you. I would not recommend this when you want to use it as an all-round all-day shoe, because you'll better save up for a replacement..

But its price, looks, comfort and gore-tex lining are good selling points. I doubt if one could find a similar shoe for the same money (I couldn't!). Therefore I will give it a ****, despite my concerns about how long it will last.

I have used these shoes for trips up and down the AT, and I will probably leave my Lowa Kibo boots in the closet for all but the most demanding trips.

The boots are Gore-tex lined, there is rubber around the toe and leather covering abrasion prone spots. Laces stay tied, and the shank in the boots makes them good for resisting ankle turns. Hiking the pointless ups and downs of Virginia did not leave any hot spots on my feet, and the lacing was firm enough to keep my toes from hitting the end on downhills.

I personally love them, and will buy another pair. For $70, and how happy I am with them, why not??

Disclaimer: I hike with < 40 lbs with them, I use trekking poles, and use gaitors if necessary.