Gear Review: Vasque Rift Hiking Boots

It's kind of amazing what a great sole can do. Take Vasque's Rift hiking boots for example: besides the gorgeous color combo (chocolate brown and sky blue, you steal my heart), they have Vibram soles. Vibram soles, ladies! That means they stick, grip, stay put, don't slide—however you want to say it, they provide the best traction out there for an approach shoe.

The other parts of the shoe are pretty darn reliable, too. The leather upper isn't totally waterproof, but it more than protects socks in wetter conditions, and it's pliable enough that you won't need to spend weeks breaking them in. Did I mention the color combo? Oh yeah, but it's worth talking about again...these babies look good with everything.

These shoes are my new go-to for regular hikes and climbing approaches that are too tough for my FiveFingers. Try the sticky grip for yourself at vasque.com.