Hi-Tec Altitude Ultra Ion-Mask Walking BootsOver a number of weekends throughout August, September and October, I headed off to the peak district with my boyfriend, I wore the ladies Altitude Ion-Mask hiking boots and he wore the men’s hiking boots.
Prior to my trip, I had read a review of these boots written by Graham Thompson for Trail Magazine so I was interested to compare notes.
I’ll give you a brief outline of his review for those of you not wanting to read the whole article and then I’ll give my comments.

Graham’s review:

•    The Ion-Mask waterproofing treatment is more environmentally friendly then traditional waterproofing for walking or hiking boots, in addition, it does not change the look of the hiking boot or restrict design in anyway. The Ion-Mask treatment permanently changes the surface structure of the boot material to repel water. This is done at a molecular level, so to the naked eye, the boot looks the same as any other, the differences can only be seen under a microscope.

My Comments:

•    "These boots are very aesthetically pleasing; I really like the look of them."

Graham’s review:

•    A very lightweight and flexible hiking boot with a low ankle cuff. The design was great for valley walks and moorland, but not the best for very rocky terrain; the toe box is a little too soft and the sole is not stiff enough to cushion against jagged rocks.

My Comments:

•    "With this in mind, I tried some particularly rocky terrain. Personally, I think the level of flexibility given by these hiking boots is fantastic for this and although I could feel the rocks below my feet, I would not describe this as discomfort. I’d choose flexibility over a thick and stiff sole any day!"

Graham’s review:

•    Graham reported these boots started to leak after a couple of weeks of daily use, however, he was using early production samples which have now been improved. Leakage was reported at the base of the tongue. Hi Tec have said that returns for this walking boot were only 0.2%, so he could have been unlucky.

My Comments:

•    "I’ve not experienced any leakage with the boots and have indeed tried to cause them to leak, so I guess any initial problems have now been ironed out."

Grahams review stated the price as £90.00, however you can pick these mens hiking boots up from Outdoor Look for £79.99.