Advnture Verdict
An affordable, lightweight supportive boot, the Karrimor Isla Mid Ladies Weathertite Walking Boot is slightly let down by its level of waterproofing. Good for dry weather wanders.
Pros
- +
Good grip
- +
Decent toe boxes
- +
Lightweight
Cons
- -
Not fully waterproof
- -
Need breaking in
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First impressions
Although the recommended retail price for a pair of Karrimor Isla Mid Ladies Weathertite Walking Boots is at the top of our budget bracket, you can find them considerably cheaper online, and for the amount you’re likely to pay for them, they’re not a bad boot.
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They’re a fair pick if you’re on a strict budget, and we would recommend them if you’re after a first pair of hiking boots and don’t plan on using them in especially foul weather.
• RRP: £100 (UK) / $140 (US)
• Weight (per boot): 350g / 12oz
• Materials: lightweight suede and mesh upper with water-resistant weathertite mesh, Phylon midsole, thick lugged Karrimor, Dynagrip rubber outsole
• Colors: Black / Grey
• Compatibility: A supportive choice for heading out in good weather
On the trail
Having tested the Karrimor Isla Mid Ladies Weathertite Walking Boots in wet weather, we wouldn’t describe them as waterproof – they’re only really water-resistant, and will put up with a light shower but won’t keep your socks dry long over soggy ground or in heavy rain. They’re also on the stiff side, and take a few wears to break in and to start to mould to your feet.
The upside to that stiffness is that the Islas feel supportive around the foot and the ankle, which is ideal if you tend to slide around and roll your ankles in wider-fitting boots. This is especially important if you’re planning on carrying a backpack over rough and technical terrain, as it will measurably help with balance and confidence.
The Islas are impressively lightweight – weighing in at just 350g per boot – which makes them feel light and springy underfoot all day. In fact, we haven’t reviewed many other boots that feel both supportive and lightweight, as the Islas do.
The other stand-out features when testing the Islas were the soles of the boot, which offer a good level of grip even on wet trails, and the reinforced rubber toecaps that protect the front of your feet on rocky ground. There’s also a low cut – or walking shoe – version of the Karrimor Isla Mid Ladies Weathertite Walking Boot available.
