Trail (UK)

Asolo Fugitive /Stynger GTX

£150 / 1618g (pair, size 11)

- www.asolo.com

toe box; less stitching than many synthetic designs; good sole stiffness; decent lugs

relatively heavy; not the most aggressive lugs; not the most durable upper

A popular boot for many years, thanks to its all-round performanc­e for the hillgoer. It has a synthetic textile upper with suede leather overlaps, a Gore-Tex waterproof lining and slightly less stitching than other fabric boots. The toe box is extremely well-protected by a stiff rubber toe cap. The outsole is stiffer than many at this price and has a reasonable set of lugs for grip. It’s a little heavy, though. 4/5

Men’s Fugitive sizes are 7-13½ and women’s Stynger sizes are 4-8½. The fit is slightly narrower than some but feels neat and precise on the foot. The toe box has good volume to allow wiggle room, and the ankle cuff is a good height for general walking and fits neatly. The tongue also fitted snugly without hard spots. 5/5

This is a little heavier than some and a little stiffer, so out of the box it does not offer the instant comfort of more flexible boots. But get this on the hill and it feels far better because it is more supportive, thanks to good stiffness in the sole and upper without firm spots. Notably, this feels far more comfortabl­e than most at this price on rockier ground. 5/5

I’ve liked this boot for many years for general hillwalkin­g in the Lakes, Snowdonia and Scotland, as for the price it offers good performanc­e. It is precise enough for scrambles, supportive enough for rocky walks and durable enough for regular use. The outsole is acceptable but I’d ideally like deeper and more well-spaced lugs, while a good-quality all-leather upper is likely to be more durable in the long term. 4/5

Compared to others at this price, this boot offers a more precise and functional design for general hillwalkin­g so it is good value. 4/5

A great all-round hill/mountain walking boot; but others offer benefits in terms of durability, weight 4.4/5 and grip on softer ground.

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