Lowa MK2 GTX Combat Boots - Black

I've been using these shoes for 7–8 months – they are comfortable and waterproof, but the inside wears out quite quickly: the brown layer has rubbed off and I worry that soon they might start leaking (although I haven’t noticed it yet). I received them with a broken elastic tab on the upper, but treated it as a minor issue. The rubber toe guard started to come unglued after 2 months, but at the moment it’s only slightly torn. On the positive side: comfort, durable waterproofness, no problems on long hikes in heat (33°C) or cold (0°C) – depending on socks. Even after long marches in the mountains, I had no blisters or chafing, and the sole grips well on wet trails. On ice – like other boots, they can be slippery. Overall, I recommend them, but with intensive use, after a few months, they already look very worn – I rate them 4 stars for that.

I bought the Lowa Combat Boot MK2 GTX a year and a half ago and with almost daily use in the field, they perform excellently. After a few months I bought a second pair and alternate them to help them dry out better. They are among the best boots for rainy and cold weather (autumn–winter–spring), but they also do well in summer if it’s not too hot. Based on my military service, I know that boots for cold and wet conditions must meet specific requirements – and these do: smooth leather, which increases waterproofness and makes cleaning easier; breathable Gore-Tex membrane for dryness; the 8-inch height keeps out dirt; metal eyelets are more durable; toe protection; good grip; comfortable, soft sole; minimal seams. I recommend going half or a full size up in winter to allow for thicker merino wool socks. Personally, I prefer boots without insulation, as they dry much faster – you can just change socks. Insulated boots take longer to dry and can absorb odour. In general – very solid and comfortable boots for tough conditions.

Tested in the field: in the forest, mud, snow, and marsh – they're light, comfortable, and waterproof. In winter, especially with thick socks, my feet don't get cold. They look good, and cleaning them isn’t too troublesome.

The boots were tested in the field – in forests, mud, snow, and marshes. They are light, very comfortable, and most importantly – waterproof. In winter, with the right socks, I didn’t feel cold. They look good and are fairly easy to clean.

I bought the Lowa Combat Boot MK2 GTX a year and a half ago, and since then they've performed excellently with intensive use in the field. After a few months, I bought another pair, so I could alternate between them – this allows both pairs to dry better. They're among the best boots for bad weather – ideal for autumn, winter, and spring, and they cope in summer as long as it’s not too hot. During my service I noticed that boots for cold and wet conditions have to meet certain features – and these have them exactly: smooth leather that doesn’t soak up water and is easy to keep clean; waterproof, breathable membrane; high upper (8 inches) that prevents debris getting inside; metal eyelets that are more durable than plastic and allow quick lacing; toe protection; non-slip sole; comfort and few seams. Additionally, for winter I recommend choosing boots half or a full size larger to fit thick socks. Personally, I prefer models without insulation – it's easier to dry both the boots and the socks, which is invaluable in the field.

Great, very stiff boots – I'm very happy with them. They performed brilliantly during a mountain trip, but I recommend breaking them in a bit first.

Durable footwear made from high-quality leather. I've had them for about a year and nothing has happened to them. My feet don’t sweat even on hot days. They're fairly stiff. The lacing system works brilliantly. The sole is quite hard, so it’s worth getting soft insoles, as the factory ones are hard.

Great boots; I use them in the Territorial Defence Forces instead of the standard-issue ones, because they don’t let water in and are much more comfortable (although the new issue boots can also be good, it really depends on the shape of your foot). All in all, they're a considerable expense, but really worth it – I recommend them.

After 7 months of use I have to say these boots are outstanding. Whether it's minus 12 or plus 10 degrees, it makes no difference to them. I’ve tested them in mountains, forests, and even in water – they cope brilliantly. The leather is very abrasion-resistant, and the laces are extremely durable – even after getting wet or dirty, they look almost like new. After 28 hours of wear, my feet are still in excellent condition. Marching 15 km in the mountains is no problem, and they're also ideal for winter and spring camping. I highly recommend them to all outdoor enthusiasts.

The boots are very comfortable, although they seem heavier than they actually are. The sole performs excellently. I recommend not going on long hikes straight away before breaking the boots in. I have wide feet and during the first hour-and-a-half walk I felt like my foot was falling off, but after breaking them in, they are very comfortable. Just make sure to lace up carefully.

The first pair was very weak—I rate it at 3–4 category. The boots are generally comfortable, but require proper fitting and lacing according to your needs. I don't know how they will perform after longer wear. The Zephir LoWa model wore out quickly, even though I didn't use them in harsh conditions. My trust in the Lowa company is decreasing, and the shop could do a better job of quality-checking the products sent out. If these boots don't work out, I won't give Lowa a third chance.

I expected these would be heavy and clunky boots, visually similar to old government issue models. However, the comfort of using these combat boots pleasantly surprised me. Cleaning them is quick and hassle-free. On cold days, combined with good merino socks, they perform brilliantly.

I've had the Lowa Combat Boot MK2 GTX for about a year, and they've performed excellently during intensive use in the field. After a few months, I bought another identical pair to rotate – I switch them daily so they can dry out better. I consider them among the best boots for rain and colder days (autumn-winter-spring), and also for moderate summer. Based on my experience in the military, I know boots for wet and cold weather should meet certain criteria – and these boots fulfil them: full grain leather copes better with moisture (easier to clean, doesn't absorb water like nubuck or suede); Gore-Tex membrane offers good water protection and breathability; 8-inch high upper provides effective protection against mud and snow; metal eyelets are more durable than fabric ones and don't tear; reinforced toe increases safety; the sole doesn't slip, even on snow and wet stones; the soft and comfortable sole gives great comfort; and fewer seams reduce the risk of damage. I recommend choosing a size up for winter so you can fit thick socks. Personally, I prefer boots without insulation because they dry faster and don't pick up odours. In winter you can buy winter insoles to add warmth.

I bought the Lowa Combat Boot MK2 GTX - Dark Brown about a year ago. They have performed very well during almost daily use in the field. After a few months, I bought a second pair to alternate. I regularly rotate the shoes to help them dry better. I consider them to be among the best boots for rainy and cold weather (autumn, winter, spring), but they're also suitable for mild summer. After several years of military service, I know that boots for wet and cold conditions must meet specific requirements – and this model does.

These are the best boots I've ever had – after the first pair I immediately ordered a second. I rate the quality, comfort, and durability very highly. Even kicking a car window didn’t leave a single scratch on either the rubber or the leather!