Sometimes I forget the best gear investments are for your feet. Despite the fact I have top performance ski boots and fishing boots, I don’t always consider the value in a pair of everyday shoes, opting for slip-ons and flip flops as frequently as possible. The other hindrance to good footwear, is that often the most functional is not the most fashionable. There are few things more useful in a mountain town than a boot that checks both those boxes. Since I slipped on a pair of Forsake Patch boots in January, I have worn them almost every day since.
Forsake makes premium leather all-terrain boots, and the Forsake Patch is no exception. Except that instead of looking like a sturdy and purposeful boot, it’s the latest trend in winter footwear, a sneakerboot. A sneakerboot combines outdoor technology with urban styling, making them rugged and chic whether on muddy hiking trails or city streets.
The molded EVA outsole provides more traction and support than the regular sole of a sneaker. Forsake uses their patented Peak-to-Pavement™ traction which allows this boot to transition from urban adventures into the mountains, providing even footing on variable terrain. My first solid test was a tradeshow in the snow, where I was on my feet for 12 hours and moving from inside to out on icy pavement frequently. The supportive structure between the insole and outsole diminished the load on my feet and calves. And at the end of the day, while others rubbed their aching feet, I was perfectly comfortable in the Patch.
Not that there was copious snow to contend with this winter, but when the flakes stacked up the over-the-ankle cuff kept out the slush. The Patch also has a gusseted tongue. This is the material in the space between the lace eyelets and the tongue, keeping out any water and debris that should it make it to top of the foot. Whether trekking across town, or just scraping snow from the car, the Forsake’s stayed warm and dry and the uber grippy sole likely prevent more than a couple of falls on the ice.
As the seasons swap, and the temps rise the breathability and moisture-wicking mesh lining is key. While being waterproof, my feet didn’t get stuffy and to top it off there is an antimicrobial finish to keep them smelling fresh no matter how many miles you put in them.
Though the boot runs a little big for sizing (i.e. consider sizing down), I had no other complaints. From the concrete jungle of New York City to the cobblestones of Aspen, these boots fit stylishly into any setting I took them. And with mud season looming I am not worried about rain and mud, so bring on the puddles. The Forsake Patch is a modern take on the classic tyrolean lace-up, with all the technology of the outdoors and the style of the city. Comfortable and versatile, this rugged boot is ready to take on the world.
