Vasque Kincaid
By Kelly Chamberlain

The Kincaid boot is described by Vasque as, "…perfect for the situation that requires added support and protection in rugged terrain." I'd add hiking in wet situations to that description. The Kincaid is part of Vasque's Sport Boot line, a set of boots that feature a 10" high all-leather upper. This extended upper gives the Kincaid its extra support and waterproofness. I have used this boot extensively in the winter and fall months, and have found that it has met all of my expectations.

In the winter months, the Kincaid works extremely well to keep your feet comfortable and dry. The Thinsulate™ insulation provides extra warmth, but still enables your foot to breathe. Despite the warmth provided by the insulation, I have found that during most of the year I have had no problems with this boot being too warm. I use my Kincaids on most of my snowshoeing trips. It is not overly bulky, and the high uppers keep the snow from coming in while strapping on gaiters or other accessories.

For the warmer months, the Kincaid works great if your trip includes trails with a lot of streams or rivers. Because the boot is so tall, you are able to walk through water that you might have had to jump over with a shorter, less water-resistant boot. Vasque created a tall version of the Gore-Tex stormsock for this line of sport boots, making the Kincaid waterproof up to the top of the gussets. In my testing, I found that the stormsock works. On some trips the exterior of these boots have appeared "soaked" for three days, but my feet stayed dry and comfortable. Even with the water level up to the top of the Kincaid, water stays out. However, if you ever get water inside the boot, you need to use a drying rack. This boot will stay wet for days once you get water inside of it!

I was very happy with the break in period on this boot. While some boots take up to a year to properly break in, this boot is a joy. After just two weeks, the Kincaid felt great. It laces up very easily, and you can really cinch it down when you need to. I love the support the Kincaid offers, especially when scrambling through loose, bouldery approaches. The full leather uppers really protect your ankles and lower legs from bruises and scratches.

I was impressed with the Kincaid's Skywalk tread. It has a unique design that provides traction both when ascending and descending. You'll appreciate the benefit of this sole quickly when you are trying to maneuver through loose rock.

Summary:
The Vasque Kincaid is a great boot for more rugged terrain or wet conditions. With it's Gore-Tex Stormsock inner bootie and Thinsulate™ insulation, this boot makes an outstanding addition for your winter and fall outdoor activities. The Kincaid is not an inexpensive boot at $269, but the price is reasonable considering the extra leather and high Gore-Tex lining.

Specs:
Retail Price: $269
Dark Brown 2.8 mm Smoothout Crocetta Leather
Tall Gore-Tex Stormsock Construction
BQ-400 Thinsulate™ Ultra Insulation
Super Hiker Trekking Outsole
Men's Sizes: Medium 7-14: Wide 8-12
Weight: 3lb. 10oz.

Kelly Chamberlain is a new contributor to GearReview.com. Kelly specializes in winter outdoor activites.

For more information, contact:
Vasque
314 Main St.
Red Wing, MN 55066
(800)224-4453