Asolo Drifter GV Vs Fugitive GTX
Welcome to the latest boot review from Skyliners! Today’s hot debate is all about Asolo hiking boots. Is one better than the other?
If you’ve decided to purchase a pair of high-quality, heavy-duty hiking boots from Asolo, you’ve likely narrowed down your options to the Drifter GV Hiking Book and the Fugitive Gtx Hiking Boot.
Both of these boots are excellent products, and it’s hard to see much difference from the online listings. However, there are some subtle differences between the designs of these boots that can make a major difference for your feet. Wondering which boot is the best? Read on to learn which Asolo boot you should buy!
Product | Fit | Weight | Sole | Outsole | Features |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
#1. Drifter GV Our Best Pick Check Price | Medium to Large | 610 grams | Molded EVA midsole | Vibram | Heel brake, rubber toe |
#2. Fugitive GTX Check Price | Narrow | 690 grams | Special insole | AsoloSyncro | Rubber toe |
Asolo Men’s Drifter GV Hiking Boot Video Review
Asolo Men’s Fugitive Gtx Hiking Boots Video Review
Fit
Let’s start with the most important difference between the Drifter and the Fugitive. Your decision about which boot to buy will ultimately come down to the fit.
The Drifter fits exactly how you’d expect a hiking boot to fit. If anything, it’s a bit big. However, you can probably order your usual show size and not expect any problems.
The Fugitive, on the other hand, is very narrow. The heel is especially narrow, with a toe box that is a bit wider. However, if your feet are not very narrow, you’ll want to order a wide or even double-wide version of this boot for comfort’s sake.
>>Click Here For Salomon Quest 4D GTX Review<<
Weight
Both the Drifter and the Fugitive are designed to be as lightweight as possible while also being extremely durable.
Neither of these boots is going to feel as light as your jogging Nikes, but they’re a pretty decent weight for long hikes. The Fugitive is slightly heavier than the Drifter, but not by much.
Sole
Another difference between the Drifter and the Fugitive is the sole. Molded EVA midsole of the Drifter offers both cushion and structure. It’s light as well as sturdy. It has good durability, but it is also comfortable and designed to mold to your feet.
The outsole of the Drifter is Vibram. It has great traction and will last for a long time. The outsole also features an ‘Aso brake system’. This sounds like something you might find on a sports car, but it’s actually a simple yet ingenious sole technology.
The brake system is a unique heel design that keeps you sturdy while climbing both up and down hill. Nobody has an excuse for falling off a mountain while wearing Drifters!
Another great thing about the sole is that it is replaceable. You’ll inevitably wear down the sole after years of use, but that doesn’t meet you have to chuck the whole boot.
The Fugitive is somewhat similar, but the midsole is firmer and the lug, or traction, of the outer sole is lower. It won’t be as comfortable for long hikes or give you quite as much grip as the Drifter.
Additionally, the insole is specially-formed for this particular shoe. You might not be able to fit your favorite insole replacements in there. If you do manage to add an insole for cushion and support, however, it does make the shoe more comfortable.
Outer Material/ Lining
Both the Drifter and the Fugitive have outer material made of suede and nylon. They also both have a Gore-Tex lining. The Gore-Tex goes all the way to the second eyelet, so your ankle is entirely covered. Thanks to these materials, the shoes are totally weatherproof. You can literally wade across a stream and stay dry!
On the Drifter, the suede and nylon outer is comfortable and durable, but not stiff. You don’t have to worry about breaking in these bad boys. They come ready to wear!
The Fugitve boots aren’t as easy to wear right out of the box. They are stiffer and have a closer fit, so you will want to slowly break them in. If you try to hike the Andes on the first day you wear them, you’ll end up with some nasty blisters. Go slow, though, and you’ll have a comfortable pair of hiking boots within a month or so.
Features
One awesome feature of both Asolo boots is the rubber toe cap. This protects your toes from rocks and other painful objects you might come across while hiking. Although the toe cover has been known to come unglued, it’s a great way to add some comfort and safety to your treks.
One advantage of the Fugitive is the Nubuck overlay on the sides of the boot. This extends from the toe cover to the heel and adds extra durability. It also has a great look!
Cost
The cost of the Drifter and Fugitive are comparable to similar quality hiking boots on the market. They are within the same general price range of each other, although the Fugitive is more expensive.
>>Check Asolo Fugitive GTX Vs Salomon Quest 4D GTX
Verdict
While both the Drifter GV and the Fugitive Gtx are good hiking boots, there is a clear winner. The Drifter is a better boot and has better value.
For one thing, the fit is better. Unless you have very narrow feet, you’ll definitely want to go for the Drifter. The Fugitive is too narrow.
Secondly, the Drifter has more features. The midsole is better, the insole is more comfortable, and there is a break system. They also come with little break-in time, while the Fugitive requires a lot of time to break in.
Lastly, the price really seals the deal. Although the Drifter has clear advantages, the Fugitive is more expensive.
If you want to get a good long-lasting and comfortable boot from Asolo, go for the Drifter GV.