| A shoe inspired by nature: the hare, snow virtuoso. |
In the natural world, animals are naturally equipped to adapt to the conditions of their environment: feathers and fur trap air providing insulation from the cold or the heat, paws adapted for movement across diverse, demanding and changing terrains ... This is the hare, the real snow runner, giving us the inspiration for the design of your shoe: slender paws, protected and insulated from the cold and specific pads for quick movement and agility on the snow. |
| Can you be sure that your boots are warm enough for your winter hikes? |
We designed these shoes with a full-length gaiter to insulate you from the cold and the snow. How do we know it's effective? Because we tested it in the laboratory and in the field. We checked the temperature down to which it stays comfortable when you're stationary and when you're walking, as this varies a lot: -6°C when static and -15°C when moving. We also took into account how temperature is felt differently by men and women. |
| How do your boots protect you from outdoor conditions? |
Your boots are designed with a membrane to guarantee waterproofing and breathability. A membrane is a very fine component (5 to 25 micrometres) affixed to the inside of a fabric that prevents water from entering while allowing moisture to escape. The gaiter is also waterproof and covers the entire shoe, preventing snow from entering and insulating you from the cold. Your feet will be dry and remain warm. The sole also protects you from cold ground surfaces. |
| Breathable boots for optimal thermal comfort |
Thermal comfort is a balance between the warmth of the boots and its ability to let the foot breathe. Too much heat or not enough breathability means that damp accumulates and cold can set in. We have designed your shoes with your regular and at times intense activity in mind, with a membrane which prevents water ingress and lets damp out. |
| How can I be sure that my boots are 100% waterproof? |
We made sure that your boots are waterproof by conducting laboratory tests to simulate walking with the boots half submerged in water. We also conducted field tests to measure wear and ageing. During the waterproofing test, we test several levels of waterproofing: 2,000 flexes (approx. 4 km walk), 4,000 flexes (approx. 8 km walk) and 10,000 flexes. This model of shoe has been tested for up to 10,000 flexes, which is equivalent to 20 km of walking. |
| What is the difference between traction and grip? |
The traction of the boots depends on the number and shape of the studs. The grip is dependent on the materials of the sole and the tread pattern, like the tyres of your car. Traction optimises propulsion, prevents the boot from slipping backwards when going uphill and stabilises the boot.
Grip prevents the boot from slipping and skidding on smooth ground or in demanding conditions (rain, snow, ice) by giving the sole grip. |
| Which type of grip and traction does this boot provide? |
Equipped with SNOWCONTACT soles, your shoes are designed for optimal performance when it comes to grip and traction when snow hiking. The crampons (5 mm) are positioned to maximise propulsion on snowy terrain and to bring you power and agility, like the hare, who is known to be as clever and swift on snow. The surface and layout of the studs are designed to perfectly grip the layer of hard snow and evacuate excess water to avoid slipping. |
| How does the SNOWCONTACT technology used on the boot sole help me? |
SNOWCONTACT soles are made with a specific component and stud pattern that is designed to ensure the best possible grip and traction. SNOWCONTACT soles are more effective than traditional soles on snow. When walking on ice, the only way to ensure optimum safety is to add anti-slip grips to your boots. |
| Why is it important to be well supported in a hiking shoe? |
The support provided by your shoe is essential for your comfort when walking. Indeed, good support optimises your steps on hilly terrain (ascent and descent), prevents your foot from sliding in the shoe and reduces the occurrence of blisters. There is less loss in the transmission of your energy to the shoe and therefore less fatigue. This is especially important when you are snowshoeing. |
| Are my shoes suitable for snow hiking in snowshoes? |
We designed these shoes specifically for snow hiking. The shoe upper (mid-height type) and their anti-intrusion gaiters fully covering the shoe make it the best companion for snowshoeing. Waterproof and warm, you will be able to enjoy longer or faster hikes, thanks to their lightness, their ease of use, and the performance of their soles. The support and rigidity are quite suitable for walking with snowshoes. |
| Will your boots withstand regular use over the long-term? |
Our engineers conduct laboratory tests to ensure that the product fully complies with your satisfaction in use. Our verifications include the following elements: tearing eyelets and straps, gluing, toxicology, UV resistance, abrasion resistance of outsole and upper components, accelerated ageing. |
| How do you put on this high gaiter shoe more easily? |
To make it easier to put these boots on, we recommend that you completely unzip them, fold the gaiter all the way to the bottom to free up the little handle that helps you get the boots on.
Once it is freed up and you have unlaced the boots completely, your feet will go into the boots a lot easier. |
| How do I choose the right footwear for snow hiking? |
To gear up in the winter, we recommend you follow the following principles :
Warmth: warmth provided by a warm pair of socks (ideally containing a suitable percentage of wool)
Breathability: Choose the sock according to the intensity of the hike and make sure you wear a breathable model to minimise moisture.
Boot height: adapt the height of the sock to the height of the upper and preferably choose high models if you want more protection. |
| How to preserve the technical qualities of my boots? |
A fabric's water repellent property is its capacity to make water run off its surface without seeping in. As a result, the fabric does not soak up water & stays light, breathable & warm. The water repellent property is achieved by treating the fabric's exterior. This treatment needs to be renewed during the lifetime of the garment. Products (spray or liquid) for this purpose are available in our stores. |
| How to dry the inside of your shoe. |
Shoes can become heavy while they’re being worn in the wet (condensation and perspiration)
If your boots are very wet, we advise you to remove the insole, fill the upper with balls of newspaper and change them regularly. The paper will soak up the moisture and speed up the drying process.
Never place your shoes too close to a heat source but leave them in a warm, dry and ventilated place. |
