SQUIRREL_13212924
Three Things To Know:
- £130 (at time of writing) - lightweight and comfortable for everyday and light trail walking
- Fully vegan and made with recycled materials - great for eco-conscious walkers
- Excellent grip on uneven surfaces - but breathability could be better on warmer days
Our Rating:
Comfort, Fit and Stability
Materials, Quality and Durability
Flexibility and Weight
Grip and Traction
Comfort, Fit and Stability
I regularly took the Berghaus Revolute Active walking shoes for long hikes around Leigh Woods in Bristol, where the terrain varies between rocky path, hilly woodland and flat field. The shoes were comfortable from the first use, without the need for any breaking in, flexible and lightweight.
The shoes are built on a trail shoe foundation and the fit is good. The Ortholite footbed provides decent cushioning and comfort, however I could feel the ground on the balls of my feet slightly on uneven surfaces. The Berghaus OPTI-STUD Vibram Eco-Trek outsole ensured grip and security underfoot during the walk. The shoes are also made using a female specific last, or template, meaning they are made with the feminine foot in mind.
Materials, Quality and Durability
The shoes are made from 100% synthetic materials, making them vegan friendly, and the uppers are made of recycled polyester and bio-based Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) derived from sugarcane. With very few seams, the shoes feel as though they will resist common wear and tear well, and while the waterproofing layer might peel, they feel like they’ll be able to withstand many light walks. I did notice that the stitching on the right shoe, at the base of the laces, was already showing signs of wear, however, Berghaus offers unlimited free repairs on their walking shoes, you only need to pay for the postage.
Flexibility and Weight
These are lightweight walking shoes, weighing in at approximately 324g per shoe, offering a light and flexible walking option without compromising on stability and support.
Grip and Traction
The OPTI-STUD Vibram ECO-STEP outsole provides good grip over rocky surfaces and the shoes performed well walking up and down gravely hills. These shoes wouldn’t be suitable for rough terrain or scrambling, but for forest trails, damp grass, and muddy flat surfaces the Berghaus Revolute Active Shoe would be a good choice.
Waterproofing and Weather Resistance
I tested these shoes in a couple light puddles and the waterproofing held up well, and my feet stayed fully dry. They’re equipped with a bio-based AQ membrane which remains breathable while waterproof, however, my feet did become quite hot during hotter walks, so the breathability could be improved.
Value for Money
£130 is towards the more expensive end for good women’s walking shoes. But you are getting significant comfort, sustainability and technology such as Vibram outsoles and an Ortholite footbed, which makes these shoes versatile and effective.
Sustainability
The shoes are fully vegan and made from 100% materials without any animal-based products.
Should You Buy It?
These shoes offer high levels of comfort for every day wear, light walks in the rain, and would be a good choice for those wanting superior support on uneven surfaces.
SQUIRREL_13212924
Find more in our guide to the best walking shoes.
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