REI, renowned purveyors of outdoor equipment, also have an ever-expanding in-house catalogue of gear. This year’s inaugural foray into the world of hiking boots saw two models, the lightweight and flexible Flash, and the heavier, more classically-minded Traverse.
The Flash represents the best of what we’ve seen in the lightweight category over the last several years, chimerically reassembled into an affordable and widely available boot.
The Flash isn’t for everyone, but based on it’s impressively low weight and unique “hybrid-runner” build approach, it’s certainly worth considering for anyone interested in shaving ounces off of their backpacking kit. As far as lighter hiking boots go, this is definitely one of the best.
If you’re impressed with the price, but feel like you need a boot with more bite, their Traverse keeps the same affordable attitude with a big uptick in support and durability.
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Reasons to buy:
-
Affordable and accessible- a great way to try out a lightweight boot -
Knit construction optimizes weight and out of the box comfort
-
At just over 1lb per shoe, it’s a competitively light alternative to a traditional boot
-
Reasonably water resistant despite the mesh build
Reasons NOT to buy:
The lightweight construction translates to durability issues in this case- Those interested in this boot may be better served by a pair of trail runners
- Lugs feel like a poor compromise between real boot traction and trail shoes
The lightweight construction translates to durability issues in this caseWhere to buy:
Specs & Features
- Knit polyester uppers with layered TPU reinforcement
- Hydrowall waterproofing
- Wide toe box for more natural stride and to accommodate foot swelling
- Nylon shanks for lightweight underfoot stability
- Recycled and ethically sourced components spread throughout the boot
Related Reviews
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Reasons to buy:
-
Affordable and accessible- a great way to try out a lightweight boot
-
Knit construction optimizes weight and out of the box comfort
-
At just over 1lb per shoe, it’s a competitively light alternative to a traditional boot
-
Reasonably water resistant despite the mesh build
Reasons NOT to buy:
- The lightweight construction translates to durability issues in this case
- Those interested in this boot may be better served by a pair of trail runners
- Lugs feel like a poor compromise between real boot traction and trail shoes
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