"The Lowa Renegades are extremely comfortable out of the box. Probably the most comfortable hiking boot I've owned.
Unfortunately that comfort comes at price. There is a lack of support that is unusual for a full leather, supposed mid duty hiking boot.
I found that they just didn't cut it on rocky terrain or when carrying a backpack for overnighters.
Their durability is also questrionable. The boot design has numerous stitched seams and the stitching started coming out after a couple of months of use.
I wound up sending them
back to REI for a refund. Thankfully they have a liberal return policy.
If you're looking for a comfortable, waterproof hiking boot for day hikes over gentle terrain, or rainy day trips to the mall, the Renegade could be a good choice, but if you are a serious hiker or backpacker, consider another hiking boot."
"I have found this boot to be an excellent all around shoe. Whether hiking, boulder scrambling, or walking around town, my sensative feet are always comfortable. The ankle support is great."
"Had these comfortable boots out for a test drive under semi-harsh conditions and blew the right front toe seam out! Couldn't believe it with only about 7 miles on them, not to mention the fact that my right foot was wet for 3 out of the 4 days we were hiking along a creek. Needless to say I'm highly disappointed since these are by far the most comfortable boots I've had or tried on. Lowa replaced them and were extremely nice, service reps were all extremely helpful-more so than the local retailer that I returned them to!! I might actually consider buying a different model from an on-line retailer since Lowa was sooo nice. Something more like the Scout, a one piece type construction. One plus to these- no break-in period, seriously!! These boots are comfy, just not as durable as they should be! Maybe they should move their factory or beef up quality control??"
"Loved these boots the minute I put them on. Great fit and very lightweight. Unfortunately, like a previous reviewer, I was terribly disappointed when after only 3 or 4 hikes (pretty rough terrain, but nothing that I consider extremely harsh), the front toe seam blew out. The retailer (REI) was, as always, very good about returning the boots. I got a different boot, but I'm bummed because the Renegades were so comfortable. Probably great for very lightweight stuff."
"I've put countles miles on my Renegades, including three trips to Europe. Granted, most of my usage is hiking and general walking, but it has been in all sorts of weather.
The Renegades have held up extremely well and are by far the most comfortable boot/shoe I've ever found for tavelling or just daily wear.
As one previous reviewer stated, they are comfortable from the moment you put them on. No break in period needed.
Also, they do a great job of keeping your feet dry and warm, even in a week-long London downpour!"
"After only about a year of wearing my Renegades around for daily use and a few no pack hikes (10mi each or so) I too have blown out my right boot. The leather on the outside of the right boot along the sole has torn from the boot in a 3-4 inch gap. I can now stick my finger up over the toe box but under the leather. Thankfully the gortex liner is still in place as it has been raining all day today.
These boots were mostly comfortable for me and wore very well. I liked the styling and fit for the most part. I will have to postpone any recomendations on further Lowa purchases pending the results of dealings with the company."
"I have had the Low GTX model for a couple of years and loved them after the first few backpacking trips. (GTX seems to heat my feet fast.)
PROS: comfort! durability (from heat of the south to being frozen stiff and thawed out)! waterproofing. design. made in europe.
CONS: toe box is nice but perhaps too spacey.
Experiences: 4-day snowshoeing trip in yosemite(YES w/ renegade LOW); 4-day AT trips; dozens of weekend trips.
Other boots: Montrail Moraine (excellent but heavy); Montrail Storm GTX (not as durable but functioned extrememly well in Costa Rican rainforests)"
"I Bought a pair for a sporadic trip to Montana on the fly, and I only had of few days of breaking them in. Six days and 35 files later I can say they are the most comfortable footwear I have EVER worn. At the end of the trip I was the only one who escaped blisters completely save for a couple on the toes due to the final 10 miles on day six. I strongly suggest buying a pair. I still wear them everyday at college."
"After loving my boots for a year, I took them on a semi-rugged hike in Yellowstone. On the third day I noticed that there was damage on the right boot toe. I didn't do anything about it and over the next couple of days, the toe blew out. I was upset because they were so comfortable to wear. I looked up some maintenance tips that Lowa offered on the net and found that I may have prevented the incident if I had maintained them better. Anyway, I use them to cut my grass now and they are still comfortable. I just bought a new pair of them and again love them!"
"I read these reviews and was compelled to comment. I bought these boots for summer use and during the first 10 mile day, I too blew out the right toe. Comfortable boots, but the quality isn't there."
"I have had my Renegade GTX boots for about four years. I've logged over 100 miles with 35-50lb. packs and another 100 or so with daypacks. They have been great from the beginning. Very comfortable and light. Bought my first Lowa boots in 1987 and still wear in snow."
"I've had them for a year, and usually ride Lowas as they fit. These are comfortable, kind of like a high top sneaker, but more rugged.
Unfortunately Lowa's customer service is beat. For those who love the last, we must also endure customer service that is "last"."
"Nice looking boot, comfortable out of the box, but not very durable. After 18 months and about 200 miles, the stitching came out of 3 seams in the toes. A bit too much flex for me -- I fell 3 times losing my footing: once on a wet mossy rock, once on slickrock, and once on a steep slightly gravelly trail.
Probably OK for light hiking on relatively hazard-free, dry trails, but for demanding work, they just don't hold up."
