[Review] Women’s Dragontail LT GTX by Garmont

It’s hard for me to admit but I’ve never had a true hiking shoe. By that I mean a protective, stable shoe with proper grip. I’ve always been a fan of wearing a light hiker/trail running shoe for long or short expeditions.

I always thought that the lightweight feel outweighed the stability or protection of a true hiker, until I wore my Garmont Dragontail LT GTX shoes for the first time. While they were a little bit heavier and bulkier than I was used to, I felt nearly indestructible in them and the stability was unlike anything I’d ever really experienced. Not to mention, the Dragontails are a true approach shoe, complete with a Vibram Q811 outsole.

With the Vibram outsole not only are you getting maximum grip and stickiness, you are getting a sole that is going to withstand abuse. Many soft, grippy rubber soles do not last. With this approach shoe, I’m not afraid to hike a short hike to the crag or hike a 14er. I know they will make it through whatever I throw at them.

For the upper portion of the shoe, I love how there is both a toe and heal bumper. No more horribly painful toe stubs. As well as protecting your foot, the rubber bumpers are going to protect the shoes, adding to the long lasting and durable build of the shoe.

The outer suede not only looks really nice, it is also water repellent. Combined with the Gore-Tex, you’ll stay warm and dry no matter how many creek or snowdrift crossings you do.

One thing I would mention about the fit and break-in period of the Dragontails is to take it slow breaking them in. The first time I wore them I went for a 6 mile hike which, while it is not a crazy long hike, my feet were definitely sore when I got done. They were probably like this for me as I am not used to such a stiff shoe, and the more I wore them, the better they were.

Overall, if you’re looking for an all around approach shoe that you can wear at the crag, scrambling up the last 1000’ of a 14er, or walking your dog, look no further than the Dragontail LT GTX by Garmont. You’ll be protected and stable on your hike tomorrow and in 5 years. These shoes are built to last and built to get you through even the toughest of terrain.