Friday, 02 May 2014 11:57

KSB Skye X-Lite eVent boots Reviewed

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Overall View
A good entry to mid level boot in a classic style but with the benefits of modern membrane technology to guarantee water resistance. Full leather upper should give a long lifespan whilst the agressive Vibram Phoenix gives grip on a range of terrain. Ideally suited to hill walking the KSB Skye X-Lite lacks a little rigity and durability in the upper for heavy and persistent contact with rocks and could do with a custom footbed for long treks but at under £100 it's more of an all rounder than a single purpose purchase.
Real World Test
It's been a long time since we tested a pair of KSB's and we were a little nervous about receiving them after all the troubles Karrimor have had over the past few years. The KSB brand had a reputation for innovation and comfort firmly lodged in our minds from the early KSBs and we were seriously concerned that the latest models would struggle to keep up with our fond memories. The reality, however, was that we had little to worry about. The KSB has the same build quality we used to associate with the Karrimor name, a reputation which suffered for a while following the initial collapse of the original Karrimor but is now back on the up again.

The full grain American leather uppers have that classic look of traditional boots, to the extent that it comes as a surprise how light the boots actually are when you pick them up, and mounted on a Vibram Phoenix sole they exude a feel of quality. In practice the leather uppers are actually surprisingly soft and flexible, although both the toe box and heel cup retain enough rigidity and stiffness to protect the foot from knocks and bangs. Underfoot the footbed and insole are a little less padded and supportive than some giving a "firm" footfall that some may wish to customise for long treks with a replacement insole, but for day to day purposes the standard setup is certainly adequate.

We've tested the sole unit on a variety of terrains from Peak District peat moorlands to Snowdonia scrambles and we've not had any real issues. The grip is quite aggressive, particularly on peat where the lugs are deep enough to grip the peat even on steepish anged slopes. On rock the grip is again aggressive and positive, although this is where the durability of the 2.44mm leather uppers may come into question as it takes scuffs and scratches easily.
Where the KSB differs from the vast majority of boots these days is its choice of eVent for the lining. If there is anywhere that eVent holds a possible advantage over Goretex it's in boots, and despite being supporters of Gore in general we have to admit that the breathability of the eVent lining was a revalation. Even as the mercury reached the low 20s the boot remained surprisingly breathable for a full leather boot and at just 660g the KSB Skye X-Lite isn't that far off fabric boot weights.

 

Price: £100.00

Weight: 1320g

Colour: Brown

Features:

  • 2.4mm American Full Grain Leather upper
  • eVent waterproof lining
  • Vibram Phoenix sole

 

Pros: eVent lining for breathability, Vibram Phoenix sole for grip. Price.

Cons:

2.4mmm upper scratch easily and deeply, footbed/insole could use a little more support.


Note: This article was restored from the archives. It's published creation date is inaccurate.