I’d been eyeing the Oboz Sawtooth II Low Waterproof hiking shoes for months, finally taking the plunge and purchasing a pair. My first impression was of their lightweight feel and comfortable, supportive fit. The women’s sizing seemed spot on; I usually wear a 7.5 and that’s what I ordered. Right out of the box, they felt ready for an adventure. I was particularly impressed with the quality of the materials – they felt durable and well-made. I couldn’t wait to put them to the test!
First Impressions and Initial Fit
Unboxing the Oboz Sawtooth II Low Waterproof hiking shoes felt like unwrapping a small adventure. The vibrant color (I chose a cheerful teal!) immediately brightened my mood. The first thing I noticed was how incredibly lightweight they were; I’ve owned heavier hiking boots, and the Sawtooths felt remarkably nimble. I slipped them on, and the initial fit was surprisingly snug but not constricting. Oboz boasts a “Breathable, waterproof membrane,” and I could already feel the promise of dryness and comfort. The insole felt supportive and well-cushioned, promising a comfortable experience even on longer hikes. The tongue was nicely padded, preventing any pressure points on my instep. I spent a good half-hour walking around my apartment in them, testing their flexibility and feel. The fit was true to size, which is always a relief. The laces felt sturdy and easy to adjust, allowing for a secure fit. I appreciated the low-profile design; it offered ankle support without feeling bulky. There was a slight break-in period, a bit of stiffness initially around the heel, but nothing uncomfortable. After a couple of hours of casual wear, the shoes felt completely broken in and ready for a proper trail test. I was already impressed with their initial comfort and the overall quality of construction. The craftsmanship seemed excellent, and I had a feeling these shoes would last.
Testing them on Easy Trails
My first real test of the Oboz Sawtooth II Low Waterproof shoes was a leisurely hike on the well-maintained trails near my home. I chose a route with a gentle incline and varied terrain, including some rocky sections and a short, slightly muddy patch. From the outset, I was impressed by the grip. The outsole provided excellent traction, even on loose gravel. I felt stable and confident on my feet, even when navigating slightly uneven ground. The lightweight design made the hike feel effortless; I didn’t experience any fatigue or discomfort in my feet, even after several hours of walking. The cushioning was superb; I barely felt the impact of the trail on my feet. The breathability was also noticeable; my feet remained surprisingly dry and cool despite the mild exertion. The low-profile design didn’t hinder my ankle support, and I felt secure even on slightly steeper inclines. I encountered a small stream crossing, and the shoes handled the dampness with ease. My feet stayed completely dry, proving the waterproof membrane’s effectiveness. Overall, the easy trails hike was a resounding success. The Oboz Sawtooth II Low Waterproof shoes performed flawlessly, providing exceptional comfort, grip, and protection. I felt confident and comfortable throughout the hike, and my feet felt great afterward. I was excited to push these shoes further on a more challenging hike.
A More Challenging Hike
Feeling confident after my initial easy trail test, I decided to take the Oboz Sawtooth II Low Waterproof shoes on a significantly more challenging hike in the nearby mountains. This trail involved steeper inclines, rocky ascents, and some sections with loose scree. I was eager to see how they would perform under pressure. The grip remained excellent, even on the loose rocks. I felt secure and stable, even during some tricky downhill sections where I had to carefully pick my footing. The supportive design of the shoe really shone here; my ankles felt well-protected, and I never felt like I was going to twist them. The cushioning, while still comfortable, was definitely put to the test on the rocky terrain. While I did feel the impact of the rocks more than on the easier trails, it wasn’t uncomfortable, and my feet didn’t ache afterward. The breathability was still good, even though I was exerting myself more. My feet didn’t overheat, despite the increased activity and warmer temperatures. There were several stream crossings on this trail, and once again, the waterproof membrane performed flawlessly. My feet stayed completely dry, even when wading through slightly deeper water. The shoes also held up well against the abrasion from the rocks and scree. There were no signs of wear or damage after the hike. Overall, the Oboz Sawtooth II Low Waterproof shoes exceeded my expectations on this challenging hike. They provided the support, grip, and protection I needed to navigate the difficult terrain confidently and comfortably. I was truly impressed with their performance.
Waterproof Performance in the Rain
Putting the Oboz Sawtooth II Low Waterproof shoes to the ultimate test, I planned a hike specifically during a period of heavy rainfall. I wanted to see firsthand how well the waterproof membrane would hold up against prolonged exposure to wet conditions. The rain started lightly at first, then intensified into a steady downpour. I hiked for several hours in this relentless rain, traversing muddy trails and crossing several streams. Throughout the entire hike, my feet remained completely dry. This was a significant relief, as I’ve experienced soggy socks and uncomfortable wet feet with other waterproof hiking shoes in the past. The Oboz Sawtooth II’s waterproof membrane performed exceptionally well, keeping the water out and my feet comfortable. The breathability, however, was slightly impacted by the rain. While my feet didn’t get wet, they did feel a little warmer and less airy than on drier days. This was not overly uncomfortable, but it was noticeable. I also appreciated the additional grip provided by the outsole in the wet conditions. The shoes maintained excellent traction on the muddy and slick trails, giving me confidence on even the most challenging sections. The rain didn’t seem to affect the overall comfort or support of the shoes either. They remained supportive and comfortable throughout the entire duration of the rainy hike. After the hike, I removed the shoes and the insoles were still completely dry, a testament to the effectiveness of the waterproof construction. I was very pleased with the waterproof performance of the Oboz Sawtooth II Low Waterproof shoes, even in the face of prolonged and heavy rainfall. They lived up to their name and kept my feet dry and comfortable, even when the weather was less than ideal.
Durability and Long-Term Wear
After several months of regular use, including numerous hikes on varied terrains – from smooth, well-maintained trails to rocky, uneven paths – I can confidently report on the durability of the Oboz Sawtooth II Low Waterproof shoes. I’ve worn them on everything from short, easy day hikes to longer, more challenging treks, and they have held up remarkably well. The materials show minimal wear and tear. There are a few minor scuffs on the toe cap, which are to be expected with regular use on uneven terrain, but nothing significant. The stitching remains intact, and there are no signs of separation or fraying. The outsole, which provides excellent grip, still shows good tread depth, indicating that it will last for many more miles. I’ve been particularly impressed with the durability of the waterproof membrane. Despite frequent exposure to mud, water, and various other elements, the membrane continues to perform flawlessly, keeping my feet dry even on the wettest days. The overall construction of the shoe feels solid and robust, suggesting that these shoes are built to withstand significant use. Comfort-wise, the shoes continue to provide excellent support and cushioning. Even after many hours of hiking, my feet remain comfortable and fatigue-free. The insoles have maintained their shape and cushioning properties, and there are no signs of excessive wear. Considering the frequency and intensity of use, I am extremely satisfied with the durability and longevity of the Oboz Sawtooth II Low Waterproof shoes. They have exceeded my expectations and seem to be a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking a durable and long-lasting pair of hiking shoes. I anticipate many more miles of comfortable and reliable hiking with these shoes.
Final Verdict⁚ Would I Recommend Them?
Absolutely! My experience with the Oboz Sawtooth II Low Waterproof hiking shoes has been overwhelmingly positive. From the initial comfortable fit to their impressive durability after months of use, these shoes have consistently exceeded my expectations. The lightweight design never felt cumbersome, even on longer hikes, and the supportive structure kept my feet feeling comfortable and stable, even on uneven terrain. The waterproof membrane proved its worth time and again, keeping my feet dry through various weather conditions. While I did experience some minor scuffs on the toe cap, this is entirely expected with regular outdoor use and doesn’t detract from the overall quality. The grip provided by the outsole was consistently reliable, offering excellent traction on various surfaces. I found the shoes to be exceptionally versatile, suitable for a wide range of hiking conditions and intensities. Considering their performance, comfort, and durability, I believe the Oboz Sawtooth II Low Waterproof shoes represent excellent value for money. They’re a worthwhile investment for any woman looking for a reliable and comfortable pair of hiking shoes for various adventures. I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone seeking a durable, waterproof, and comfortable hiking companion. If you’re looking for a shoe that can handle both easy trails and more challenging hikes, while keeping your feet dry and comfortable, look no further. These shoes have become my go-to hiking footwear, and I anticipate many more miles of happy hiking with them. They’ve earned a permanent spot in my hiking gear collection.