The Lems Path Blazer is a zero-drop path shoe with a large toe field designed for hikers and out of doors fans who need the identical match for footwear that may be worn to the workplace or out in town. Whereas appropriate for strolling and reasonable hikes, they lack the lugs, grip, air flow, and safety discovered in additional aggressive path runners or method footwear. Nonetheless, I can testify that they make nice strolling footwear for simpler trails, journey, and even contra dancing.
- Gender: males’s and girls’s fashions
- Weight per shoe: 12.2 oz (dimension US10.5, mens)
- Drop: 0mm
- Stack peak: 14mm
- Sizing: True to dimension
- Broad sizes: No
- Match: True to dimension
In case you’ve ever wished for a classy zero-drop shoe you would put on once you’re not crushing path miles on the Appalachian Path or the Pacific Crest Path, the Lem’s Path Blazer is a winner. I fell in love with them the second I put them on. Ultimately, I assumed. A solidly constructed zero-drop shoe that I might put on round city, for strolling on bike paths or rail trails, and for simpler outings.
Match and luxury
The Path Blazer’s standout trait is its roomy, foot-shaped toe field. From the primary put on, your toes unfold and splay naturally. The zero-drop platform and versatile sole let your foot transfer extra like it will barefoot, which reduces fatigue and improves stability on uneven floor. Cushioning is modest however ample; the midsole gives a nice, low-profile really feel that’s responsive somewhat than plush. For hikers preferring extra assist or plenty of underfoot padding, these might really feel too minimal. Break-in time is brief. I might put on them comfortably instantly.
Weight and packability
One of many Path Blazers’ largest benefits is weight. These are very mild in contrast with conventional climbing footwear or boots, making them ideally suited for day hikes or journey once you need one pair that does many issues. They pack down small and dry shortly in the event that they get moist.
Traction and outsole
The outsole supplies competent traction on hard-packed trails and hearth roads. The lug sample grips grime and softer surfaces moderately effectively, however the Path Blazer lacks the stickiness and traction discovered on Hoka, Altra, or Topo path trainers. In case you spend lots of time on technical, moist, muddy, or extremely rugged terrain, you’ll need one thing with deeper lugs and a stickier rubber compound.
Sturdiness
Development is straightforward however effectively executed. The higher makes use of a breathable, quick-drying textile and has a bolstered toe bumper. The stitching and bonded seams are stable for regular path use; nonetheless, the skinny midsole will compress prior to beefier alternate options. Count on wonderful longevity for informal climbing and light-to-moderate use.
Safety and assist
Safety is minimal, though the leather-based toe cap supplies surprisingly good toe safety in opposition to entrance impacts. However the sole’s thinness means sharp rocks and roots are extra simply felt. Arch assist is minimal and solely appropriate for neutral-footed hikers or these utilizing third-party insoles, however not ideally suited for individuals requiring robust medial assist. The lacing system secures the foot adequately, though it isn’t specialised for micro-adjustments the way in which a path runner is. The inventory laces are flat and extra like these discovered on sneakers, so that you’ll in all probability wish to double-knot them to maintain them safe.
Suggestion
The Lems Path Blazer is a thoughtfully minimalist shoe greatest suited to hikers who need pure foot motion, mild weight, and a roomy toe field. It excels on low-to-moderate issue trails, informal use, and journey. In case you want aggressive traction, heavy safety, or substantial cushioning, take a look at extra substantial alternate options from the likes of Hoka, Altra, or Topo. For a lot of walkers and informal hikers who prioritize consolation, packability, and floor really feel, the Path Blazer is a wonderful, economical selection.
Disclosure: Lems donated footwear for evaluate.
SectionHiker by no means accepts fee for gear evaluations or editorial protection. If you purchase by affiliate hyperlinks on our website, we might earn a small fee at no additional value to you. Assist us proceed to check and write unsponsored and unbiased gear evaluations, climbing and backpacking FAQs, and free climbing guides.