I found myself on what seemed to be a never-ending red stag stalk in central Europe when I looked down at my boots while pausing for a break in the mud-soaked forest.
My pack was weighing me down, and coupled with my rifle and ammunition, I was carrying nearly 35 pounds of gear.
For days, we hiked in search of the perfect stag and averaged 10 to 15 miles per day. I was exhausted. All it would have taken was one loose rock or a slick, wet protruding root to send me tumbling, both mentally and literally.
I was thankful I was wearing my Garmont T8 Extreme GTX boots.
The Garmont T8 Extreme GTX Boot
SummaryThis boot is worth every penny.
Extreme Testing: The boot stood up to arduous testing in multiple climates and on multiple terrains.
Model Features: This specific version stands out by including waterproof Gore-Tex insulation.
Rugged Build: A durable Vibram sole provides maximum traction for difficult backcountry navigation.
Global Versatility: Suitable for use in an outdoors environment or as part of a gorpcore ensemble and urban wear.
Great Durability: At $225, they remained tough and ready for another season.
The Garmont T8 Extreme GTX Boot Review
The Garmont T8 series is Garmont’s flagship boot, and they are available in three different variations:
- The Garmont T8 Bifida is an uninsulated summer boot.
- The Garmont T8 NFS is a tactical boot/running shoe hybrid with a soft rubber sole for rapid movement.
- The Garmont T8 Extreme GTX is similar to the Bifida but includes Gore-Tex insulation.
At first, I was a little concerned packing a new boot and hauling it halfway around the globe untested, but I’m glad I did.
Knowing that I would be traversing a wet forest floor in cooler conditions, I opted for the T8 Extreme GTX with the added insulation.
To break the boots in, I laced them up and headed to the airport.
The T8 Extreme GTX is designed to be a cold-weather boot and designed to provide support, warmth, and comfort on hunts requiring long periods of stalking or in demanding field conditions carrying heavy loads.
The boot features a Vibram sole for maximum traction, stability, and shock reduction in nearly all environments and weather. Its durable compound ensures extended life and great grip on a variety of surfaces.
I wore these boots all last season and then some. They quickly became my go-to boot for all applications.
At home in Texas, they made short work of the rocky and sandy terrain, easily gripping rocks as I climbed outcroppings in West Texas.
Later, they found themselves traveling the cobblestone streets of Rome on a family vacation. Next, they were on assignment with me in Mexico, punching the pedal of my racecar through the floorboard as I raced the Baja 1000 track.
Hook & Barrel Verdict
On all levels, they stood up to the most extreme conditions.
These boots, in all their mud-caked, bloodstained, world-traveled glory, are still on the ready in my closet for my next adventure.
There is no doubt they will be on my feet again through this deer season, hopefully with more blood stains to add to the already hard-earned stains from last year.
Buy Garmont T8 Extreme EVO GTXNote: H&B may earn a small commission from affiliate links within the article.
