Gear Review | DE LA VINA LACE Boots | Teva
Retail: $140
Company: Teva
"Teva was born in the Grand Canyon back in 1984, when a river guide rigged two Velcro watchbands to an old pair of flip flops and created a shoe that wouldn’t float away. Three decades later, we’ve grown up into an icon of comfort and utilitarian style.
How you choose to live is the ultimate form of personal expression, and around here, we want to seize every second—to live light and loud. If you’re up for anything and love the thrill of spontaneity, then we are your people. This adventurous spirit—the one that pioneered the very first pair of Teva sandals—takes form in everything we create."
The Review
I had been searching for a pair of boots that were both practical for hiking and outdoor activities, and everyday wear. When I found the Teva DE LA VINA LACE boots I was excited to give them a try. I was initially attracted to them because of their all leather look and "go-anywhere" feel. I had very high hopes for these boots and was relieved that they did not disappoint.
The first occasion I wore the boots was to work. I have a mile walk to work and once I get to work I am on my feet for six full hours. I was surprised as I made my way home after work that for the first time in three months my heels didn't hurt, actually my feet felt really great for having been used to stand for six hours and walk two miles. I have continued to wear them to work every week since. Even in the ice and snow they provide great traction, comfort and warmth.
The second time I wore my boots was on a desert hike. The hike was short, only about 3 miles round trip, but my boots held up nicely. They protected from cactus, blisters and rocks. I hardly felt the rocks through the thick soles and the high ankle protected me when I accidentally rubbed up against cactus. I was shocked and thrilled that the new boots did not give me blisters, even though I hadn't owned them long enough to fully break them in.
The next time I wore my boots was on a snow hike. The hike was about 6 miles round trip and pretty intense uphill. The trail was either icy, muddy or completely covered in snow. The high ankle protected me this time from getting snow in my boots, which I was incredibly grateful for. The soles have excellent grip so I only fell once (that's a victory for me!) and the leather upper was completely waterproof so I had dry socks when I took my boots off at the end of the hike.
Features
Featuring rich, waterproof leather and a convertible collar that you can wear up or down, the De La Vina gets laced up in a fresh, go-anywhere inspired by the classic roper boot.
- WP leather upper
- Pigskin collar
- Canvas lining
- Lace-up closure
- Rubber Outsole
What I liked
- The Look: The classic go-anywhere look makes these boots perfect for any activity.
- The WP Leather: The water proof leather upper protects again snow, water, mud and cactus.
- The Sole: The soles provided excellent traction in the snow and a buffer when hiking on rocks.
- The Feel: The boots were incredibly comfortable. They fit tight and secure and the lace up ankle helped support my weak ankles on hikes.
- The Compliments: I receive compliments about the boots every time I wear them!
WHAT I Didn't Like
- The Initial Tightness: When I initially tried on the boots the top part of the boot was so tight I had to cut my toenails really short to keep them from hurting.
Conclusion:
Would I recommend these boots to a friend? Absolutely, I already have! I've been trying for the past two years to create a minimalist wardrobe so having a pair of boots that I can wear out, to work, camping, hiking or whatever other adventures I have is incredibly beneficial.