Hi Tec Sienna WP Review

March 15, 2013
Hi Tec Sienna WP
GEAR INSTITUTE RATINGS
77
Support & Stability
5
Quality & Construction
5
Comfort
8
Weight
6
Protection
5
Value
8

The Good

  • Fork shank reduces fatigue on the ball of the foot
  • Lightweight
  • Luxurious Ortholite insole

The Bad

  • I was unable to lock in the instep due to a bulky upper
  • Lack of a full collar compromised ability to handle loose, rocky terrain
  • No toe cap means more wear & tear
THE VERDICT

Best for extended, mildly rugged on-trail hikes with light or no pack weight. This was the only low-cut light hiker in the test, but even given some lost stability in the ankle area, this shoe can hold its own on super long, mildly rugged trail hikes. With a luxurious Ortholite insole and a lightweight shank, you can up your mileage easily without fatiguing your feet.

FULL REVIEW

Support & Stability
The low cut prevented this shoe from performing well on super rugged off-trail hikes due to the lack of ankle stability. However, there is plenty of brawn to keep you stable on appropriate terrain.

The “fork” shank extends to the inside ball of the foot, which rolls you onto your toe with each step. This means the pressure is off the usually over-worked ball. This is my go-to shoe for those long, steady, on-trail day hikes. My one gripe: the shoe is a bit bulky around the arch and top of the foot, compromising the ability of the laces to “lock down” your instep.

Comfort
Most light hikers include a flimsy, throwaway insole—and expect you to shell out for an aftermarket insole if you’re picky enough. The Sienna is a nice exception. It features a super comfy Ortholite insole, which is augmented by an additional EVA layer sandwiched between the midsole and footbed. You will be thankful for the added luxury after mile 10.

Quality and Construction
The upper of the Sienna is constructed of suede and mesh—not an ultra-durable combo. Suede and mesh are generally more vulnerable to sharp rocks or brush and premature wear and tear can be a concern. Additionally, the lace loops are fabric, which have a tendency to rip out after extended use.

A note on our durability rating: Because we rarely have enough time in a field test to actually wear out a boot, durability is determined by the materials used (ex: full-grain leather lasts longer than mesh); features such as rubber toe and heel caps; and whether or not the upper is constructed out of one piece of leather, or multiple pieces and materials sewn together. Our ratings are based on general wisdom and we cannot guarantee that a boot with a higher durability rating will actually outlast those with lower ratings.

Value
The Sienna was the lowest price in the lineup at only $95. This is a screaming deal for the power and brawn that Hi-Tec packs into this little dark horse of a shoe.

 


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