Support & Stability
I didn’t feel super supported by the Sky Lake on rocky, unpredictable, or steep territory. Although the upper around the ankle area is snug, the supple nubuck/suede permitted quite a bit of ankle rolling. In addition, while the shoe purportedly features a stabilizing shank, I can bend and twist this boot pretty easily. This flexibility translated into sore, overworked feet after an hour or so of hiking. I can’t be too harsh, however, because the boot performed surprisingly well on mild terrain for short periods (under an hour).

Comfort
During the first 45 minutes or so of my test hike, this boot was very comfortable. The women’s specific fit allowed the boot to “wrap” around my narrow foot and lock in the midfoot and heel. The EVA midsole felt cushy. After an hour, though, my feet felt pretty sore due to the excessive bending of the sole.

Quality
I felt that the quality of the Sky Lake was average. Nubuck and mesh are standard materials for light hikers because they reduce the weight of the shoe and increase breathability while still providing protection. However, I would like to see more reinforcement around the vulnerable toe area, and the spongy EVA midsole has a tendency to compromise the longevity of a hiking boot.

A note on our durability ratings: 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 Sky Lake’s $120 price tag is a great value for its respectable performance. If you don’t plan on long treks and are not carrying weight, this boot gives a lot of bang for your buck.