Karrimor KSB boots

Mid-height boot for three seasons

Product

Karrimor KSB Softshell Mid eVent

Promise

A 2-3 season, lightweight walking boot that offers waterproofing with a highly breathable design

Performance

From the off, I might as well tell you that these are the most comfy boots I’ve ever slipped on. They’ve got the same level of soft, yielding interior padding as a boxfresh training shoe of the Nike Air ilk, and wearing them constantly for five days didn’t manage to diminish the sensation. As you’ll imagine, these are built with comfort in mind. The shape and design probably give a clue: they’re quite sneaker-like, almost like a pair of mid-height basketball shoes.

When it comes to features though, they’re just what you want if you’re looking for an entry-level walking shoe that will get you through most of the year with dry, safe and warm feet. A Vibram sole protects from underneath without surrendering too much flexibility, while memory foam inners mould to your feet and stop them rubbing. Their waterproof lining stood up to our testing – one minute under the shower and two hour’s walking through wet grass and puddles in late November. Be aware that fabric uppers such as these will need attention at the seams as they age, though: but that’s what you get in a trade-off with flexibility, lightness and breathability.

Some reviewers have complained about the heel cup being overlarge on the Mid eVent, but that’s not WideWorld’s finding: these need to be tightly laced for the memory foam to really kick in to maximum effect though, so don’t be shy to tighten up.

Verdict

A sensible shoe that’s as flexible as your favourite pair of trainers – but stands a better chance of survival in the great outdoors. A brilliant boot to fulfil most functions, though you’ll need a bigger, tougher boot for the depths of winter weather and extreme conditions.