Zamberlan Anabasis Mid GTX
The Zamberlan Anabasis Mid GTX are lighter-weight hiking boots that provide good traction in all terrain with their Vibram outsoles, and the GORE-TEX liner goes a long way toward keeping the water out on wet trails.
Anabasis Mid GTX Specs
MSRP: $295
Weight: 15.9 ounces per boot
Upper: Leather-free microfiber
Outsole: Vibram
Water Resistance: GORE-TEX inner membrane
About the Anabasis Mid GTX
The Anabasis Mid GTX are surprisingly light for boots that have a sturdy outsole and stiff ankle support. Some trail runners mimic the ankle support of a boot with a mid-height version, but the Anabasis are definitely boots trying capture the feel of a trail runner. The Anabasis uppers are light and supple while the Vibram outsole is firm and solid. And the Anabasis have out-of-the box comfort.
All this makes the Anabasis a good choice for someone who wants the support of boots while going lighter on their feet.
The Anabasis I tested are a men’s model; there is no women’s version.
Fit: The size 12 boot is a spot on fit for my slightly narrow size 12 feet. Zamberlan says its men’s boots tend to run a bit long and recommends that North American customers try on boots in a store or use its sizing chart here.
Outsole: Zamberlan has used Vibram outsoles since the days when Zamberlan founder Giuseppe Zamberlan and Vibram founder Vitale Braman were close friends. The Vibram Megagrip on the Anabasis provides good grip on wet, snow-covered, or dry trails. And I appreciated the Vibram support and cushion while rock hopping through the Metacomet Ridge on the New England Trail.
Midsole: Cushioned EVA midsoles and PE insoles allow for flexibility in the forefoot with greater rigidity in the heel, providing added support.
GORE-TEX Lining: The Anabasis kept my feet dry in snow and stream crossings, and the upper fabric dried quickly.
Warranty: Zamberlan USA warranties boots for one year after purchase in cases of defects workmanship and materials. Zamberlan has information on caring for boots here.
Resolable: The Anabasis can be resoled in the United States, making them an option for people tired of throwing away boots when the outsole wears down. Resoling information is available here.
About Zamberlan: Zamberlan began making boots in Italy in 1929 and now is run by the third generation of the family.
Point of Manufacture: Zamberlan makes its boots in Italy.
Anabasis Mid GTX Pros
Comfort: New England trails where I hike are studded with rocks. I want boots that cushion my feet yet are flexible enough to give me a feel for the rocks I’m stepping on. The Anabasis do just that.
Water Resistance: The GORE-TEX lining keeps water on the outside, and my feet stayed dry through stream crossings, muddy trails, and snow.
Outsole: Solid Vibram that absorbs the shock of rock-pounding.
Resolable: This can be a plus for people who want to keep their boots rather than throw them away when the outsole wears down.
Anabasis Mid GTX Cons
Weight: The Anabasis are heavier than a mid-height trail runner, but can be a good choice for someone who wants a lighter boot.
Price: $295 is a lot to pay for boots. Zamberlan has a network of cobblers in the United States who resole boots for an estimated cost of $80 to $150, which could mean the Anabasis will have a long life.
Overall Value
Zamberlan is an Italian bootmaker with a long history of crafting quality mountaineering boots. The Anabasis price tag is higher than other boots in their category, but the boots can be resoled to make them last longer. If you’re a committed boot wearer who wants a lighter shoe that could last a long time, the Anabasis are a good choice.
Similar Mid-Height GTX Boots
Salomon Quest 4D GORE-TEX Forces 2 EN
MSRP: $260
Uppers: Mesh, Nubuck leather
Outsole: Salomon’s Contragrip
Lining: GORE-TEX
Oboz Sawtooth X Mid Waterproof
MSRP: $175
Uppers: Nubuck leather, mesh
Lining: B-DRY single-layer membrane
Outsole: True Tread rubber
La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX
MSRP: $209
Uppers: Mesh
Lining: GORE-TEX
Outsole: FriXion XF 2.0 rubber
This product was donated for purpose of review.
