The Lems Trail Blazer Zero-Drop Mid-Height Boots stand out as a versatile, lightweight option for outdoor enthusiasts who want comfort without sacrificing durability. Designed with the needs of the hiker in mind, these shoes are perfect for those who choose intermediate and intermediate distance trails, offering a balance of protection, flexibility, and breathability. If you’ve ever wanted a sturdy zero-drop mid as an alternative to flimsy runners, Lem’s Trail Blazer Mids are worth considering.
- Gender: male and female models
- Weight per shoe: 13.7 oz (size US10.5, men’s)
- Waterproof: NO
- Height: 0mm
- Stack height: 14mm
- Outsole: Full rubber outsole with 3.5mm lugs
- Size: True to size
- Wide sizes: No
One of the most impressive features of the Lems Trail Blazer Mid is its compact design paired with a wide toe box. The shoe uses a zero-drop platform, which means that the heel and toes are at the same level, promoting a natural foot strike that can improve posture and reduce joint strain during long walks. This feature is especially appealing to hikers who want to maintain a shoe-like feel without sacrificing support and cushioning. The wide toe box provides enough space for the toes to play naturally, improving stability on uneven ground and reducing the risk of blisters between the toes or discomfort during extended wear.
Weight
Weight is an important factor in hiking shoes, and the Trail Blazer Mid impresses with this as well. It weighs much less than most traditional hiking boots, reducing fatigue on long hikes. This lightweight nature does not come at the expense of durability; the shoe’s upper is made from a combination of durable mesh and synthetic materials that resist abrasion while providing excellent breathability. This breathability helps keep the feet dry and cool, even when walking hard in warm weather.
The mid-length ankle collar provides decent support and protection without feeling restrictive. It helps prevent debris, such as small stones or dirt, from entering the shoe while providing limited ankle stability on rough trails. While not as strong or heavy as a hiking boot collar, it does get a good fit for hikers who want freedom of movement and some protection. My only recommendation would be to wear long shoelaces if you like to double knot so they don’t come loose during the walk.
Traction and outsole
The outsole provides competent traction on hard-packed trails and fire roads. The lug pattern grips dirt and soft surfaces reasonably well, but the Trail Blazer lacks the grip and traction found in Hoka, Altra, or Topo running shoes or full leather hiking boots. If you spend a lot of time on technical, wet, muddy, or very rugged terrain, you’ll want something with deeper lugs.
Durability and Protection
The construction is simple but well done. The upper is made of breathable, quick-drying fabric and has a reinforced bumper. The bonded and bonded seams are durable and reinforced with a suede overlay, while the leather toe cap provides surprisingly good toe protection against front impacts. Protection around the ankles is also good.
Recommendation
In summary, the Lems Trail Blazer Mid boots are a great choice for hikers looking for lightweight, versatile, and comfortable shoes that still provide adequate protection and traction on moderate trails. Their natural fit, breathability, and durability make them versatile in a variety of hiking conditions, especially in dry to slightly wet areas. While they may not replace heavy boots in extreme conditions, they are perfect for a light day hike. For those who value comfort and a zero-drop platform without compromising durability, the Trail Blazer Mid should be considered.
Disclosure: Lems donated the shoes for review.
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