Lems Outlander Review

Without a doubt, this model is the frontrunner in the barefoot hiking space. Fully waterproof, with complex tread for grip, zero-drop, non-slip — these and other features in the boot’s profile speak about its quality and appeal in volumes. I’ve just purchased another pair of Lems Outlander — my go-to option for everyday wear and special outings in the wilderness (hiking & trekking).

Lems Outlander has been included in such ratings as Best Zero Drop Work Boots, Best Waterproof Shoes, Best Hiking Shoes, Wide Toe Box Boots, and Barefoot Tactical Boots. Check them out to familiarize yourself with not less impressive models from other barefoot manufacturers in the market.

In this review, I am happy to share my hands-on experiences with these shoes and help you accurately evaluate their price-to-quality value from short-term and long-term perspectives. Here we go!

Key Takeaways

One of the greatest attractions of the pair is its aggressive tread pattern on the outsole. If you are up for waterproof boots that will shine on the trickiest paths out there, you’ve come to the right place. As a huge fan of hiking activities, these shoes are on my top three favorite boots list. They truly shine whenever you need to pass through soggy mud, slick rocks, or wet leaves.

Pros:

• Waterproof boots for all-season efficiency
• A little to no break-in period
• Good grip and traction for the weight
• A true-to-size fit for men and women — unisex boots
• Multipurpose, zero-drop footwear for natural foot alignment
• A thin and flexible sole for a great ground feel and stability on any terrain

Cons:

• The toe box is for wide feet, but I wouldn’t mind more space in terms of the boot’s height
• Speed lace hooks would’ve come in handy
• Round laces may be inconvenient due to the risk of loosening

Style & Design

When it comes to stack height, the total is 21.5 mm — 5.5 mm Adventure Poly Insole and a 16 mm base. Its construction is on the sturdier side: I’ve seen more flexible boots in this category. When you try to make the front and the back of the shoe meet, it’s not that easy to roll it. On the other hand, they are extremely lightweight — 14.7 ounces per boot. It adds to the amazing feel of Lems Outlander on foot. Even after hours in, I don’t want to clock out right away — I can comfortably wear these for hours without worries about foot fatigue afterwards.

Fit & Traction

The model usually fits true to your size. However, you should consider how wide your feet are in reality. If you are worried about a glove-like and too-snug fit, you can go for a half size-up.

The winter traction outsole here performs really well. The lugs are deep — zig-zap siping for 4-millimeter lugs. I feel confident in my walking pattern, whether I am about to jump over the muddy puddle or go snowshoeing in the mountains. They are effective for safe and comfortable movement across multiple terrains.

Comfort & Seasonality

If you are new to the brand, it’s on par with other minimalist footwear manufacturers — comfy, warm, and soft from the inside to keep your feet dry. On the contrary, if you are accustomed to maximum space in the forefront, it may seem a bit lacking. A lot depends on your preference and needs here. I can put on my thicker socks when I wear Lems Outlander, but the use of special gear isn’t on my to-do list: it’s not a perfect match, in my opinion. You will need to remove the insole to get more volume in the boot.

In all situations where I have tested Lems Outlander to define the boundaries of their waterproofing potential, this pair has certainly surpassed my expectations. It doesn’t matter whether you need to walk in slushy, snowy conditions, in the rain, etc., you aren’t going to get any water and wetness in your boots at all. Submersion scenarios are also fine, as long as the water level doesn’t go higher than the gusset. The waterproof membrane is upgraded by polyester lining, which makes the pair effective for everyday use across the seasons.

Durability and Maintenance

The nylon and leather upper is a nice fusion, enhancing the model’s visual appeal, sustainability, and longevity. With leather overlays and TPU on the front and back of the model, it is a great blend in terms of durability and overall efficiency. They may seem more suited for adventure times, but I wear them casually, with chinos or jeans.

I wouldn’t say that these are extremely breathable, although based on the Lems Outlander comparison with other boots. Please don’t get it wrong — they don’t accelerate odor buildup. It’s just about the fact that some alternatives are better in this regard.

Due to the depth of the lugs and the space between them on the outsole, debris can become trapped. However, what I usually do is knock the boots together — it typically helps me get rid of most of the junk before cleaning my shoes more thoroughly.

How to Choose the Best Waterproof Boots: Lems Shoes Edition

A lot can be said about the right factors to consider before adding a pair of waterproof boots to the cart. As I always say, start by defining your priorities first — they will lead your shopping trajectory in the best direction possible. It doesn’t make any sense to order Lems Outlander for high-speed trail running or heavy technical mountaineering: ensure your needs align with the product’s functional profile.

Whenever I compare waterproof boots, I can’t afford to overlook these criteria:

• The break-in period;
• The model’s flexibility for natural gait;
• The waterproof membrane’s quality and durability;
• The measurements of a wide toe box for a perfect fit in height and length;
• The ease of maintenance & quick-dry capacity;
• The outsole’s grip and traction for varied terrains.

Final Verdict: Are Lems Outlander Boots Worth It?

Honestly, I would give these shoes 4.8 out of 5. The way these can adapt to your needs is phenomenal. I hope further modifications of the model will only make it better in the long run.

If you want to jump around to different head-to-head comparisons of boots or other barefoot shoes for everyday wear, head out to our main page for more details.