Review: Lowa Molveno GTX Mid Boots

For those that want a semi-sporty look and feel to their winter-time footwear, the new Molveno GTX boot from Lowa might be just the ticket. The Molveno GTX has all the trappings of a relatively hearty winter boot (full-grain leather and fabric upper, GORE-TEX Panda lining, and insulated soles), in a sneaker-like package.

A thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) outsole is lightweight, hearty and flexible, and with a generous offering of studs for traction. There is enough grip to get one out of most precarious positions and the studs are large and flexible enough to grip pedal pins with absolute confidence.

The whole boot looks rather more like a robust high-top sneaker than a purpose-built winter boot, which is intended. There are subtle differences between the men’s and women’s versions (Tortona GTX Mid), but one trait both share is a classic loden trim around the ankle. This woolen material has great insulation and is water-resistant and again, is quite flexible.

The whole boot looks rather more like a robust high-top sneaker than a purpose-built winter boot, which is intended. There are subtle differences between the men’s and women’s versions, but one trait both share is a classic loden trim around the ankle. This woolen material has great insulation and is water-resistant and again, is quite flexible.

Lowa asked us not to directly compare their Molveno GTX boots to actual winter bike riding boots, and as far as I can tell, there’s no reason to. These boots perform well on and off the bike, and whether they were intended for it or not, have become my favorite footwear for riding in winter.

The leather/loden upper, lined with GORE-TEX is definitely warm, especially when moving. One might think twice about spending the whole day in sub-zero temps just standing around, but when being active, it never feels like you need more from them. The uppers are also supportive while being flexible. So often one finds winter boots to be inhibiting, especially in the ankle area. With these, the ankle feels braced, but not immobilized.

If you’re in the market for a new pair of cold-weather boots that work well whether you’re riding in the woods or hiking through the urban jungle, check out the Molveno GTX from Lowa.

Words and Photos by Stephen Haynes 

Molveno GTX Mid Boot
Price: $210
Upper: Full-Grain Leather
Lining: GORE-TEX Panda
Sizes: Men’s 7.5 – 11.5, 12, 13, 14
Colors: Navy/Brown, Stone
Online: lowaboots.com