Meindl boots: which model for which type of hiking?
On a mid-mountain trail alternating between hard-packed earth, wet rock slabs and scree, the height of the boot determines ankle support. The LITE TRAIL LADY is low-cut with Variofix lacing; its widely spaced lugs shed mud. The OHIO LADY 2, TOP TRAIL MID models and TONALE LADY have mid-cut uppers that support the ankle: the OHIO LADY 2 and TOP TRAIL LADY MID are designed for day hiking, while the TONALE LADY suits lightweight treks on rocky ground.
The INTERVALE, available in men’s and women’s versions, is designed for lightweight trekking and long walks. The men’s OHIO 2, made from full-grain leather, is suited to day hikes on mixed terrain. For a multi-day trek with a heavy pack, move up to a high-cut boot : the men’s and women’s LITEPEAK, or the VAKUUM with its nubuck leather upper.
What size should I choose in Meindl boots?
Feet swell during exercise. Choose at least half a size above your usual size for the OHIO 2, TOP TRAIL MID, TOP TRAIL LADY MID, LITE TRAIL LADY and VAKUUM. For the LITEPEAK, OHIO LADY 2 and TONALE LADY, go half a size to a full size up.
When hiking, adjust the lacing partway through to hold your heel in place on descents. The Variofix system adjusts the fit of the TOP TRAIL MID, LITEPEAK and LITE TRAIL LADY; the self-locking hooks on the VAKUUM let you tighten the forefoot and heel separately. For après-ski boots, choose the SOLDEN LADY half a size larger to leave room for the liner. Choose your usual size in the men’s SOLDEN, as its liner already accommodates a thick sock.
Gore-Tex membrane and Vibram soles: compare Meindl models
GTX models have a waterproof, breathable Gore-Tex membrane. For what’s under and around your foot, compare:
- Vibram Multigrip 3 Alpin Light sole: on the men’s INTERVALE and LITEPEAK, for slippery, rocky ground.
- Vibram Hiking Grip sole and EVA cushioning: TOP TRAIL LADY MID.
- AIR-ACTIVE: a cushioned Sport sole on the INTERVALE and a moisture-absorbing footbed on the LITE TRAIL LADY.
- Memory foam: VAKUUM moulds to the foot on long stages.
- Toe cap: at the front of the OHIO 2, INTERVALE and LITE TRAIL LADY; extending to the heel on the VAKUUM.
For long stages on alpine terrain, the VAKUUM combines a full-length toe cap with memory foam. None of the models in this selection is stated to be crampon-compatible. For mountaineering, see our mountaineering boots and the Scarpa footwear.
Meindl SOLDEN après-ski boots: removable liner and insulation down to -25 °C
At a ski resort, cold can seep through the soles between the snowy car park and the terrace. SOLDEN après-ski boots are insulated down to -25 °C, with cowhide leather on the men’s model and suede on the women’s. Their treaded rubber soles grip on packed snow and ice. The men’s SOLDEN has a 24 cm-high upper that keeps snow out.
In the evening, remove the fur liner and leave it to dry : they’ll be dry again the next day. Wear them with thick merino wool socks. You’ll find the other winter models in our après-ski boots.
Caring for Meindl boots: Nikwax waterproofing treatments and wax
After a day in wet grass, the leather’s water repellency wears down. The selection includes three water-based Nikwax products that can be applied to damp boots as soon as you return. The spray and sponge-on waterproofing treatment, both 125 ml, treat leather and fabric. They suit mixed-material uppers, such as those on the INTERVALE (leather and mesh) and TOP TRAIL MID (suede and mesh). For smooth leather exposed to durable moisture, use Waterproofing Wax.
With the VAKUUM, wear mid-calf merino wool socks: see our hiking socks. Find all our brands in our hiking shoes, along with our selections of men’s hiking footwear and women’s hiking footwear.
