Asolo Fusion 95 GTX

Combining the light weight of an approach shoe with the support of a serious leather backpacking boot, these hikers offer the best of all worlds.

By John Harlin, BACKPACKER Contributing Editor, April 2001

Photo by Steve Howe

Want to know what I like about these boots? They make my feet happy, that's what. This sense of bliss sprung straight out of the box when the fit, well, fit. The boots felt like they had been built around my feet, complete with arch support. Then came the first steps down a trail near home, where my feet wanted to dance because I couldn't believe how light and unencumbered they felt. The pleasant introduction continued as I edged up a steep off-trail sidehill and felt total control as the boots bit into the dirt without a hint of rollover. Some 75 miles later, including 6 days on and off trails in the Grand Canyon, I knew beyond doubt that-for me at least-the Fusion 95 is the ideal all-around backpacking boot. And the price? I still can't believe my eyes.

All six models in the Fusion line are intended to blend the support of a backpacking boot with the light weight of dayhikers. The model we tested, the Fusion 95 GTX, is the sturdiest of this group, featuring a suede and Cordura upper lined with Gore-Tex. Mind you, Asolo doesn't bill the Fusion 95 as a hardcore backpacking boot, but as a mere weekender. I disagree. After testing a number of heavy boots last year and then scrambling with the Fusion 95 on cliffs, scree fields, and firm sidehills, I'd rate the torsional stiffness and ankle support of the Fusion right where it needs to be for full-on backpacking. No, the Fusion won't hold the edge or buttress the ankle quite like a mountaineering boot, but for everything shy of the most crushing loads on the most brutal terrain, it's all the boot this backpacker needs.

How does Fusion technology work? The sole provides full-length support via an injection-molded shank, which combines polyurethane and rubber for a softer forefoot flex than in Asolo's heavier boots. The shank's distinct curve, or rocker, complements smooth, fast striding. To lighten things up and provide more cushioning, Asolo uses an injection-molded midsole that mixes polyurethane with injected air. Asolo claims this combination provides a faster and more powerful stride. Our legs are neither speedy nor powerful, but the trail miles did slide by easily in the Fusion 95.

Our Northeast editor put the Gore-Tex lining to its best test during wet and muddy miles on Vermont's Long Trail, including trips up eight Green Mountains peaks. She reported no leakage, nor did I discover any while standing around in Oregon streams.

The lugs aren't especially deep on the Vibram sole, but they nevertheless provided excellent traction on rock, dirt, and mud. A hard rubber bumper protects the toe box against stony stumbles.

ASOLO FUSION 95 GTX
Specs are for men's size 8 =
Weight (MFR. / BP): 2 lbs. 12 oz. / 3 lbs.
Contact: Asolo, (603)448-8827; www.asolo.com.

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