Product Review: Zamberlan 1996 Vioz Lux GTX

At Bear Rock, we believe in making the smart purchase the first time, even if it means investing a little more. That’s why we handpick brands like Zamberlan: companies that share our commitment to craftsmanship, performance and longevity. Made in Italy and built to last, Zamberlan boots aren’t just durable for hitting the trails in a 4 seater ATV. They’re a more sustainable choice in a world of disposable gear.

Check out Franklin’s review below. His voice is as unforgettable as the boots themselves, so we’ll just let him take it away from here!

What to Love About the Zamberlan 1996 Vioz Lux GTX Boots 

Fine Tuscan leather. Solid braking and traction in a variety of conditions. Each is handcrafted in Italy, one at a time. Awards in Europe and the U.S. for outstanding craftsmanship, quality, innovation and comfort.

My apologies, friends, but I’m not talking about a car. However, it would be cool if we opened Bear Rock Imports! Anyway, let me share my experience with the award-winning Zamberlan 1996 Vioz Lux GTX hiking boot.

Family-owned, Zamberlan has been crafting boots for over three generations, and all that experience in fine Italian leather results in the highest quality boots I have ever worn. Vioz Lux GTX boots are made the old-school way, with Norwegian welted soles, meaning the leather upper is sewn directly onto the sole. That alone sets it apart from most other hiking boots. However, Zamberlan also builds in the newest technologically advanced materials to complement. Old school meets new school to create a boot that works incredibly well yet retains the authentic hallmark of high-quality boot making.

I own this boot and have put it through nearly a year’s worth of abuse up here in the Great North Woods. When you hold the boot in your hand, you see, breathe in and feel where your money has been invested. At the $390.00 price point, this is most definitely an investment, one that has easily paid off because of how much I’ve been beating up these boots without needing to replace them! The fit is maybe a half size larger, but only by the slimmest of margins. The first time I put them on, I made the comment that it feels like the boot surrounds your foot in a puffy, leather cloud and that remains true every time I put them on.

Zamberlan Vioz Lux GTX Design

The laces, eyes and proprietary Vibram® 3D outsole are all of the highest quality. The stitching reminds me of a fine tattooist’s outline skills, straight, deliberate and beautiful. No excess glue, no excess material and the leather looks like it was specifically selected, as the boots match each other perfectly. When walking, it feels like your foot is planted. That’s not to say the boot is heavy; your foot just feels firmly planted.

The upgraded Waxed Tuscan full-grain leather uppers are rich and long-lasting.  Gore-Tex Performance Comfort membranes guarantee waterproof and breathable protection for the life of the boot. And, with Zamberlan's proprietary Hydrobloc® treatment for added water resistance and durability, in my opinion, this is a perfect do-it-all boot for anyone who loves the outdoors. Conservative branding embossed into the leather is a nice touch, not too NASCAR but enough to conservatively let people know what you’re wearing. Certainly, when you look at the Vioz Lux, it is pleasing to the eye.

Long-Lasting Boots for the Bear Rock Lifestyle

In a consumable society such as we have today, it is comforting to know that things may come and go, but my boots, which fit me PERFECTLY, can continually be “restored” to all their glory like a ’62 Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder. The only difference is resoling my beloved Zamberlans will cost approximately $17,999,850.00 less than the Ferrari!

Happy trails...Franklin!

Shop Now for an Adventure and Backpacking Boot for Your Fall Journeys

No one says it quite like Franklin and we thank him for his review! We highly recommend these boots to anyone looking for a comfortable and high-quality backpacking, hiking or (as Franklin shared) everyday boot. If you want to plan one more summer or fall outing into North Country, we’re still booking 4 seater ATV rentals and lodging in Pittsburg NH through Columbus Day Weekend.