Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
LOWA’s story starts in Bavaria more than a century ago, and that heritage still defines how the company designs footwear today. These are boots and shoes built deliberately, meant to last, and, importantly, be serviced rather than discarded. In a market full of disposable footwear, LOWA still thinks long‑term.
Tibet EVO 200 GTX Hi
MSRP: $510
The Tibet EVO 200 GTX Hi is an 8‑inch, insulated mountain boot designed for cold‑weather work without becoming a sweat box. Instead of Thinsulate, LOWA uses PrimaLoft insulation, which performs more consistently across a wide temperature range and breathes better during high output. It’s perfect for mid- to late-season mountain hunts.
A Vibram Megagrip outsole provides confident traction on wet rock and mixed terrain. The boot is built from single‑piece water buffalo leather, wrapped in a full protective rand, with fully gusseted tongues to keep debris and moisture out. A synthetic felt trim nods subtly to LOWA’s Bavarian roots.
Inside, a wicking climate‑control lining and a thin reflective thermal insole help manage temperature. While both leather and Gore‑Tex are semi‑permeable, cold‑weather use actually increases Gore‑Tex breathability due to the higher temperature and pressure differential, exactly the environment this boot is designed for.
The Tibet EVO qualifies for LOWA’s U.S. rebuilding program, which replaces the outsole, midsole, rand, and laces for a fraction of the cost of new boots (around $120).
Z‑8S Mk2 GTX PR
MSRP: $230–$260
The Z‑8S Mk2 GTX PR is a lighter, faster boot built for sustained movement and long days. A puncture‑proof PU midsole protects against sharp debris without adding stiffness, while LOWA’s support frame keeps the foot stable under load.
The single‑piece split‑grain leather toe improves durability, reduces seam wear, minimizes pressure points, and enhances water resistance. A slanted rear collar accommodates larger calves and allows natural ankle articulation, a small detail, with big comfort gain over time.
Built in Germany and Slovakia, the Mk2 balances flexibility with structure, making it equally suited for duty use, training, or demanding travel. I wouldn’t hesitate to hunt in this boot, especially since it’s available in dark brown, and weighs just 25oz.
LOWA Skyterra
MSRP: $190
The Skyterra brings LOWA’s durability‑first mindset into the trail‑running category. It’s lighter and more agile than a boot, but retains a structured midsole and stable platform that holds up over long miles and mixed terrain.
Compared to many disposable trail runners, the Skyterra emphasizes longevity, torsional stability, and predictable foot placement, making it a strong choice for fast hikers, hunters, and travelers who move quickly but don’t want to replace shoes every season. Its DynaTPE lasts longer than other materials, and rebounds faster between steps for full cushioning throughout your stride.
The Takeaway
LOWA builds footwear with the assumption that you’ll use it hard and keep it. From rebuildable mountain boots to refined tactical designs and durable trail shoes, the through‑line is longevity, fit, and restraint.
That’s Bavarian thinking, still holding up 103 years later.
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Levi is an avid hunter, and an increasingly avid shooter. He strives to make delicious and simple recipes from the game he kills. He makes a living as a professional photographer and writer. Check out his work.