Gateway1 Fiordland 7" Trekking Boots: Scandinavian hiking boots perfect for heavy use in the outdoors
Review & Photography: Ruaidhri Marshall
Rating: 5/5
Finding the right hiking boot that works extensively over rough outdoor terrain in all conditions can be a challenge, but for an individual who is looking to invest in a higher-priced premium trekking boot, Gateway1’s Fiordland 7’’ proves to be a great option.
Designed, developed and product tested in Scandinavia, Gateway1 Footgear is a Danish brand known for their proven record on creating top-notch functional outdoor footwear for the harshest of terrain.
UK sizes range from size 6 to 14, RRP is £229.99
Fjordland 7” boots from Gateway1. Photo: Ruaidhri Marshall
The first thing I noticed when trying on the Gateway1 Footgear Fiordland boots is the overall ruggedness and quality of the product, it was apparent that these are a long-lasting investment.
The devil is in the details
When you’re considering spending £200+ on a trekking boot, it is important to know what the advantages tend to be over a lower end boot. With the Gateway1 Fiordland’s, the devil is in the details. The boots offer technology which oozes quality. The footwear is produced with a SympaTex® membrane which is 100% waterproof, additionally coming with a SympaTex® Lunar+ G1® memory fit lining.
After personally undergoing a pretty severe waterproof test, I found that the added SympaTex membrane kept my feet completely dry, with no water leakage found.
The shank, insole and footbed construction of the boot offers supreme quality, with the insole being a PB broadline.
This insole covers the full length of the boot, which I found to be very comfortable and gives the boot a lot of stability when traversing unsteady terrain.
The insole is easily removable and can be replaced, it offers an extremely comfortable fit, perfect for long treks in the wilderness.
Pictures above show the added Vibram® sole which adds conditioned grip & SympaTex® membrane technology
“The Gateway1® brand name is inspired from honouring the same title used in the pioneering days of the USA´s birth.
Settlers, frontiersmen, fur trappers and other adventurers often named the first chosen landing spot “Gateway One” upon initial passage of the great rivers. These strategically locations had many functions to support the frontiersmen. As hubs of the fur trade and supply chain they were vital for the survival of the next season.
By this name we want to express the functionality of our footwear in even the harshest weather and environments in nature, as the choice to get you through, as those “Gateway Ones” performed as the keys to surviving the frontiers.”
Hiking and hunting set high demands
As stressed by Gateway1 Footgear, hiking and hunting set high demands.
The heel notch, at the rear end of the boot, creates stability for the upper ankle when you find yourself in awkward positions. When traversing uneven terrain, the notch allowed more give – a fascinating feature especially for someone who wants protection against ankle injuries.
The rear end heal cap and the front-end toecap are solid and well built, offering unparalleled protection for your feet… Certainly no need to worry about stubbing your toes!
A convenient feature is the lace lock, as shown in the image below. The lace locks meant that I could adjust the laces quickly and efficiently, personally to a tighter fit.
I did find the boots to be on the heavier side, however, this is understandable for a boot which is designed for rough winter weather and difficult terrain.
Photo showcasing the Gateway1 Fiordland boot lace lock system on the upper part of the book
“We have chosen the North American bison, often called buffalo, illustrated in Native American Indian style as our logo – a symbol of strength and survival even under the most severe conditions.
With our Danish and Scandinavian background we strive to express functionality in our design and details.”
Final verdict: certainly a long term investment
With their comfy fit and modern rugged outdoor style, there is no denying that Gateway1’s Fiordland 7’’ boots offer supreme protection and durability in any element you throw them into.
However, this does come at a price… a costly £229.99 RRP. A potential buyer does have to pitch quality over quantity in this instance which understandably limits this product to more serious-minded outdoorsmen and women but purchasing this boot is a wise investment for an individual who has the resources.
For people who have this type of expendable income, you will certainly not regret your decision.
Purchase Information
For UK purchasing enquiries contact Bob McConnell via email at:
sales@koolbox.co.uk
For more information on Gateway1 products and to access their full catalogue, or if you have any enquires visit: www.gateway1-footgear.com
It is important to note that Dure Magazine was not paid to review this product, all opinions expressed are of the individual reviewer. Technical information about the technology used within the product was researched.