Photo: Ari Lamb Creative
I have a soft spot for the 1980s—though not every fashion choice from that era deserves a comeback. Still, Vasque has tapped its archives and revived the Clarion ’88 GTX, an iconic hiking boot that’s welcome back in any era.
The Clarion ’88 keeps the distinctive aesthetic that made it a classic three decades ago, but Vasque has updated it with modern materials and construction to produce a lighter, more comfortable, and longer-lasting boot.
Photo: Ari Lamb Creative
Offered in both men’s and women’s versions, the Clarion ’88 GTX arrives in muted gray tones accented with deep blue or teal—an appropriately retro palette that still works for contemporary wear.
Review
I started my time with these boots doing heavy yard work. They required no break-in period, though I prefer to spend a little time wearing new boots before taking them on a trail. The Vibram outsole is firm yet responsive, and it held up well while I dug roughly 20 holes around the yard.
Photo: Ari Lamb Creative
Despite the suede upper, these boots are fully waterproof thanks to a Gore-Tex lining that keeps feet dry in wet conditions. I took them to Lake Tahoe; while they never got fully soaked, they felt secure on the slick rocks around Glen Alpine Falls.
They also work well as casual footwear—stylish enough for town without announcing “hiking boot.” My only real wish is for a broader range of color options.
This limited-edition model is priced at $159.99 and will be available starting August 15 on Vasque.com.
Photo: Ari Lamb Creative