Gearhead: Vasque hiking shoes for comfortable treks

The Vasque Grand Traverse performs with the versatility and precision of a fine approach shoe but offers the support, stability and comfort of a high-end hiking shoe.

The Vibram Ibex sole is molded from two grippy compounds - Idrogrip for traction on wet rocks and Megagrip for durability and stickiness - while the supple, compression-molded EVA midsole provides a running shoe feel.

The upper is good-looking but durable even on extremely rough and rocky trails, with 1.8mm of strong suede leather, PU armored textile mesh and a rubber toe cap.

Laced closure lets you easily adjust for the kind of tightness you like, an active heel strap permits finer adjustments, and a wicking lining keeps your feet dry (they’ll also be comfy in their plush Poron foam strobel bed).

In Aluminum/Hot Coral and Beluga/Dewberry. $120. vasque.com.

Available in Santa Rosa at Sonoma Outfitters, Red Wing Store, REI; and in Rohnert Park at Sportsman’s Warehouse.