Three days of trekking on the Monte Baldo high route provided the perfect opportunity to test out a few products. We brought Dolomite boots, Cober poles, and Julbo sunglasses. A series of products perfect for tackling the variable conditions of a route that reaches over 2,000 meters, between the dazzling August sun and the freezing drizzle of the high mountains. Here’s how we found it.
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Dolomite – Vernale High Leather GTX
As soon as I put on the Vernale High Leather GTX di Dolomite boots, I immediately felt solid and comfortable. The nubuck and suede leather is soft yet durable, and you can feel the quality of the materials (LWG certified). I walked on both technical trails like scree and rock slabs, as well as on dirt and grass. In every case, I never felt my feet were tired or overheated, and I never lost control.
The GORE-TEX lining is a guarantee: I tackled a short stretch in the rain and, despite the wet ground, my feet remained dry and well insulated. The Vibram Megagrip low profile tread doesn’t miss a beat; it offers incredible grip on limestone, and the tread pattern allows for grip even on grass and dirt. I was also impressed by the midsole’s perfect balance between cushioning and propulsion: it truly feels like it’s accompanying you step after step.
In short: these are boots that not only get the job done, but do it with style and comfort. They’re ideal if you’re looking for something reliable for both day trips and multi-day treks like the one we did.
(Daniele Sigala)
Dolomite – Crodarossa Leather Gore-Tex donna
I tried the Crodarossa Leather GTX on this multi-day trek and I have to say I was surprised by its lightness and freedom of movement. It feels stable on the feet but not bulky, making it perfect when precision and agility are needed.
The suede feels nice and sturdy, while the e-foam reinforcements on the toe and heel made me feel protected more than once, especially against unexpected impacts on rocks. The difference between the front and rear midsoles is clearly noticeable: the EVA cushioning at the back absorbs impacts well, while the rigidity at the front helps carry weight without the shoe bending. The climbing zone at the toe is really useful: on small limestone ledges, I felt I could count on good precision.
The Vibram Megagrip sole is one of its strong points: it holds up very well on climbs, and on descents, thanks to the heel and pronounced lugs, it brakes at just the right moment. Even on wet terrain, it never gave me the feeling of slipping.
Finally, the GORE-TEX lining did its job: I walked on damp sections without ever finding myself with wet feet, and breathability remained good even after the 9-hour walk on the second day.
In short: the Crodarossa Leather GTX is a shoe that combines comfort, protection, and precision. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a lightweight yet reliable shoe for confident movement on both trails and technical sections.
(Donatella Munerol)
Cober – Crater “Mud“
I had the opportunity to test the Cober Craters on a rather varied alpine trail, and I must say they won me over from the very first steps. The expander adjustment system is quick and intuitive, and the dual-material Cosmonaut grip offers a comfortable grip even after hours of use.
The 7° tilt is immediately noticeable: the grip feels more natural and your hands get much less tired. One detail I particularly appreciated is the rear end of the grip, which improves finger support and is very useful on more technical sections or when you need more control.
The aluminum construction also deserves a mention: it immediately gives a feeling of solidity, and after a few impacts against rocks and roots I can confirm that the resistance is truly excellent.
(Daniele Sigala)
- Lenght: 105 – 135 cm
- Tubes: alu 5083
- Diameter: 14 – 16 – 18 mm
- Decoration: screen printing
- Grip: Cosmonaut bi-material
- Handrail: Quickstrap
- Wheel: 50 mm
- Tip: steel
- Weight: 277 g
Cober – Magma
Walking 40 km and 5,500 m of elevation gain in 3 days, carrying 14 kg, wouldn’t have been possible without a good pair of poles. For this adventure, I relied on Cober’s Magma and am truly satisfied. The aluminum tubes are lightweight yet sturdy; they took a few hits on rocks and flexed under load, but without any consequences. The bi-material (plastic-rubber) Cam Lock adjustment system is super reliable, and you won’t suddenly find yourself with shortened poles. The Cosmonaut grip is the long foam version, which is incredibly convenient when you have to negotiate rock faces and need to grip the pole a little lower, as well as on off-slope sections. In short, it passed the test with flying colors.
(Marco Melloni)
- Lenght: 105 – 125 cm
- Tubes: alu 5083
- Diameter: 14 – 16 – 18 mm
- Decoration: screen printing
- Grip: Cosmonaut long foam grip
- Handrail: Neoprene
- Wheel: 40 mm / 92 mm
- Tip: Widia
- Weight: 289 g
Julbo – Shield
We tested the Shield model during these days of trekking and were immediately impressed by the combination of modern, clean design and functionality. These glasses adapt well to a variety of situations: we used them in varying conditions, from midday sun to 7:00 PM fog, and in every situation they guaranteed complete protection and a wide field of vision. The photochromic lenses really make a difference, especially with the rapid changes in light typical of Alpine environments.
One detail we really appreciated was the soft fabric side shields: they provide good protection from reflected light while also feeling comfortable against the skin. The fact that they’re removable is incredibly convenient, as once you’re done hiking, they can be removed, making the glasses perfect for everyday use.
The contoured, non-slip temples and nose grip do their job well: the Shield stays in place even with sudden movements, without the need for constant adjustments. Furthermore, the small holes above and below the lenses really improve ventilation: we sweated a lot on the climbs, but we never had any problems with condensation.
Finally, the design: the rectangular shape gives an elegant yet decisive touch, therefore not only functionality, but also style.
In short: the Shield is a versatile, safe and comfortable pair of glasses, designed for those seeking total protection in the mountains but without giving up a modern look.
(Marco Melloni – Daniele Sigala)
The REACTIV® High Contrast category 0-4 photochromic and polarized lenses allow for excellent reading of the terrain. The translucent base allows for use even at night.
REACTIV® Polarized lenses are polarized and category 2-4, for high protection in the mountains.
Julbo Shield – https://www.julbo.com/it_it/p/shield-reactiv?v=J5065012
Julbo Shield – https://www.julbo.com/it_it/p/shield-reactiv?v=J5064514
Julbo – Fury
The Fury have a bold look that an athlete like me really likes. As soon as I took them out of their Lycra pouch, I was struck by the colors of the frame and lenses, but I was really curious to try them in action.
Three days of trekking from 65 to 2,200 m is truly a great test. We tried everything, from scorching sun to rain, and for most of the hours of walking I never took them off. They are extremely light (25 g), and they stay firmly on my face thanks to the Grip Tech temples and Grip Nose, so you don’t have to constantly readjust them. What’s even more extraordinary, however, are the lenses. I’d never tried Julbo lenses before, and I think they’re unbeatable. These glasses feature Spectron lenses with an internal anti-fog treatment and an external oil-repellent coating. They offer incredible contrast, and when the sky is blue with a few clouds, the color and details pop as if it were augmented reality. Fury, I’m in love with them.
(Donatella Munerol)
