Verdict from 6 experts and 87 user reviews
5 reasons to buy
- An expert reviewer appreciated the grippy outsole of the Locarno GTX Lo which handled various terrain types confidently.
- The waterproofing of this hiking shoe was commended by a group of testers as it kept their feet dry even after tackling shallow stream crossings.
- The Locarno GTX Lo from Lowa runs true to size, based on a number of user reviews.
- Less than a handful of owners liked its versatile, stylish design.
- It was an ultra-expensive purchase, but its performance and craftsmanship made it all worth it, according to a pleased critic.
2 reasons not to buy
- A couple of hikers were disappointed with its insufficient underfoot cushioning.
- The skimpy arch support of the Locarno GTX Lo dismayed one wearer.
Bottom line
Testified as a true-to-size day hiking shoe, the Locarno GTX Lo earned compliments for its tacky outsole and effective waterproofing. Additionally, Lowa matched its sky-high price with outstanding workmanship and performance. Despite these noteworthy features, it still was not able to convince everyone. To conclude, the Lowa Locarno GTX Lo provides enough reasons why outdoor lovers should check it out. Not to mention, its reported setbacks can be neutralized by a preferred aftermarket insole.
Tip: see the best hiking shoes.
Good to know
- New to the All Terrain Classic line, the Lowa Locarno GTX Lo is made hikes on easy trails. It has an upper made of leather and textile which balances durability and flexibility. Adding up to its features are its lacing system and Gore-Tex lining.
- The component that brings a cushioned ride is a Lowa-engineered hybrid midsole. It works with the ATC footbed and a soft nylon stabilizer. The piece responsible for traction is the Hybrid Trac outsole by Lowa. Both sets of components form a sole unit with a rockered toe. This structure promotes the natural rolling motion of the foot.
The Lowa Locarno GTX Lo is a shoe catering to male and female hikers. It is offered in regular sizes and standard width. The lacing system variation helps the user achieve a more customized, snugger fit. It generally runs true to size.
The Lowa Hybrid Trac features a profile optimized for use outdoors. Its strategically placed lugs self-clean by shedding off the mud. As a result, the shoe becomes slips resistant. The ridged design on the toe and heel improves the grip on ascents and descents.
With an ATC footbed and hybrid DuraPU/DynaPU midsole, this low-cut day hiking shoe offers underfoot cushioning and shock absorption. The PU foam is enhanced by Lowa for more long-lasting comfort. The inverted Monowrap promotes stability through its higher wrap web construction. In addition, the brand incorporated a half-length Soft Stabilizer to render support on various activities.
Lowa designers combined nubuck leather and fabric on the upper of the Locarno GTX Lo. This creates a durable yet flexible build. Also, to address breathability and waterproofing, the brand lines it with a Gore-Tex laminate.
The version for men and women have differences in terms of reinforcements and lacing system. Women’s uses a mix of webbing and metal eyelets while the men’s are only equipped with Lowa-embossed metal eyelets. The women’s version has a forefoot overlay that forms into a tab-like eyelet at the front. The men’s version has a forefoot overlay that reinforces the first set of eyelets. Both have a cushioned tongue and collar.
- This shoe is also available in a mid-cut version.
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