The Kuga GTX is lightweight, and by lightweight we mean a pair has the sort of weight you're used to for a single boot - our test size 42s tipping the scales at just 860g. It's easy to see where the wight's been saved when you take a look, with a fine mesh upper and a lightweight sole. Comfort is a combination of the same memory foam used in Brasher's full boots and the EVA midsole and if the Kuga fits your foot then they're ready for use straight from the box.

The first couple of weeks of testing gave us nothing but warm, dry, weather - and there's probably no worse conditions for wearing Gore-Tex lined footwear but while the Kuga was noticeably warm it certainly wasn't uncomfortable and the mesh upper managed to generate enough airflow to allow all day use. When the rain finally fell for the last few days the Gore-Tex membrane did what it always does and kept our test foot perfectly dry on the peat and grass tops of the western Peak District and woodland tracks of Cheshire.

When it came to using the Kuga in wet woods the sole was initially a cause for concern with its shallow lugs, but when it came down to it neither mud nor wet leaves stopped our progress. It was also muddy tracks that reinforced an initial impression that the Kuga holds the heel much more securely than many approach shoes. On Welsh slate the Kuga handled scrambling OK, and despite plenty of contact with the rock the uppers were generally protected by the additional toe and heel protectors and showed no sign of wear where the fabric met the rock.

Overall the Kuga GTX is a pretty average looking trainer, but it’s a trainer with hill walking performance. It hasn't got their flexibility for running and it's a bit too chunky for cycling but it takes wet or dry grass, gravel, bare rock and trail with ease and around town or university, it gets by without remark.

Price: £100.00

Weight: 916g/pair (size 9)

Colour: Shadow/Grey

Features:

• A lightweight, waterproof and breathable multi activity shoe ideal for comfort on the trail or around town.
• GORE-TEX® lined for waterproof performance and comfort.
• Upper: 1.4-1.6mm nubuck leather upper with 3D breathable air mesh. Memory foam in the collar.
• Sole: Brasher's three-part all terrain sole unit incorporating rubber outsole for grip, shock absorbing, Shock absorbing EVA midsole and TPU plate for torsional rigidity. Ortholite dual density footbed.

Note: This article was restored from the archives. It's published creation date is inaccurate.