Will Renwick gives his verdict on this stylish pair of boots from Scottish brand Brandecosse following over a year’s worth of testing
These have become my go-to pair of three-season hiking boots. For the last year, I’ve used them for everything from climbing mountains in Scotland and hiking long-distance trails, to just simple day-to-day dog walks, and they’ve been excellent for everything. They’re comfortable, they’re waterproof, breathable and they’re very well built. In fact, after a year of heavy use my pair are still in great shape – they look like they’ve got years and years left in them.
Brand origins
Brandecosse is a Scottish brand that works in tandem with Italian manufacturers Calzaturificio Diemme to create premium outdoor footwear for country walking, hiking and hunting. Based in the foothills of the Dolomites, Calzaturificio Diemme are from a region that’s rich in boot making heritage, while Brandecosse have been involved in waterproof footwear manufacture for the best part of forty years.
Brandecosse Capriolo details and performance
These stylish boots feature a durable and breathable suede upper and a robust Vibram outsole. They also have a reliable, eco-friendly Sympatex waterproof membrane. At 980g per pair, they’re relatively lightweight, though still heavier than many synthetic options.
Content editor Will Renwick testing the Capriolos in Scotland. Photo: Michael Drummond
They have an approach shoe-style lacing system, which points towards their potential application for the occasional rock scramble too, while the flat rubber zone at the front of the outsole provides grip on slabs and edges. I’ve used them for scrambly ascents and they’ve been excellent.
The sole is also similar to the kind of one you’d find on a pair of approach shoes. It’s got just a little bit of flex, a robust heel counter and aggressive, multi-directional lugs that provide a reliable grip on both soft and hard surfaces. There’s a bit of cushioning from the memory foam within the midsole but it’s not a plush amount. There’s also a hefty toe rubber toe guard.
As is the case with all leather footwear, the upper will need some maintenance to ensure the material and the membrane underneath can function to their full potential.
The sole is by Vibram. Photo: Michael Drummond
Verdict
Even though this brand has heritage, it’s a little bit under the radar in the hiking world. But, based on what I’ve seen from the Capriolo, I can see it becoming quite popular. OK, it’s not a cheap boot, but it’s certainly a well-made product.
If you often find yourself between sizes, my advice would be to size up with these as the fit is quite narrow.
Upper materials: Italian Suede upper, Sympatex breathable waterproof lining | Sole unit: Vibram Friction outsole, leather footbed with contoured PU Cushioning, reinforced heel counter | Lacing: toe to ankle lacing system with spare set of retro red laces | Sizes: EU 37 to 47.
Price: £199 (international shipping available)
Weight: 980g
Available at: brandecosse.com
