Crispi Colorado GTX II Boot Review: A New Generation of a Favorite Boot
The Crispi Colorado GTX II is the ultimate do-it-all hunting boot.
Finding the right hunting boot can be downright agonizing. Along with trying to find something that performs when you need it most, there is also the variable of our feet. Our feet are all different in one way or another, so it makes taking advice from others on what boots to get rather difficult.
Nonetheless, here we are. I am about to give my 2 cents to you on what I call “a fantastic do-it-all hunting boot.” In the end, you really need to decide that for yourself, but until that point, let me break down the new 2022 Crispi Colorado GTX II boot.
In short: From the treestand to the rugged backcountry, the Crispi Colorado GTX II can handle hunting country of all kinds. Just don’t bring them into too-frigid temperatures, and be prepared to size up a smidge.
Crispi Colorado GTX II Boot Review
Overview
The first version of the Crispi Colorado GTX was a massive success for hunters. It answered the need of providing a stiffer boot for support while not giving up the comfort we desire. Crispi took what was good and made it great with the second version of the Colorado.
The Crispi Colorado GTX II is an 8-inch-high noninsulated hunting boot made from water-repellent suede and triple-stitched with Kevlar. It also sports a polyurethane-coated leather rand for added protection. Each one of the Colorado GTX II boots weighs in at 1.6 pounds (size 10), which is about a half-pound lighter, give or take, than a full leather boot.
On the Crispi Flex Rating, the Colorado II sits at a Flex 4 rating. This makes it one level under the “Most Stiff” rating that Crispi offers.
These boots are available in sizes 8-14 in both regular size and wide (EE) sizes. And, of course, like most hunting boots, the Colorado GTX II is equipped with a GORE-TEX lining that is both breathable and waterproof.
Features
Here are some of the features that stick out to me with the Colorado GTX II. These new boots come with the Crispi ABSS, which stands for Ankle Bone Support System. Basically, this exclusive system to Crispi allows the boot to gently contour to the shape of your ankle.
The benefits of this include sprain protection and limiting fatigue in our lower joints. It is where protection meets comfort.
The biggest difference between the first version of Colorado GTX, and this one is the PUtek Fabric. This is a highly resistant, breathable nylon fabric that is woven with threads of polyurethane. The goal here for Crispi was to keep the boot lightweight while increasing the durability and puncture resistance from the first version.
Adding to the durability and comfort of the Colorado II is the Vibram sole paired with the dual-density polyurethane shock-absorbing midsole. The Vibram sole screams longevity and is made with a tread pattern that is ideal for steep, nasty terrain.
The dual-density midsole will ensure that your feet are comfortable even on the longest of days. In a nutshell, the results of this duo are increased comfort and exceptional stability.
My Experience
I have been using and abusing hunting boots for quite some time now, and I’ve realized that it is not a “one size fits all” situation. In other words, you really need to do your homework and find the kind of boots that work right for you, not your friend. I’m happy to say that my experience with the Crispi Colorado GTX II has been a pleasant one.
Right out of the box, these are dang comfortable. There is just enough give in the boot to make you not feel like you’re wearing 2×4s on your feet. This support would come in handy for steep sidehilling and when hiking with heavy weight.
I did replace the stock insole with one from Tread Labs. Very happy with the results there. In all honesty, I felt like I really didn’t have to break these in, either. I went for a few 3-4-mile hikes with them, and the difference from before to after was negligible.
Since then, I’ve had these Colorado GTX IIs trekking from the rugged alpine of Colorado to packing out mule deer through Idaho’s steep and deep backcountry.
I’ve even had them in the Sandhills of western Nebraska, as well as packing bull elk out of the Arizona desert. Creek crossings galore, snow, hot weather, and everything in between. Plain and simple, they’re performers, and I’m still wearing them.
Of course, not everything is perfect, though.
What’s Wrong
The first thing you might consider a downside of the Colorado GTX IIs is that they are not insulated. So, there is a cap on when you’ll have to stop using them as the weather cools. Of course, this is also highly dependent on the type of hunting you’re doing, too.
For an active western hunter, you’d be able to stretch them much farther. However, if you’re sitting for whitetails from a treestand, you might want to look elsewhere for the later months.
Another thing I’ve noticed, and this has been the case with all Crispi boots I’ve used, is that they have a tendency to shrink over time. I don’t know exactly what triggers this. My guess is after they get soaking wet.
Since figuring this out, I’ve had to start sizing up a half-size. Take it from me here. I’ve got probably four pairs of boots I can’t wear anymore due to them shrinking.
Final Thoughts
While finding the right boot can be downright agonizing at times, it is so worth it when you do find what you’re looking for. They are our tires of the hunting woods, and without a good set, our travel would be limited and even downright painful.
I can’t tell you if the Crispi Colorado GTX IIs are going to be the perfect hunting boot for you. What I can tell you is this, though. I have been very pleased with them, and they damn sure deserve at least a look if you’re looking for a quality boot that can handle a wide variety of conditions for your next hunt and beyond.
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