Garneau Klondike winter shoe review
The Garneau Klondike winter MTB boots are at home on the coldest days.
What is it
Designed to eliminate cold feet, the Garneau Klondike MTB boots are cost effective and built to last. A rugged waterproof exterior protects a feature-packed inner boot filled with 400 grams of Thinsulate insulation.
Pros
- Very warm
- Soft and grippy Vibram tread
- Affordable
- Boa closure system
- Sturdy construction
Cons
- No drilling for toe spikes
- Weak zipper pull tabs
Mtbr’s Take
Garneau’s Klondike MTB boots exude toughness and purpose. Rugged Cordura 1680D exterior is abrasion resistant and has hooks for gators and reflectors. Inside is 400g Thinsulate insulation for maximum warmth and a cozy feel.
Fit is true to size and Garneau has an EEE footbed design that offers a high-volume toe box and interior, making these shoes perfect for thick wool socks and/or chemical warmers. Maximizing rider-created heat, the Klondikes have felt/aluminum insoles. The felt traps heat and cushions the foot while an aluminum base prevents heat loss and guards against dampness.
Felt and aluminum insoles keep heat inside the shoe.
Another great favorite is the Vibram soles and tread design. The rubber of a winter shoe needs to be soft, and have a tread that allows for walking on snow and ice without losing grip or feeling uncomfortable. The Klondikes have that perfect mix of cushion and traction.
Vibram rubber is a trusted name among the outdoor community.
My first ride in the Klondikes was in rainy, miserable weather, and I was unsure how the Cordura material would react to total submersion. But my feet stayed dry and warm. On a subsequent snow-covered excursion, the Klondikes winter specific tread never packed up to the point where I lost grip in the sub-zero conditions.
I do wish there was a place to install toe spikes, but the Boa IP1 dual rail retention system and ski-boot style interior make for a secure fit with zero heel slippage, even when hiking steep terrain. And it’s all sealed up with a waterproof YKK zipper to keep in warmth. A protective outer layer of Cordura secured with a simple cuff is competent enough, though you need to re-affix after standing to ensure a smooth, snow-proof fit.
The Klondike is packed with 400g Thinsulate insulation for maximum warmth and a cozy feel.
In a product segment where cost can run high, Garneau’s Klondike are a solid value. You may not get 7 to 10 years out of them like some of the more expensive models out there, but they will keep you plenty warm.
Garneau’s Klondike is a workhorse winter shoe.
Bottom line, Garneau has a monster of a winter shoe in their line and it’s one that I’ve been happy to have during the winter months. Warm feet and confidence in your gear are both worth more than gold when you’re riding in the winter. The Klondikes deliver both. If you’re looking for a cold-weather shoe that is good for training, commuting, fat biking, or any below-freezing adventures put the Klondikes on your short list.
Rating: 4 out of 5 
Price: $300
More info: garneau.com
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