The Vasque Jule combines comfort and durability in a hiking shoe that feels like a sneaker but has treads like a tank.  The Jule is the women’s version of the Juxt, which has been hailed as a versatile hiking shoe. Ladies can get excited for having access to the same top technologies in outdoor footwear.

The Jule provides the support that an athletic hiker demands from a shoe.  The Arc Tempo last has a narrower heel pocket and offers aid for higher arches.  The technology places your foot in a powerful position for attacking difficult terrain and clearing a rock or root in your path.  This shoe handles technical trails with comfort and ease.

Vasque uses “Off the Grid” (OTG) technology in its footing – a slip-resistant compound offering support and grab – a surprisingly sturdy and stable feel in a shoe that weighs less than a sneaker.

The Vasque Jule’s light weight and ankle freedom make the Jule a shoe for warmer-weather hiking – it’s a cooler, more comfortable shoe.  The leather is breathable and the top section of over laid mesh and contrast stitching keeps your feet from turning in to a sauna.  Not to forget, it offers far better tan-lines than your typical hiking boot.

Another plus about the Jule – it’s proved virtually waterproof during testing.  It won’t fare well in more than a few inches of water, but you can feel confident splashing in puddles or hopping logs through a stream – no soggy toes.

images/VasqueThe Jule laces close to the toe for a snug fit.  The Jule’s rubber sole comes on the toe for protection and waterproofing.  The quality of the leather and the extra cushioned heel and footbed makes the break-in process quick and relatively painless.

A shorter fit causes some dirt, rocks, dust to accumulate in the foot.  On the first trips with the Vasque Jule, the hard rubber sole was slippery on wet, slick surfaces – with the breaking in of the shoe, this slipperiness went away. (MSRP $95)