WHAT IS IT?
Meindl Comfort Fit Toskana Trail Walker
WHAT SETS IT APART?
Essential to this shoe’s performance are Meindl’s Comfort Fit cork footbeds and Comfort Fit Last. In shoemaking, a “last” is the anatomical foot form used throughout the manufacturing process. Meindl’s process ensures more room in the toe box and width at the ball of the foot. This keeps the big toe straight and allows the foot to sit naturally. For angler stability, this shoe carries an A Flex-Use Rating for exceptional traction and flexibility. The Meindl Toskana Trail Walker is offered in sizes 7 to 12. The company generally recommends going a half size down from your normal U.S. sizing.
HOW DO I USE IT?
Along with the proper clothing, outerwear, hats and polarized sunglasses, anglers need reliable footwear that addresses the key points of comfort/support, stability and weather resistance. Italian shoemaker Meindl offers an impressive option that anglers may want to consider. The Toskana Trail Walker was designed for nature walks, but its features clearly benefit those spending long hours on the decks of bass boats. With a premium suede leather upper blending style and durability, the Gore-Tex lining keeps water out. Also, the Meindl Multigrip sole keeps you stable on the deck and slick boat ramps, while rising high in the front to help protect the toe from bumps and scrapes.
HOW MUCH?
$220
MORE INFORMATION:
ANGLER’S INSIGHT:
My wide feet tend to give me sizing issues when an extra wide option is not available. Going up one half size helps, but depending on the shoe’s design, gapping and heel slip can be problematic. Accounting for Meindl’s sizing suggestion, I went with my standard U.S. length, and the shoe’s spacious design yielded an ideal fit. Moreover, leather often put me through an uncomfortable break-in period, but the Toskana Trail Walker provided instant comfort. Putting these shoes to the test, I first wore them while walking my profoundly impatient grand-pup Hazel, who keeps me at a brisk pace with sudden squirrel or cat sighting bursts. Returning home with no blisters, rubs or aches earned this shoe high marks.
