Why We Chose The Hanwag Tarso Low ES Hiking Shoes: Versatile, comfortable, eco-friendly

Price: £200
Weight: 930g (pair)
More info: hanwag.com

German brand Hanwag are known for their no-nonsense approach to outdoor footwear. They built their reputation on sturdy, well-made hiking boots that were designed to last for mile after mile. Though the range has subsequently expanded to include a wide range of footwear, from walking shoes to full-on alpine and via ferrata boots, the products generally stay true to that founding ethos. The Tarso Low ES shoes are no exception.

Described as being intended for ‘multifunctional outdoor use’, this is a do-it-all pair of shoes that are equally at home on easy hiking trails or just your daily commute. They’re nicely understated in three muted, nature-influenced colourways, with a strong emphasis on comfort and cushioning. The waxed suede and synthetic uppers also feature a sturdy rubber toe rand and robust lacing that comes a good way down the forefoot, clearly indicating that these shoes can be used for more demanding walking that simply pounding pavements. Underneath, the outsole has fairly deep lugs and a pronounced heel breast for reassuring traction on varied terrain. 

“Hanwag’s TubeTec Eco midsole is made of impact-absorbent polyurethane (PU) containing partly recycled material”

And though the Tarso Low ES shoes only look outdoorsy in a fairly low-key, unassuming way, they contain a couple of innovative technologies and materials, both developed to offer a more sustainable product that has minimal environmental impact. Firstly, they incorporate a waterproof, breathable Eco-Shell Footwear membrane, made without using harmful PFCs. Secondly, Hanwag’s TubeTec Eco midsole is made of impact-absorbent polyurethane (PU) containing partly recycled material. The TPU heel counter and rubber outsole also contain recycled materials, as does the inner lining of the shoes.