Think of walking shoes and it can automatically bring to mind solid, sturdy shoes created for treacherous weather conditions. But sometimes, you just want a pair of lightweight shoes for your morning walk, weekend wander, or ticking off your to do list during the week, as well as that longer walk when it does stop raining. Hello, Vasque's Here walking shoes.
Vasque is a US shoe brand celebrating its 60th anniversary, so the company clearly has great form where footwear is concerned. Part of their range is the Vasque Here, which is described as a shoe that ‘grounds you in the present moment'. Created with breathability and freedom of movement, as well as support front and centre, it's a strong contender for one of the best walking shoes around.
It is the sort of shoe you can turn to whether out on the trail or sightseeing on a city break, and it is so light, it is perfect for packing in a small carry-on. I should know - I tried out the Vasque Here walking shoes across all types of terrain to get the lowdown.
Vasque Here review
Specifications
- Size range: UK 6-11
- RRP: £120
- Weight per shoe: 266g
- Materials: Recycled polyester mesh, high rebound EVA rubber and Vasque R2T rubber with Xlite rubber lugs
- Waterproof? No
You can also buy the Vasque Here walking shoe direct from the website in the three colours as described. If you're shopping from the US or happy to pay shipping, you have more colour options here.
First impressions of the Vasque Here walking shoes
The Vasque Here shoes, straight out of the box, felt very light. Since they are sold as a lightweight shoe, you'd think this would be obvious - and yet, I've come across many 'lightweight' shoes in the past couple of years that feel anything but light.
On putting the shoes on, I noticed the tongue length is much longer than most other shoes and when you pull it back, you'll notice you can see your socks through the mesh. For me, this was the biggest problem with these shoes from both an appearance standpoint (you have to be very careful what colour socks you wear) and a durability standpoint (there's absolutely no waterproofing or dust protection). However, it does mean the shoe is very breathable so it could be a good choice for the warmer months, right alongside the best hiking sandals.
The inner sole feels cushiony straight away, and the heel lifts up at the back, which I felt propelled me forward as I walked. I am a size 7 and this walking shoe is true to size, although it does feel particularly snug across the width of my forefoot. I wouldn’t want it any smaller. Also, the colour, as pretty as it is, is not the most practical for this time of year - but then I wouldn’t put these on when the rain is pelting. I'd think of these walking shoes as a good alternative to your old favourite running shoes if you like support when you're on the move.
The Vasque Here is available in sizes 6 to 11, which means it is not suitable for the smaller footed among us, but there are four colour options in muted tones – sphagnum green, the reddish mocha bisque, the mauve-like night owl and peyote, a creamy beige colour that I have been wearing.
What are the Vasque Here walking shoes like to wear?
I made the most of the beautiful crisp autumn days this year to test these shoes out at my local park. This is my go-to testing spot for walking shoes that aren't waterproof - and the place I always go to get my steps in when I don't want to venture further afield into the Pennines in the north of England, where I live.
Though these shoes are snug, I found them comfortable as I did my one mile laps around the park. My foot rolled forward with ease when it landed, immediately marking these shoes as a good choice for brisk walks - much like the KEEN 450 Dirt waterproof walking shoe. I felt plenty of room at the front for my toes and my heel felt locked in at the back.
Although the Vasque Here walking shoes aren't made for rainy conditions, I did try them out after a downpour and I felt stable walking in them - even on a gravel path, which can feel loose underfoot at times. This stability is created by the Xlite lugs, which provided a welcome point of stability when I wanted to quicken my pace and the blood pumping. However, as noted, these aren't waterproof so my feet did get wet - but that's to be expected.
One of the features I loved most about the Vasque Here was the shoe's versatility. They aren't bulky or produced in loud garish colours, so you can throw them on with jeans and they pair equally as well as with a pair of workout leggings. For the warmer, less-wet months, these will be a go-to for me. They did pick up some grass stains, but these were easy to remove.
How do the Vasque Here walking shoes compare?
People often turn to popular walking shoe brands like Merrell or Hoka - and for good reason. The Merrell Moab Speed 2 GORE-TEX walking shoes and the Hoka Speedgoat 2 shoes are among my favourites. However, the Vasque Here walking shoes are an excellent non-waterproof but very breathable alternative, available at a lower price point - and no one else will be wearing them!
The sizing could be more inclusive with regards to smaller sizing as most walking shoes begin at size 3, not size 6. However, they are available in both low and mid-height styles. Also, if you prefer darker coloured shoes, you will need to look elsewhere, such as the new Teva Trailwinder Low walking shoes (£105), which are also lightweight.
Are the Vasque Here walking shoes worth buying?
If you are looking for a walking shoe you can comfortably wear when the sun is shining, or when it is dry at least, then this would make a great addition to your outdoor wardrobe.
The Vasque Here walking shoes are suitable for trails, pavements, pathways and parkland but stylish enough to wear if you are simply out and about and want more support than your regular trainers. It is a bit of an all-rounder, as long as the conditions are right and you don’t mind your socks, or skin, on show through the mesh.
