Enduring Integrity—Meindl Lady Comfort Fit Salo Mid Boots
Quality and craftsmanship are central to the Meindl brand, which is why all their boots are created by skilled artisans using premium materials. While most Meindl boots are made in Germany, the Meindl Lady Comfort Fit® Salo Mid is handcrafted just across the border in Italy.I bought my first pair of Meindl hiking boots 30 years ago and still use them today as my garden work boots—they even have the original laces! What I didn’t realize back then was that Meindl has been making boots for over 300 years. As pioneers in durable footwear for adventurers worldwide, they developed the Flex-Use Rating system in 1976, which remains a standard in the footwear industry. They were also early leaders in integrating Gore-Tex technology into hiking boots.
Comfort has always been a hallmark of Meindl. Both the last and the footbed are designed around their Comfort Fit philosophy. The anatomically shaped Comfort Fit last provides your feet with room where it matters most. The generous toe box prevents toe-bang on descents, while the wide forefoot allows your feet to expand naturally as they flex. Additionally, the straight big-toe alignment helps maintain stability on uneven terrain, aided by the wider sole base. A snug heel fit keeps your feet secure, and the boot’s defined contour supports your step, helping propel you forward with each stride.
The attention to quality extends to the Comfort Fit footbed, which is substantial and lined with cork to mould to the shape of your foot over time. This sets Meindl apart from many other hiking brands, whose thinner, cost-cutting insoles often feel like an afterthought.
So, how do these boots perform in the field? They’re light, comfortable, and roomy at the front as promised. The lacing system is excellent—laces are the perfect length and tighten evenly thanks to the well-placed eyelets. I’ve found this especially helpful since my foot is narrow, and although this is a B-width boot (a versatile mid-width), the fit at the heel remains secure. There was no break-in discomfort; the boots softened quickly while staying supportive, likely due to the A Flex-Use Rating, which indicates moderate flexibility suited for day hikes through rural or low-mountain terrain. Designed for such use, the boots feature lighter materials and a toe rand instead of a full or mid-rand.
Craftsmanship is outstanding and materials superb. The integrated waterproof, breathable Gore-Tex keeps feet dry in downpours or wet conditions. The Meindl-designed outsole offers ample traction for day hiking with a contoured tread for grip. While a Vibram sole might offer more grip, it’s unnecessary for the boot’s intended use.
I’m thoroughly impressed with Meindl’s enduring integrity—both in their philosophy and their products—which aligns with the reviews of other Meindl models for men, such as the Meindl Literock Free Trail Shoe and the Comfort Fit Montafon Light Hiker.
Features:
- Comfort Fit® last for ample room and support
- Meindl’s A Flex-Use Rating
- Waterproof, breathable Gore-Tex®
- Comfort Fit® cork footbeds
- Premium suede leather upper
- Resoleable construction
- 12-month warranty against manufacturer defects
Insole: Comfort Fit®
Midsole: EVA
Outsole: Meindl Comfort Hiker II
Upper: Suede/mesh
Lining: Gore-Tex® waterproof
Specs:
Price: $360 CAD / 250 USD
Colour: Linde/Lemon
Sizes: 6–10 (B width only), half sizes to 10
Weight: 2.24 lbs / pair
Fit: Size down ½ size recommended