Innovo GTX LO is Lightweight, Rugged, and Ready for Spring Trails
When it comes to finding the right hiking shoe for spring adventures, waterproofing, durability, and comfort are always top priorities. At OMA 2025, I had the chance to check out LOWA’s latest lineup, including the new Innovo GTX LO, and it immediately caught my attention. While the Renegade Boot, their Top seller, felt solid in-hand, I wanted something with a lower profile but still built for rugged conditions—so I picked up the Men’s Innovo GTX LO in Olive/Amber Green for a real-world test new to the 2025 line up at LOWA.
Unboxing & First Impressions
Right out of the box, this shoe feels lightweight yet sturdy, blending features from LOWA’s backpacking line into a more agile, low-cut design. The GORE-TEX waterproof lining is what really sold me—I picked this up with spring waterfall hikes and wet Sierra trails in mind, and I’m confident it’ll hold up against slick granite and muddy conditions. The build quality is unmistakable, from the split leather and fabric upper to the DynaPU® midsole, designed for comfort and durability.
First Test: 3-Mile Trail Walk
For my first test, I took the Innovo GTX LO out on a three-mile loop near home, mixing paved paths with dirt trails to see how they felt in motion. My biggest takeaways:
✔ Comfortable Right Away – No break-in issues, snug but supportive fit.
✔ Great Traction – The LOWA® TERRA TRAC® outsole grips well, even on loose dirt.
✔ Stable & Secure – The heel brake and cushioning provide confidence on uneven ground.
While this was just a short test, I can already tell these will be a solid choice for spring hikes in the Sierra. I’m planning to field-test them on water crossings, wet granite, and rugged terrain over the coming months, so stay tuned for a full performance review.
💰 At $210, these are a bit pricier than my usual hiking shoes, but with GORE-TEX protection and LOWA’s build quality, I see them as a solid investment for serious hikers. If you’re looking for a lightweight but rugged waterproof shoe, these might be worth a look.
📌 Next Up: A full review after testing them on spring trails, including Desolation Wilderness!
More Gear Reviews & Field Tests
I’m always testing the latest hiking and backpacking gear to see what performs best in the Sierra. Be sure to check out our full collection of gear reviews and field-tested recommendations at Sierra Rec Gear Reviews. Whether you’re looking for hiking boots, tents, backpacks, or camp cooking gear, we put them to the test in real conditions so you know what works.
Affiliate Disclaimer
LOWA is an affiliate partner, which means that some links in this post may lead to shopping pages where I receive a small commission if you make a purchase. This does not influence my reviews—I test all gear independently and share my honest experiences so you can make the best decision for your adventures.
What do you think? Have you tried LOWA hiking shoes before? Let me know in the comments or on social media!
