Article by Jeff Valliere
Stio Ridgecap Low ($159 also in a waterproof Mid)
Introduction:
Based in Jackson Hole Wyoming, at the base of the Grand Tetons, Stio makes the highest quality outdoor clothing, shoes and accessories for a wide range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, running, lifestyle, biking, fishing, paddling, skiing and snowboarding.
I was fortunate enough to attend the launch of the Ridgecap hiking shoes at the Stio Mountain Studio in Boulder recently, where they provided me with the Ridgecap Low, as well as samples of their clothing (review upcoming). The Ridgecap is described as “A fast, lightweight and comfortable all terrain shoe that hits the sweet spot between stability and agility”.
At 15.4 oz/437 g, they are not light by any means, or at least not when compared to most trail running shoes, but a reasonable weight for a hiking boot and offer the highest quality construction, comfort, protection and traction. Stio is committed to using the finest, most sustainable materials, creating partnerships and extending the life of their products reducing waste.
Pros: Quality, comfort, protection, traction, style, stability, versatility
Cons: Weight
Stats
Spec Weight: men's 14.5oz / 411g US9
Sample Weight: men’s 15.4oz / 437g US 10
Platform Width: 97mm heel / 85mm midfoot / 117mm forefoot
First Impressions, Fit and Upper
My first impression of the Ridgecap Low is that it is one serious shoe! They have a really classy look to them that combines the rugged functionality of a dedicated hiking shoe, with enough style for heading out post hike to a nice restaurant.
The upper is made from a lightweight and breathable nylon mesh, combined with premium suede and nubuck leather overlays for support, protection and durability. The nubuck leather is very rugged and durable, offering great protection for high mountain rocky hikes through talus and scree.
The toe bumper is very thick and sturdy, to the point where I can’t imagine stubbing a toe, no matter how hard the hit.
The lacing is quite positive, with a very secure midfoot lockdown.
In line with the overall build of the shoe, the heel counter is very thick, sturdy and protective, with very secure heel hold and stability. You can also see the unmistakable skyline of the Teton range, a nice touch.
The tongue is gusseted and moderately padded, with the heel collar is very well padded, with an added achilles pad rising high above the collar to softly cradle and protect.
While the added padding looks a little awkward rising so high, it is quite welcome and adds comfort and protection. While the Ridgecap Low is easy enough to slide into, the heel loop is welcome and makes it even easier.
I find the fit of the Ridgetop low to be true to size, with a secure heel, a widely variable midfoot lacing that provide a uniformly snug fit (snugs up very good for my slim foot, but there is plenty of leeway for those with larger volume feet). The toe box is roomy and comfortable while providing a good hold.
I have not been able to use the Ridgecap in temperatures over 80 degrees, but consider breathability to be moderate.
Midsole & Platform
The midsole consists of a high rebound EVA foam that provides very good cushioning, stability and performance. Additionally, there is a reinforced rockplate for added protection on rocky, rugged terrain, that has an appropriate amount of flex so as to not feel overly rigid.
The midsole, while not particularly light or responsive (not the intent), provides great performance for their intended hiking uses, has very good stability and all day support. While not a running shoe due to their overall weight/design, I do find that if I were hurrying to beat a storm, sunset or catch the last shuttle, they are indeed runnable in small doses.
Outsole
The outsole is made of Vibram Megagrip rubber with directional chevron shaped lugs for maximal grip going uphill or down. There is an integrated “smudge zone” under the front forefoot for extra grip and smearing for those times if you need to scramble.
Grip is very good on steep, loose terrain, in the wet, snow, mud and of course on slabby rock and light scrambling. Durability thus far is proving to be very good, with little (if any) visible wear.
Ride, Conclusions and Recommendations
The Ridgecap Low has a very smooth, stable and predictable ride, perfect for long days hiking over rough terrain, or for any other use really, as they are quite versatile as a sturdy, daily wear shoe that pairs well even with nicer clothes for a night out on the town and a nice dinner.
While they are not particularly light by running shoe standards, they are quite reasonable by low top hiker standards. The build quality is impeccable.
Score: 9.8/10
Ride: 9.5 Fit: 10 Value: 10 Style: 9.5 Traction: 10 Rock Protection: 10
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Jeff Valliere loves to run and explore the mountains of Colorado, the steeper and more technical the better. He has summited all of the 14ers in the state, many 13ers and other peaks in Colorado and beyond, plus, he has summited his local Green Mountain over 2,100 times in the past 20 years. He can be found on mountain trails daily, no matter the weather, season, conditions or whether there is daylight or not. On the side he loves to ski (all forms) bike and hike, often with his family, as he introduces his twin daughters to the outdoors. Jeff was born and raised in New Hampshire, but has called Colorado home for over 25 years. He is 5’9” and 145 lbs.
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