Lowa Elite Desert WS, Desert, Size 36

The LOWA Elite Desert Ws TF is a high desert boot from LOWA's Task Force series, built for hot climates, sand and rocky terrain. Ws is LOWA's designation for the women's model, which is built on a women's last. Our pair comes from a Danish Armed Forces surplus lot and is only available in size 36.

The Elite Desert is a classic suede desert boot with a breathable textile lining. It is made to let heat and moisture out, so the foot stays cooler and drier in hot weather than in a sealed, lined winter boot. The sole unit insulates against both heat and cold from the ground, and the boot is certified as work footwear to EN ISO 20347:2012.

Desert boot with Vibram sole and suede upper

These are the key features:

• Suede and textile lining: Suede withstands abrasion from sand and stone, and the textile lining lets moisture and heat escape, which is essential for comfort on hot days.
• Vibram outsole: Rubber sole with a non-slip pattern that grips on loose sand, gravel and firm ground.
• Heat-insulated sole unit: Insulates the foot from hot and cold ground and is resistant to oil, petrol and contact heat.
• EN ISO 20347:2012: Certified as occupational footwear with features including an antistatic sole, water-repellent upper and slip-resistant outsole, so the boot can be used in work situations where this is required.
• Resoleable: When the sole is worn, the boot can be resoled by a cobbler, so the upper can be used for years.

Maintenance and safety

• Brush sand and dirt off the suede with a soft brush when the boot is dry.
• Dry the boots at room temperature with the insole removed – never on a radiator or near an open fire, as heat can damage the leather and bonding.
• Treat the suede with a proofing product made for suede, so the upper keeps its water repellency.
• Break new boots in on short walks before using them on long marches with a pack.