This is the second pair of Garmont footwear I have put through the paces. The first pair was the Groove G-dry shoe (see review here). They are a series of waterproof suede shoes using Garmont proprietary outsole material and waterproof membrane built for both comfort and durability. The T4 is the military version coming in a tan for wear with military uniforms. There is a Law Enforcement version of all the tactical models in black for wear with first responder uniforms. These have been some comfortable footwear for all day activity in any weather.
The big difference between the two versions is the T4 Groove has a bigger toe box for the American soldier’s foot shape. So much so I could have probably gone down a half size in the T4, from the low top Groove. There wasn’t so much room that I was swimming in them, but they were roomy. My heel stayed in place because of their proprietary Heel Lock System and Anatomically Directed Design (A.D.D.). Specifically the Differential Ankle Pads, Anatomical Tongue and Asymmetrical Cuff. I ended up packing all low ankle socks for a TDY to the west Texas desert and was worried about my ankles getting torn up, but had zero issues while working the ranges out in the heat and sand.
The foot bed was comfortable for long days on my feet and provided good traction on all my work surfaces. The sole was hard enough to be durable, but soft enough to keep from fatiguing my feet. The ankle cuff and tongue were soft to keep from abrading my ankles. No pinch points from the tongue and lacing system. Just like on the hiking model, the toes have a rubber protective layer adding to their durability. Even the sand couldn’t wear it down. The G-Dry membrane kept my feet dry in several thunder storms and while working through them. As with any waterproof shoe my feet were warmer than shoes made to be breathable, but were never soaked in sweat. It was also in the mid 90’s and monsoon season in west Texas.
I found these to be a good choice for working on a range and around a training site for long days in unpredictable weather conditions. Feet were comfortable and did not get tired while standing or moving for most of the day. Afternoon thunderstorms were no match for the G-Dry membrane and my feet stayed dry while working in the rain and the puddles left after the storm had passed. Plenty of room in the toe box without heel movement and still room for warmer socks in the winter. Lots of technology in these shoes to provide the right fit and function for heavy use in all activity levels.
Final Thoughts: Another suede shoe that is comfortable, durable and waterproof. These will be my training footwear when the weather looks questionable or wet conditions are expected. Might even push into the colder months.
By the numbers:
Comfort – 5/5 Insole and outsole combined with the Heel Lock system with soft tongue and ankle cuff provide for a comfortable fit with the large toe box.
Durability – 4.5/5 With the outsole and all the rubber surrounding the shoe to include an extended coating at the toes, I expect these to extend to a multi-year shoe. The soft cuff has the potential to wear out from normal use, we will see.
Functionality – 5/5 This is a suede shoe that delivers good support and waterproofing as advertised.
Weight – 5/5 These shoes are on par with other quality mid-height waterproof shoes as far as weight is concerned, coming in just over a pound.
Value – 4.5/5 These waterproof shoes are priced the same as quality competitors and will extend their value if they last as long or longer.
Overall rating – 4.8/5 These are quality waterproof shoes with a comfortable fit without the loss of durability.
I received this product as a courtesy from the manufacturer via Spotter Up so I could test it and give my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal, or implied contract to give this product a good review. All opinions are my own and are based on my personal experience with the product.
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