Winter and spring in the Mid-Atlantic region is pretty wet, so I’m always looking for waterproof shoes for work and play. While at SHOT Show 2022, I stopped by the Garmont booth to see what they had to offer after 50 years in the outdoor industry. They had their military and law enforcement line on display with some very cool features. While talking to the reps I discovered that most of the features were also found in their civilian outdoor product lines. I ordered a pair of black Groove G Dry low-tops. G Dry is Garmonts own waterproof and windproof membrane that allows for breathability making these a perfect late winter and early spring choice. 

These Garmont Grooves are a suede leather upper with a flexible rubber toe cap and TPU heel cap providing lightweight protection. There is an EVA bi-density midsole, with a more supportive heel for better stability and a softer sole of the foot for better cushioning and comfort. The outsole is made from Garmont’s GTF-Opale lightweight material that focuses on cushioning and comfort, with flexion in the toes but stability and traction throughout.  The pair weighs just over 900g, making for a light shoe perfect for hiking and everyday wear. 

As Garmont is an Italian company, many of their shoes have a European shape and narrow toe box. While increasing their lines to include military and law enforcement, they also included a wider toe box for their American clients. These Grooves are no exception, they have been designed with a roomier toe box for comfort. I was a little skeptical as the midsole to toe looked very narrow and sloped towards the toes (kind of like approach or climbing shoes). Once I put them on, I found them to be very comfortable with plenty of room for my medium to wide feet. I have been wearing them since January and they are a lightweight and comfortable shoe that is waterproof but not too hot on the freak weather days that climbed up past the 70s. These have been my everyday shoes both at work and off the clock. They are wearing very well and seem like they will last. 

Final Thoughts: I found the Garmont Grooves to be a lightweight and comfortable all-around shoe, durable for use in less than ideal weather. The come in a mid-height version in a couple of color schemes as well. I am looking forward to trying out a pair of their military boots like the Nemisis 4.0 GTX. This is my second pair of suede leather waterproof shoes and I am still mystified at how that is possible. 

By the numbers:

Comfort – 5/5 These waterproof shoes are made with a breathable membrane and lightweight materials to include the soles leaving them light on the feet.

Durability – 4/5 The outsole seems to be made of a softer rubber and may (over time) wear out faster then some of my heavier, harder rubber outsoled shoes or boots. The flexible rubber toe cap protects the front of the shoe.

Functionality – 5/5 These are shoes, they function as advertised – waterproof, breathable and lightweight. 

Weight – 5/5 With the use of lightweight materials, these come in just over 450g and feel extremely light. 

Value – 5/5 I would say their $140 price tag puts them on the lower end of the lightweight, waterproof shoes made by major name brand companies.

Overall rating – 4.8/5 Pretty darn good waterproof shoes. Can’t weight to try out the Garmont military styles.

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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