Crispi Futura PWR - Review
Selecting a new pair of boots can involve a fair bit of personal preference, as everyone's feet are different, so just because something has worked well for my foot shape doesn't necessarily mean it will be the right fit for you.
I've been putting the Crispi Futura PWR through its paces across some demanding country, and this boot is clearly built with a specific hunter in mind — one who is predominantly heading for or in the alpine.
Image @ Shaw Watson
Crispi hails from the Montebelluna region of northern Italy, which has long been the heartbeat of quality European boot manufacturing. The Futura PWR reflects that heritage while pushing firmly into modern territory.
The upper is constructed from water-repellent nubuck with full-grain leather reinforcements, giving you that tough exterior you need when you're grinding through tussock and rock, while still offering reasonable pliability. It's not quite the same bullet-proof feel as a thick full-grain boot like the Andrew Antelao, but the trade-off is a lighter, more nimble package on foot. The GORE-TEX lining keeps things dry without question — I've been through some creek crossings and boggy flats with no complaints. A full rubber rand runs around the base of the boot, which takes the punishment of NZ rock and scree well.
Image @ Matt Jones
Where this boot really sets itself apart is the sole and support system. The Vibram Full-Control sole features deep lugs with a pronounced heel edge that bites hard on steep descents — exactly what you want when you're sidling a face or picking your way down a loose shingle gut with a loaded pack. On that note, boot stability is whole-body stability in steep country, and Crispi have put serious thought into this with their Ankle Bone Support System. After extended time on uneven ground, you notice it — less fatigue, and that reassuring locked-in feel on side slopes where a rolled ankle could turn a good trip into a bad one fast.
The lacing system extending all the way to the toe is another standout feature. More eyelets mean more adjustment, and being able to lock off sections and fine-tune the fit to your foot makes a real difference when you're carrying weight through harder country. It sounds like a small thing until you've spent a day in a boot that moves around on you.
Image @ Matt Jones
At 840 grams, it sits in a sensible middle ground — heavier than an ultralight trail runner, but well within the range you'd expect from a quality hunting boot. You feel that weight working for you rather than against you on technical ground.
If you're after a do-it-all boot for easy bush hunting or flat country, this probably isn't it — the structured sole and support are tuned for more demanding environments. But if you're heading into the tougher stuff — alpine tussock, steep faces, mixed technical terrain — the Futura PWR is a seriously capable and well-engineered option that deserves a hard look.
Shop for CRISPI FUTURA PWR HERE
Shaw Watson, Image @ Matt Jones
