Dunham Cloud Pileus Boots Initial Report

Andrew Henrichs

January 1, 2006

Biographical Information

Name:  Andrew Henrichs
Age:  25
Gender:  Male
Height:  6’ 2” (1.88 m)
Weight:  190 lb (86.2 kg)

Email address:  a_henrichs@yahoo.com           
City, State, Country:  Glenwood Springs, Colorado, USA

Backpacking Background

   Most of my backpacking has been in the mountains of Colorado and Wyoming, as well as the desert in the southwestern US.  I’ve gone winter camping several times, but I still prefer backpacking in the warmer months.  Most of my trips are 2-3 days, but I have taken several trips of 5-6 days.  This past summer, I was fortunate enough to have thru-hiked the 476 mile Colorado Trail over 35 days.  Recently, I have been leaning towards the lightweight side of the spectrum. 

Product Information

Manufacturer:  Dunham (www.dunhambootmakers.com)

Year of Manufacturer:  2005

Listed Weight: not listed

Weight as Delivered (size 15D US):  4 lb 0 oz (1.8 kg)

MSRP:  $165.00 US

Product Description

   The Dunham Cloud Pileus Boots are waterproof leather hiking boots.  The uppers of the boots are constructed from several stitched pieces of leather.  A rubber rand wraps from the instep around the toe, and approximately halfway down the outside of the boot.  The boot features a gusseted tongue, as well as padding on the tongue and around the top of the boot.  According to the manufacturer, this will provide increased comfort.  The sole is constructed of Tru-Trak, Dunham's proprietary material.  The first four components of the lacing system are eyelets.  The last three are speed loops.  The speed loops seem to grip the laces very well, preventing the laces from falling out when I tighten them.  The forefoot and heel feature ABZORB pods, which the manufacturer says provides cushioning and shock absorption.  There is also an ABZORB insert running the full length of the boot for even more cushioning.  According to the manufacturer, the boot also features a "Graphite Rollbar" in the rearfoot of the boot.  This is intended to provide motion control at heel strike.  The Pileus Boot also features a "Dryworks moisture management system" lining the inside of the leather.  The manufacturer states that this system is waterproof and breathable.  The manufacturer also claims a "360º fit design" takes into account length, width, and volume when designing the boots. 

Initial Testing

   Due to a busy schedule, I've only been able to wear these boots around the house.  So far, they fit quite well.  I have long, narrow feet.  Most of the boots I have to use are too wide in the toe box.  This boot seems to be an exception.  The toe box is definitely roomy, but in a good way.  It allows me to wiggle my toes, but there doesn't seem to be too much lateral movement.  I also feel that I'm able to snug the heel up quite well.  As for the water-proofness of the Dryworks system, I stuck the boots under running water in the sink for one minute.  Most of the water beaded up and rolled right off.  A minimal amount of water appeared to soak into the leather towards the end of the minute, but I never felt any water in the inner lining of the boot.  Not a wholly accurate test of real life conditions, but promising nonetheless.  I was hoping the boots would come with a small booklet, at least telling me if these boots require further water-proofing or not.  Alas, there was none.  Based on the sink performance, I will see how these boots do as-is before I apply a waterproofing agent. 

Test Plan

   I will use the Dunham Men’s Pileus Boots primarily on day hikes and snowshoe trips.  When snowshoeing, I always like to wear a sturdy pair of waterproof boots.  There is a trail that snakes its way up into the National Forest land just down the street from my house.  I’d like to explore further up the trail this winter via snowshoes.  Elevations on these trips will range from 7000 ft (2100 m) to 8500 ft (2600 m).  These trips will range in length from 2 miles (3 km) when I am strapped for time to over 10 miles (16 km).  I plan on heading up this trail at least 2 times per month. 

   In addition to these short hikes, I plan on taking several overnight snowshoe trips during the testing session.  Earlier this fall I found a perfect destination.  While mountain biking, I found a small hut in the cross-county skiing/snowshoeing area next to our local ski resort.  The hut is first-come, first-serve and has a small wood burning stove inside, along with a supply of dry firewood.  It is located about 5 miles (8 km) from the trailhead in a small clearing among the pine and aspen forest.  The hut lies at approximately 9000 ft (2700 m).  It’s a beautiful location in the forest, and I will definitely spend several nights there this winter.  These trips will take place in the White River National Forest or other nearby National Forests, and elevations will range from 7000 ft (2100 m) to over 11000 ft (3400 m).  Distances on these trips will range from 5 miles (8 km) to 10 miles (16 km). 

   I will put these boots to the test on the approach to and climb of several 14000 ft (4300 m) peaks.  I’ll likely have to deal with snow for most of the route.  Ridges are usually snow-free thanks to the wind.  This will give me a chance to test the traction of the boots on icy rocks.

   I would also like to take a long weekend trip to Bryce Canyon National Park.  I’ve longed to see the hoodoos of this park frosted with snow, and it looks like I may get a chance this winter.  The elevation of Bryce Canyon National Park is approximately 7500 ft (2300 m), and the average winter high is approximately 40º F (4º C). 

During the testing session, I will pay particular attention to the following:

   1.  Fit/Comfort – This is the cornerstone of any good pair of boots.  If they don’t make my feet feel good, I’m going to be one unhappy camper.  In the past, my feet and leather boots have been arch-nemeses.  As stated earlier, my feet are long but have a small volume. Could the “360º fit” be the answer to my feet’s prayers?  So far I am impressed with the fit.  I'll be interested to see if I remain impressed after some serious miles on the trail.  Will the boots stretch out, thereby eliminating the good fit?  Do these boots require a break-in period, or are they ready to go out of the box?  I haven't found any hot-spots so far, but I haven't gone anywhere in them.  Will I find any hot-spots after 2 miles?  What about 20 miles? 

   2.  Dryworks moisture management system – Is this system truly waterproof?  Are there any sneaky seams where moisture can leak in?  Do the boots require further waterproofing or can I leave them as-is?  How well does the Dryworks system breathe?  Will my feet be swimming in sweat after a long hike?

   3.  Tru-Trak soles – How much traction do these soles actually provide?  The lugs look fairly aggressive; will I have peace of mind while hiking in mud, rain, snow, and ice? 

   4.  Stability – How well does the Graphite rollbar work?  Will I notice a difference in my gait?  I have strong ankles, but pronate slightly.  The included footbed seems a little flimsy, will these boots provide enough support to my arches mile after mile? 

   5.  Durability – How well will the leather hold up to scuffing?  Does the toe rand extend far enough to prevent wear and tear on the leather?  Will the ABZORB material hold up to my body weight plus the weight of a heavy pack?  Will I notice decreased cushioning after time?  If so, when? 

   6.  Cleaning – How easy are these boots to clean?  Are there nooks and crannies where it become nearly impossible to clean the dirt?  Will the material resist dirt and mud, thereby making cleaning that much simpler?