Oboz Sawtooth X Low Waterproof Review

Likes

Overall, the Oboz Sawtooth X Low is a comfortable shoe, particularly when compared to other similarly rugged options. The out-of-the-box fit is good, the insole is higher quality than most, and the materials in the upper are relatively soft and pliable.

The stiffer sole was comfortable to hike in. The heel cup was a bit low and initially rubbed our Achilles, but the collar softened after a couple of short hikes.

We appreciated the nylon shank in the midsole because it did an excellent job of minimizing jarring impacts of terrain underfoot and helped maintain torsional control.

The leather upper also does a good job of supporting our feet, helping to keep our soles centered on the footbed while hiking on uneven surfaces.

Oboz uses their tried and tested Trail Tread rubber compound to make up the outsole of the Sawtooth X Low. This compound is of average density, making it a good overall performer on firm and loose surfaces, both dry and wet.

The treads on the Sawtooth are wide and elongated, while still being deep enough to grip adequately in scree or pumice. We like that the lugs extend around the edge of the outsole and, combined with the shoe's inherent stiffness, make kicking steps in very loose sediment or snow easier.

With an upper made of a small amount of Cordura mesh to let perspiration escape and oiled nubuck leather for the majority of the upper, we found the Sawtooth X to have a higher-than-average level of durability.

Important seams along the base of the upper where the heel cup and toe bumper connect are double-stitched.

Because we take a lot of early morning hikes with dew to contend with, as well as need to cross puddles and streams in trails, we appreciate the waterproofing in the Sawtooth X.

These shoes use the proprietary Oboz B-Dry waterproof/breathable membrane to ensure that your feet stay dry. We found them to outlast our 5-minute water bath test easily. They also performed well when crossing shallow creeks when we tested waterproofing in the field.

Dislikes

The heel pocket annoyed us. It felt a bit short, which allowed our heels to move too much. Depending on the shape of your own heels, this may or may not be an issue.

The Sawtooth X Low doesn't have a very high flood level, measured at only 2.5 inches from the bottom of the sole to the point at which water will enter the shoe, so they are more useful for hiking on wet days rather than trying to ford deep crossings and expecting dry socks on the other side.

While the traction was very good on loose material, it's not perfect. We did have a near-miss while hiking in these shoes over talus when they slid out unexpectedly, sending our foot into a hole in the rocks, and formal slide testing on a boulder confirmed their diminished grip on smooth rock surfaces.

We do know that leather shoes weigh more than synthetics, but it's worth noting that these shoes weigh more than average.

For shorter hikes, the weight doesn't bother us, but for longer treks, we sometimes prefer lighter shoes when extra durability and stiffer support aren't critical.

Should You Buy the Oboz Sawtooth X Low Waterproof?

The Sawtooth X Low is a good quality hiking shoe that will appeal to those who want a comfortable and supportive shoe that will last a long time. They are a good value for the quality craftsmanship that we expect from this brand.

What Other Hiking Shoes Should You Consider?