Vasque Horizon Low Waterproof Hiking Shoe - Everyday Trail

In this review of the Vasque Horizon Low Waterproof Hiking Shoe the bottom line is simple: it is a dependable, everyday trail shoe for casual hikers who want waterproof protection and nimble ankle mobility without the bulk of a boot. The Horizon Low blends a sleek, athletic-inspired silhouette with reputable Vasque construction, including waterproof nubuck and a high energy EVA midsole that keeps hikes comfortable and dry across varied terrain. For those who prioritize grip, sustainability, and a lower-profile feel, this shoe makes a strong case as a value-driven option.

Key Features

• Waterproof Nubuck: Gold-rated tannery nubuck with VasqueDry keeps feet dry in wet conditions while retaining a soft, broken-in leather feel.
• Grip & Traction: Multi-directional lug system provides confident traction on dirt, gravel and mixed trail surfaces.
• Cushioned Midsole: High energy return EVA with 20% sugarcane content offers responsive cushioning for long walks without feeling overly soft.
• Durable Outsole: Rubber outsole compound resists wear on repeated hikes and maintains reliable traction on varied terrain.
• Sustainable Components: Recycled content in the heel counter and lining reduces environmental impact while preserving structural support and comfort.
• Slim Profile: Low-cut design increases ankle mobility and works well for athletically styled, everyday trail use.

Who It's For

The Horizon Low is best for recreational hikers, trail walkers, and commuters who want a waterproof shoe that reads more like an athletic sneaker than a heavy hiking boot. It suits people who value a slim, sleek profile and those who hike on maintained trails, park paths, and weekend outings where agility and light weight matter.

It is less appropriate for mountaineering, extended backpacking with heavy loads, or very technical, off-trail scrambling where a mid or high boot with extra ankle support would be preferable. Buyers who need aggressive winter traction or crampon compatibility should look at heavier, more specialized footwear.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Waterproof nubuck with VasqueDry provides reliable wet-weather protection while feeling like leather.
• Responsive high energy EVA midsole delivers comfortable cushioning for daily use and long walks.
• Sustainable materials in heel counter and lining reduce environmental impact without sacrificing performance.
• Multi-directional lug pattern and durable rubber outsole give steady traction on common trail surfaces.

Cons

• The low-profile design sacrifices some ankle support compared with mid or high hiking boots, which may limit use on very technical terrain.
• Not designed for extreme alpine conditions or for users who need heavy insulation for cold-weather mountaineering.

Specifications

Upper	1.6-1.8mm waterproof nubuck leather with reflective details
Waterproofing	VasqueDry proprietary waterproof technology
Midsole	High energy EVA with 20% sugarcane content
Outsole	Durable rubber compound with multi-directional lugs
Sustainable Content	60% recycled heel counter, 50% recycled lining
Profile	Low-cut, athletic-inspired trail shoe

Our Verdict

The Vasque Horizon Low Waterproof Hiking Shoe is a solid choice for everyday trail users who want waterproof protection, good traction, and a lightweight, athletic feel. It delivers strong value through durable materials and sustainable elements, making it a recommended pick for casual hikers and outdoor commuters who do not require heavy ankle support or technical winter features.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes fully waterproof?
Yes, the Horizon Low uses VasqueDry waterproofing combined with nubuck leather to keep feet dry in wet conditions.

Do they provide good traction on wet roots and rocks?
The multi-directional lug system and rubber compound offer reliable grip on common trail surfaces, though very technical wet rock sections may still be challenging.

How sustainable are the materials?
The shoe includes recycled content in the heel counter and lining and a midsole with 20% sugarcane, reflecting a meaningful use of sustainable materials.