REASONS TO BUY
Full leather body
No side seams
Wide sole
Inexpensive
REASONS TO AVOID
Sole delaminates
Poor ankle support
Timberland White Ledge Review
Our Verdict
From the long-time manufacturer of comfy work boots, the Timberland White Ledge Mid is a no-frills, all-leather hiking boot. Quite light for a full leather boot, it is the inexpensive footwear of choice for tradesmen and construction workers who work outdoors but don't require steel toes. The White Ledge is a great option for those who want a versatile boot for occasional hikes.
The thick ankle padding, both on the collar and upper tongue, is a defining feature of the White Ledge Mid. It compares most closely to the Hi-Tec Altitude V, which received higher scores in most of our metrics, and is similarly priced. The Keen Targhee II Mid is a better choice for a light hiking boot.
Our Analysis and Test Results
The Timberland White Ledge Mid is an economy model all-leather hiking boot. While it scored poorly in many of our tests, it's a popular choice for construction workers seeking big bang for the buck.
Performance Comparison
The White Ledge is a great value for a everyday work boot.
Credit: Brandon Lampley
Comfort
This product is comfy and well-padded around the ankle. We found it comfy standing around, but our feet weren't happy after more than a few miles hiking. You can tighten the laces via four lower and two upper eyelets; however, none of these eyelets has a positive lock, so your ability to adjust the fit is limited. Since this product lacks a waterproof liner, it breathes quite well for a full leather boot.
Stability
The wide sole at the forefoot provides a great base. The comfy padded collar feels great, but does little to stabilize the ankle. The very similar Hi-Tec Altitude delivers better ankle stability and foot support at the same price.
This boot has a wide sole, and is very stable in uneven terrain.
Credit: Brandon Lampley
Traction
Great traction on wet terrain is one of the strong points of this hiking boot, but overall it earned the lowest score for traction. The proprietary rubber from Timberland is softer than most Vibram soles, and wears faster.
Weight
The White Ledge's weight fell right in the middle of our lightweight hiking boots, and was easily the lightest hiking boot we tested with a one-piece leather upper. The lighter Keen Targhee II and Merrell Moab Ventilator Mid are more comfortable hiking boots.
This boot was the only full leather lightweight hiker we tested.
Credit: Brandon Lampley
Water Resistance
The leather upper with sealed seams does a good job of keeping water out. For not having a waterproof membrane in the lining, the Timberland White Ledge Mid keeps feet surprisingly dry. It didn't handle our five-minute immersion test well, as water leaked on top of the forefoot, but it will keep your feet dry while hiking through wet grass and splashing in puddles on the job site or trail.
Durability
Like the Asolo Power Matic 200, this model has a one piece leather upper. No seams at the toe equal no seams to split apart. It is prized amongst roofers and carpenters who want low-cost footwear that is durable. But that's what it is, and the leather is lower quality. The upper lacing eyelets bend easily, and all the eyelets loosen and spin. Unfortunately, the sole began to delaminate from the toe the first day we wore this test piece.
Best Applications
While this boot will handle the occasional hike, gardening work, roofing, and carpentry are better uses.
Value
The Timberland White Ledge Mid is often available for around 80 bucks, and that's a killer screaming deal for a one piece leather upper. Tradesmen we've inquired with about boot preference often buy multiple pairs when they find a great sale. Two or three pairs equals a year of hard, everyday work use. If you're paying full retail price, we feel the Hi-Tec Altitude V is a better product at the same price.
Overall, this is an inexpensive boot that works well on the job or on shorter hikes.
Credit: Brandon Lampley
Conclusion
This is a great choice for those that hike occasionally, and need a comfy leather boot for working, farming, or gardening.
—
Brandon Lampley
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