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The Arc’teryx Kopec GTX isn’t your typical hiking shoe—it’s a finely tuned tool designed for outdoor enthusiasts who demand comfort and performance. Whether tackling technical terrain or enjoying a leisurely day hike, the Kopec delivers a balanced mix of protection, agility, and durability, setting it apart as an all-around contender in the hiking shoe market. Arc’teryx has been busy developing a whole host of new footwear for 2024, we have featured both the climbing specific Konseal FL2 and the trail running Sylan GTX, in this review, we focus on the versatile Kopec, a hiking specific workhorse.
Comfort and Fit
From the first wear, the Kopec impresses with its comfortable fit. It runs true to size and features a roomy toe box, allowing your feet to relax and spread naturally, which becomes a game-changer on longer hikes. The padded tongue and collar do an excellent job of preventing debris from getting inside and minimising chafing. With a proprietary foam midsole, the Kopec strikes a sweet spot between cushioning and responsiveness—cushioning to keep your feet comfortable but with enough snap to provide a lively feel underfoot. They felt more responsive and less stiff than the Konseal FL2. This makes the Kopec a pleasure on rough terrain, where fatigue can set in if your shoes are too soft or unresponsive. I’ve worn this shoe for a whole variety of activities, from hiking out on damp days heading out to the climbing gym to warm (even hot) dusty conditions on a sports climbing trip to Greece. I was surprised at how well they performed in hot, dry conditions, as anyone who has read my reviews of GoreTex lined shoes over the years will know how much I complain about how hot they are. OK, they were hot to wear, but not unbearably, and the GoreTex lining did a great job of keeping the dust and debris out. The extended arch protection also did a great job when traversing rough and unstable ground – l was impressed! They are not a replacement for the Konseal FL2 for technical approaches and scrambling, but they performed very well for steep, loose crag approaches.
Durability and Protection
Arc’teryx is known for premium gear that lasts, and the Kopec is no exception. The Cordura upper is tough, designed to resist wear from abrasions, sharp rocks, and the inevitable scuffs encountered on the trail. Reinforced toe caps and heel counters give you peace of mind when navigating through rocky outcrops or kicking around loose stones. The addition of a Gore-Tex membrane means the Kopec holds up well in wet conditions, ensuring your feet stay dry even when the weather doesn’t cooperate. Coupled with a durable, high-traction Vibram Megagrip outsole, this shoe shines on mixed terrain—whether you’re scrambling over Snowdonia rock or negotiating loose scree in Wasdale.
The Vibram Megagrip sole is made from the same rubber as climbing shoes – offering outstanding friction.
Agility and Responsiveness
Don’t let its rugged build fool you—the Kopec is nimble where it counts. Weighing in on the lighter side for a shoe with such robust protection, it excels on technical hikes where precise footwork is key. The outsole’s tread pattern is well-designed, providing reliable grip across a range of surfaces, from muddy paths to wet rock and dry, dusty ground strewn with loose gravel. Even when the trail demands quick adjustments, the Kopec’s responsive midsole helps keep you moving efficiently, absorbing impact without feeling sluggish. This makes it a strong option for hikers looking to maintain a faster pace or tackle more dynamic terrain. The concealed lacing system keeps the tongue firmly in place and makes the shoe easy to adjust on the fly They have been a dream to wear, particularly when descending – Arc’teryx, my knees, thank you!
Versatility
What stands out most about the Kopec is its versatility. It’s more than just a day hiker—it’s a capable companion for everything from weekend treks to light backpacking trips, as well as hanging out at the climbing gym. The lack of rear heel tabs means that they look office-ready (although this made them tricky to hang onto a climbing harness. The balance between support and agility means it transitions easily between casual hikes and more demanding routes. Its combination of comfort and durability makes it suitable for long days on the trail, while the Gore-Tex waterproofing keeps it ready for unpredictable conditions. If you’re the type of hiker who likes to keep options open and doesn’t want to switch footwear for different activities, the Kopec has you covered. Finishing touches include a discrete Arctaeopteryx bird logo, an Arc’teryx logo on the tongue tab and a neat, sleek design that makes the shoe perfect for adventure or casual wear.
The Kopec GTX shoe performed very well in hot, dry and dusty crag approaches. The grippy sole was great on loose gravel.
Conclusion
The Arc’teryx Kopec blends durability, comfort, and agility into a lightweight package that’s ideal for hikers seeking a shoe that can handle a range of environments. Its thoughtful design and versatile performance make it a reliable choice for anyone from casual hikers to seasoned adventurers. For those who value a responsive, well-rounded shoe that can keep up with varied demands, the Kopec GTX should be high on your list. For those who prefer a little more support, there is a high-top version the Kopec Mid GTX.
The Arc’teryx Kopec GTX shoe comes in sizes UK 6.5 – 12.5 in half sizes and three colour options to choose from.
The female specific version comes in sizes UK 3.5 – 8.5 and two colour choices.
The SRP is £160 and they can be purchased directly from Arc’teryx UK, the London shops and specialist retailers.
Disclosure – CGR reviewers and writers are never paid to provide a review and the website does not take advertising or link to affiliate sales. We are a bunch of keen climbers and travellers who accept sample products and offer an honest and independent review of the item.
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