REVIEW: Magnum Sidewinder Boots

The first impression counts. And it's rough. Taken out of the box, with these desert boots you first think "Wow, there's a lot coming at you!" But then you realize, they're not that heavy (800 grams per boot in size 46) ... Wearing the Sidewinder Boots from Magnum, you immediately feel comfortable. At the beginning, with thin everyday socks, you might get a blister here and there, but trekking or performance socks solve this problem right away. We at SPARTANAT have tested the Sidewinder boots for you.

Even after a 52 km march, your feet don't feel "dead". This is thanks to the very grippy Vibram sole and the Ortholite footbed. The shoe is lined with a mesh material on the inside instead of leather, aiming for better ventilation. Above 30 degrees, this is noticeable, below that it doesn't matter. Your feet will stink after a march anyway.

According to Magnum, the truly innovative feature of the boots is the Ion-Mask Technology. This is a membrane welded to the shoe (similar to GoreTex), making the Sidewinder waterproof, breathable, lightweight, environmentally friendly, chemical-resistant, and even protecting the wearer from diseases.

It may be waterproof in desert regions. In Central Europe, however, it is definitely not. After the first rain, the socks and feet were wet. That's not what you want! After two treatments with a special spray, available in any sports store, the shoe is now waterproof.

The boot itself is very robust, if you bump against rocks or roots, it doesn't hurt, the toe cap delivers what it promises. The ankles are also heavily padded. The seams and glued areas are well made, after half a year of constant use (at least three times a week), there are no signs of wear and tear.

The boot's upper material is not only 2.2 mm thick suede leather, but also a type of Cordura made from "ballistic" nylon, a particularly thick nylon yarn.

Externally, the shoe has another special feature. On both inner sides, the shoe is reinforced in the middle with a flexible plastic plate. Why? To protect the leather and the boot during fast-roping. Not a bad idea if you really use the shoe in a military capacity. During normal rappelling, you don't really use your legs for that.

The lacing is a matter of taste. Because it is equipped with closed eyelets instead of hooks, you always have to lace up the boot very loosely to get in or out. Some eyelets are equipped with clamps to prevent loosening while tying.

CONCLUSION: The Magnum Sidewinder is an uncompromising, hefty desert boot that can withstand anything. Whether long marches, intense mountain tours, short sprints, tropical trips, everything is possible with it. It is no less comfortable than a high-quality hiking boot, but it looks even better. Those who accept the not exactly small price will get an indestructible all-rounder. It is no coincidence that it is worn by special forces. However, don't forget the hiking socks!

The Magnum Sidewinder is available in well-stocked specialty stores starting from 170 euros. The boot is also available in a complete Multicam version.

You need good insoles and better socks.