Crispi Futura PWR GTX review

Boots first, always

I have a checklist before every hunt. I call it “all the B’s”. Boots, Binos, Bolt, Bullets, Blade. In that order.

Boots come first because if all else fails, you can still walk. Binos are next because I look far more than I shoot. Bolt comes before bullets because bullets can be replaced. The blade is last, as it is only needed if bullets fly. Because of this, boots always sit at the top of my kit priorities.

Anyone who has suffered foot problems will understand why. Nail care, dry feet, decent socks and good footwear all matter. Most of all, boots must be designed for the job in hand.

Reluctant to change

I spent years searching for my ideal hunting boot. I found it around five years ago and stayed loyal. So when the editor asked me to test a different brand, I hesitated. That changed once I saw the name and reputation behind the boot. A photo sealed it.

The boot was the Italian-made Crispi Futura PWR GTX.

First impressions

The Futura PWR GTX sits at the heart of Crispi’s hunting range. It is Gore-Tex lined, nubuck leather clad and finished with a Vibram sole. It is also hand made.

That focus on hunters matters. Companies that actively support hunting deserve recognition. When the box arrived, my wife summed it up perfectly. “They look nice.”

She was right.

The styling is spot on. Embossed leather and subtle orange accents add detail without flash. Construction feels robust. There is double stitching, a full rubber rand and lacing that runs right down to the toes.

The rand protects against rock strikes. The extended lacing allows a precise fit.

Lacing matters

Laces can make or break a boot. More eyelets mean more adjustment. That matters when shaping a boot to your foot. I often skip eyelets or lock sections off to fine-tune fit. I also cut my laces short and use a double knot. No loops. No snagging. No coming undone. The Futura PWR GTX gives plenty of lacing options to get this right.

Ankle support and structure

Crispi’s Ankle Bone Support System, or ABSS, is central to this boot. Years of research have gone into protecting the ankle area.

The contoured design limits strain, reduces fatigue and helps prevent sprains on rough ground. Board lasting is also used. This method bonds the upper to the insole. It balances flexibility with rigidity and adds long-term support.

Fit comes first

The most important thing about a boot is simple. It must fit your foot. Crispi call their system “Instant Fit”. It combines ABSS, board lasting and their anatomic last design.

In real terms, these boots fitted straight out of the box. There was no break-in pain. Comfort was immediate. I never once rolled my famously weak ankles. After long days on the hill, I never rushed to take them off. That tells you everything.

On the hill performance

Crispi market this boot for hunters who do not want to compromise. I agree. They are equally at home woodcock shooting in deep ravines or stalking sika high on the hill. I regularly carry deer out of ground where ATVs cannot reach. Steep valleys and side slopes quickly expose weak footwear, especially under load.

Here, boot stability becomes whole-body stability. Without it, injuries follow. A good boot prevents heel lift, chafing and overheating. It reduces fatigue while still allowing movement. The Futura PWR GTX does all of this.

Grip you can trust

I have crossed mountain streams and peat hags with complete confidence. The Vibram sole delivers exactly what you expect. Vibram have nearly a century of experience. That pedigree shows.

The sole design resembles extreme off-road tyres. Deep lugs, wide gaps and chevron shaping clear mud effectively. A pronounced heel edge aids steep descents. There is also a forward lip that bites into soft ground.

Thoughtful details

As the boots moulded to my feet, the design began to stand out. Reinforcement on the tongue sits exactly where flex occurs. Protection and comfort are well balanced. There are smaller details too. Metal heel brackets appear crampon compatible. A small side loop may help secure loose lace ends. Everything feels deliberate.

Final verdict

Crispi are clearly obsessive about foot anatomy and boot design. That dedication shows. After four months of hard use, these boots remain comfortable and structurally sound. They have taken real abuse without complaint.

Would I recommend them? Yes. Without hesitation.

Where to buy

Crispi Futura PWR GTX
RRP: £330

External link:
Crispi Sport UK – https://www.crispi-sport.co.uk