Forsake Cascade Hiking Shoes – Women’s Review

Everything I Learned from the Forsake Cascade Hiking Shoes – Women’s

The Forsake Cascade Hiking Shoes – Women’s are marketed as a multi-functional outdoor sneaker, ready for anything from a casual stroll to tackling beginner trails. Forsake promises a shoe that blends comfort, lightweight design, and reliable traction. At a sale price of $49.50-68.49, they sit in an attractive budget-friendly niche.

I needed a versatile shoe that could handle both urban sidewalks and light hiking trails during weekend getaways. The promise of a “Peak-to-Pavement” outsole piqued my interest.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the shoe’s modern aesthetic. The breathable mesh upper felt light and airy, and the overall construction seemed solid for the price point. The weight, listed at 10 oz, felt accurate, making them noticeably lighter than my usual hiking boots.

Compared to my Salomon X Ultra 3 GTX (known for waterproofing and aggressive tread) and my Merrell Moab 2 Vent (a comfortable, all-around hiker), the Forsake Cascade seemed to target a different niche. The Salomon is overkill for casual walks, while the Merrell, though comfortable, can feel clunky. I chose the Forsake Cascade hoping for a true hybrid that wouldn’t weigh me down.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. They seemed like a stylish and potentially practical option, but I was eager to see if they would live up to the “Peak-to-Pavement” hype on actual trails.

Real-World Testing: Putting Forsake Cascade Hiking Shoes – Women’s to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Forsake Cascade Hiking Shoes – Women’s on a moderate 5-mile hike with varied terrain, including packed dirt, loose gravel, and some rocky sections. The weather was dry and sunny.

The shoes performed surprisingly well on the packed dirt and gravel. The Peak-to-Pavement Outsole provided adequate traction, and the lightweight design made for a nimble experience. However, on the rocky sections, I definitely missed the ankle support and more aggressive tread of my dedicated hiking boots.

The shoes were comfortable right out of the box, requiring no break-in period. My feet stayed relatively cool thanks to the breathable mesh, though I suspect this would be a different story in hotter, more humid conditions. There were no initial signs of discomfort or hot spots.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, including multiple hikes and everyday wear around town, the Forsake Cascade Hiking Shoes – Women’s have held up reasonably well.

While the breathable mesh upper shows minimal wear, the outsole is starting to show signs of abrasion, especially on the heel and toe areas. This is to be expected with any shoe that sees regular use on varied terrain. Cleaning is simple. A damp cloth and a mild detergent are enough to remove dirt and grime.

Compared to my experiences with other hiking shoes, the Forsake Cascade falls somewhere in the middle. It’s not as rugged as my Salomon boots, nor as durable as some of my leather hiking shoes, but it offers a decent balance of comfort, weight, and traction for its intended purpose. It’s definitely outperforming expectations based on the budget-friendly price.

Breaking Down the Features of Forsake Cascade Hiking Shoes – Women’s

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Forsake
• Gender: Female
• Age Group: Adults
• Boot Style: Sneaker Boot
• Footwear Type: Shoes
• Activity: Hiking
• Weight: 10 oz. This lightweight design is a major selling point.
• Footwear Closure: Laces
• Footwear Upper Fabric/Material: TPU Overlay, Breathable Mesh. This combination aims to balance durability and ventilation.
• Water Resistance Level: None. These shoes are not waterproof, which is a significant limitation.
• Outsole Material: Peak-to-Pavement. This is the key feature that allows for versatility on different terrains.
• Lining Material: Moisture Wicking Mesh. Designed to keep feet dry and comfortable.
• Last Chance: Yes. Indicating that this could be a discontinued model or a closeout item.
• Vegan/animal-free product. This is a great plus for some buyers.
• Composite shank. Helps provide some underfoot support.

These specifications tell a story of a shoe designed for light to moderate use in primarily dry conditions. The low weight and breathable upper prioritize comfort and agility, while the outsole aims to provide sufficient traction for various surfaces.

Performance & Functionality

The Forsake Cascade Hiking Shoes – Women’s perform admirably as a light hiking shoe and casual sneaker. The traction is adequate for most trails, and the lightweight design makes them comfortable for extended wear.

However, the lack of waterproofing and limited ankle support are significant drawbacks. They would not be suitable for serious backpacking trips or hikes in wet or challenging terrain.

They definitely meet my expectations as a versatile, budget-friendly shoe for light hiking and everyday wear, but they don’t exceed them.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is decent for the price. The materials feel durable enough for light use, and the stitching seems well-executed.

They are very user-friendly. There is essentially zero learning curve with these shoes.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Forsake Cascade Hiking Shoes – Women’s should last a reasonable amount of time for their intended purpose. Regular cleaning and avoiding overly abrasive terrain will help prolong their lifespan.

Cleaning is simple. The mesh upper is easy to wipe down.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Forsake Cascade Hiking Shoes – Women’s do not come with any additional accessories.

There aren’t any real customization options available for these shoes beyond aftermarket insoles. They are generally compatible with standard aftermarket insoles for added arch support or cushioning.

Pros and Cons of Forsake Cascade Hiking Shoes – Women’s

Who Should Buy Forsake Cascade Hiking Shoes – Women’s?

The Forsake Cascade Hiking Shoes – Women’s are perfect for:

• Casual hikers looking for a comfortable and lightweight option for well-maintained trails.
• Urban adventurers who need a versatile shoe that can handle both city streets and light outdoor excursions.
• Budget-conscious shoppers who want a decent hiking shoe without breaking the bank.
• Those who value vegan and animal-free products.

Who should skip this product?

• Serious backpackers or hikers who need waterproof footwear and robust ankle support.
• Anyone planning to hike in wet or muddy conditions.
• Those who prioritize durability above all else.

Must-have accessories or modifications?

• Consider adding aftermarket insoles for extra arch support if needed.

Conclusion on Forsake Cascade Hiking Shoes – Women’s

The Forsake Cascade Hiking Shoes – Women’s offer a compelling combination of comfort, versatility, and affordability. While they have limitations, such as the lack of waterproofing and limited ankle support, they excel as a lightweight and breathable option for casual hiking and everyday wear.

The price is definitely justified for what you get. They offer excellent value for those seeking a budget-friendly hybrid shoe.

I would personally recommend the Forsake Cascade Hiking Shoes – Women’s to anyone looking for a comfortable and versatile option for light hiking and everyday wear, especially if you prioritize breathability and a lightweight design. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly shoe for casual outdoor activities, give these a try.