Is the Thunder GTX good for backpacking with a heavy pack?

Yes. The stiff midsole, shank and full-grain leather give strong support under a loaded pack on rough trails. It is less suited to fast, light day hikes.

Does it need breaking in?

Yes. The leather and stiff sole take several hikes to soften. Wear them on shorter walks before a long trip.

How does the fit run?

Owners commonly report a narrow fit. If you have wide feet, consider sizing up or trying them on before buying.

Is it truly waterproof?

The Gore-Tex liner and full-grain leather keep feet dry in rain and wet ground. Water can still enter over the cuff in deep water.

Can the Thunder GTX be resoled?

Yes. The boot is built to be resoled, which extends its life beyond a worn outsole.

How does the Thunder GTX compare with the Zamberlan Vioz GTX?

Both are stiff, leather, Gore-Tex backpacking boots from Zamberlan. The Vioz is the more widely sold model with a broader size range; the Thunder is the older, simpler design, so pick whichever fits your foot best.

Where is the Zamberlan Men's Thunder GTX cheapest?

At Steep & Cheap, for $192.50, 45% off, as of our latest check.

Is the Zamberlan Men's Thunder GTX at its lowest price?

Yes: $192.50 is the lowest price we've seen for it since October 29.

What do buyers say about the Zamberlan Men's Thunder GTX?

Buyers like: Comfortable out of the box with no break-in period; Waterproof in pouring rain and when crossing creeks; Lightweight and very comfortable. Common complaints: Toe box a bit tight and uncomfortable when descending steep grades; One reviewer found them too narrow and wished they had ordered wide fit.

Where can I buy the Zamberlan Men's Thunder GTX?

10 stores we checked sell it, including Amazon, REI, Zappos.com, Bass Pro Shops, Cabela's.

Zamberlan Men's Thunder GTX Price History: 45% Off at Steep & Cheap

What reviewers say

Owners of the Thunder GTX generally praise its support, waterproofing and durability on rough, wet trails. The recurring complaints are weight, a stiff break-in and a fit that runs narrow.

What people mention

SupportPraisedOwners say the stiff sole and shank keep feet stable under a loaded pack on rocky ground.
WaterproofingPraisedReviewers report dry feet through rain, wet grass and shallow stream crossings.
WeightCriticisedSeveral owners find the boot heavy for long days and fast hiking.
Break-inMixedMany say it needs several hikes to soften, though most find it comfortable afterward.
FitCriticisedSome buyers with wider feet say the boot runs narrow and needs sizing up.
DurabilityPraisedLeather uppers and soles are reported to last multiple seasons and can be resoled.

From Zamberlan USA

Vibram® Hero outsole with deep, multi-directional lugs and pronounced heel for grip on varied terrain
Adaptive Hero System midsole sandwiches a TPU insert between two low-density EVA layers for cushioning and stability
Hydrobloc-treated suede uppers with GORE-TEX® Performance Comfort membranes for waterproof, breathable comfort
Lightweight and comfortable for medium-difficulty hiking on mixed trails
PU toe and heel rands for foot protection
Made in Italy and resoleable with original Vibram® outsoles

Sizes: 8, 8.5, 9, 9.5, 10, 10.5, 11, 11.5, 12, 13
Materials: Hydrobloc® Suede upper, 1.6mm - 1.8mm thick; GORE-TEX ePE Performance Comfort lining; Dual Density Die Cut EVA + TPU insert midsole; Polyester Felt insole; Excl
Fit: Backpacking Fit; Regular Last
Sizing: Zamberlan boots are generally comfortable, not too long and have good volume; if between two sizes, choose the larger. Backpacking Fit has a slightly lower inst
Guarantee: GORE-TEX® Performance Comfort membranes provide waterproof, breathable comfort guaranteed for the life of the boot.
Returns: 60-day returns and exchanges of unused product.
Shipping: Free ground shipping on US orders over a stated threshold; orders ship as soon as possible with an email once shipped; delivery times vary by location.

Size chart

Foot (cm)	US Men	US Women	EU
23		6	37
23.6		6.5	38
24.3	7.5	7	39
24.6	8		39.5
25	9		40
25.3	9.5		40.5
25.6	10		41
26.3	10.5		42
26.6	11		42.5
27	11.5		43
27.6	12		44
27.9	13		44.5

About the Zamberlan Men's Thunder GTX

With a multi-layered midsole that adapts to uneven terrain, Zamberlan's Thunder GTX offers supreme stability, cushion & grip for hiking on mixed trails.