Stylmartin Zed boots in black

The Zed is a high-top style of trainer, just like many others. Perhaps its standout feature is the fact that its chassis is all suede, albeit a full-grain suede that has been waterproof treated. It gives the boot a bit of a luxurious feel. And it certainly makes for a comfortable boot, something that is helped by a padded collar at the top of the shaft.

 

The real waterproofing, of course, comes from a breathable, waterproof membrane.

 

Not that the Zed is about comfort at the expense of protection. You get counters in the toe and heel. There are D3O pucks in the ankles. There’s a second layer of suede sewn on the toe box to act as a gearchange pad.

 

The boot fastens by means of reflective laces, although there’s a full-length zip up the inside to make getting in and out of the boots a bit easier. There’s also a fair amount of reflective piping on the boot.

 

The outsole is a Michelin affair. It’s got a reasonably aggressive tread pattern, although it’s obviously more about the road than the rough stuff. The boot also features an EVA midsole for shock absorption and added comfort.

 

The Zed comes with a replaceable, anatomic insole.