Trail Chic: Oboz Sypes Collection Eyes Style, Sustainability, and Function

The Oboz Sypes Collection shoots for mountain-style boots, combining trail-tested elements with a nod to aesthetics.

Don’t mistake the Sypes Collection for a fashionable crossover. The grippy lugged soles and waterproof uppers are made for on-trail functionality and off-grid adventures. That said, these hikers aim to prove that comfort on the trail can carry over to urban missions as well.

Oboz builds on its knowledge of hiking boots with new approaches to sustainability and durability. After all, a boot that needs to be replaced quickly does less to reduce its manufacturing footprint. Just take a look at the uppers, which mix traditional full-grain leather with modern recycled plastic mesh.

Oboz Sypes Collection

The Sypes Collection targets versatility, both in its use on different terrain, as well as the cut and color schemes chosen for townie looks. Oboz says it sent pairs to 20 testers who racked up more than 1,000 miles on varied trails for feedback.

There are low- and mid-height versions of the Sypes for the preferred support and protection. All of them use the brand’s B-DRY waterproofing to keep water out while allowing feet to breathe.

Oboz used several materials in the uppers of the Sypes hikers. Nubuck leather works to lend structure and durability, while the recycled mesh aids in breathability and flexibility.

High-wear areas incorporate CORDURA for added durability as well. Inside the boots, O FIT insoles use high-density EVA foam in the arch and heel cup to keep the foot in one place and support it.

Debuting in this collection are the Bend mid- and outsoles. The fit of the women’s-specific midsole narrows in the heel to keep it in place and help prevent blisters. Meanwhile, a wider forefoot and toebox leave room for toes to splay while walking.

Underneath, the outsole has dozens of directional lugs for grip on trails, as well as greater surface contact on sidewalks and asphalt.

The Sypes Collection is also available in wide sizes in both the low and mid versions.

A Lighter Footprint

Oboz says its eye toward sustainability has been baked into its ethos. Since its inception in 2007, Oboz has planted a tree for every pair of shoes sold to help offset its carbon emissions.

To date, that totals more than 3 million trees over the years. You can see where Oboz planted these trees through its tree-planting partner, Trees for the Future.

And with the Sypes Collection, Oboz takes that mission a step further. The brand uses 100% REPREVE fibers sourced from plastic bottles in the laces and webbing. Oboz also uses algae biomass in the insoles.

Bloom sustainable algae biomass is the technology behind the boots’ O FIT Insole Bloom Algae, which the brand assures offers the same durability and comfort of all its insoles.

If you’re the type who likes to tie their shoes in the morning and wear those same shoes everywhere you go, the Sypes Collection was made with you in mind.

Whether you’re day-hiking and eating dinner with friends after, or just taking the scenic route while running errands, Oboz made these boots for comfort, stability, and all-around traction to keep you on your path — whatever it is.

This article is sponsored by Oboz. Find out more about Sypes Collection here.