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TRAIL MAGAZINE: Review

Haglöfs has taken a very different approach with the Duality. The core concept, which gives the boot its name, is the ability to swap between two insoles, which changes the performance. The insoles incorporate the midsole cushioning that's normally part of the shoe, and whilst the two sets are identical in shape and size they are different in density.  They're colour-coded so you don't mix them up: red is soft and flexible, grey is stiffer and denser. I've swapped them over the months, and it does make a difference. Whilst my feet are used to lightweight footwear and I can happily wear the softer reds on any terrain, the stiffer greys are excellent on rocky and rough terrain, and they offer noticeably better underfoot protection. The outsole is excellent with an integral toe bumper, and it gripped reassuringly in most conditions.
The upper is mostly leather, which has proved very wear-resistant, including the areas of exposed stitching. The heel has external plastic reinforcing. The ankle cuff and tongue gusset are a knitted stretch fabric with an elastic cuff that is quite tight but very comfortable to wear. The tongue is unpadded, but I haven't had any problems with lace pressure. The laces run through holes in the leather with metal eyelets higher up. The waterproof Gore-Tex lining has remained intact, and the
Duality breathes well with the part-fabric upper and perforated leather panels. There is great performance and durability here, although it does come at a price.