

Looking for a pair of rugged walking shoes that'll get you anywhere, but don't want to compromise on looks and style? Vans may have just the solution for you in the form of the latest addition to its range of tough MTE footwear, promising plenty of protection combined with that iconic Vans styling.
These aren't as tough as the Vans UltraRange EXO MTE-3 range (some of the best hiking boots to combine cool looks with ruggedness), but the Vans Destruct Mid MTE-1 are purpose-built for making it easier to get out and about in any conditions and enjoy the journey, while carrying off that classic Vans styling. Designed with surfers and adventurers in mind, but just as suitable for getting the slopes or simply for a rainy commute, they upgrade the standard Vans mid top with MTE-1 features that make them resistant to the worst the elements can throw at you. Does this mean they'll soon be figuring among the best walking shoes? Let's see what's on offer.
- Get kitted out with the best hiking boots for women
The MTE-1 water-resistant system keeps water out while letting internal moisture evaporate naturally, with HydroGuard Wrap ensuring everything's waterproof around the shoe and over the toe, and durable water-repellent leather uppers to so things stay dry up top. To keep things cosy there's zonal Primaloft insulation made of top-quality microfibre, which mimics the qualities of down and traps and blocks heat loss when the temperatures drop, without retaining water.
For comfort the Destruct Mid MTE-1 feature a single-density moulded EVA footbed that's lightweight but thoroughly supportive, and to ensure stability when it's damp and slippery out there, there's an aggressive reverse waffle lug tread pattern with a siped tyre-like design that'll give you all the traction you need whether you're on a wet pavement or scrambling down icy dunes to get to the surf.
Vans tells us that the Destruct Mid MTE-1 is available in two colour options: dress blues/black, and black/black. However if they're not doing anything for you we discovered a third option at the Vans store: khaki/black, so while you're not exactly spoiled for choice, you should be able to find a colour option that suits you.
Hopefully we'll get the opportunity to put the Vans Destruct Mid MTE-1 through their paces in the near future and see if they live up to expectations. But if you're already sold on them, you can find out more at Vans, or simply head straight to the Vans store to buy.
Sign up to the T3 newsletter for smarter living straight to your inbox
Get all the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products from the T3 experts
Jim is a freelance writer who has been largely occupied with writing about the mattress industry for the past few years. Jim spent most of 2023 working as Sleep Editor on TechRadar and learning more about mattresses than they ever wanted to know. Jim has also covered graphic design, politics, films and web design, as well as writing promotional material and video scripts for tech and video game companies.
-
Eve’s smart plug gets impressive Matter upgrades – but I’m most excited about the app
Eve Energy adds Matter support and an updated Android app
By Bethan Girdler-Maslen
-
Audio-Technica’s latest luxury turntable will light up your life, and your records
This strictly limited turntable is a feast for the eyes as well as the ears
By Carrie Marshall
-
The AeroPress Go Plus is the gadget I need for my next outdoor adventure
Whether you’re off camping or heading on a hike, the new AeroPress Go Plus lets you enjoy great coffee on the go
By Bryony Firth-Bernard
-
YETI has discounted a ton of its best-selling coolers and tumblers in Amazon’s Big Spring Sale
Just in time for the warmer months
By Bryony Firth-Bernard
-
GoPro's latest flagship action cam just got a major price cut in Amazon's spring sale deal
You can pick up the Hero 13 Black with almost 20% off
By Lee Bell
-
How to pack your rucksack for a hiking or camping trip
Pack properly, save space and get easier access to the items you need the most
By Bryony Firth-Bernard
-
I tested these high-tech Merrell hikers and was taken aback by their biggest strength
The SpeedArc Surge Boa combines speed, comfort, and adjustability but has some issues with figuring out its target audience
By Pat Kinsella
-
Change my mind: the smaller, the better with portable power stations
Put your portable power station to work when you’re not using it
By Derek Adams
-
This rugged adventure Garmin is mega cheap in Walmart’s Black Friday sale
The Instinct 2 is a top watch for outdoor and sport enthusiasts
By Bryony Firth-Bernard
-
YETI’s best-selling products are ridiculously cheap in Amazon’s Black Friday sale
Fancy yourself a tumbler, rambler or cooler? Amazon's reduced them all
By Bryony Firth-Bernard