Asolo Boots NZ — The Complete Range Guide

Asolo is an Italian hiking boot brand founded in 1975 in the Dolomites — one of the most technically demanding boot-making regions in the world. At Dwights, we stock Asolo's TPS series: purpose-built multi-day tramping boots known for a generous, accommodating last that suits wider feet significantly better than most European alternatives.

Why Asolo for NZ Tramping

Asolo's TPS series occupies a specific and useful niche: premium Italian construction with a wider, more comfortable last than Crispi or Salewa — but without sacrificing performance on demanding NZ terrain. For trampers with medium-to-wide feet who've found other Italian brands too narrow, Asolo is often the answer.

The TPS construction uses a full-grain leather upper that breaks in to your foot shape over time — once fully broken in, an Asolo boot fits like a second skin.

The Asolo Range at Dwights

Asolo TPS 520 Wide Fit Gore-Tex (RRP $559.99)

The TPS 520 is a GORE-TEX waterproof mid-cut tramping boot built on Asolo's wide-fit last — specifically designed for wider feet and available in regular and wide fit options. Vibram outsole, full-grain leather, and GORE-TEX waterproofing for NZ's wet conditions.

This is the boot at Dwights most frequently recommended to trampers who've struggled to find a comfortable fit in other brands. The wide-fit last provides meaningfully more room through the ball of the foot and toe box without sacrificing heel hold.

Best for: Trampers with medium-to-wide feet, anyone who has found Crispi or Salewa too narrow, serious multi-day NZ tramping.

Asolo Men's TPS 535 Full Grain Leather Wide Boots (RRP $509.99)

The TPS 535 is Asolo's full-grain leather boot — traditional Italian construction without GORE-TEX membrane. Full-grain leather is naturally water-resistant and breathes better than synthetic waterproof membranes, at the cost of requiring more maintenance to preserve waterproofing.

The 535 uses the same wide-fit last as the 520 — same generous fit, different waterproofing approach.

Best for: Trampers who prefer traditional leather construction, those who prioritise breathability and long-term durability over membrane waterproofing.

Asolo Women's TPS 535 Full Grain Leather Boots (RRP $509.99)

The women's version of the TPS 535 — same full-grain leather construction on a women's-specific last. For women trampers who want Italian leather boot quality with a fit designed for women's foot anatomy.

Best for: Women trampers wanting premium leather construction, women with medium-to-wider feet.

Leather Boot Maintenance

Asolo's full-grain leather boots require periodic maintenance to preserve waterproofing and extend boot life:

• Clean: Remove dirt with a damp cloth or brush before applying any treatment
• Treat: Apply Nikwax Leather Waterproofing or similar leather waterproofing treatment every season and after prolonged wet use
• Dry: Never dry leather boots with direct heat — natural air drying preserves the leather structure
• Store: Stuff with newspaper or a boot form to maintain shape during storage

The GORE-TEX TPS 520 requires less leather maintenance but benefit from occasional Nikwax treatment to maintain the DWR (durable water repellent) coating on the leather upper.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Asolo boots good for NZ tramping?

Yes — the TPS series is well-suited to NZ multi-day tramping. The wide-fit last is a significant practical advantage for trampers who've found other Italian brands too narrow. GORE-TEX waterproofing on the TPS 520 handles NZ conditions well. The full-grain leather construction on the TPS 535 is durable and develops a personalised fit over time.

How do Asolo boots compare to Crispi?

Both are Italian premium tramping boots. The key difference is last width — Asolo runs wider, Crispi runs narrower. For trampers with standard-to-narrow feet, Crispi's Nevada Legend or Futura CX deliver excellent performance. For trampers with medium-to-wide feet, Asolo's TPS 520 is typically the better fit. Both brands use quality Vibram outsoles and GORE-TEX options.

Do Asolo boots need to be broken in?

Yes — particularly the full-grain leather TPS 535. Allow 30–50km of gradual use to fully break in the boot before a multi-day trip. The GORE-TEX TPS 520 breaks in faster than the full-grain leather version. Start with shorter walks and progressively increase distance, wearing the socks you'll be tramping in.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Asolo boots good for NZ tramping?

Yes — Asolo is an Italian hiking boot brand with a strong reputation for comfort and durability on multi-day tramping. The TPS series in particular is well-regarded by NZ trampers for its generous fit and long-term wearability. Made in the Dolomites since 1975.

How do Asolo boots fit?

Asolo boots tend to offer a more accommodating fit than narrower Italian brands — generally comfortable for medium to wide feet. Try with your tramping socks before buying. Allow adequate toe room (thumbnail's width) and ensure the heel sits snugly without lifting.

Are Asolo boots waterproof?

Yes — Asolo boots stocked at Dwights use GORE-TEX waterproof liners, providing reliable waterproofing for NZ stream crossings and sustained rain.

How do I care for Asolo boots?

Clean with Nikwax Footwear Cleaning Gel after each trip, condition with Nikwax Conditioner for Leather if leather construction, and re-proof with Nikwax Waterproof Wax for Leather or Nubuck & SuedeProof when water stops beading on the surface. Store dry, away from direct heat.

Can Asolo boots be resoled?

Yes — quality Asolo boots with cemented or welted construction can be resoled when the Vibram outsole wears down. This significantly extends the boot's life. Check with a cobbler experienced with outdoor footwear for resoling options in NZ.

Where can I buy Asolo hiking boots in NZ?

Dwights stocks Asolo hiking boots. Browse at /collections/hiking-boots.