Lowa Z-8N GTX - Särmä TST M19 Combat Boots

As a joint effort of Lowa and Varusteleka, we're proud to present the Z-8N / M19 Combat Boots! We took the stock model of the Lowa boot and not only ordered a LOT of them but had some tiny alterations made, thus is born the "M19 Combat Boot". This model is available only from Varusteleka!

• Hiking boots with Gore-Tex membrane
• Thick nubuck leather and cordura
• Injection molded PU multicomponent sole
• Speed lacing
• Weight about 1430 grams (3.15 lbs) per pair
• Materials and work from the EU

Size info

Made to UK sizes. Lowa boots are true-fitting and the width of this model is between Regular and Wide.

The EU/French size is converted to larger numbers than usual. If you buy shoes based on sizes like 42, 45, or such, pick at least half a size larger than you normally would.

UK sizes convert easily to US sizes, just add 1 to each size. UK 8 = US 9, for example. These numbers are accurate.

Sizes UK 4 - 7 (with Ws-suffix) are sized according to the same UK standard as others but have four structural differences: Softer edging at the calf, padded tongue to prevent shifting, modified instep and ball area for a closer fit, and a more flexible midsole. These features are commonly good for feminine feet, but the boots can be worn by anyone: fitting of boots and shoes is always an individual thing.

The tables below show the recommended foot length and for the smaller sizes also a conversion to US Women's sizes.

Again: trust the UK/US sizes and millimeters. If you use EU sizes, choose slightly larger boots.

Conversion tables

From the boonies to the asphalt

The Z-8N is light and maneuverable but a suitably stiff military boot. It's fit for use with the heaviest of loads, and in its element in the proper military and outdoor use. However, it's a great choice for everyday boots too, at least during the cold and wet season.

The boot is lightweight and the sole system brings just the right amount of torsion resistance for all-terrain use. With a height of 20 cm, most of the fauna will stay out of your boot.

What's it about

Upper made of leather and cordura. The leather mostly resides in the lower region where most of the wear happens. Leather thickness is 2,0-2,2 mm.

Waterproof membrane will keep your feet dry while letting sweat vapours through. The membrane is naturally real-deal Gore-Tex.

Lowa's own Monowrap sole. Comprises three parts: a rubber outsole, a plastic stiffener, and a PU frame. The heel has a separate stabilization piece. For additional wear protection, the outsole rises up in the nose. The sole is injection-molded, so it is not replaceable but has a service life of 7 to 10 years. This construction type also makes the sole very light.

Speed lacing with tunnel loops. Compared to hook lacing the tunnel loops are more straightforward and won't get tangled up, thus preventing tripping on them.

The fit and last are made Just Right. This means you can wear as many socks as you want and adjust the fit to your liking. Not the case with the standard Finnish army footwear.

So what makes these Särmä TST?

We figured the Z-8N model was just about perfect as is, we just had a few modifications done:

The sole is a bit less stiff than the standard model, so these are more suited for general use. To achieve this the stiffener inside the sole was simply changed to a more flexible one.

The sole frame is solid black instead of grey and our Särmä TST logo was added to the tongue. This model is only available from us!

Model update 2022: The first batches had a coarse tread pattern but the current model has the same pattern as all the other Z-8Ns Lowa makes.

Care info

These are GTX boots, so use only membrane-compatible shoe care products or you'll risk blocking the membrane! In short, clean the boots with a moist rag and brush, then treat the leather with a suitable spray-on waterproofer, and then apply grease lightly. Apply grease only when necessary - if the boot is in heavy use, do this more often. If the wear is just occasional, be gentle with the grease.

Remember to keep the inside of the boot free from debris to keep the membrane intact.

Maintenance guarantees long service life

When properly cared for, the service life of the boot is seven to ten years - Lowa believes in its products so much they actually give these figures, knowing that it's rather difficult to determine a service life for boots.

The boots have a 2-year warranty against material and workmanship defects. If there's anything at fault, you'll notice it for sure in a couple of years.