If you’re looking for a dependable, trail-ready shoe that delivers long-lasting performance without breaking the bank, the Obōz Men’s Sawtooth II Low Hiking Shoe stands out in a crowded field.
After putting these through miles of hiking—and pairing my personal experience with hundreds of user ratings and reviews—the Obōz Sawtooth II Low earns strong praise for its durability, supportive ride, and high-quality materials.
This Oboz Sawtooth II Low review dives into what makes these shoes excellent for many hikers and where they might not be ideal depending on your specific needs.
Check Current Price on Amazon: https://christopherspicks.com/recommends/oboz-mens-sawtooth-II
Overview: Great All-Around Trail Performer
The Oboz Sawtooth II Low is a versatile low-cut hiking shoe geared toward day hikes, moderate treks, and outdoor adventures where comfort and support matter most.
It’s not the lightest trail runner, nor a heavy backpacking boot—but that versatility is part of its appeal. Reviewers consistently rank the Oboz Sawtooth II Low highly for overall performance, with an average rating of around 4.6 out of 5 stars across hundreds of reviews.
Quick Snapshot
Rating: ~4.6/5 overall from customers Sizing: Most reviewers report true-to-size fit Arch Support: Moderate to strong support frequently cited Best For: Day hikes, varied terrain, everyday outdoor wear Price Range: $130-150 (competitive for quality hiking shoes)
Key Strengths of the Oboz Sawtooth II Low
Durable, Supportive Protection Underfoot
Right out of the box, the Oboz Sawtooth II Low feels solid and stable underfoot.
The sole is stiffer compared with many trail runners, giving serious support through uneven terrain and rocky sections—something I personally appreciated and many others echo in online reviews.
This stiffness isn’t just “firm for firmness’ sake”; it translates to excellent stability, especially on long days with a pack or varied trail conditions.
What reviewers say:
Multiple reviews highlight the Oboz Sawtooth II Low’s ability to handle rugged terrain without feeling flimsy or washed out, a clear advantage over lighter trail runners.
This can be a plus or minus depending on your preferences—those who want a super plush, running-shoe feel might find them too stiff—but for hikers prioritizing support and durability, it’s a major win.
High-Quality Materials That Hold Up
The combination of nubuck leather and durable synthetic mesh creates an upper that resists abrasion while still allowing breathability.
Reviewers regularly call out the high-quality build and solid stitching, which contribute to the Oboz Sawtooth II Low’s long lifespan.
Durability in action:
Some users have worn their pairs for hundreds of miles with the uppers still intact, even as the soles show expected wear.
This suggests that while the shoe may eventually need re-soling with heavy use, the overall shell stays strong for extended seasons—a hallmark of quality hiking footwear.
Comfortable, Stable Fit Right Out of the Box
Many hikers note that the Oboz Sawtooth II Low feels comfortable right out of the box, with minimal break-in required compared with other hiking shoes.
That’s a big deal for those who don’t want to deal with blisters or soreness early in a hike.
What makes the fit work:
- O Fit Insole: Oboz’s proprietary insole provides moderate arch support and cushioning
- Supportive midsole: Reduces foot fatigue during long days
- Secure heel cup: Holds the foot in place without slipping
- True-to-size fit: Most reviewers confirm standard sizing works
While they are firmer than typical trail runners, most users appreciate the solid platform these shoes provide on uneven ground.
View Oboz Sawtooth II Low on Amazon: https://christopherspicks.com/recommends/oboz-mens-sawtooth-II
Broad Trail Capability and Versatility
These aren’t lightweight trail runners, but they’re nimble and versatile enough for a wide range of activities:
- Day hikes (3-8 miles)
- Light backpacking with moderate loads
- Casual outdoor wear off the trail
- Travel and walking on varied surfaces
- Everyday use for outdoor enthusiasts
Users often describe wearing the Oboz Sawtooth II Low not only for trekking but also for everyday outdoor activities—a testament to their comfort and adaptability.
Areas to Consider Before You Buy the Oboz Sawtooth II Low
Traction on Wet Surfaces Can Vary
While many users praise the lug pattern and grip on dirt and dry trails, some reviewers—especially on certain surfaces like wet rocks or slick roots—report weaker traction.
Reviews on sites like REI mention feeling slippery in damp conditions, which can be a safety concern if you’re often hiking wet terrain.
My recommendation:
If you frequently hike in rainy climates, muddy conditions, or water crossings, you may want to pair these with trekking poles or choose footwear with specific wet-surface lugs designed for slick terrain.
This isn’t a dealbreaker for most hikers, but it’s worth knowing if wet trails are common in your area.
Not Fully Waterproof (Unless You Opt for B-Dry Version)
The standard non-B-Dry version of the Oboz Sawtooth II Low doesn’t offer full waterproofing, meaning they’ll let water in on wet trails or river crossings.
The trade-off:
Many users appreciate the breathability this provides in warm weather. Your feet won’t overheat on hot summer hikes.
If you need waterproofing:
- Consider the B-Dry waterproof version of the Sawtooth II Low
- Apply aftermarket waterproofing treatment
- Accept that these work best in dry-to-moderate conditions
Sole Stiffness: A Double-Edged Sword
As I mentioned, the stiff sole is excellent for support and stability—but it’s not for everyone.
A minority of reviewers report that they found the Oboz Sawtooth II Low too rigid or felt pressure at certain points on the foot, especially during very long hikes or with wide feet.
Who this affects:
- Hikers who prefer a flexible, natural feel underfoot
- Those coming from minimalist or barefoot-style shoes
- People with very wide feet who need more give in the sole
This stiffness can change how the shoe feels on long days, and some hikers prefer a more flexible ride similar to trail runners.
Oboz Sawtooth II Low vs Competitors
How does it stack up against similar hiking shoes?
vs Merrell Moab 3
The Merrell Moab 3 offers similar versatility with slightly more cushioning. Choose the Oboz Sawtooth II Low for better durability and build quality; choose the Merrell if you want a softer, more cushioned feel.
vs Salomon X Ultra 4
The Salomon is lighter and more agile. Choose the Oboz for superior durability and all-day comfort; choose the Salomonif speed and lightweight performance matter most.
vs Keen Targhee III
Both offer rugged durability. Choose the Oboz Sawtooth II Low for better breathability and a more athletic fit; choose the Keen if you want a roomier toe box.
The Oboz occupies a sweet spot: more durable than trail runners, more agile than heavy boots, and better quality than many competitors at this price point.
Pros and Cons of the Oboz Sawtooth II Low
After extensive use and review analysis, here’s the honest breakdown:
Pros
- Exceptional durability with high-quality nubuck leather and mesh upper
- Excellent support and stability for rugged terrain
- Comfortable right out of the box with minimal break-in
- True-to-size fit for most wearers
- Versatile for hiking, backpacking, and everyday outdoor use
- Strong arch support from O Fit Insole
- Long-lasting construction (hundreds of miles reported)
- Great value for the quality and performance
Cons
- Traction on wet surfaces can be inconsistent
- Not fully waterproof in standard version (B-Dry version available)
- Stiffer sole may feel too rigid for some preferences
- Heavier than lightweight trail runners
- May not suit those wanting maximum flexibility
- Break-in period needed for a few users
Who Should Buy the Oboz Sawtooth II Low?
This hiking shoe is ideal for:
- Day hikers seeking durable, supportive footwear
- Light backpackers with moderate loads
- Hikers who prioritize stability on technical terrain
- Those wanting a shoe that lasts multiple seasons
- People who value comfort without excessive break-in
- Outdoor enthusiasts seeking versatile trail-to-town footwear
- Hikers in dry-to-moderate conditions
It may not be ideal for:
- Trail runners wanting ultra-light, flexible shoes
- Hikers frequently in very wet or muddy conditions (unless B-Dry version)
- Those preferring maximum cushioning over support
- Minimalist shoe advocates
- People needing very wide toe boxes
Personal Take: Still Exceptional Despite Trade-offs
From my own experience with the Oboz Sawtooth II Low, these shoes excel where it matters most in a trail shoe:
Durability: Long-lasting materials and a rugged sole make these shoes feel like they can take a beating.
Support: Excellent stability for hikers who want a firm platform with confidence on technical trails.
Comfort: Minimal break-in and supportive footbed make the Oboz Sawtooth II Low comfortable over extended hikes.
Value: With a strong overall rating and longevity, they’re very cost-effective compared with many competitors.
If I switched away from them, it was only because my foot injury changed what I needed from a hiking shoe—not because they were anything short of excellent for what they were designed to do.
Final Verdict: One of the Best Values on the Trail
The Oboz Men’s Sawtooth II Low Hiking Shoe is a highly capable, durable, and supportive hiking shoe that earns its reputation with real users and outdoor enthusiasts.
It’s especially strong for hikers who want:
- A stable, supportive sole that stands up to tough terrain
- Long-lasting materials and solid build quality
- A shoe that performs right out of the box
- Great overall value without pushing into heavy boot territory
While it’s not perfect for extremely wet conditions or those who demand ultra-soft flexibility, its strengths far outweigh any minor drawbacks for most hikers.
In short: If you’re looking for an all-around hiking shoe that combines durability, comfort, and performance, the Oboz Sawtooth II Low remains one of the best values on the trail today.
Check Latest Price on Amazon: https://christopherspicks.com/recommends/oboz-mens-sawtooth-II
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