Purpose built to handle the elements, the new APL TechLoom Defender is the ultimate exploration shoe that was designed and engineered with extreme weather in mind. The TechLoom Defender takes everything you love about APL, adds rugged durability, ultimate traction, and high-top support in a fully weatherproof package.

The upper starts with a tightly knit, non-stretch rugged TechLoom base material with strategically placed TPU overlays for increased support and all-terrain durability. The entire upper undergoes a water repellent treatment to help repel moisture on the surface. The interior is lined 360° with a waterproof vapor barrier to keep water out and your socks dry. The soft and supple microfiber tongue allows free range of motion while the extended height of the collar maximizes wading depth. Thumb grips on the collar aid with ingress and egress even while wearing gloves. An oversized heel counter with molded APL logo provides additional stability and heel lock.

Underfoot comfort is highlighted by a newly sculpted FutureFoam midsole with extended side supports to keep your foot centered. The sport-proven drop-in sockliner provides all day comfort during even the most strenuous activities. The all new ULTRACT outsole does exactly what it says; provides ultimate traction. Large, deep lugs provide exceptional grip on loose terrain, while the micro texture and siped forefoot keep you grounded when it’s wet. The full rubber ULTRACT outsole provides the most coverage, traction and durability of any APL shoe to date, giving you confidence with every step. Sz9 is 14.5oz.

From the wet winter sidewalks to the snowy mountain trails, the APL TechLoom Defender helps elevate your exploration.

All of our shoes are unisex. If your size is sold out, simply select a women's size on the site and adjust the fit up by a size and half. For example, a size 7 in men’s is a size 8.5 in women’s.

1. Weatherproof rugged TechLoom upper with TPU reinforcements, water repellent surface, and waterproof vapor barrier lining.
2. Soft and supple Lycra tongue with internal gusset keeps water out.
3. Extended height Lycra collar with thumb grips provide additional protection while keeping ease of entry.
4. Sculpted FutureFoam midsole with soft and resilient athletic sockliner for all-day comfort.
5. ULTRACT outsole construction offers ultimate traction in every situation.
6. Purpose built for your inclimate weather adventures, whether they be on the muddy mountain trails, or rainy city streets.

We offer free standard shipping and returns within the US. If you're shopping internationally, we guarantee the lowest possible order total in your preferred currency, including any applicable duties and taxes. For more information on international shipping, please view our full shipping policy here.

View our full return policy here.

Once received, you can try items on in the comfort of your own home. If they're not quite right, request an exchange or return and send them back to us within 10 days of receipt. We do not offer international exchanges.

For the holiday season, we offer an extended returns policy.