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Theres a time and place for traditional leather boots like the Lowa Renegade above, but in 2022, lightweight footwear has all but taken over. Mid-height trail runners can be a nice middle ground, with some of the added protection of a boot alongside the nimble feel of a shoe. All told, the Nucleo is a nice upgrade in performance and build quality from an alternative like the Merrell Moab 3Mid above, albeit at a higher price. The nubuck leather upper is protective and durable, and mesh panels along the top and sides keep air moving on hot days. 10.8 oz.Waterproof: Yes (Gore-Tex Surround)What we like: A lightweight leather boot with excellent breathability.What we dont: A bit narrow (wide sizes are available) and expensive. The hiking boot market has been trending away from traditional heavyweight leather designs for years, but theres still a time and place for these classics. 7 oz.Waterproof: Yes (TimberDry)What we like: An affordable leather hiking boot with waterproof protection.What we dont: Not great performance and even wide sizes run narrow. What are our gripes with Merrells popular budget boot? And compared to most of the boots in its weight class (like the Salomon X Ultra above), you get a big boost in durability and protection with large swaths of leather rather than nylon or mesh. 13.4 oz.Waterproof: Yes (Gore-Tex)What we like: Performance and comfort at a low weight.What we dont: Not as stable or protective as a boot like the Renegade above. But the Vioz remains a favorite among traditionalists who want a burly boot, and rest assured that it will be your hiking partner for years to come (you can even resole its Vibram rubber).See the Zamberlan Vioz GTX. Keep in mind that the sizing is a bit different from the standard Lone Peak: We found the Mid to have a slightly narrower feel and a nice locked-down fit at the midfootRead in-depth reviewSee the Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid. Made of full-grain leather but given a brushed finish that has a suede-like feel, nubuck leather is a common sight on hiking boots in our all-around and mountain categories. One disappointment with the Acrux is its general lack of cushioning. The first-gen Trailventure fell a bit short for us in terms of fit and features, but the 2 is significantly improved, including an extra lace loop at the ankle for a snugger fit, external heel counter for additional structure and gaiter attachment, and 3-millimeter-taller stack height for more protection and comfort (the new ZipFoam midsole is also more durable). Category: All-aroundWeight: 2 lbs. But while the Renegade is a great option for hikers who prioritize support and protection, it will be overkill for some. A hiking boots upper refers to the material above the outsole and the midsoleessentially, all of the fabric that surrounds your foot. Similar to a mid-height trail runner, the OUTpulse Mid will start to show its limits while carrying a heavy load over technical terrain. But if you prioritize out-of-the-box comfort, styling, and everyday versatility, the Mountain 600 is worth a look. Somewhere on the spectrum between hiking boot and mountaineering boot, designs in our mountain category are the most robust here and go one step further than a traditional hiker in terms of support (slightly taller collars and stiffer midsoles), durability and protection (most feature leather uppers), and traction. But for most hikers and backpackers who frequent easy trails with relatively light loads, the X Ultra 3s benefits far outweigh the tradeoffs, and its one of the least compromised designs weve worn (you can go even lighter with a mid-height trail runner like the Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid below, but the drop in performance is noticeable). Unsurprisingly, it's also about as basic as it gets for a leather hiker. We use affiliate links andmay receive a small commission on purchases. In 2022, the vast majority of hiking boots come in both mens and womens versions. For day hikes on flatter or less technical terrain or if you're aiming to move fast and light, we cant recommend a lightweight and flexible hiking boot enough. 12.4 oz.Waterproof: Yes (KEEN.Dry)What we like: A durable trail workhorse.What we dont: Pricier than the Merrell Moab 3Waterproof without enough to show for it. Boots on the lighter end of the spectrum (like Salomons 1 lb. After stubbing our toe multiple times while scrambling a 14er wearing the Altra, we definitely prefer that it included more substantial toe protection, but its just a compromise in opting for a minimalist boot. Category: All-aroundWeight: 1 lb. And for good reason: Shaving just a few ounces off your feet conserves precious energy and translates to better comfort, mile after mile. Category: All-aroundWeight: 1 lb. Every so often we see a single-pull speed lace design used in a hiking boot (such as Salomons Quicklace in their Cross Hike Mid). On top of that, its more casual styling makes it one of the better boots here to pull double-duty for daily wear (along with the Danner above). Well admit that we were initially skeptical about the hiking-boot-meets-trail-runner design, but we found the Altra to be a surprisingly capable piece and a great lightweight option for those who stick to the trail. Our all-around category represents the core of the market, running the gamut from lightweight synthetic designs to more traditional leather models. 7.1 oz.Waterproof: Yes (Gore-Tex)What we like: Another impressively light, responsive, athletic hiking boot from Salomon.What we dont: Doesnt stand out in support or durability. These complaints push the Acrux down our rankings, but its nevertheless a high-performance boot for multi-day hikes in technical terrain. In the end, we think even serious backpackers will be better off with boots like the Salomon Quest 4 or Scarpa Rush TRK GTXabove in most cases. The cushy, soft material takes some of the sting out of your heel or midfoot impacts and is also extremely lightweight. Among traditional day hiking options, the KEEN Targhee III Mid and Merrell Moab 3Mid are two of the most popular shoes on the market. Its true that the Altra will offer a more cushioned and sprightly feel on well-established trails, but if youre looking for a similarly lightweight boot for tackling more technical terrain, the Ultra Raptor Mid GTX is a proven choice.See the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX. Salomons update to the X Ultra lineup is an interesting one: Both the shoe and the boot feature an expanded toe box, which was overly roomy even for our wide-footed tester (we recommend sizing down at least a half size), resulting in a clunky and imprecise hiking experience. These designs are neither lightweight nor particularly breathable, but theyre incredibly tough and water resistant. Because both midsole types have valid applications, its common for a manufacturer to use a TPU frame or heel for stability and toughness and add in EVA underfoot to increase comfort. The materials arent known for holding up over the long haul, particularly if you subject them to rugged trails. The Rush is noticeably more supple than the Zodiac and features a roomy toe box (promotinggreat out-of-the-box and all-day comfort), offers softer cushioning underfoot, and is $60 cheaper to boot. Category: All-aroundWeight: 1 lb. In this category, the Zamberlan Vioz GTX is among the all-time greats. Of note, the cheaper membrane in the Oboz Sapphire boot fell short of the pricier options in our testing. Category: All-aroundWeight: 1 lb. Maddsen Mid. A heavy boot makes it that much harder to cover ground, and at 3 pounds 1 ounce, the Vioz weighs more than anything else on this list (and certainly feels like it as the miles add up). Do keep in mind that the Timberland tends to run narrow (reviewers even report issues with the wide sizes falling short), and the proprietary TimberDry waterproofing wont repel sustained moisture as well as higher-end designs. Checking in just a few ounces heavier, the Ultra Raptor offers noticeably more protection around the foot with a generous toe cap and TPU heel, and the rigid shank goes a long way to improve stability. All of these boots extend above the ankle and offer great support and protection by way of sturdy outsoles, relatively stiff midsoles (look for additions like a TPU shank), generous rands and toe bumpers, and robust upper materials. The ankle collar almost feels like an afterthought, with a single locking eyelet that makes it hard to achieve a secure fit. Further, compared to more robust designs, you get less durability and protection with the OUTpulses knit-like upper, and weve experienced notable gaps forming where the toe cap connects to the rest of the upper. Our favorite from their lineup is the Anacapa Mid, which features Hokas well-known springy midsole, rockered shape for a smooth ride on the trail, and beefed-up construction that includes durable nubuck leather and a Gore-Tex waterproof liner. Thankfully, removing your stock insoles is super easy, and replacing them with an aftermarket model thats specific to your foot size and shape can remedy most boot maladies. If were planning on moving quickly on easy trail, softer cushioning is a better bet and commonly found in trail running designs like the Topo Athletic Trailventure 2. The result is a boot thats flexible, lightweight, and cushioned (we see a lot of EVA foam here)great for comfort and speed on high-mileage daysbut with an extra dose of support compared to a typical trail running shoe. Last but not least is the Timberland Mt. For the best combination of protection and support on the trail, look no further than a hiking boot. Compared to other forms of hiking footwear, boots are epitomized by their mid-height build, which offers best-in-class stability on technical terrain or while hauling a heavy load. These thick pieces of rubber are there to keep your toes in one piece should you accidentallyand in our case, eventuallykick a rock on the trail. Synthetic materials also dont conform to your foot over time as well as leather, but in most cases, the overall fit is still comfortable and snug. The over-the-ankle design is lightweight at 1 pound 14 ounces for the pair, surprisingly flexible underfoot with a cushioned, trail-runner-inspired sole, and has sharp looks with a full suede upper and quality lacing hardware. 8 oz.Waterproof: Yes (eVent)What we like: The comfort and mobility of a trail running shoe with added ankle support.What we dont: Limited support, durability, and protection. TPU Its true that the X Ultra is about 2 ounces heavier per boot, but you still get a light, nimble, and sprightly feel, and the fit is more performance-oriented overall. Whether youre setting out on a casual day hike or hitting the trail with overnight gear, theres a hiking shoe up for the task. In the end, a design like the X Ultra 3 GTX above outperforms the Vaya in most categories: Its more stable underfoot, sports deeper lugs that grip better across a variety of terrain, is more durable with a partially leather upper, and provides a boost in ankle and toe protection. For more on the topic, see our article on the best women's hiking shoes.Back to Our Top Women's Hiking Boot Picks Back to Our Women's Hiking Boot Comparison Table. But after wearing the boot during a four-day trek in Southern Patagonia, we hesitate to suggest it as an improvement over the outgoing model. While were fans of the convenience of the Quicklace system in a hiking shoe, its a tricker sell for us on a mid-height boot as you only get one one option for tightening or loosening your boots, compared to the versatility of a standard design. Some standouts from our list above include the Scarpa Rush TRK GTXand La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid, which have protection that wraps completely around the front of the foot. As your trips get longer and your pack gets heavier, a more substantial boot that increases ankle support is a better decision, including the all-rounder Salomon X Ultra 3 GTX or Lowa Renegade GTX Mid. However, they are not known for their durability, and dont offer as much protection as a thicker leather boot. In February of 2022, the Switchback Travel team convened in the town of El Chaltn, located within the Southern Andes Los Glaciares National Park. ), but those venturing into the alpine or carrying a particularly heavy load will appreciate the added performance. We recommend checking out Superfeet insoles for their wide selection of options and trusted reputation in running shoes, ski boots, and hiking footwear. Compared to nubuck, full-grain leather is thicker, stiffer, and tougher overall. Leather reinforcements and a generous toe cap lend decent durability, and its hard to beat Salomons time-tested build qualitythe X Ultra 3 Mid GTX withstands abuse better than most boots in its class. That said, the Rush is overbuilt for easy trails, especially compared to many of the mid-height trail running designs here. The majority of the tread is quality Vibram rubber, but Hoka incorporated large sections of foam-like blown rubber in the middle of the outsole (a common compound on road running footwear). The benefit of a stiff boot is that with a solid platform, the feet will not have to work as hard during ascents and descents, and on off-camber terrain. But if youre headed above treeline with a heavy pack, the Rush TRK GTX is well worth a look; for those sticking to more gentle terrain, check out Scarpas lighter and nimbler Rush Mid GTX Read in-depth reviewSee the Scarpa Rush TRKGTX. 7.1 oz.) Combining the ankle height of a boot with the Lone Peaks trademark wide toe box, generous cushioning, and zero-drop design, the result is instant comfort (no break-in period was necessary) alongside extra protection and support on tricky terrain or when carrying a load. Full-Grain Leather Some of the more advanced designs feature locking hooks at the crook of the ankle, which both locks your foot in place and allows you to tailor your fit throughout (loose in the forefoot to accommodate for swelling and tight around the ankle for stability, for example). There are a number of downsides to this technology: The extra layer adds weight, impacts breathability fairly significantly (discussed below), and will run you around $20 to $30 more. Boots with TPU in their midsole will also keep their shape longer and wont be prone to compressing like EVA. Compared to the standard version of Obozs Bridger, the Sapphire has more crossover appeal but less protection and support overall. For more information, see our comparison table and buying advice below the picks. Replacing the insole is a good start (its removable), but the minimal cushioning strikes us as a weak point in the design and falls short of boots like the Salomon Quest 4 in terms of comfort. These synthetic materials usually excel in terms of breathability and weight savings, and they can dry out more quickly when wet. 7.2 oz.Waterproof: Yes (Gore-Tex)What we like: Protective, supportive, durable, and impressively agile.What we dont: Overbuilt for day hikes on well-maintained trails. 12 oz.Waterproof: Yes (Gore-Tex)What we like: Extremely comfortable; surprisingly stable and supportive.What we dont: Polarizing looks; outsole lacks durability and traction on technical terrain. In short, Gore-Tex Surround breathes not only out of the upper like most waterproof designs, but also through the solewhich means your feet can dump heat on all sides. Whats more, the Frixion XF 2.0 sole is stiff and designed to grip well to rock. The X Ultras thinner sole means youll feel rocks and roots a lot more than you would with a burly design like the Renegade above or Quest 4 below, and the flexible build and relatively low collar translate to less support on off-camber sections of trail or while carrying a heavy pack. There isnt a definite right answer in this debate, but the weight of your gear and style of hiking can make the decision a lot simpler. Known as the trekking capital of Argentina Scarpas Rush is their do-it-all trail shoe, and the Rush TRK GTX adds a bump in support and protection for high-mileage backpacking objectives over varied terrain. On the other hand, its over 6 ounces lighter than the X Ultra 3 Mid for the pair, which can be a big boon for long days on the trail. But for the low price of $110, these are compromises many causal hikers are willing to make.See the Timberland Mt. Revamped last year, the new X Ultra 4 features a modernized upper, redesigned cuff, and brand-new midsole that prioritizes stability at a low weight. Unfortunately for the Vioz, there is good reason why you see fewer of them on the trail these days. Below we spell out the pros and cons for the most common materials used for hiking footwear.Synthetic Nylon and Mesh In general, most hikers will appreciate the added padding of a boot like the Quest, which also features a taller collar to keep out trail debris. 12.6 oz.Waterproof: Yes (B-Dry)What we like: Comfortable and great crossover appeal.What we dont: Stiff and some might find the heel too narrow. Manufacturers start with a popular trail running shoe like the Altra Lone Peak and tack on a collar that extends above the ankle. Whether youre looking for an uber-light alpine piece for the mountains, a casual fur-brimmed parka Lowa has been making boots since the early 1920s, and the Renegade is their flagship model designed for covering serious ground over rough terrain with a full pack. Category: All-aroundWeight: 1 lb. In a way that more casual footwear can never match, hiking and trail running footwear are leaps and bounds better when the going gets rocky, slippery, and steep. 6.4 oz.Waterproof: Yes (Gore-Tex)What we like: A supportive and protective boot thats still impressively comfortable.What we dont: Overkill for many hikers and backpackers. 7.3 oz.Waterproof: Yes (Gore-Tex)What we like: A comfortable and lightweight boot made just for women. Category: All-around/mountainWeight: 2 lbs. Perhaps no single piece of gear epitomizes the lightweight revolution more clearly than the mid-height trail runner. Still, for tricky terrain or covering long distances with a full pack, the Lowa is a high-quality and durable all-rounder that puts it all together better than mostRead in-depth reviewSee the Lowa Renegade GTX Mid. Leather does require some maintenance to keep in good shape (youll want to treat it with a conditioner like Nikwax), but the payoff is a solid construction thats built to outlast everything else on the market. 10.1 oz.Waterproof: Yes (Gore-Tex)What we like: Out of the box comfort; protective yet lightweight.What we dont: Disappointing ankle support and finishes. 13oz.Waterproof: No (available)What we like: A legendary boot that's comfortable and affordable.What we dont: Lacks performance for long days, rough trails, or heavy loads. Mountain boots will generally be overkill on established trails (the Zamberlan Vioz GTX clocks in at a whopping 3 lbs. As wed expect from a burly leather boot, it features a hardwearing design and stable construction that translate to great support and protection on technical trails. The Mid GTX here is the lineups dedicated hiking boot, combining a low weight with quality materials at a reasonable price point. The Nucleo also differentiates itself from other leather boots with a decently low weight. By keeping water from entering from the outside, less moisture (your sweat) can quickly and easily escape from the inside, which means all forms of waterproof footwear can run warm in the summer months. KEEN's Targhee III is a classic hiking boot that goes head-to-head with designs like the waterproof version of Merrell's Moab 3Mid (above). For hikers and backpackers who stick mostly to maintained trails in dry conditions, we wholeheartedly recommend the Merrell Moab 3 Mid. Weve found that heavyweight leather boots with a Gore-Tex lining are often the worst performers, while the Gore-Tex Surround in the mesh-heavy La Sportiva Nucleo High II is a step above. Hikers and backpackers will want to aim for that sweet spot between performance and weight. Salomons X Ultra above is a great one-quiver boot for most hikers and backpackers, but for a big step up in performance check out their Quest 4 GTX. Combined with the rubber outsole, the midsole plays an essential role in stability, shock absorption, and protection from sharp rocks underfoot. The Targhee also boasts a noticeably wide toe box, which is great for accommodating swollen feet and a nice alternative to some of the narrower designs here (those with lower-profile feet might be better off with KEENs womens-specific Terradora II). But the Lowa nails the comfort equation too: The boot comes in wide, narrow, and regular widths, andunlike the more streamlined boots herefeatures a tall and stiff collar for noticeable ankle support. To top it off, comfort is surprisingly highwe wore the Quest 4 during a week of trekking in Nepal and were in no rush to take the boots off at the end of each day. Additionally, nubuck leather tends to breathe better than full-grain leather and isnt as prone to showing scuff marks, thanks to its brushed finish. See the La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX. Mountain La Sportivas Nucleo High II GTX is a quintessential modern boot: light and nimble but with enough support for day hiking and most backpacking trips. 7.4 oz.Waterproof: No (available)What we like: Lightweight and nimble with a comfort-first fit.What we dont: Youll have to bump up to the waterproof version for a rockplate and Vibram Megagrip sole. La Sportivas Ultra Raptor trail runner has earned legendary status amongst the mountain running community, beloved for its high levels of protection and stability alongside a lightweight, trail-runner-esque build. Still, for traditionalists looking for a true leather hiker, it doesnt get much better than the Targhee, which also comes in a non-waterproof version (the Targhee Vent Mid) for $165.See the KEEN Targhee III Waterproof Mid. As with all clothing and footwear, your best bet is to try on before buying. Finally, it does not come in a non-waterproof modeland the substantial leather upper isn't doing it any breathability favorslimiting its appeal during the summer months. If you want added wet-weather protection, Merrell also makes the Moab 3 Mid Waterprooffor $145.See the Merrell Moab 3Mid. Category: All-aroundWeight: 1 lb. 1 oz. Category: Trail runnerWeight: 1 lb. In contrast, the Acrux follows a more traditional route with a clean one-piece upper, EVA midsole, and Vibram traction. Salomons X Ultra boot has earned legendary status among hikers for its great on-trail performance in a lightweight build. In general, the weight spec can tell us a lot about a boot: A lighter design will be less protective, supportive, and durable overall, but the benefits include less strain on the body (as the saying goes, a pound on the foot equals five on the back) and more flex and cushion, which often translate to increased comfort. Some boots have much larger and sharper lugs underfoot for serious grip in mud, while others prioritize sticky rubber for scrambling over rocks. On the extreme end, mountain boots like the Salomon Quest 4 or Scarpa Rush TRK GTXare excellent for hiking in areas that require maximum support: off-trail bushwhacking, traversing an exposed area, or trekking over rough ground. On the flipside, it helps to compare this boot to a design like the Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid above. Further, despite clocking in under 2 pounds, the Moab can feel clunky underfoot, especially if youre used to a more modern trail runner or lightweight boot. Gore-Tex liners are the most popular and reliable (as seen in designs like the Scarpa Rush TRKGTX), but even in-house technologies like KEEN's KEEN.Dry are similar in terms of waterproofing performance (however, breathability can suffer with some of these designs). Category: All-around/trail runnerWeight: 1 lb. Further, the boot is pretty expensive at $190 when stacked up to more capable, lighter-weight designs like the $165 Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid above. But there are some fun surprises. Vibram is the gold standard when it comes to outsole rubber, but not all Vibram compounds should be treated equally: The rubber manufacturer tailors their blends and designs for the specific footwear and brands. It all adds up to a high-quality, versatile boot (and the competitive $160 MSRP doesn't hurt). Whether you opt for the waterproof or non-waterproof Trailventure, Topos trail runner-inspired hiking boot is a comfortable and thoughtfully designed option for moving quickly with a relatively light load.See the Topo Athletic Trailventure 2. For fast-and-light mountain-goers, the Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX is a nimble and quick alternative to boots like the Quest 4 and Rush TRK GTX above. But before springing for a waterproof boot, it is worth asking if you need the added protection. Category: Trail runnerWeight: 1 lb. The headliner here is the boots impressive breathability, which comes by way of a Gore-Tex Surround liner and Nano-Cell technology. If you stick mostly to established trails and prioritize cushy comfort, the Anacapa has a lot to offer.See the Hoka One One Anacapa Mid GTX. Year after year, Lowas Renegade is one of the most beloved hiking boots on the trail, combining the look, feel, and performance of a traditional design with an impressively low weight. Piggybacking off its success, Altra recently released the ALL-WTHR As impressively warm and cozy insulators, down jackets are one of our favorite pieces of outdoor gear. The length of the plastic can vary from just under the arch to the full length of the boot, depending on intended use. As a result, we found the Anacapa difficult to trust on smooth rock, and our pair received pretty significant damage from a talus-laden climb. The Vaya collection is Salomons womens-specific hiking offering, ranging from a non-waterproof shoe to an insulated winter boot. Combining feminine contours and tailoring with a waterproof, breathable design, the Sapphire holds its own both on and off the mountain. And in addition to the membrane, most boots also feature a water-repellent coating on the outside that helps to bead up and shed water droplets.