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Best Hiking Boots
Salomon Quest 4D III GTX
A midweight hiking boot, the Saloman Quest 4D GTX III is a terrific boot for all hiking purposes. It’s light enough so that it won’t bog you down, while supportive enough to protect your feet from rocky and bumpy terrain. In total, these boots weigh in at 2 pounds each.
They’re made out of a combination of nubuck leather and textile nylon. This provides them with support and stability without sacrificing anything in the way of breathability. For long hiking trips, this is an excellent feature to have as it ensures that your feet will stay as dry and comfortable as possible for as long as possible. Featuring Gore-Tex waterproof liners, these boots can make their way through streams without allowing any water to penetrate them.
With a synthetic rubber outsole, these boots have a great deal of space between their lugs. This ensures that they can dig their way into the terrain, giving you supreme traction and balance at all times. If you’re a versatile hiker who likes to minimalist hike and backpack hike, the Saloman Quest 4D GTX IIIs are the best backpacking boots you’re going to find.
If you’re looking for a great pair of hiking boots at a bargain price, the Keen Targhee II Mids are exactly what you’re looking for. Made out of genuine leather, mesh, and nylon textile material, they offer superb protection and support while sacrificing little in the way of flexibility and breathability.
These boots are equipped with a KEEN.DRY waterproof lining which prevents the absorption of any water it comes into contact with. This makes them great for traversing streams, dewy grasses, and standing water. Weighing in at around 1.5 pounds, these are ideal for minimalist hiking purposes. While they could be used for backpack hiking purposes, they don’t provide quite as much support as heavier boots.
Equipped with rubber outsoles with lugs spaced far apart, these cut into the ground with each step, ensuring top-notch traction and stability at all times. These are available in a total of 6 different colors, so there’s sure to be a pair that fits your specific style preferences. For their low price, the Keen Targhee II Mids are our value pick.
With an upper made from leather, the Danner Mountain Light is the best leather hiking boot currently on the market. Featuring a padded tongue and collar, it provides exceptional protection from all outside stimuli, such as thorns, sticks, rocks. It should also be noted that these boots are waterproof. This ensures that you won’t have any problem wading through streams or making your way through dewy grass.
These boots are very stiff, though not to the point of being uncomfortable. This makes them ideal for heavy backpack hiking. Their ability to keep your feet locked firmly in place is their premier attribute. An ankle-high pair of boots, they don’t impose on your foot’s ability to move laterally. So, while they’re plenty stiff and provide plenty of support, they don’t sacrifice much in the way of freedom and flexibility.
With a synthetic outsole featuring widely spaced lugs, these boots are designed to grab into the terrain, giving them superb traction and stability. They feature a polyurethane instep which provides top-notch comfort and support without weighing the boot down. Weighing in at around 1.5 pounds each, these boots are designed for heavy backpacking, but will also perform for minimalist hiking.
Don’t wander into the wild without first checking out our guide to the best hiking boots on the market today. See who came in first in our comparative guide
Brian Conghalie
Last Updated: November 29, 2020
Looking for the Best Men’s Hiking Boots
You’re in the right place! In this guide, we will be covering the following:
You’re in the right place! In this guide we will be covering the following:
Why you need good hiking boots
What you should consider when buying.
Reviews of the top hiking boots on the market
Our unbiased recommendation on the top hiking boot
A top-notch walking boot is critical to having safe and fulfilling hiking experiences. These boots come in all different styles, constructions, and designs, and are made to keep your feet safe and comfortable while you’re on the trail. But there are so many hiking boots out there. Which ones should you pick? This guide has all the answers and more.
Salomon Quest 4D II GTX
Vasque St. Elias GTX
Lowa Renegade GTX Mid
Keen Targhee II Mid
Salewa Mountain Trainer Mid GTX
Asolo Fugitive GTX
Danner Mountain Light
Lowa Tibet GTX
Hanwag Tatra GTX
Table of Contents
Benefits of Hiking Boots vs Hiking Shoes
While you can certainly go hiking in a pair of regular tennis shoes, hiking boots are the most well-equipped footwear for all trail purposes. There are a number of different reasons for this. For one, hiking boots are constructed with a large amount of outsole tread. This tread allows your foot to grip firmly despite the loose rocks, stones, and roots you’ll run into along the trail.
Another reason that hiking boots are the ideal hiking footwear is that they offer your feet and ankles superb protection from outside stimuli. Hiking boots are made out of thick, and often waterproof materials which will prevent thorns, sticks, and moisture from making their way to your feet. This will leave you safe and healthy all along the trail.
The last, but certainly not least important benefit is that hiking boots provide your feet a lot of support. When you’re out hiking, you’re walking over bumpy, uneven ground. This is obviously going to increase the chances of sprained ankles and other foot injuries. The extra support provided by hiking boots will keep your feet locked in where they need to be. So, while a pair of tennis shoes could conceivably get the job done, having a great pair of hiking boots will make your hikes as safe and fulfilling as possible.
Types of Hiking Boots
You may have thought that all hiking boots were generally the same, but the truth is that they can be broken up into three different categories. These three groups are lightweight, midweight, and heavyweight. Each class of boot offers its own benefits and drawbacks. Some are ideal for specific scenarios while some are perfect for others.
Lightweight Hikers
Due to their lightweight, lightweight hikers are perfect for long days spent on the trail. After all, it’s much easier to lug less weight around than it is to haul more weight. Of course, to make them weigh less, they must be constructed with lighter and fewer materials. This means that they won’t provide quite as much protection and support.
Common lightweight hiker materials include nylon and mesh with a little leather thrown in for added stability and support. If you’re planning on hiking in a very rocky area, they are not the ideal boots to wear. They will, however, typically have some waterproof lining added to them. This makes them appropriate for use in wet and moist conditions.
Midweight Hikers
In a way, midweight hikers give you the best of both worlds; they’re light enough to be worn on long hiking trips, but offer enough support for use on rocky and uneven terrains. Of course, they aren’t as light as lightweight hikers and don’t provide as much support as heavyweight hikers. They’re just a versatile medium.
Midweight hikers are typically made out of leather but are supplemented with nylon and mesh for breathability and flexibility purposes. Because they can weigh more than lightweight hikers, they are capable of using more materials. This typically leads to improved protection and waterproof capabilities. Due to their comfort and versatility, midweight hiking boots are growing more and more popular. They can be a little expensive but are worth it in the long run.
The thickest and most heavy-duty hiking boots are heavyweight hikers. Heavyweight hikers are often constructed entirely out of leather, making them tough as nails and pretty cool to look at as well. However, there are some exceptions where mesh and nylon are added for flexibility and breathability purposes.
For years, heavyweight hiking boots have been the gold standard of hiking boots in the eyes of hiking enthusiasts. This is due to their ability to provide superb ankle support while offering top-notch protection against rocky and thorny trails. Of course, due to their weight, they’re not ideal for long hikes. They will, however, do an excellent job of traversing up and down steep hills. Because they offer such a cushy and padded landing spot for your feet and ankles, they will keep you fresh regardless of what you’re carrying in your backpack.
Hiking Boot Components
While there are three different types of hiking boots, all three categories consist of the same physical components. Though these elements will not always be similar on a boot to boot basis, they are the foundation of every quality pair of boots. These components are the boots’ uppers, midsoles, outsoles, and internal support.
Hiking Boot Uppers
Hiking boot uppers refer to the part of the boot that covers the top and sides of the feet. This component wraps around the feet and connects to the boots’ rubber outsole. In general, uppers are made out of three different types of material: leather, mesh, and nylon.
Boot uppers made out of nylon and mesh typically fall on the entry-level end of the spectrum. These uppers offer terrific breathability and flexibility but sacrifice a bit in the way of durability and protection.
Boot uppers made out of leather typically fall on the high-end side of the spectrum. These uppers can withstand lots of wear and tear, making them ideal for long-term use. They are also typically better equipped to protect your feet from thorns, debris, and water.
Hiking Boot Midsoles
The Midsoles of boots lie in between the boots’ outsoles and internal supports. Responsible for shock absorption and added cushion, midsoles are typically made out of materials like EVA foam and polyurethane.
EVA foam is often used in lightweight and midweight midsoles. It’s a thin, lightweight material that is capable of providing cushion and of absorbing shock. It should, however, be noted that not all EVA foams are of the same quality. You will typically have to pay more for a higher quality EVA foam midsole.
Polyurethane midsoles are typically used in heavyweight boots. When compared to EVA foam, this material is thicker, less flexible, and more protective against rocks and bumpy terrain. It’s also more durable. The highest quality models generally make use of polyurethane midsoles.
Hiking Boot Internal Support
The insoles of hiking boots provide direct cushion and support to your feet. While all boots come with stock insoles, these insoles are not always of the highest quality. This sometimes necessitates buying an entirely separate set of insoles. Typically, insoles are made out of gel or foam.
While you can choose between low volume and high volume insoles, boots are best accommodated by high volume insoles. They are thicker and do a better job of filling up the full boot so that your feet don’t slip around while walking.
There are a number of different insoles available for a number of different foot types and conditions. Plantar fasciitis, supination, and overpronation can all be relieved by a particular kind of insole. It’s also possible to just add a new insole for extra cushion and support.
Hiking Boot Outsoles
The outsole is the bottom part of the boot which makes contact with the ground. Outsoles are almost exclusively made out of rubber, though there are sometimes other materials added in. In general, there are two different types of outsoles: hard outsoles and soft outsoles.
All boot outsoles contain ridges called lugs. These lugs are responsible for digging into the ground and increasing overall traction. In general, lugs that are spaced further apart will provide greater grip and do a better job of shaking off the mud.
Another important aspect of a boot’s outsole is the heel brake. The heel brake is more textured than the rest of the outsole and is designed to keep you from sliding when going up and down hills.
Features To Consider
When trying to choose a pair of hiking boots, there are a number of different things you must consider. These aspects may seem small on their own, but when added up, they make all the difference in the boots’ overall performance.
Waterproofing
While not all hiking boots are waterproof, the majority of them are. Whether or not you want to have this feature is completely up to you. However, if you’re going to be hiking in mountainous or rainy areas where there’s bound to be a lot of water, you’re going to want waterproof boots.
Almost all waterproof boots are lined with a waterproof spray, preventing dew and moisture from absorbing through the materials.
However, some models are equipped with waterproof liners. These liners are sewn in between the exteriors and interiors of the boots’ uppers and will ultimately repel any water they come into contact with. Boots with waterproof liners can wade through streams and puddles without any water making its way to your feet.
Weight
Another aspect to consider when trying to choose boots are their weight. The weight varies greatly, with the heaviest weighing well over 3 pounds, and the lightest weighing only around 1 pound.
A general rule of thumb is that heavier boots offer more support overall. This makes heavier models ideal for situations in which you’ll be carrying a heavy backpack. However, it’s important to find a good balance between support and weight. You don’t want your boots to be so heavy that you feel as if you’re walking through quicksand.
Lightweight boots are better designed for minimalist hikers who aren’t going to be carrying a lot of weight around. They don’t offer quite as much support, but since you’ll have less weight on your feet, foot support won’t be quite as critical. Think about what type of hiking you typically partake in, and then choose accordingly.
Stiffness & Stability
The truth of the matter is that, regardless of what type of hiking you prefer, you need to find a pair of boots that possess some stiffness. A hiking boot’s stiffness provides you with the stability and support needed to keep yourself safe and balanced on rocky terrain.
The stiffer a boot is, the more support it’s going to provide. However, more rigid models are typically going to allow for less freedom and flexibility. Therefore, you must choose the stiffness according to your specific needs.
The stiffest boots are typically made entirely out of leather. These don’t provide quite as much breathability or flexibility but are ideal for heavy backpacking purposes where you need all the support you can get. The most flexible boots are typically made out of mesh, nylon, and leather. They provide enough stiffness to give you support but still allow for top-notch breathability and flexibility. These types are ideal for minimalist hiking where you won’t be carrying a heavy load.
Breathability
After a long day spent on the trail, your feet are going to have built up quite a bit of heat and perspiration. If you don’t want to be exceedingly uncomfortable, this heat and sweat is going to need somewhere to go. This is why breathability matters.
Typically, most models that are made out of a combination of nylon, mesh, and leather will provide the greatest breathability. This is because mesh possesses the capabilities to absorb and wick away sweat, ensuring your feet stay dry and relaxed throughout your hike. These types also allow air to enter and exit without much resistance.
Solely leather boots, on the other hand, have a tendency to trap heat and sweat. When buying a pair of leather models, it’s important to understand whether they’re breathable or not. Not all possess horrible ventilation and breathability. Read some reviews to get a better understanding of their breathability capabilities. This will ensure that you make a quality purchase.
One of the more small and intricate, but important aspects of hiking boots are their lacing system. A lacing system can make the difference between an exceptionally well-fitting boot and one that slips, leaving blisters. The truth of the matter is that not all models possess quality lacing systems. You can change laces all you want, but you won’t see an improvement in quality or fit.
Generally, models that contain metal hooks around the front part of the ankle are of the highest quality. A lacing system designed in this manner stands the best chance of keeping your feet locked firmly at all times. This will serve to reduce blistering and chafing while out on the trail.
Materials
In general, they are made out of a variety of three different materials: leather, mesh, and nylon. Sometimes synthetic leather and other synthetic textiles are used, but this is not typical. The type of material a hiking boot is made out of will significantly affect its overall performance.
Products that are made out of a combination leather, nylon, and mesh are ideal for minimalist hiking where you won’t be carrying a heavy load. They don’t provide as much support as solely leather boots but do offer more in the way of breathability and flexibility.
Leather models, on the other hand, are ideal for heavy backpacking, as they will provide you with as much support as a hiking boot can muster. These boots aren’t as breathable or as flexible, but do offer more protection against rocks, thorns, and otherwise. You should consider what type of hiking you intend to partake in before making a final purchase.
Outsoles & Traction
Perhaps the most important aspect to consider when looking for a pair of boots is the amount of traction they provide. When you’re out on the trail, there are a number of obstacles you’ll run into; from steep hills to muddy and rocky terrain, to uneven, bumpy ground. You need a pair that will keep you on your feet despite these obstacles.
Of course, a boot’s traction has everything to do with its outsole. The majority of outsoles are made out of rubber, though there are some synthetic outsoles available. Typically, softer rubbers are ideal for minimalist hikers, while harder rubbers are perfect for backpack hikers.
Each boot’s outsole will be equipped with a series of ridges, called lugs. These lugs dig into the terrain, ensuring proper balance and stability. In general, lugs that are spaced further apart will give you better traction. They also do a better job of shaking off mud you come into contact with.
Toe Protection
A vital, but often overlooked aspect of hiking footwear is the amount of toe protection they provide. The majority of models possess rubber cups that line the very front of the boot. These are great to have in case you stub your toe or come into incidental contact with rocks.
While most heavyweight models possess toe caps, some lightweight options do not. So, if you choose a lightweight make, you might be sacrificing toe protection. This decision, of course, is entirely up to you. However, if you’re able to find a pair with toe protection that also fit your other specs, you should go with them. You don’t want to break your toes while out on the trail.
While it isn’t true for all, many boots come with flat, substandard insoles. These may be adequate for some feet, but for many people, they will cause pain and discomfort. This leaves you with two options. You can either purchase a pair that come with top-notch insoles, or you can replace the included insoles with insoles of your choice.
There are insoles designed for all types of foot conditions, from plantar fasciitis to overpronation, and more. If you suffer from these conditions, there are insoles available to you. However, you should be sure to purchase a high volume insole. This type of insole will better fill up the void inside of your boot, keeping your foot locked firmly in place.
In any case, you want an insole that provides cushion without sacrificing support. You don’t want to be walking through quicksand during the entirety of your hike.
Fitting & Finding Your Size
Fine Tuning the Fit
Because you’re going to be wearing your hiking boots over extended periods of time while traversing rocky and uneven terrain, you need to make sure that they fit impeccably. Using an ill-fitting pair will end in nothing but pain and discomfort. Who wants to deal with blisters, burns, and rashes day after day? No one, that’s who.
But how do you ensure that your chosen pair will fit to a tee? Ideally, you’ll try them on in person before making a purchase. But with the ability to find more products and cheaper deals online, you may not have that option. If this is the case, there are a number of things you must do to ensure a quality fit. It’s first necessary to remember that your boots will be worn on top of thick hiking socks. So, whatever your typical foot girth is, you should add around a centimeter to it.
You should also consider the fact that walking might make your feet swell. Ensure that the product you choose are capable of handling your feet sizes at their most swollen. A good general rule is to have about a thumb’s width between the end of the boot’s insole and your toes. This will keep your feet locked in firmly without sacrificing too much in the way of freedom and breathability.
The Best Hiking Boot Reviews
Lowa Renegade GTX Mid
Constructed with uppers made entirely out of nubuck leather, the Lowa Tibet GTX offers equal parts protection and flexibility. With perforation holes lining the entire upper, this boot allows for exceptional breathability despite its thick and heavy construction. This makes it great for both backpacking and minimalist hiking purposes.
Featuring a Gore-Tex waterproof liner, these are adept at wading through streams and puddles. They weigh in at just around 1 pound per boot, making them as light as any boot you’re going to find.
Equipped with a rubber outsole with widely spaced lugs, they’ll tear deep into the terrain with each step. This provides them with stellar traction whether going uphill or downhill. Though they carry a hefty price tag, they are as versatile as they come, capable of being used as both backpacking and minimalist gore-tex hiking boots.
Key Features
Gore-Tex® protection ensures your feet stay dry thanks to it’s waterproof yet breathable technology.
Precise fit thanks to Tongue studs, x-lacing and I-locks.
Never lose your footing thanks to the Vibram® rubber outsoles
Bottom-Line: Flexible, but with uppers made entirely out of nubuck leather, the Lowa Tibet GTX is a versatile boot that can be used for both backpacking and minimalist hiking purposes.
The Asolo Fugitive GTX is made out of a combination of leather, mesh, and nylon. While it’s not the ideal boot for backpacking purposes. It makes for a terrific minimalist boot. Weighing in at around 1.75 pounds per boot, it’s ridiculously flexible and capable of going whichever way your foot directs it.
This isn’t to say that it lacks support. Its partially-leather upper provides your foot with the stiffness and structure it needs to make its way over the rocky and uneven terrain. It just isn’t quite as stiff or supportive as an all-leather boot.
Equipped with a waterproof liner, it’s more than capable of wading through streams and puddles. Sporting a synthetic outsole, its lugs are spaced widely apart, allowing them to truly grab into the terrain for superb stability and traction. If you’re looking for a breathable, lightweight, and flexible pair of comfortable hiking boots, you should consider these.
Key Features
Combination of split-grain leather and Cordura® nylon uppers to give a lightweight, breathable and durable design.
Gore-Tex® protection ensures your feet stay dry thanks to it’s waterproof yet breathable technology.
The rubber heels and toe boxes are reinforced to provide excellent durability and protection
DuoAsoflex midsoles mix a shock-absorbing soft layer with a stiffer shank for torsion control
The outsoles are made from a combination of polyurethane midsoles and a bi-density rubber bottom for ultimate cushioning and traction
A superb backpacking boot, the Hanwag Tatra GTX possesses a tough, all-leather upper. It’s not as flexible or breathable as some models but will offer superb protection in rocky and woody areas. These are, however, a little heavy, weighing in at a little over 2 pounds per boot.
Equipped with a GORE-TEX waterproof liner, they are adept at wading through small streams and puddles. This ensures that your feet will stay comfortable and dry throughout your entire trek.
This model possesses rubber soles with widely spaced lugs that slice into the terrain with every step you take. This ensures excellent traction and stability whether you’re going uphill or downhill, and whether it’s soggy or dry. Though they do run a little expensive, the Hanwag Tatra GTXs are a top-notch boot for backpacking purposes.
Key Features
Soft leather padded cuff, rubber heel and toe caps offers combination of comfort and protection
Clamping lace hooks on top section of uppers for precise and rapid lacing
Durably waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX® lining
Graded memory insole for superior shape retention – always returns to its original form
Vibram® sole with deep profile, designed especially by HANWAG – allows the foot to roll exceptionally smoothly
The Salomon Quest 4D III GTX is a midweight boot which can be used for both minimalist and backpack hiking purposes. It’s one of the most versatile products currently on the market. Available in a bevy of colors and designs, there is sure to be one that suits your preferences.
Made out of a combination of leather and textile nylon, it offers equal parts support and flexibility. Its nylon upper also allows for superb breathability, keeping your feet fresh and dry throughout your entire hike. Equipped with a GORE-TEX waterproof liner, they are excellent for wading through shallow streams and puddles.
With synthetic outsoles which are hard enough to provide long-term support, but soft enough to allow for some shock absorbance. Its outsole lugs are spaced apart at a relatively wide distance, enabling them to truly grip into the terrain. This provides you with superb traction and stability at all times.
While there are stiffer models for backpacking purposes and lighter options for minimalist hiking purposes, there is no boot more suited to accommodate both. If you like to participate in all types of hiking, the Salomon Quest 4D III GTX is the hiking boot for you.
Key Features
Gore-Tex® membranes that are seam sealed, offer superb protection from water yet allow vapor to escape.
Updated design gives the best fit ever
Constructed of split suede leather and nylon mesh to give a unique marriage of flexibility, breathability and lightweight comfort
The tongue and rand design allows the tongue to lie flat, preventing lace pressure while keeping debris out
OrthoLite® footbeds have been antimicrobially treated to deter odors
Dual-density EVA midsoles supply last comfort and support
Contagrip® rubber outsoles provide traction across rough surfaces
PROs
As versatile as they come
Possess a GORE-TEX waterproof liner
Top-notch lacing system
Superb traction
CONs
Not as light as some models
Substandard stock insoles
Bottom-Line: Ideal for both backpacking and minimalist hiking, the Salomon Quest 4D II GTX are the most versatile products on the market today.
The Vasque St. Elias GTX features an all-leather upper which provides superb support and stability at all times. This makes it an ideal boot for backpacking purposes. However, you shouldn’t let its excellent stiffness and support fool you. This boot is rather lightweight for a leather boot, weighing in at around 1.5 pounds per boot.
It possesses a GORE-TEX waterproof liner, making it perfect for wading through streams and small puddles. This isn’t to say that it’s an unbreathable boot. GORE-TEX liners are adept at letting air enter and exit freely. Your feet will remain dry and relaxed all throughout your hike.
For traction purposes, this boot possesses a rubber outsole with widely spaced lugs. With an EVA foam midsole, it absorbs shock exceptionally well, reducing the amount of force with each step you take.
Key Features
Combining all leather uppers with Gore-Tex® waterproof liners gives excellent protection from the elements while still allowing your feet to breathe
Vibram® rubber outsoles give superb traction and stability over uneven terrain
Soft EVA footbeds are incorporated into the midsoles to absorb shock and provide cushioning
Thermoplastic urethane shanks offer solid support and protect your feet from sharp rocks on rugged trails
PROs
Possess superb traction
Very shock-absorbent
One of the most comfortable models in our review
CONs
Not as breathable
Made for narrow feet
Bottom-Line: Sporting an all-leather upper, the Vasque St. Elias GTX is an uber-supportive, yet lightweight hiking boot that’s terrific for backpacking purposes.
If you’re looking for a very breathable, yet very supportive boot, you should definitely consider the Salewa Mountain Trainer Mid GTX. Made out of leather and synthetic materials, it’s great for minimalist purposes and passable for backpacking purposes.
Possessing a terrific lacing system that allows you to lace them all the way up to the upper ankle. This will keep your feet locked in place, reducing the risk of blisters and rashes. Sporting a GORE-TEX waterproof liner, they are adept at wading through streams and small puddles.
Featuring synthetic outsoles, they provide superb traction without overweighing your foot. This allows you to make your way up and down hills with general ease. Stocked with adaptive foam padding in their ankle areas, which will cushion you based on your foot’s specific size and shape.
Key Features
Constructed with suede leather uppers and Gore-Tex® extended comfort liners
Rocky paths, mud and snow, no problem with Vibram® Alpine Approach soles
Climbing style lacing extends to the toes for a precise fit
3F System connects to the lacing for enhanced heel and ankle support
The Multi Fit Footbed Plus (MFF+) is customizable allowing adaption to the shape of your feet
PROs
As breathable as they come
Extremely comfortable to wear even after hours on the trail
Good water resistance and breathability
CONs
Not as supportive as some models
Can be a little wide for some
Bottom-Line: Made out of supportive, yet lightweight leather and synthetic materials, the Salewa Mountain Trainer Mid GTX is excellent for minimalist hiking and adequate for backpacking.
The Lowa Renegade GTX Mid is a very supportive, yet lightweight boot. While it’s ideal for backpacking, it can also be used for minimalist hiking purposes. Featuring nubuck leather uppers which are designed to repel water, in addition they are also equipped with a GORE-TEX waterproof liner. This makes them excellent for wading through streams and puddles.
Possessing a polyester inner lining, they are comfortable to the touch and do a superb job of wicking away sweat. This ensures that your feet will stay dry and relieved all throughout your hike.
Sporting a polyurethane midsole, they are adept at absorbing shock. Equipped with rubber outsoles, they deliver top-notch traction and stability, keeping you on your feet whether you’re going uphill or downhill. Weighing in at around 1.35 pounds per boot, they are very easy to get around in, yet still ridiculously supportive.
Key Features
No issues with shallow streams and dry feet with waterproof, breathable Gore-Tex® liners
Water-repellent nubuck leather uppers feature Cordura® nylon ankle bands for comfort and flexibility; polyester linings wick moisture to help keep feet dry inside
Derby-cut lacing fits a wide variety of foot volumes; padded and gusseted tongues relieve lace pressure while keeping out trail debris
Full-length nylon shanks offer great support for long days on your feet; polyurethane midsoles absorb shock
External polyurethane Monowrap® frames offer lateral stability while reducing weight
Vibram® Evo rubber outsoles on the men’s Lowa Renegade deliver excellent traction on a wide variety of terrain
PROs
Extremely supportive and comfortable, without being too heavy
Offer great traction
Shock-absorbent midsoles
CONs
Some durability issues
A little narrow-fitting
Bottom-Line: Made out of water-repellent nubuck leather, the Lowa Renegade GTX Mid is a lightweight boot that can be used for both backpacking and minimalist hiking purposes.
If you’re looking for a great minimalist boot at a downright reasonable price, you should consider the Keen Targhee II Mid. Though it’s priced fairly low, it offers a great deal of support and flexibility.
Made out of a combination of leather and textile nylon, this boot is very breathable, allowing air and sweat to escape and absorb freely. Featuring a KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane, it keeps water from reaching your foot when you’re wading through streams and puddles.
Equipped with a rubber sole, it provides superb traction at all times, ensuring that you stay on your feet whether going uphill or downhill. For protection purposes, it possesses a rubber toe box. This will keep you from stubbing your toes against rocks, trees, and other hard objects.
Key Features
Constructed with waterproofed nubuck leather and flexible nylon mesh uppers
Lock your feet to the footbeds for increased support with the secure-fit lace capture system
KEEN.DRY™ membranes give waterproofing and breathability allowing your feet to stay dry from sweat inside and streams outside
The carbon rubber outsoles have large 4mm multidirectional lugs for brilliant traction and durability
Shock-absorbing and comfortable compression-molded EVA midsoles
Protect your feet from impacts and abrasion with patented rubber toe guards
PROs
Extremely comfortable, and pretty lightweight
Great traction
The price
CONs
Possess a strong synthetic odor
Bottom-Line: Available at a very reasonable price, the Keen Targhee II Mid is a great budget hiking boot for minimalist hiking purposes.
Sporting an entirely leather upper, the Danner Mountain Light is one of the premier backpacking boots on the market today. While it’s incredibly supportive, it’s not so stiff that you won’t be able to stretch your foot out a bit. It keeps your foot locked in place, but still allows for adequate flexibility and movement.
Equipped with GORE-TEX liners, these are waterproof and capable of wading through streams and puddles. To keep their weight down, they’re stocked with durable polyurethane insoles. In all, they weigh around 1.5 pounds per boot.
Sporting a synthetic sole with widely spaced lugs, the Mountain Lights rip into the terrain for terrific traction and balance. If you’re a backpack hiker who spends a lot of time on rough and rocky trails, this is the product for you.
Key Features
Full-grain, one-piece leather uppers give that classic look and incredible durability
Gore-Tex® liners offer the sweet combination of waterproofing from the elements while allowing your feet to breathe
Airthotic® half-length molded polyurethane insteps cup the heels and fiberglass shanks support the arches
Vibram Kletterlift rubber outsoles are specifically designed for comfort, stability and shock absorption
Hand-crafted construction offers a wider platform for increased stability on uneven terrain
PROs
Tough all-leather uppers and resoleable heels make them one of the toughest models reviewed
The classic look
Offers superb stability and traction
CONs
Certainly one of the heavier options
Bottom-Line: Providing superb support while sacrificing little in the way of breathability, the Danner Mountain Light II is the best leather hiking boot on the market today.
