Scarpa Terra GTX
Pros
- Glue-like underfoot, even on wet surfaces
- Insanely comfortable
- Reliably stable and supportive ride
- Resilient and high-quality build
- Durable Vibram outsole
- Watertight and warm
- Quick break-in time
- Performs consistently in the cold
- Strong ankle support
Cons
- Quite heavy
- Cushioning could be better
- Scuff magnet
Key Features
- EU Size: 43 - US Size: 9.5-10
- Retro-Inspired Design: Combines traditional aesthetics with contemporary technology.
- Waterproof GORE-TEX Lining: Offers excellent waterproof protection while ensuring breathability.
- Vibram XS TREK Outsole: Provides exceptional grip across various terrains, enhancing stability on steep or slick surfaces.
- Full-Grain Leather Upper: Durable and stylish, offering comfort right out of the box.
Specifications
- Best Use: Hiking
- Weight: 1 lb 6 oz
- Upper Material: Full Grain Leather (2.0mm), PFAS Free
- Lining: GORE-TEX
- Insole: Nylon
- Midsole: PU - Direct Attach
- Outsole: Vibram Energy II, XS Trek
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Vibram® Energy II / XS Trek
- Shaft Circumference: 12 inches
- Outer Material: Leather
The Scarpa Terra GTX is identified as a top choice for hikers seeking a durable leather hiking boot. It provides essential support and protection for navigating challenging terrains, featuring an impenetrable upper, stable ride, and notable adhesion capabilities. The robust construction instills confidence in users during their outdoor activities.
This footwear effectively keeps feet warm and dry while traversing puddles and streams. Lab tests indicate that the solid leather upper completely blocks smoke and light, confirming its insulative properties. Each step feels secure, even when carrying heavy backpacks on technical trails.
The firm, low-profile platform enhances ground feel and resists compression, with our durometer assessments showing it to be 16.1% harder than average. Additional support comes from the stiff heel, which scored 4/5 in our assessment, reducing unwanted pressure on the Achilles due to its slight taper in the rear area.
Equipped with a renowned Vibram outsole, the Terra GTX offers significant durability and grip. Its 4-mm multi-directional lugs provide traction and braking capabilities across various surfaces, including loose gravel and slippery mud. This design ensures reliable performance in diverse conditions.
However, it’s important to note that the Scarpa Terra GTX weighs 20.3 oz (575g), which may feel cumbersome during extended hikes. This added weight can intensify the sense of gravity over long distances.
HOKA Kaha 3 GTX
Pros
- One of the best cushioned boots ever
- Extremely comfortable for long miles
- Highly stable and supportive
- Excellent traction on smooth surfaces
- Grips mixed and hilly terrain well
- Contains sustainable materials
- More streamlined than the Kaha 2
Cons
- Lugs got much shallower
- Heavier than average
Key Features
- Cushy sockliner designed to combat foot fatigue during extended wear.
- Dual density sugarcane EVA midsole for enhanced bounce and responsiveness compared to previous models.
- GORE-TEX Invisible Fit technology ensures waterproof capabilities while maintaining breathability.
- Durable toe cap provides extra protection against rocky terrain.
- Achilles-friendly heel collar mitigates pressure for increased comfort.
- Vibram® Megagrip outsole offers superior traction on loose and uneven surfaces.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Ethylene Vinyl Acetate
- Shaft height: Ankle
- Shaft circumference: 2 Inches
The Hoka Kaha 3 GTX is designed for hikers with plantar fasciitis, providing a notable balance of comfort and stability during trail adventures. Its sturdy construction offers exceptional muscle protection, as confirmed by our lab tests.
This boot features a dual-density foam that enhances surefootedness while supporting arches and heels effectively. The foam absorbs impact remarkably well, evidenced by its above-average 120 SA score.
As we navigated uneven trails, our ankles remained stable. The heel counter and rigid midsole exhibited no flex, preventing ankle buckling or twisting, earning a maximum stiffness rating of 5/5.
The Vibram Megagrip outsole delivers reliable grip, reflected in its traction test score of 0.65. With 3.2 mm lugs, it performs well on rocky and hard-packed surfaces but lacks the depth required for optimal performance in mud and soft ground.
Hikers who frequently encounter such conditions may prefer boots with more aggressive grip features.
KEEN Targhee III Waterproof Mid
Pros
- Extremely stable
- Great ankle support
- Generously padded and comfortable
- Secure heel hold
- Flexible
- Budget-friendly price
- Laudable warmth
- Performs very well in the cold
- Excellent grip on various terrain
- Short to zero break-in period
- Commendable toe cap
- Roomy toebox
Cons
- Stuffy in the summer
- Lackluster outsole durability
- Firm midsole
- Not ideal for narrow feet
Key Features
- WATERPROOF: KEEN.DRY waterproof breathable membrane keeps your feet dry and comfortable all day long by allowing vapor out without letting water in.
- TRACTION: KEEN ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole provides high traction grip in muddy environments and on rocky surfaces; non-marking rubber outsoles leave no trace when walking indoors.
- SUPPORT: External support shank and mid cut height add ankle support and balance on uneven surfaces; contoured heel provides next level stability.
- FIT: Mid profile upper ensures a secure fit with a padded tongue and collar for added comfort.
- COMFORT: Removable metatomical footbed design offers excellent arch support and cradles to the natural contours of your foot.
Specifications
- Fabric type: 100% Fabric
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Shaft height: Ankle
The KEEN Targhee III Waterproof Mid is an ideal choice for hikers seeking a wide fit without sacrificing protection. This boot offers a notable balance of soft and tough characteristics, ensuring comfort across various terrains.
Featuring a 106.4 mm wide toebox, the Targhee III ranks among the widest hiking boots available. Its adaptive midsole allows for natural movement, demonstrating a flexibility that is 31.8% above average during our bend test.
The protective leather upper effectively keeps feet shielded from water and debris, allowing us to traverse puddles and rivers while remaining warm and dry. Additionally, a toe bumper provides extra defense against painful stubs, achieving a score of 5/5 in our Dremel test.
A firm midsole contributes to stability on rugged trails, with our durometer measurements indicating it is 22.4% firmer than the average. This support is beneficial, especially when carrying heavy backpacks.
However, the significant protective features result in a weight of 18.2 oz (515g), which may not be suitable for those prioritizing lightweight footwear. Considering this, potential buyers should weigh this drawback against their needs.
KEEN Pyrenees
Pros
- Premium nubuck leather quality
- Top-notch waterproofing
- Tons of impact protection
- Surprisingly soft cushioning
- Excellent stability and support
- Very wide, accommodating toebox
- Convenient lacing system
Cons
- Too bulky and heavy
- Tongue edges dig into shins
- Lacks traction for mud, ice, and snow
Key Features
- MATERIAL & CONSCIOUSLY CREATED: Constructed from durable premium leather sourced from Leather Working Group certified tanneries. The environmentally preferred DWR helps prevent the leather from drying out.
- WATERPROOF & TRACTION: The KEEN.DRY waterproof breathable membrane keeps your feet dry even in wet terrains. The boots feature 4mm multi-directional lugs for optimal grip on rugged surfaces.
- SUPPORT & COMFORT: An external stability shank provides lightweight support, while S3 heel technology dissipates shock to enhance your mobility on uneven ground. A cushioned collar reduces irritation around the ankle.
- FIT & INSOLE: Equipped with a removable footbed that offers arch support, the KEEN Original Fit ensures generous space for your toes to spread comfortably.
- CARE TIPS: To maintain the boots, KEEN recommends gently brushing them with a soft bristle brush or hand towel to remove dirt, followed by using a leather cleaner and conditioner. Stains can be treated with a gum eraser.
Specifications
- Fabric type: 100% Leather
- Origin: Made in the USA and Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Shaft height: 13 inches
The Keen Pyrenees is an ideal choice for backpackers seeking durability and comfort on long treks, especially in cold conditions. Constructed from premium nubuck leather, it features a robust outsole and plush midsole that provide significant protection and cushioning.
Users benefit from secure foot shielding against elements such as cold winds, water, sharp rocks, and protruding roots. The durable leather ensures a snug fit, confirmed by our rigorous Dremel test, which awarded it a perfect score of 5/5 for toughness. Additionally, the Pyrenees' outsole achieved a remarkable 92.0 HC rating, effectively numbing out any debris underfoot.
Despite its rugged construction, the Pyrenees includes a plush midsole that offers ample impact protection, measuring 37.4% softer than the average boot. The combination of a generous heel stack and an average forefoot results in a substantial 16.7 mm drop, providing ergonomic relief for hikers by alleviating pressure on the legs.
The boot's volume contributes to its stability; it measures 6.5 mm wider than an average hiking boot at the toebox, serving as a reliable indicator of overall width. This design allows toes to splay comfortably, enhancing stability through the midfoot shank.
However, the Pyrenees weighs 21.7 oz (615g), making it 3.8 oz (107g) heavier than the average boot. For those prioritizing weight, exploring alternative models may be advisable.
Danner Mountain Light
Pros
- Highly durable leather and rubber
- Premium materials and craftsmanship
- Top-notch waterproofing
- Can be resolved and recrafted
- Secure lockdown and support
- Very stable and reliable platform
- Sexy and snazzy vintage look
Cons
- Underfoot cushioning feels non-existent
- Breaking in takes time and effort
- The heaviest boot out there
- VERY expensive
Key Features
- Durable Construction: Made from a single piece of full-grain leather tested six ways for strength.
- Waterproof Protection: Features breathable Gore-Tex that keeps water out while allowing moisture to escape.
- Airthotic Comfort: Molded PU footbed with an instep that cups the heel and supports the arch, including perforations for airflow.
- Slip-Resistant Outsole: The Vibram Kletterlift outsole designed for superb shock absorption and excellent traction on varying terrains.
- Made in the USA: Superior craftsmanship with Danner’s legendary stitchdown construction for durability and recrafting potential.
Specifications
- Fabric Type: 100% Leather
- Origin: Made in the USA
- Sole Material: Vibram Kletterlift
- Shaft Height: 5.5 Inches
The Mountain Light is a high-quality hiking boot suited for serious hikers seeking durability, grip, and protection. It has demonstrated significant resistance to wear in lab tests, maintaining its structural integrity even under challenging terrain conditions.
This boot effectively manages various environmental factors, providing a barrier against cold temperatures and moisture. Its waterproofing and insulation properties are verified with a breathability score of 1/5.
The handmade leather construction shows remarkable resilience, exhibiting minimal damage after extensive testing and receiving a perfect durability rating. The heel padding reinforces the boot’s overall quality craftsmanship.
Equipped with a Vibram outsole, the Mountain Light offers notable traction on rugged paths due to its thicker rubber composition, which enhances underfoot protection and longevity. A durometer reading of 91.6 HC and a rubber thickness of 4.8 mm contribute to its robust performance.
The 5.8 mm aggressive lugs improve stability and control, providing excellent braking power on steep inclines. However, it is important to note that the boot is very stiff and requires an extended break-in period, making it less suitable for hikers who prioritize immediate comfort.
Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof
Pros
- Comfortable step-in feel
- Lightweight construction
- Affordable price point
- Lively and responsive ride
- Stable and grounded base
- Flexible forefoot
Cons
- Ineffective waterproofing
- Not much ankle support
- Not very durable
Key Features
- Advanced Technology: Features a lightweight, durable midsole providing superior cushioning and energy return, along with an advanced traction rubber sole for slip-free movement.
- Handy Features: Constructed with waterproof full-grain leather and mesh bootie to keep your feet dry and breathable during treacherous conditions.
- Adjustable Features: Lace-up closure allows for a secure and adjustable fit tailored to your needs.
- Versatile Style: Available in contrasting color combinations that deliver both style and durability.
- OMNI-GRIP: This multi-terrain traction system uses specially formulated compounds and treads designed for specific environments, including a dual-zone winter tread pattern for icy and snowy surfaces.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Shaft Height: Ankle
- Shaft Circumference: 1 Inches
For a budget-friendly option, the Newton Ridge Plus II WP is an excellent choice among Columbia hiking boots, especially suited for recreational hikes, walks, and urban settings. Weighing only 16.5 oz (468g), it is significantly lighter than average hiking boots, making it easy to wear for extended periods. Lab tests indicate that it provides a reliable and surefooted ride.
This boot is designed to minimize fatigue, as evidenced by our findings that show it is 12.4% below the average weight for hiking boots. Additionally, it offers exceptional maneuverability, with flex tests showing a performance that is 30.1% more adaptable than typical models. The firm platform contributes to both stability and ground feel, validated by a high 33.5 HA measurement on our durometer.
The wide platform delivers solid footing, complemented by a thick leather upper that enhances the structure of the boot. Our torsional rigidity test resulted in a score of 4/5, indicating a challenging twist resistance. This characteristic supports stability during use, making it effective for various outdoor activities.
However, it should be noted that ankle support is limited due to a less rigid heel counter. Hikers who overpronate or carry heavy backpacks may benefit from seeking a boot that offers greater support. Overall, the Newton Ridge Plus II WP stands out as a practical option for those prioritizing comfort and affordability in their hiking gear.