Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX
Pros
- Stable and grounded platform
- Flexible forefoot adds maneuverability
- Great grip on wet terrain and rocks
- Surefooted on mixed and hilly trails
- Much lighter than average
- Excellent Gore-Tex waterproofing
- Tough and durable upper
Cons
- Minimal cushioning and shock absorption
- Not for deep mud
Key Features
- Lightweight Design: This boot provides a balance between weight and stability, making it ideal for long hikes.
- Matryx®️ Upper: Constructed with ultra-durable materials that offer excellent support and durability.
- Contagrip Outsole: Engineered for superior grip on various terrains, ensuring you remain stable regardless of the conditions.
- Gore-Tex Technology: Keeps your feet dry by providing waterproof protection while allowing breathability.
- Comfortable Collar: Designed to fit snugly around your ankle for added support without compromising comfort.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Leather
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
The Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX is designed for hikers seeking stability and comfort during outdoor adventures. It offers significant protection against instability, moisture, and fatigue, making it suitable for various conditions.
This boot incorporates the Advanced Chassis, which enhances foot containment through a stiff TPU brace in the midfoot. Its rigid construction effectively reduces excessive lateral movements, supported by a maximum 5/5 torsional rigidity score from our manual assessment.
Weighing in at 15.4 oz (437g), this model is 17.7% lighter than average, contributing to its malleable and airy design. The comfortable ride resembles that of a trail shoe, allowing for versatility in both city walks and daily use.
Constructed with a Gore-Tex lining and a non-porous Matryx upper, the boot provides a reliable waterproof barrier, ensuring feet remain warm and dry in wet or wintery conditions. Our smoke test confirmed its impermeability, although it received a low 1/5 breathability rating.
While the Contagrip outsole with 3.5 mm lugs delivers dependable grip on various terrains, it may not perform well in deep mud situations. Therefore, those frequently navigating soft ground and sticky mud might consider options with deeper and more aggressive lugs.
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.
Salomon Quest 4 GTX
Pros
- Exceptional durability
- Top-notch waterproofing
- Excellent underfoot protection
- Highly secure ankle support
- Fantastic stability
- Comfortable in-boot feel
- Effective grip on various terrain
- Fits as expected
Cons
- A bit heavy
- Gets very stiff in cold
Key Features
- Stable & Supportive Design: Offers exceptional support for backpacking.
- Smooth Ride: Engineered for comfort over extended hikes.
- Enhanced Support: Provides extra stability during tough terrains.
- GORE-TEX Feature: Keeps your feet dry in wet conditions.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Leather
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
The Salomon Quest 4 GTX is an exceptional hiking boot designed for backpackers seeking significant support, durability, and protective cushioning during multi-day hikes on challenging terrain.
Upon lacing up the boot, we immediately experienced the support provided by Salomon’s integrated ADV-C 4D chassis stabilizer. In lab testing, the boot received a score of 5/5 for rigidity, indicating it is the most rigid option available. This rigidity ensures that even when navigating rocky alpine trails with a heavy pack, ankle twists are virtually impossible.
For durability, the Salomon Quest 4 GTX performed impressively in our tests. We utilized a Dremel on the toe box, heel, and outsole, and all areas exceeded our expectations. After 12 seconds at 5K RPM and a force of 3.2N, the solid rubber toe cap showed minimal wear, providing reassurance for protection against bumps and scrapes while hiking on rugged trails or during light scrambling.
The midsole boasts an average firmness rating of 27 HA, as measured by our durometer. With a stack height at the heel being 2 mm above average, ample firm material is available to protect the heels from sharp rocks, which is particularly beneficial for heel strikers.
With a weight of 23.4 oz (663g), the Salomon Quest 4 GTX is typical for a supportive backpacking boot but may be excessive for casual day hikers. For this reason, we do not recommend this boot for light hikers or those primarily engaging in day hikes.
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.
Asolo Fugitive GTX
Pros
- Great grip on mixed terrain
- Fantastic underfoot protection
- Worth the price
- Waterproof
- Reliably supportive
- Feels light on the foot
- Zero break-in
- Balance preserver
Cons
- Outsole started peeling off
- Not-so-cushy footbed
Key Features
- Vibram Outsole: Ensures superior grip on various terrains, enhancing stability during your hikes.
- GORE-TEX® Lining: Provides water resistance while allowing breathability, keeping your feet dry in wet conditions.
- Lightweight Design: Ideal for trekkers who prefer a boot that doesn’t weigh them down.
- Duo Asoflex Midsole: Combines a stiffer material for anti-pronation and torsion with a softer one for shock absorption.
- Durable Uppers: Constructed from a blend of water-resistant suede and Cordura® for enhanced durability.
Specifications
- Fabric Type: 100% Leather
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Shaft Height: 5.75 Inches
The Asolo Fugitive GTX is a winter hiking boot designed for those seeking support and stability in challenging conditions. Its watertight, protective upper and firm cushioning provide reliable defense against the elements while ensuring notable steadiness on snow-covered surfaces.
Equipped with water-repellant and heat-preserving construction, the boot effectively keeps feet warm and dry during winter excursions, allowing for uninterrupted training. The tightly woven mesh upper significantly limits airflow, as demonstrated in our breathability test. Additional safety features include rubberized toe bumpers, a suede upper, and a fully gusseted tongue.
The firm cushioning enhances balance on rocky and uneven terrains, while the stacked heel protects against sharp objects. This is complemented by a modest forefoot that facilitates some ground feel, contributing to overall stability. Our bend test revealed that it is an impressive 97.2% stiffer than average, which helps prevent awkward foot movements.
Grip is crucial for icy routes, and the Fugitive GTX excels in this area with its strong traction and 3.6 mm uniquely shaped lugs that ensure stability on slick surfaces. While the outsole rubber demonstrates durability, there is a notable concern regarding the adhesion to the midsole, as we observed peeling after only a few test hikes.
Merrell Moab 3 Mid GTX
Pros
- Best-in-class waterproofing
- Great stability for moderate hikes
- Supportive for all-day wear
- Comfortable step-in feel
- Excellent grip on hard terrain
- Secure lockdown
- Sturdy construction
Cons
- Moderate impact protection
- Mesh panels are easy to tear
- Not for mud or soft terrain
- Moderate impact protection
Key Features
- GORE-TEX waterproof membrane: Ensures your feet stay dry while providing outstanding breathability and waterproof performance.
- Pig suede leather and breathable mesh upper: Combines durability with ventilation for increased comfort during extended use.
- Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable contoured footbed: Offers medium support with reinforced heel cushioning for optimal comfort.
- Super Rebound Compound midsole: Provides durable shock absorption, reducing torque and allowing for a smooth transition into the midfoot.
- Vibram TC5+ outsole: Delivers exceptional traction suitable for various outdoor multi-sport activities, specifically formulated for Merrell boots.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Shaft height: Ankle
- Outer material: Leather
The Merrell Moab 3 Mid GTX is an ideal choice for hiking enthusiasts seeking comfort and stability across various trail conditions. After extensive testing, this boot has proven to provide substantial protection while enhancing performance and endurance during hikes.
Equipped with a Vibram outsole featuring deep 5.0 mm lugs, the boot delivers excellent grip on submerged rocks and slippery logs. The Gore-Tex membrane ensures that no water penetrates the boot, even in deep water crossings, although it received a low score of 1/5 in breathability during testing.
The boot offers ample cushioning, effectively shielding against sharp objects underfoot with its firm 32.8 HA cushion, as measured by durometer. Thanks to the 24.6 HA Air Cushion technology, each step feels significantly softer than the durometer reading suggests.
Its rigid construction enhances stability by preventing ankle collapse, supported by a stiff shank in the midfoot that earned a high 4/5 in torsional rigidity testing. Despite its firmness, the midsole remains flexible, scoring 33.2% above average in our flexibility assessment.
While the Merrell Moab 3 Mid GTX boasts solid waterproofing, it may feel excessively warm in temperatures exceeding 70°F (20°C). As such, it is best suited for colder weather conditions.