Top-Rated Buyer's Guide: Best Hiking Boots

Rilor Staff
Update: July 28, 2021
Table of Contents

The best hiking boots may seem like an insignificant purchase, but footwear is actually one of the most important pieces of gear when it comes to staying safe on the trail. 

Over time, hiking boots can wear out or fail, and their performance can be severely compromised by poor construction. When selecting a pair of hiking boots, it's important to look for features that will help protect your feet and keep them comfortable during long hikes.

Below is the collection of some of the most exceptional pairs of hiking boots that have been tested on and off the grid!

7 Best Hiking Boots

 Upper MaterialFit
Lowa Tibet GTX Hiking Boots  Nubuck leatherMen’s
Danner Mountain Light Cascade Hiking Boots  Full-grain leatherWomen’s
Danner Mountain Pass Hiking Boots – Rio  Full-grain leatherMen’s
Zamberlan Vioz Lux GTX RR Hiking Boots  Hydrobloc waxedull-grain leatherWomen’s
Arc'teryx Acrux TR GTX Hiking Boots  SuperFabric polyester / thermoplastic urethane / resin (epoxy-based)Women’s
Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX Hiking Boots  Nubuck leather / nylonMen’s
La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX Hiking BootsTPU / AirMesh / thermoplasticMen’s  

1. Lowa Tibet GTX Hiking Boots

PRODUCT LINK

The Lowa Tibet GTX Hiking Boots are rugged pieces of footwear; they are designed to tackle even the harshest conditions and terrains. They are often favored by hikers and backpackers who love to explore uncharted and perilous destinations. Its upper material is made from nubuck leather and has Gore-Tex lining for improved breathability and waterproofing. It can protect your feet from the elements and low temperatures. 

Moreover, it also features Vibram rubber on its outsoles so that it can provide foolproof traction and stability in wet and slippery areas. The boot is also compatible with various strap-on crampons. Additionally, you can resole the boots if the existing one has worn off. Meanwhile, the I-lock lacing cams of the Tibet GTX let you separate the lacing tension between the tops and ankles. In this way, you can find the most comfortable fit for you. 

DETAILED SPECIFICATIONS:

  • Upper material - Nubuck leather
  • Lining - Gore-Tex
  • Midsole - Polyurethane
  • Outsole - Vibram Masai
  • Weight (pair) - 4 pounds
  • Waterproof - Yes

2. Danner Mountain Light Cascade Hiking Boots

PRODUCT LINK

The Danner Mountain Light Cascade Hiking Boot is revered footwear in the backpacking and hiking community. It has been in the market for more than 30 years already, cementing the fact that it is one of the finest choices out there when it comes to women's hiking boots. It excels in assisting you through the most strenuous hikes and longest trails. Moreover, it also brims with durability, comfort, and superior weather defense. It can keep your feet warm and protected throughout your trip. 

This boot is made from full-grain leather; it also features highly breathable and waterproof Gore-Tex liners that help expel moisture and sweat from your feet. Meanwhile, its full-grain leather has been tested rigorously to ensure its durability. The Vibram Kletterlift outsoles of this footwear ensure that your feet receive minimal impact while providing impressive traction on dry and wet surfaces. With its hand-crafted construction, this pair of hiking boots attained exceptional stability and strength in its architecture. 

DETAILED SPECIFICATIONS:

  • Upper material - Full-grain leather
  • Lining - Gore-Tex
  • Midsole - None
  • Outsole - Vibram Kletterlift
  • Weight (pair) - 2 pounds
  • Waterproof - Yes 

3. Danner Mountain Pass Hiking Boots - Rio 

PRODUCT LINK

One of the most popular hiking boots today is the Danner Mountain Pass Hiking Boots. Specifically, it is designed for on and off-the-trail hikes, thanks to its durability and lightweight construction. Made from full-grain leather, this footwear is a perfect alternative to most heavy-duty Danner boots. Interestingly, it still retains its classic appearance. Its over-the-ankle cut and lace-up mechanism ensure that it can give you the best fit possible. 

Specifically, the Danner Mountain Pass Hiking Boots - Rio is made from full-grain leather. As part of the craftsmanship of Danner, the leather has been subjected to six different tests to ensure that it is strong and durable. Meanwhile, its low-profile Vibram Kletterlift outsoles have great traction that is adequate enough for day-to-day use. The outsoles are noticeably thin, which somehow reduced the weight and height of the footwear. The leather-lined collars of Rio provide sufficient ankle padding and a quicker break-in. 

DETAILED SPECIFICATIONS:

  • Upper material - Full-grain leather
  • Lining - DriLex
  • Midsole - None
  • Outsole - Vibram Kletterlift
  • Weight (pair) - 2 pounds
  • Waterproof - Yes 

4. Zamberlan Vioz Lux GTX RR Hiking Boots

PRODUCT LINK

This Italy-crafted hiking boot offers exceptional fit and comfort to women. The Zamberlan Vioz Lux GTX RR Hiking Boots are rugged and work well in a number of backpacking applications. It features an innovative heel lock, spacious toe box, and anatomic wrap on the ankle area. These features guarantee that your feet remain convenient and supported throughout your backpacking and hiking trips. It also got a waxed Tuscan leather on its upper and rubber toe rands that can protect your feet when treading with debris and hard trails. 

Moreover, the upper material comes with the Hydrobloc technology that guarantees the suppleness and strength of the leather. Of course, it also includes a Gore-Tex lining, which is filled with numerous membranes for enhanced breathability and waterproofing. The proprietary Zamberlan Flexx System lets the boots flex without disrupting their lateral stability and support. With its dual-density polyurethane midsoles, your feet get the right level of cushion and protection so that every time you move, you'll not experience stings at all.

DETAILED SPECIFICATIONS:

  • Upper material - Hydrobloc waxed full-grain leather
  • Lining - Gore-Tex
  • Midsole - Dual-density polyurethane
  • Outsole - Vibram 3D rubber
  • Weight (pair) - 3 pounds
  • Waterproof - Yes 

5. Arc'teryx Acrux TR GTX Hiking Boots

PRODUCT LINK

Regardless of the nature of your hike and trek, you can have peace of mind that the Arc'teryx Acrux TR GTX Hiking Boots will take you to your destination. This one is a pair of women's hiking boots that offer all-day dryness on your feet thanks to its high-quality waterproofing and seamless architecture. Specifically, it has a Gore-Tex waterproof membrane on its lining that prevents your feet from being wet during rainy conditions and watery terrains. It also has the Vibram Megagrip rubber outsole that keeps you stable and slip=free.

Its SuperFabric upper features micro-plated technology to ensure its flexibility and streamlined weight. But at the same time, the said construction keeps the shell abrasion-resistant. Meanwhile, its injected EVA midsoles enable it to be extra comfortable, even during extended hikes. It also got 4-mm Ortholite 3D-molded inserts for added protection and support to your feet. Thanks to its thermoplastic polyurethane chassis, the Arc'teryx Acrux TR GTX Hiking Boots is known to excel on its forefoot and midfoot stability and rigidity. 

DETAILED SPECIFICATIONS:

  • Upper material - SuperFabric polyester / thermoplastic urethane / resin (epoxy-based)
  • Lining - Gore-Tex
  • Midsole - Ortholite inserts / injected EVA
  • Outsole - Vibram Megagrip rubber
  • Weight (pair) - 2 pounds
  • Waterproof - Yes 

6. Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX Hiking Boots 

PRODUCT LINK

The Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX Hiking Boots ensure that your next trek will be dry, comfortable, and safe. It features a seam-sealed Gore-Tex lining that provides exceptional defense against water, moisture, and dust. At the same time, the layer lets the water vapor escape from the boot's interior, resulting in long-lasting dryness and coolness. This pair of hiking footwear has improved cushioning and stability so that you will be able to conquer different terrains and weather conditions. 

The boot has an aggressive outsole design so that it can grip the ground better, even if it's slippery. Moreover, its improved outsoles add support and protection to your feet. It can shield you from injuries every step you take. Of course, the Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX Hiking Boots have the brand-new 4D Advanced Chassis that guarantees natural forefoot flexing. Its split-suede leather upper construction optimized its breathability, flexibility, and weight management. 

DETAILED SPECIFICATIONS:

  • Upper material - Nubuck leather / nylon
  • Lining - Gore-Tex
  • Midsole - Dual-density EVA
  • Outsole - Contagrip rubber
  • Weight (pair) - 2 pounds
  • Waterproof - Yes 

7. La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX Hiking Boots

PRODUCT LINK

La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX Hiking Boots do not lack performance and quality. This one is guaranteed to protect your feet while trekking in harsh conditions. It is also light enough so that you will be able to traverse technical and difficult terrains as efficiently as possible. You can use it on wet and slippery trails without the fear that your feet would get damp and drenched, thanks to its Gore-Tex nylon mesh lining on its upper. 

Meanwhile, the compression-molded MEMlex midsoles and TPU transfer shanks ensure that you can experience its superior cushioning. Specifically, these components give your feet a bouncy feeling every step they take. The TPU lacing harnesses on its tongue, and the upper allows a customized and secure fit to its users. There's no point in doubting its traction, thanks to its patented FriXion XF 2.0 rubber outsole. Combined with its Impact Brake System X-Axis and Trail Bite heels, this footwear will let you conquer uneven and slippery terrains. 

DETAILED SPECIFICATIONS:

  • Upper material - TPU / AirMesh / thermoplastic
  • Lining - Gore-Tex / Gore-Flex nylon mesh
  • Midsole - Injection-molded MEMlex
  • Outsole - FriXion XF 2.0 rubber
  • Weight (pair) - 2 pounds
  • Waterproof - Yes 

How To Choose The Best Hiking Boots

Hiking boots are an essential part of any hikers gear, and there are many different styles and options to choose from. There are boots designed for comfort and the roughest terrains, and there are boots designed to be super lightweight while surviving on the toughest trails. There are boots designed to be best for rock climbing and others meant for extreme cold weather.

If you're in the market for a new pair of hiking boots, you've probably found yourself poring over the different styles, materials, and features. How do you know if you have chosen the right hiking boots?

The Type

Similar to your shoes and sneakers, there are various types of hiking boots. Each of them is designed to tackle specific types of hiking. If you know how you hike, you will be able to refine your choices based on this consideration. 

  • Light hiking shoes - These shoes are quite larger and bulkier than your casual shoes. Of course, they are designed for hiking, trail-running, and other long-distance activities. They are suitable for leisure day hikes and provide efficient fit and weight so that you will carry them for extended periods without discomfort. 
  • Backpacking hiking boots -These boots are tailored to handle a number of terrains. They can work on both off-trail and on-trail activities. If you intend to do a multi-day hike, you should wear a pair of backpacking boots. They feature a stiff sole and durable construction that would help you tackle varying conditions and environments.
  • Mountaineering boots - Backpacking boots aren't that sufficient when it comes to alpine and glacial hikes. When the terrain is cold, snowy, and full of unexpected elements, you would really want your feet to be fully protected and insulated. This is where mountaineering boots come in. They have a seamless construction, foolproof traction, and dynamic support to ensure that you can traverse the most treacherous paths. A pair of mountaineering boots is ideal for hikers who want to ascend Mt. Everest. 

Construction And Material

The kind of materials used in constructing hiking boots is crucial when choosing the right boots. The main material, leather, is used in most hiking boots. But there are also other options like synthetics, so we will be discussing these materials and their specific specifications. In this way, you can make an informed decision when buying your hiking boots.

  • Full-grain leather - In a nutshell, full-grain leather is leather that is tanned in a way that retains as much of the original grain as possible. The hide's natural grain is still visible, and there is no process to "mill out" the grain. This means the texture of full-grain leather will be less abrasive and more durable than grain-finished leather. It is ideal for hiking boots or other types of outdoor shoes. However, keep in mind that this material requires extensive break-ins. 
  • Split-grain leather - Split-grain leather is a relatively new material that is made from two layers: leather and synthetic. Split-grain leather is easier to work with, but at the same time, they are not as durable and waterproof as full-grain leather. Therefore, they are only ideal on light day hikes.
  • Nubuck leather - Nubuck leather is a type of leather made from the cowhide's grain. The grain is shaved off the hide to create the texture of the nubuck leather. The grain is then put on the footwear in a way that looks like it's woven in. This makes the boots or shoes look extremely stylish and sharp. Nubuck leather is very strong, durable, and flexible at the same time. However, they require some breaking in, too. 
  • Synthetic leather - Synthetic materials are also used in the construction of hiking boots. Nylon and polyester are among the common synthetic materials used in outdoor wear. In comparison, these synthetic are lighter than leather and have a faster drying time. Moreover, they aren't that expensive. But when it comes to durability, they are on the lower end of the scale. 

Cut And Style

Not all hiking boots have the same cut. There are specific types of cuts that are designed for specific hiking and trekking applications. On the other hand, a boot that has a wrong cut can result in discomforts and injuries. 

  • Low-cut - This is the typical cut as it is present on casual shoes and running footwear. They are ideal for simple treks and day hikes. Because they don't provide support to your ankle, you shouldn't use them on steep and off-grid terrains. 
  • Mid-cut - A mid-cut boot has decent ankle support. It also improves the balance and pronation of users. Moreover, it can also help you trail on uneven terrains filled with debris with minor difficulties. 
  • High-cut - If you want a hiking boot that can conquer the most difficult terrains, a high-cut model is the best choice. It strikes the perfect balance between comfort, protection, and support. The design lets you conquer various terrains as efficiently and safely as possible. 

Fit

Keep in mind that the purpose of buying hiking boots is for comfort and support, so it's important that they're not too heavy and not too light on your feet. Also, the fit is key: try the boots on before you buy them, and create a list of criteria of your preferences for your hiking footwear.

Pick a boot that is not too tight to your feet. You need sufficient wiggle room so that you prevent your feet from soring. Specifically, the ball area should be snug, and the heel should remain steady.

Also, when trying footwear, make sure that you are wearing socks. This will give you an idea if a boot size is suitable for you or not. 

In Summary

Being a hiker can be a very rewarding experience. It can teach you to appreciate nature, improve your fitness and teach you new skills, all while enjoying the outdoors. But the most important thing you can do is take care of your feet. The best hiking boots have become an essential part of our outdoor gear, as they are a critical piece of gear that can protect you during your ascents.

That's it for now. If you have inquiries, feel free to ask me in the comment section below.

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