my take on the best hiking boots in the market

Certainly have been down that trail! Still on it. My Brannock measurement is 10B with an 11 arch and a right foot with less volume than left. 10.5's (or EU 44/10.5+) feel good but don't provide enough toe room on long, steep downhills regardless of how they are tightened. 11's result in having to double heavy-sock the right & add lamb's wool to take up extra volume or otherwise modify heel cup. Only European models offer anything suitable in narrower lasts.

Besides the critical fit, traction performance is a big factor for me. Want to trust my traction if I have to descend steep wet rock or get around an occasional class 3 crux. One reason I don't use Salomon's - just can't trust the traction on wet rock.

Still use GTX mid's as I like the extra warmth on frosty mornings in the alpine and the protection for off trail sections. Besides, the lamb's wool modification only works in boots, not shoes.

Regarding hiking footwear, I don't think you'll find universal agreement on "waterproof and durable as heck."

FIT is of course the universally required first metric, but lightweight and breathable are next on the list for many veteran backpackers. Waterproof diminishes breathability, and durability is relative. Even the most well constructed trail runners or light hikers will not be as durable as full grain leather boots, but they're less expensive and buying a new pair every year is totally acceptable to those who place a high value on light weight.

For me, there is no such thing as a do-it-all footwear product. I have a pair of breathable trail runners for warm weather day hikes; mid-weight waterproof boots for cooler weather and rugged dayhikes; and waterproof boots with more support for backpacking in rocky terrain.

As always, HYOH and YMMV.

I will dive into the link in the OP after questions on kilts and such are answered.

Happy to see I'm not alone in that strategy! Still looking for the perfect stream-crossing shoe (less than 8z/pr, packable with full protection).


Can relate to that. Ain't fun hiding inside here in CT.

Thanks! Looks great. I check Walmart occasionally but options seem kinda heavy. My Crocs are coming in at 14 oz. A couple of folks have suggested just tightening laces on GTX boots and crossing w/o socks & inserts. Naturally, I'm a bit hesitant to test that on a multiday trip in colder weather.

ErnieW - That worked well for me last year. My brand new GTX boots failed on an all day rain hike in. My nephew's 6 year old GTX boots were fine. Feet were numb by the time we made camp. I have Raynaud's so that didn't help. Tried drying by the fire but no go. Used produce bags for the next 2 days.

Surprised they got that bad with just sustained light rain. Can only guess what a drenching with a water crossing would do. Can't find non-GTX in a boot that fits me well and still has what I want in terms of performance.

OP still has a total of 1 post.

Looks like a hit & run, so I still haven't clicked on the link. Trust needs to be earned.