Hiking Boots and Shoes - coolhikinggear.com

How Long Should Hiking Boots Last?

I was chatting with a Guy new to hiking recently. He has been out a few times now with a group I hike with sometimes and I can see he is getting into it. Anyway, as what usually happens with most folks after they hike for a while, they start to think about what kit they need to get.

On their first few outings, when they are just getting started, they tend to use whatever gear they either already have or get some cheap and cheerful options. This ties them over while they figure out if this whole hiking lark is something they want to get into on an ongoing basis.

Steve, the new Guy in my group is at the stage where he knows he wants to stick with it and so, he is starting to think about what kit he should get. As alluded to above, he currently uses a mixture of old gear he has laying around and an old pair of cheap hiking boots he had from some years back.

What Are Good Hiking Boots?

Anyway, the subject of hiking boots came up when we were chatting and he started to query me around how much a good pair of hiking boots would cost. I thought about it and said, to get a pretty decent pair of hiking boots that will protect your feet and stand up to the elements year round, if you factor in utilizing coupons and deals, you’re probably looking at spending between $150 to $300 for a pretty good pair of hiking boots.

He nodded and said, OK cool. Then he asked me another question, ‘how long will those boots last?’ This one was interesting as I thought about it. If I make an investment of $150 to $300 in a piece of kit I’d want to know how long it would last too. However, as I thought about it, it this wasn’t a straightforward thing to answer.

Before we continue, if you are in the market for a new pair of boots for the hills, check out some of the best hiking boot recommendations for men here, and the best hiking boot recommendations for women here.

How Long Will Hiking Boots Last?

This is really dependent on so many things, it’s a tricky one to give a specific answer on. There are many factors for sure. First off …

How Often do you go Hiking?

If you are a weekend day hiker, heading out once a week, you can expect a longer period of useful use from your hiking boots than say, someone who goes out hiking four times a week. You’re simply using them less than the person going out four times a week.

Where do you go Hiking?

If you hike on very soft but firm trails, your boots will stand up better over time than someone who regularly hikes over rock, shale, scree and marshy ground. Clearly, the boots will just take less of a beating on nice even trails as opposed to tough and challenging terrain.

What Hiking Boots do you have?

Of course, there is a wide gap in quality when it comes to different types of hiking boots. If you spend $100 on a pair of boots or $300, you would expect that the more expensive model will hold out better. In most cases you can expect that to be the case but not always, there are always exceptions.

In summary though, the type of boots you have bought will have a big impact. The make-up and construction of them will have a large bearing on how they hold up.

Care and Maintenance

Do you wash your hiking boots down after every hike and let them dry out properly? Do you treat them, if they’re leather, regularly? How much you care for them will of course effect the longevity of your boots.

If you head out in boggy marsh and muck but just throw your hiking boots in the corner after every hike, yep, they’re going to go out of business sooner rather than later.

Your Weight

Your weight has an impact on how long your hiking boots will last. Logically, a heavier load will put stress on a pair of hiking boots more so than a lighter one. Common sense tells you this but it is a factor to be added into the mix for consideration.

Now, I should add here that I don’t necessarily mean weight in terms of a persons body mass, although that is a factor for sure. Think about backpacking though. If you like to do a lot of backpacking, you will be carrying a heavy load around most of the time and so the weight and stress on your boots will be much higher. Hence why backpacking boots and day hiking boots can be quite different in their construction.

How do I Factor all of this in to Make an Estimate?

Well, I think the best advice I can give is to think of the length of life of your hiking boots, a bit like the length of life of a car. How many miles do you do? If you day hike once a week and do an average of 15 miles, your boots will last much longer than someone who hikes four times a week doing 10 miles. Now, this assumes everything else like care and maintenance, weight, terrain etc. being more or less equal.

Using that context, from my experience, a decent pair of hiking boots in the $150 to $300 range should last anywhere from 500 to 1000 miles (805 to 1610 km’s). That’s a ball park number I have found to hold up pretty well. I have also found that, generally speaking, the further I go up in price range for a reputable brand pair of boots, the more miles I will get out of the hiking boots.

Tip to Extend The Life of Your Hiking Boots

When choosing hiking boots, be sure to educate yourself in the buying process first and foremost. You need to be clear on what you need your hiking boots for before you move to buying a pair.

When you’re ready to buy hiking boots, one tip to help get the most out of the life of the boots, could be to look for hiking boots that have a resoling option. If the rest of your boots, the uppers and so on, are well looked after, the resoling option could significantly extend the life of your hiking boots.

Getting custom made hiking boots, should be resolable by default, is also an option but it is expensive, so if you can find a branded pair of hiking boots that can be resoled, it’s a nice middle ground that should work for most.

Conclusion

I was glad that Steve asked me this question as it certainly got me thinking. I kind of take all of this into consideration by default so it was good to sit down and have a proper think about it. I thought a short post on it might be useful for others thinking about this too.

I’m always learning though so I’m sure I’ll pick up more points of note about how long a pair of hiking boots should last as time goes on. Technology will no doubt get better and better as it usually does, and so in theory the quality and durability of materials, etc. should help add a few more miles to the hiking boot odometer.

However, I guess brand names don’t want their boots to last forever either though, not good for business I would think 🙂

If you’re in the market for a pair of hiking boots, check out some of the best hiking boot options for men here, and the best hiking boot options for women here. I hope you enjoyed this post, please like and share.

Lowa Men’s Renegade II GTX Lo Hiking Shoes Review

Today I want to take a closer look at a pair of hiking shoes I bought recently, the Lowa Men’s Renegade II GTX Lo Hiking Shoes. I’ve been wearing them about 4 to 5 weeks now and overall I have been very pleased with them to date.

LOWA Boots Lowa Men's Renegade II GTX LO Hiking Shoe,Black/Black,12 M US

Pros:

Comfortable and very sturdy
Nubuck leather and Gore-tex provides good waterproofness and breathability
Minimal break-in period
Good traction
Good multi-purpose hiking shoes

Cons:

May be too heavy for some i.e. if you prefer a lighter shoe

Lowa Renegade II GTX Lo Hiking Shoe’s For Men Features Summary

Gore-Tex performance comfort membrane
Nubuck Leather upper
GORE-TEX® Lining
Climate Control Footbed
PU MONOWRAP® Frame Midsole
VIBRAM® Renovo Outsole
Color options:
1. Espresso /Brown (Featured in this post)
2. Black /Black
3. Dark Grey / Navy
4. Grey / Rust
Weight: 2.7 lb /1.2 kg (pair of size 12 US)

If you day hike mainly on trails and paths, a light hiking shoe can be a good option.The Lowa Men’s Renegade II GTX Lo hiking shoes are a great pair trail shoes.

Overview

As stated above, I bought the Men’s Lowa Renegade II GTX Lo Hiking Shoe’s about two months back but I only really started wearing them about 4 or 5 weeks ago.

I was interested in these shoes as the Lowa Renegade GTX Hiking Boots, have been a top performer with many happy customers for some time now so I wanted to see if the same level of quality would pass into the hiking shoes. They retail at a high enough price so definitely in the higher range for a pair of hiking shoes so quality would be expected for sure.

Lowa Mens Renegade II GTX Lo Hiking Shoe On the Trail

It’s worth noting that these are the second pass at these shoes, hence the ‘II’ in the title. The first version proved very successful and I believe there is even a III available soon but from what I have seen it veers away from the style and look of the ‘I’ and ‘II’ which is broadly similar and I have to say that, in terms of looks, I prefer this version.

The shoes feature a very warm and practical look. The upper is made from a mixture of waterproof nubuck leather and Gore-tex. The outsole features the VIBRAM® Renovo which is a tried and trusted industry performer so you can expect a lot of good grip on all types of terrain on the trail.

The Lowa logo appears on the side of the boots, but in a very tasteful manner. All in all I was very happy with how the shoes looked, they are perfect for the trail but also look great with a pair of jeans.

There are four possible color combinations to choose from:

Espresso /Brown (Featured in this post)
Black /Black
Dark Grey / Navy
Grey / Rust

Now, I feel that I should state here that my primary purpose for buying these shoes was more for day-to-day use as opposed to hiking, I needed a good solid pair of sturdy shoes for general use in the very wet and crappy winter weather I am currently enjoying 🙂 When I go out hiking, onto mountains, I nearly always wear hiking boots only occasionally will I use hiking shoes.

However, in saying that, I often go for longer walks along a river close to where I live, the path is made up of grass and muck and these shoes are perfect for that type of short walk for me. So, let’s take a closer look into the Lowa Renegade II GTX Lo Hiking Shoe’s to see what more we can learn.

Comfort

Starting with comfort, the insoles on the Lowa Renegade II GTX Lo Hiking Shoe’s come in the form of a removable foot bed. I can’t ascertain from the shoes themselves or from the product information what the insoles are made of, but I can tell that they are comfortable. I’ve been wearing the shoes regularly now for a bout 5 weeks and I have found the foot bed in the Lo hiking shoes to be very comfortable.

As already mentioned, the insoles are removable, so you can take them out to let them breathe. The Lo shoes feature climate control technology which helps to create a cooler and drier environment for your feet

Similar to hiking boots, these shoes feature a padded collar which fits comfortable around the base of the ankle.

The tongue of the shoes is of course also padded, as per the photo below, as well as gusseted. A gusseted tongue helps keep debris out your shoes as it is to the upper of the shoes by a material bridge. This is something I always look for in hiking boots, and although they won’t be able to perform in the same manner, as they’re not boots and so lower down, it is good to have any help to keep unwanted debris out of my shoes and away from my feet.

Lowa Mens Renegade II GTX Lo Hiking Shoe On the Trail Single Shoe Shot

In terms of a comfortable and secure fit, I have been really pleased with the Lo shoes. they feel really solid when you put them on and they have got more comfortable as they have adapted to my feet. The lacing system on the Lowa Renegade II GTX Lo Hiking Shoe’s works well but I have found that a retie is needed every so often.

My hunch is that that is more to do with me that the actual shoes. I have noticed that when I put my foot on a step, nice and horizontal with my foot in a good position, when I tie them then, they hold very well and the laces seems very functional. If however, the foot positioning is off, I invariably have to tie them again. No issue here but something to note when you try them, get your feet into a good position before securing the laces.

Looking into the lacing system more closely, as you can see in the photo below, you can see that lace hooks are employed at the top of the shoes. I am usually a bit cautious of these, preferring eyelets in shoes but I have to say they feel very solid and secure. The eyelets are metal and seem very tough but have been great so far but I guess I’ll need to see how they are in a years time.

Lowa Mens Renegade II GTX Lo Shoe Lace Eyelets

The Lowa Renegade II GTX Lo Hiking Shoe’s are waterproof and breathable via their mixture of Gore-tex and nubuck leather. For general waterproof protection, from reading user reviews and from my own personal experience to date, the boots perform very well in this area. Walking through puddles or muddy terrain and so on caused no issues, dry as a bone.

Lowa Mens Renegade II GTX Lo Hiking Shoe On the Trail Side Shot

In terms of breathability, the boots also seem to perform well. As mentioned Gore-tex is a main part of the material, so you would expect that to be the case. I’ve been very comfortable internally so far but I would like to see how they perform at hotter times of year in terms of breathability. I have no reason to think that they won’t be a winner though and the many user reviews I read stood to this assertion.

They weigh in at around 2.7 lb /1.2 kg (pair of size 12 US) so they are on the heavier side for a pair of hiking shoes and they do feel a bit chunky when you put them on. However, that chunkiness provides a good sense of stability and sturdiness when wearing them so I’m happy to sacrifice a bit in terms of weight with them being that bit heavier.

Lowa Mens Renegade II GTX Lo Hiking Shoe On the Trail 3

The next thing to look at is sizing. I’m going to run with my personal experience here and tell you what happened with me. When I first got them, I actually got a half size smaller than my normal size as when I first put them on, normal size, they did seem to slip on the heel a fair bit in my normal size, especially in the right foot. However, after wearing the smaller size for a while at home, I realized that that they were too tight on my left foot.

My right foot is slightly longer than my left, so while I had a great fit on the right foot with a half size down, it was tight on my left foot. So, yes indeed 🙂 , I took them back and reverted to my normal size. I took them home again not 100% sure that this would work out but as I was spending 200 plus bucks, I figured it was a good idea to take time and get this right.

Lowa Mens Renegade II GTX Lo Hiking Shoe On the Trail Front View

I noticed that if I spent a bit more time lacing the shoes, I would get a better fit in my normal size, however, they still slipped a bit from time to time. I had a hunch that this was due to them needing a bit of time to break-in or adapt to my feet size might be the better way of putting it.

With that in mind, these shoes did take a while to break in but they were never uncomfortable. That is, they fit pretty good from the start but as I wore them more and more, they started to fit better and better as they adapted to my feet.

So, in summary, while a short beak-in was needed for me, to get them that bit more comfortable, I think they’re pretty much good to go straight from the box.

Finally, just to add some more perspective, pictured above is the rear profile of the shoes. It’s worth noting the tough connection of the mid-sole to the upper, from my experience to date, they are as sturdy and secure as they look!

Update 14/04/16 … some months after first posting:

I continued to wear the Lowa Lo shoes throughout the Winter period and still use them. The shoes have performed very well in nearly all aspects. They’re tough and resilient and I have used them for some local hiking as well as day-to-day use and they do perform very well.

The one downside I have noted is that I can’t seem to fully break the shoes in. After wearing them for a few hours, my right small toe gets aggravated. I assumed this would go with time but it hasn’t as yet. I’ve never had an issue like this before with any boots or shoes so it’s an odd and new one for me. I put it down to the sizing as opposed to the quality of the shoe but it is something I wanted to list here.

Support, Stability and Grip

The upper of the Lo shoes sits on a PU Monowrap Frame midsole. Just in case you aren’t familiar with it, the mid-sole is the part of the shoe that sits between the outsole and the insole. It also acts as a shock absorber and helps distribute impact from the trail evenly across your foot. you can learn more about the main constituent parts of a hiking boot here.

Now, again I am going to go with my own personal experience here and skip a bit on the technical jargon and user reviews. I have been very pleased with the stability of the Lo shoes. Simple as that really. I alluded to their very secure fit above when I got the lacing right and that applies to the mid-sole and general construction of the shoes. They just feel tough and sturdy and they have performed very well to date when I’ve worn them. I can’t really say much more than that really I guess 🙂

Lowa Mens Renegade II GTX Lo Hiking Shoe On the Trail 1

Next up, let’s look at the outsole which features a Vibram Renovo outsole. I am a BIG fan of Vibram and I am always very happy when their technology is used in a pair of hiking boots or shoes. In fact, all my current hiking boots and shoes utilize Vibram technology in the outsoles.

If you look at the picture below, you can see the outsole of the Lo shoes. There is a good selection of lugs as you can. The shorter lined grooves at the top and bottom of the shoes enable good grip on sturdier terrain, for example a rocky surface, while the deeper grooves featured across most of the rest of the outsole enable you to still have good grip over less stable terrain, for example slippy mud.

Overall, the Lowa Renegade II GTX Lo Hiking Shoe’s are very sturdy and provide very good traction on varying terrain. Below is a side shot of the shoes and I have to say, they look pretty darn good and I am very happy with my purchase 🙂

In conclusion, I thought I would add a photo or two of my pair of these awesome hiking shoes. So far I have used the product promo shots as frankly, they’re just much better photo’s than I’m going to be able to take to give you a good feel for how they look.

The picture above shoes my Lowa Renegade II GTX Lo Hiking Shoe’s sitting on my bed. I’d not had them long but this was when I had decided they were keepers 🙂

Price

The Lowa Renegade II GTX Lo Hiking Shoe’s come with a 1 year manufacturers warranty from the date of purchase. Lowa are a top brand so if you experience any problems, you can expect them to be sorted out swiftly.

The retail price comes in at a high price point but if you shop around, you should find a deal. click on the image at the start of this review or any of the links throughout to get live prices on Amazon.

Based on my personal experience, all the reviews I have read, the construction, the brand, etc. I think, the Lowa Men’s Renegade II GTX Lo Hiking Shoe’s are an excellent pair of hiking shoes. They ain’t cheap, but they’re worth it. Now, I need to qualify that again in about a years time assuming they keep performing well as for that price, I expect 2 to 3 years of good use from them so we’ll see but so far so good!

Best Uses

Simply put, light hiking (ideally on trails), day to day use and any reasonable purposeful use in between. As mentioned at the start of this review, I bought these more for day-to-day use and light walking as opposed to hiking but from using them on some suitable hikes, I can confirm that they will perform well in the hills too.

What’s worth noting is that the ascetic look of these shoes is pretty sweet so they look great with a pair of jeans …

Yes indeed, that’s my feet in the photo above which I just had taken in my living room to help illustrate the point … man, they look just great 🙂

In summary, the Lowa Renegade II GTX Lo Hiking Shoe’s are a great all round hiking shoe which work really well for day-to-day use.

Customer Reviews

As of the date of this post, from about 210+ reviews I checked out, across multiple retailers, 89% gave the Lowa Renegade II GTX Lo Hiking Shoe’s 3 stars (out of 5) or more, 80% 4 stars or more and 61% gave 5 stars so some decent scores overall.

Our Rating: 4.5 (Out of 5)

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Lowa Renegade II GTX Lo Men’s Hiking Shoes are a winner! Well, so far so good anyways 🙂 I bought these shoes more as a pair of day-to-day knock around shoes and so far they have been excellent and they will perform well on the trail as well.

They are definitely pricey but I think they will be worth it. Although they are pretty much good to go straight from the box, do be patient with the lacing and give yourself time to get the right size. I found it took me a bit of trial and error before I was comfortable they would work as a good shoe for me. They need a little bit of time to adjust to your feet and do spend time lacing them correctly as I noticed this had a big difference on the overall secure fit feeling, especially in the early stages.

If you’re still unsure what type of hiking shoes or boots you should get, check out the hiking boot buying guide and my hiking boot recommendations.

I hope you found this review useful. Please comment and / or share it around your networks if you did. Do you use the Lowa Renegade II GTX Lo Men’s Hiking Shoes? What is your experience with them?

What Are The Best Hiking Boots?

OK, so the title in this post is a bit disingenuous 🙂 not to be trying to trick anyone or anything of course but the point I want to make is that, realistically, there is no such thing as ‘The Best’ hiking Boots. That is, in a nutshell, what is ‘The Best’ for you, won’t necessarily be ‘The Best’ for others.

Now, I don’t mean to suggest that there aren’t hiking boots that as a general rule can’t be called top notch boots. There are of course plenty of really top of the line hiking boots with loads of really great features, quality design and build as well as plenty of fantastic user reviews.

In fact, on this site, I myself of course make hiking boot recommendations about what I think the best gear items are. However, I really feel that when it comes to hiking boots, and other hiking gear, there is a large part of it that is personal taste and choice, there is no definitive answer for all people.

So…

The best fitting pair of hiking boots for me, could be the most uncomfortable design and build for you. It’s really very simple from that perspective, everyone has unique feet. Narrow feet, to wide feet. High arch, to low arch and everything in between.

So, am I saying that you can’t use online guides and peoples user experience, reviews and so on to help you make a decision about whether a pair of hiking boots are good or not? No, absolutely not. Some boots are not so good in terms of design and function, and some are great.

However, the point I am trying to make is that just because a pair of hiking boots doesn’t have oodles of great user reviews and so on, doesn’t necessarily make them a bad boot and, similarly, just because a pair of hiking boots does have oodles of really good user reviews, doesn’t necessarily make them the right boots for you.

Confused? 🙂

The best advice I can give to you is …

Start with Reviews etc.

This may seem contradictory to what I am saying above but it is the best place to start. You need to start narrowing the options down to some degree and this is a fine way to do that. Broadly speaking, I’d try and stay with 4 stars or more over a bunch of reviews. However, if something really grabs you and it doesn’t have a load of reviews, don’t necessarily rule it out.

Pay Attention to User Comments

Boots that have a reasonable selection of reviews will have very particular comments in terms of fit and size. For example, comments about who bought the boots because of all the rave reviews but as they’re a size 12 with wide feet, they really didn’t work for them. Stuff like that can be really useful if you have slightly differently shaped feet.

Try the Boots on

Nothing is ever going to beat this. You gotta wear the boots for a bit to see how you feel in them. You can go to the store but buying online is fine too. In this day and age, with so many options to buy online, you can easily get a pair delivered and wear them in the house for a bit, it’s more or less the same as buying from a store. If they’re not for you, you can send them back no questions asked.

Stick With a Brand

When you find a pair of hiking boots that ticks all your boxes, keep an eye on the brand and model. Many times, brands will keep selling the same model for years if it is successful, or they will slightly enhance it to try and make it better (That can go badly wrong sometimes too though 🙂 If it ain’t broke don’t fix it and all that).

However, a brand will tend to model new ranges of boots on similar foot shapes and design builds that they used in the past. Therefore, even if they ditch the old model, if you had a great fit with them, in all likelihood, if you buy one of their newer hiking boot offerings, they should fit just as good in terms of build and comfort. Something worth keeping in mind.

Buying a pair of hiking boots is a big deal! A decent pair will probably cost at least €150.00 to €300.00. Not cheap by most peoples standards, but a good pair should last you for 2 to 3 years if you look after them. So, it is worth spending a bit of time looking around to make a good choice that is right for you.

If you really can’t find something to suit and if you have some money to spend, you can always go down the custom made hiking boots route. It isn’t cheap but you’ll get a hell of a pair of hiking boots!

Conclusion

I hope you found this short post on ‘The Best Hiking Boots’ useful. I really just wanted to draw attention to some of these points as getting comfort in a pair of hiking boots is unique to everyone. If you’re new to buying a pair of hiking boots, keep all this in mind. Use the guidance available to you in reviews and demo’s etc., but don’t forget to give your personal feeling and experience with the boots a large piece of your attention when making your decision.

There is plenty of information available to anyone wanting to buy a pair of hiking boots. If you are looking for some guidance, you can check out the detailed hiking boots buying guide and when you’re happy you know what type of hiking boot or shoe to look for, check out some of the hiking boots listed on the best hiking boots page for men here and the best hiking boots for women here.

Again, the boots listed there are good options to review and look at, but remember to take everything in the buying guide as well as the points above into consideration when choosing a pair that’s right for you.

If you’re unsure about any of this or need any help getting started on the process of choosing hiking boots, feel free to leave a question in the comments or drop me a mail, I’m happy to help you if I can.

Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX Hiking Boots For Men Review

Today I want to take a closer look at the Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX Hiking Boots. I did a short review on the older version of these boots and it stacked up well so I was interested to learn more about the new, and I assume improved, version.

Salomon Men's Quest 4D 2 GTX Lightweight & Durable Leather/Canvas Hiking Boots

A versatile pair of hiking boots, the Salomon 4D 3 GTX hiking boots for men will cover most hikers needs all year round. There’s a lot in them, functional with a technical style and feel.

Pros:

Lightweight backpacking boots
Excellent toe box protection
Nubuck leather and Gore-tex provides good waterproofness and breathability
Minimal break-in period
Good multi-purpose hiking boots

Cons:

May be too much boot for many folks i.e. they’re bigger and bulkier than other day hiking options
Plastic eyelets not as tough as metal ones

Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX Hiking Boots For Men Features Summary

Gore-Tex performance comfort waterproof / breathable bootie
Nubuck leather and nylon mesh upper
Standard lacing
Gusseted tongue
Removable OrthoLite insole
Dual density EVA midsole
Contragrip sole
4D advanced chassis design
Protective rubber heel cap
Weight: 2 Ib 13.2 oz / 1.3 kg (pair)

Overview

As mentioned above, the Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX Hiking Boots are an upgraded version of the original Salamon Quest 4D GTX boots. The older 4D GTX boots were a top seller and proved very popular, so it was interesting to take a closer look at the newer version to see what they would be like. They are priced in and around $230.00 so moving into the higher range for a pair of hiking boots.

This latest version of these boots feature the same technical look about them as the older ones. The upper is made from a mixture of waterproof nubuck leather and Gore-tex. The outsole features the Salomon 4D Chassis construction which provides a lot of good grip on all types of terrain on the trail.

The Salomon logo appears on the side of the boots, but nothing too in your face i.e. it is tastefully featured on the side of the boots. All in all the boots look pretty good and, as with the previous version, I do like their technical look. There are several attractive color combinations to choose from.

Some of the names of colors makes me wonder sometimes, I’m not entirely sure how something looks like ‘Flashy-X’ or ‘Collapsing Waterbottle’, but hey, I guess they’ve got to give some interesting color mixes names of some kind 🙂 The aesthetics of the Salomon 4D 3 GTX overall score well and the boots, on first impressions, seem very solid.

As with the previous version of these boots, they feature most thing’s I’d look for in a decent pair of hiking / backpacking boots. So, with the introductory overview complete, let’s take a closer look into the usual key areas to see what more we can can learn.

Comfort

Starting with comfort, the insoles on the Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX Hiking Boots come in the form of a Removable EVA foot bed. EVA is an acronym for Ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), also known as poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate) (PEVA).

Not to go into too much detail, but EVA is basically a dense foam which can be easily adjusted to the contours of your feet. EVA is also an excellent and durable shock absorber and is an industry standard in many types of shoes especially those used for outdoor activities, running, and so on.

The foot bed is of course the part of the boot that the soles of your feet touches. Overall, this type of foot bed, supported by the 4D Chassis construction which we look at later, provides decent protection to the soles of your feet from all manner of terrain on the trail.

As it’s removable, you can take them out after a tough day’s hiking to let them breathe, a definite ‘nice to have’. The featured Ortholite sockliner helps to create a cooler and drier environment for your feet so all in all, between the EVA and the Ortholite, you’ve got a comfortable cushioning directly around your feet.

Collar

The collar of the Salomon 4D 3 GTX boots are thick, padded and run quite far up the ankles. These boots are primarily designed with backpackers in mind so good ankle support with a heavy load is a must. We’ll look at that further in another section below.

The tongue of the boots is of course also padded, as per the photo below, as well as gusseted. A gusseted tongue means that the tongue of the boots is connected to the upper of the boots by a material bridge. This is something I personally look for in hiking boots, any help to keep unwanted debris out of my boots is a good thing in my opinion.

In terms of a comfortable and secure fit, as these are fundamentally designed as backpacking boots, the lacing needs to work well as you definitely don’t want to be bending down to do your shoes up on a regular basis with a heavy pack on board. By most accounts from many users, the lacing system on the Quest 4D 3 GTX boots works pretty good but you will need to use a double knot or two. Nothing strange with that.

Lacing

Looking into the lacing system more closely, as you can see in the photo below, the lace eyelets look tough and secure but, as with the core design of these boots, are constructed using lightweight materials.

Now, that would be one thing I would be a little concerned about, plastic eyelets can break much easier than metal ones. However, in terms of the fundamental design purpose of these boots, it makes sense i.e. plastic is lighter in terms of weight. However, I did come across some people reporting that the plastic eyelets broke pretty easily. All in all, it could be a trade off but it’s something to keep in mind.

The Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX boots are waterproof and breathable via their mixture of Gore-tex and nubuck leather. For general waterproof protection, from reading user reviews, the boots perform well. From crossing a creak to walking in muddy terrain or snow, to a reasonable level, you will be good and kept dry.

Breathability

In terms of breathability, the boots perform well. Made with Gore-tex as a main constituent material, you would expect that to be the case. All in all, you can wear these boots all year round. Should be no issues at hotter times of year in terms of breathability and they will perform well in the Winter too, within reason of course.

They weigh in at around 3.5 lb /1.5 kg (pair). Weight is probably one of the chief features of the design of these boots. As mentioned above they are designed for backpacking and as such, they are aiming to be as lightweight as possible while still maintaining all the support, sturdiness, strength and durability you would expect from a pair of tough leather backpacking boots.

It’s worth keeping that in mind though, that while these boots will work fine for light day hiking, they are a good deal chunkier that many hikers may need or want. They are designed for load carrying first and foremost.

The next thing to look at is sizing. From all the reviews I read across various retailers, the Salamon Quest 4D 3 GTX hiking boots fit true to size, so nothing major to report in that area.

Break-in

With regards to break-in, the 4D 3 GTX boots are most definitely more flexible, in terms of their construction, than the average pair of leather backpacking boots. Again, they’re designed to be that way. With that in mind, you can expect a much shorter break-in period than for a pair of leather backpacking boots. I don’t think it would be wise to expect them to be ready to rock straight from the box though, but I did see some folks saying that, that was their experience.

At the back of the boots, as shown in the picture above, we have standard boot loop pulls. It’s worth noting the size of these boots in the picture above. The shaft measures 6.75 inches from the arch so again, that’s a clear indication that they’re built with a high shaft to provide more ankle support for heavy loads on the trail but we’ll look at that in more detail in the next section. A backpackers boot through and through!

Support and Stability

Now, I finished off the last section looking at the height of the shaft of these boots. Technically, that should probably really be in this section as this is where it is all about support and stability, but as these boots are designed as backpacking boots, I figured it was OK to mention that in the Comfort section too.

So, with that in mind, our 6.75 inch shaft rests on a molded EVA midsole. We’ve touched on the merits of EVA above in terms of the footbed but now let’s look at the midsole. Just in case you aren’t familiar with it, the midsole is the part of the shoe that sits between the outsole and the insole. It also acts as a shock absorber and helps distribute impact from the trail evenly across your foot. you can learn more about the main constituent parts of a hiking boot here.

The next thing I wanted to highlight, is the protective rubber heal cap, see the picture below. Not only does this work with the 4D Chassis, EVA footbed and midsole in terms of stability and impact protection, but it actually provides an additional wall of protection for the back of your feet and ankles.

Not to labor the same point, but the shank of the boots is strong and stable by design. The combination of EVA, nubuck leather and Gore-tex on the sturdy under layers of the 4D chassis outsole, as well as the mid and insoles, means you are assured a very stable and solid fit … aka: great foot and ankle support.

Grip

Next up we come to a very functional feature in the Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX boots, the Contragrip outsole. Basically, if we look at the picture below, the selection of lugs on the outsole of the boots is impressive. The shorter grooves in the opposing lugs enable good grip on sturdier terrain, for example a rocky surface, while the deeper grooves around the lugs mean that you can still expect good grip over less stable terrain, for example slippy mud.

From all the reviews I checked out on these, this aspect came up good time and again, folks were very pleased with the grip provided by the 4D 3 GTX boots without comfort being sacrificed.

Lugs

It’s worth taking a closer look at the lugs in the picture below. Looking from a side angle you can see how aggressive they actually are. As mentioned, this excellent grip and traction capability doesn’t come at the cost of comfort. The 4D chassis design works with the tough outsole to ensure comfort is maintained and your weight is evenly distributed across the boots.

Next up, let’s look at the toe box, another nice feature in these boots. It can sometimes seem like a basic enough thing but a good toe box, one that really works, is a really nice feature to have in hiking boots.

Any manner of things can damage your front toes if they’re not adequately protected so good protection in that area on the trail is always a nice to have. If you’re walking up through a slippy hill with a heavy pack on, having a hard toe box to help kick in little support divots, can also be really handy.

Again, lightweight is the order of the day with these boots so even though the toe box is sturdy and effective, it is added into the design and construction in an as economical a way, in terms of weight, as possible. Always nice to be able to wiggle your toes a bit too 😉

Price

The Salomon 4D 3 GTX boots come with a 1 year warranty from the date of purchase. Salomon are a well known and respected brand so if you were to have any issues, you can expect them to be sorted out quite quickly.

I actually came across one user review where the Guy had actually bought the original version of these boots and about four months in, one of the lower plastic eyelets broke. He contacted Salomon and they sent him out a new pair of the new Quest 4D 3 GTX boots. How’s that for good service!

The retail price comes in at the high end for hiking boots, but if you shop around, you should find a deal. Click on the image at the start of this article or any of the product links throughout to be taken to get a live price.

Based on all the reviews I have read, the construction, the brand, etc. I think that overall, the Salomon 4D 3 GTX Hiking Boots for men are an excellent pair of quality boots for the price you pay. They’re not the cheapest for sure and lean towards the higher end of the pricing range, but I think their special design warrants the price.

A lightweight backpacking boot is a pretty cool thing and to enable that to be the case while still maintaining a sturdy and strong boot, I would expect it to cost a bit more than average. They’ll work fine for day hiking too but overall I would say they are primarily designed as a backpacking boot.

A New Iteration

Another thing I like about these boots is that they are a second model. That indicates two things:

The 1st model did so well on the market the company wanted to improve on an already successful package
Learning’s from user feedback on the 1st version of these boots are incorporated into the design etc. of what you get here

The downside, is that as they are a technical boot with lot’s of seams and stitching. Once they start to lose their use, say they rip or break, you can’t do anything with them, they’re more or less finished.

A good traditional leather pair of backpacking boots, if well looked after, can last for decades if they can be resoled. I don’t think this takes away from these boots though as they do offer something very good in terms of weight and performance so they’re designed and constructed accordingly i.e. there has to be a trade off of some kind.

Best Uses

Well, I think it’s pretty obvious what the best use for these boots are 🙂

Yep, these are definitely first and foremost a great pair of backpacking boots. However, they will work great for all types of hiking all year round, within reason in terms of winter of course. They will work great on well worn trails and also keep you good should you fancy going off trail for a bit.

Final Summary

In summary, if you’re a backpacker, these are definitely worth a look. Even as a day hiker, they will work well but they are a bit more chunky than you may need if you only ever do light day hiking. As mentioned, they’ll be good for going off trail so really, nearly any kind of hiking should be fine in them.

I also see no reason why you couldn’t wear them for general outdoor use too but they’re probably a bit too much of a boot to be getting, to stand fishing in … no harm though, you’ll certainly be stable 🙂

For a newbie hiker, there may well be too much in these boots than you might need to get started but again, that doesn’t rule them out! You can find a good pair of starter day hiking boots here, there are several excellent options.

However, in saying that, the upside about getting these boots even if you are a newbie hiker, is that if you are confident you’re going to be expanding your hiking horizons, the Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX hiking boots should be able to cater for all of your needs as you move onward and upward into bigger hiking and / or backpacking challenges.

Customer Reviews

As of the date of this post, from about 300+ reviews I checked out, across multiple retailers, 97% gave the Salomon 4D 3 GTX boots 3 stars (out of 5) or more, 93% 4 stars or more and 81% gave 5 stars so some great scoring!

Our Rating: 4.5 (Out of 5)

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX Men’s Hiking Boots do seem to be continuing in the same vein of popularity and performance as their predecessor. They’re an excellent lightweight backpacking boot and will fit the bill for many established hikers. Overall, I think you are getting pretty good value for money as long as you know what to expect from them.

They won’t last beyond a few years hard use by my estimation, which I think is a decent enough period of use for the price. I stress that’s not a criticism, likely just a fact based on the way they’re constructed, but to get those advantages in terms of weight and so on, they have to be made the way they are.

If you’re still unsure what type of hiking boots you should get, check out the hiking boot buying guide and my hiking boot recommendations. I hope you found this review useful. Please comment and / or share it around your networks if you did.

Do you use the Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX hiking boots? What is your experience with them?

The Best Women’s Hiking Boots In 2023!

Hiking Boots are one of those things that you just need to spend some time learning about before you buy.

There are all the technical and functional elements that you need to consider first, but they should only be looked at after you have your context and requirements clearly defined. What does that mean? In a nutshell, know what you need your hiking boots for.

In this post we list out the best women’s hiking boots in 2023. This should give you plenty of options if you’re in the market for a new pair of boots for the trail.

We keep the descriptions brief enough to try and give a quick but concise overview, along with the main pros, cons and best uses.

Please note, that any reference to prices listed in this gallery are only guide retail price ranges and are subject to change. As you know, prices chop and change all the time, therefore these are only meant as a guide and indicator of the actual cost.

Click on the image or the link under each pair of boots and that will give you an accurate and up to date price. Where applicable, other links to more detailed reviews are placed within the text.

So, with all of that dispensed with let’s continue on and look at some cool hiking boots!

If you just don’t have time to have a look through, our number one choice are the Salomon X Ultra Mid 4 Goretex hiking boots. They’re a great all round pair of boots for the trail!

1. Salomon X Ultra Mid 4 Goretex

Check Availability at REI.

Pros:

Comfortable hiking boots with a technical style
Excellent padding and foot protection
A nice 3 season boot, perfect for trails and tracks
Waterproof and breathable capability works well

Cons:

Watch the sizing as various users reported the boots run big
Not the best option for very long hikes and off trail hiking

Salomon X Ultra Mid 4 Goretex Hiking Boots Features Summary:

Backed up by waterproof, breathable GORE-TEX protection
Women-specific design
Drawing on Salomon trail-running expertise, these hiking boots are light and agile
SensiFit™ cradles the feet from the midsoles to the lacing systems, providing a secure, snug and virtually customized fit all around your feet
Active Support “mobile wings” help hold your feet in place and accompany their movement, adapting to their shape and volume
Advanced Chassis™ target articulations on the outer sides of the feet to optimize stability while keeping the fronts of the shoes flexible
All Terrain Contagrip® outsoles grab the terrain, even when it’s wet or slippery, giving you more control, especially on descents
Durable outsoles can handle a wide variety of surfaces, balancing the geometry and rubber compound to deliver confidence on wet, dry, hard or loose surfaces

Best Uses: Trail hiking, general outdoor use.

A very technical looking boot from Salomon, the X Ultra Mid hiking boots are a lightweight pair of boots which offer excellent stability and weather protection, whatever you get up to on the trail.

The idea with these boots is to combine running shoe technology with hiking boots, definitely a cool idea.

The boots provide excellent grip and traction over all types of terrain via their high action Contragrip outsole. The boots utilize Gore-tex to provide performance footwear that will keep you dry and comfortable whatever nature has to throw at you.

The boots also feature Advanced Chassis™ target articulations on the outer sides of the feet which help to optimize stability, while keeping the fronts of the shoes flexible. All this helps ensure you stay protected and comfortable on varying types of terrain.

Excellent for scrambling and anything where you might risk banging your feet off hard terrain.

Salomon have a long history of providing excellent hiking boots and the X Ultra Mid 4 GTX follows on in that long tradition.

Overall a fine option for all year trail hiking for those who like the more technical look.

2. Lowa Renegade Mid GTX

Check Availability at REI.

Pros:

Top rated hiking boots from many user reviews across multiple retailers
Waterproof capabilty works well through the nubuck leather and Gore-tex lining combination
Vibram outsole provides good grip and traction on all types of terrain
Perfect for most types of hiking all year round

Cons:

Watch the sizing, some user comments indicated that they can be a narrow fit

Lowa Renegade Mid GTX Hiking Boots Features Summary:

Nubuck leather upper
Monowrap midsole technology
Vibram outsole
Waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex
Thick, nonslip rubber lugs for traction
Stabilizing nylon shanks
Climate control foot-bed
Derby style lacing to ensure a customized fit to a wide range of feet
Shaft measures approximately 4.75″ from arch
Heel measures approximately 1.5″
Platform measures approximately 1″

Best Uses: Hiking, mountaineering, backpacking, day-to-day use.

The Lowa Renegade Mid GTX are a light hiker with a long history of satisfied customers through various iterations of this model of boot, they are well worth a look.

The continuing popularity as a great option among hikers is no wonder, as they’ve been tried and tested for a long time now with a lot of very positive user experience.

They come in a wide selection of options in terms of sizing and color so you will definitely find something in there to suit your taste.

They are breathable and waterproof, and they perform well in both of these categories in side by side testing with their peers. If you need to cross a creek or walk through puddles, moist grass and so on, they will keep you good.

They’re lightweight and so are a great option for the backpacker too. Overall, the Lowa Renegade Mid GTX Hiking Boots for women are a great all round hiker, whether day hiking is your thing or you prefer a longer trek with a pack on your back.

I’ve had a pair of these for the last few years, they’re one of my personal favorites which I use a lot throughout the year 🙂

3. HOKA Kaha 2 GTX

Check Availability at REI.

Pros:

Very comfortable and durable hiking boots
Excellent user experience reported across the board
Waterproof Gore-tex booties work well
Full grain leather construction works well
Vibram outsole provides excellent grip
Excellent for year round hiking

Cons:

May take some time to break in
Not the best option for hiking in hotter weather

HOKA Kaha 2 Hiking Boots Features Summary:

Waterproof nubuck leather uppers; leather is from a certified Leather Working Group (LWG) gold-rated tannery
Trailblazing silhouette employs GORE-TEX footwear fabric with recycled textile for waterproof/breathable protection
Updated with HUBBLE® heels with SwallowTail™ geometry, these durable hikers feature Vibram® Megagrip rubber with Traction Lug for increased ground contact
Topically applied PFC-free water repellency treatment adds extra protection from wet weather
Mesh and polyester laces are made with recycled content
Quick-lace metal top hooks
Abrasion-resistant toe caps and heels
Anatomic Achilles construction with heel pull tabs
Molded polyurethane sockliners are made with 50% soybean oil
Late stage Meta-Rocker with integrated flex grooves
Vibram Megagrip rubber outsoles feature Traction Lug design with 5 mm lugs

Best Uses: Hiking, day-to-day use.

The HOKA Kaha 2 are a functional and comfortable pair of hiking boots, good for hiking most, if not all, of the year round. They perform well across the board, as can be seen in the very positive user experience reported across multiple channels.

The first thing of note is how these boots look. They have a modern design which is very appealing to the eye, and the careful construction featuring excellent ankle padding, means you will be stable, comfortable and looking the part on any trail, with these boots on.

As with other boots listed here, they offer a good range of options in terms of sizing and fit, so you should be able to find the right combination to meet your needs.

There are some user reports which indicate that you may have to spend a bit of time breaking the Kaha boots in, but that is not unusual for a good pair of hiking boots.

They also come in several color options, all of which work well. The Kaha 2 Gore-tex boots are breathable and waterproof via their Gore-tex booties, so your feet can breathe and stay dry while you are pushing it on the trail.

They’re also a good weight coming in at approximately 1lb. 14 oz., so again, a good choice if you like to push it to longer distance hikes on varied terrain. They are also an excellent choice for backpacking.

There is a lot to like about the HOKA Kaha 2 Hiking Boots for women. They are a very functional and comfortable all round pair of hiking boots. Whether you are a casual or committed day hiker, or a backpacking enthusiast, these boots have you covered!

4. KEEN Targhee III Mid

KEEN-Targhee-III-Waterproof-Mid-Hiking-Boots-For-Women-Main

Check Availability at REI.

Pros:

Good entry level 3 season boots, perfect for trail hiking all year round
Minimal break-in required, should be good to go out of the box
Rubber toe rand provides extra toe protection in tough terrain
Waterproof and breathable capability works well

Cons:

The main issue we have are the lace eyelets which are not the toughest option for secure lacing
Some user comments that the traction of the soles isn’t as good as it could be

KEEN Targhee III Mid Hiking Boots Features Summary:

Non-marking rubber outsole with 4mm multi-directional lugs
Contoured heel lock
Torsion stability ESS shank in the construction
Dual density compression-molded EVA midsole
Waterproof nubuck leather upper
KEEN.DRY® waterproof breathable membrane
Hydrophobic mesh lining
Removable metatomical dual density EVA footbed
Cleansport NXT™ for natural odor control

Best Uses: Day hiking, general outdoor use, day-to-day use.

Similar to the men’s version of these boots, the KEEN Targhee III Mid Hiking Boots for women are a popular choice. The Keen Targhee III is the next sequel in a long time top seller and popular pair of hiking boots for many folks.

They’re versatile and tick many of the required boxes, an excellent option for light trail hiking. They’re a light to medium hiker so perfect for someone new to hiking or someone who likes weekend hiking on well marked trails.

The Targhee offer a reasonable measure of waterproof capability and breathability and they will work for most folks, most of the year round as a 3 season boot, maybe 4 depending how tough your winters are.

They have a look that is a bit of a mix between a technical boot with a traditional boot feel. All in all, it works and their style and look is functional yet pleasing to the eye i.e. they’ll look good with a pair of jeans when you’re not on the trail.

They retail at around the mid range price for hiking boots. Overall, a popular choice with a lot of great feedback so worth a look if they fit the bill for your needs.

Read the full review.

5. Vasque Breeze LT NTX

Check Availability at Amazon.

Pros:

Modern look and style, good for casual use as well as the trail
Lightweight
Streamlined design both looks and feels good
Minimal break-in required

Cons:

Boots material construction may not hold up long term
Watch fitting – runs small

Vasque Breeze LT NTX Hiking Boots for Women Features Summary:

Recycled Mesh
Waterproof Nature Tex®
Footbed Anatomical High Rebound Footbed
Midsole Enduralast EVA
Vasque Exclusive Vibram® Ground Control LiteBase With Megagrip Outsole Compound
Weight 1 Lb. 8 Oz. (682g)
Material: Suede

Best Uses: Trail hiking, casual use.

A functional and very comfortable pair of hiking boots, perfect for trail hiking all year round, the Vasque Breeze LT NTX are an eye catching pair of boots constructed using waterproof Nature-tex lining.

The prominence of the mesh in the construction combined with the lining, which blocks moisture from the outside while letting your feet breathe, ensures that your feet breathe well in these boots.

Good moisture wicking is perfect when hiking in hotter climes, ensuring your feet don’t get too hot and stuffy as you hike.

The boots feature a Vibram outsole which utilizes a Megagrip compound which provides excellent traction on the ground under foot.

The boots are comfortable with adequate padding around the ankle and foot. Be careful with the sizing as always to be sure you get the right fit. With the right size, overall they provide a comfortable and snug fit.

The Midsole features Dual Density Compression Molded Enduralast EVA which provides excellent shock absorption with great heel and arch support, while also allowing flexibility.

The construction and design of these boots mean that they require a minimal break-in period, if any.

6. Columbia Newton Ridge Waterproof Amped

Check Availability at Amazon.

Pros:

Traditional style works well for casual use as well as hiking
Good ankle support provides significant stability on the trail
Definitely good value for money / bang for your buck
Full grain leather construction is comfortable and functional

Cons:

Boots can have a tight fit so watch the sizing

Columbia Newton Ridge Waterproof Amped Hiking Boots Features Summary:

Techlite™ lightweight midsole for long lasting comfort
A combination of full grain leather and suede
Superior cushioning for high energy return
Scratch rubber heel and mesh tongue
Omni-Grip™ non-marking traction rubber outsole provides advanced traction for grip on varying terrain

Best Uses: Day hiking, general outdoor use, casual use.

The Newton Ridge Plus hiking boots are probably the best value pair of boots on this list, coming in at a very friendly retail price. They’re a top seller on Amazon and with good reason.

They provide all the general functionality a hiker needs and they’re very affordable, offering solid protection for a hiker in most conditions, all year round.

The boots are constructed using full grain leather which is always a nice and comfortable material to have around your feet. The boots are also treated with Columbia’s Omnishield technology, which offers stain and water resistance.

The laces tie up snug using a clam shell system which combined with the cushioned midsole and Omnigrip lugged outsole, provide excellent stability and grip on all types of terrain.

If you’re new to hiking, these are an excellent starter pair of boots which will should see you good for many hikes.

A nice all rounder at a very affordable price, which will also look great with a pair of jeans on a day out about town.

Read full review.

7. La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX

Check Availability at REI.

Pros:

Elegant mix of traditional and modern styling looks well
Solid build providing excellent support provides significant stability and traction on the trail
Lightweight and flexible with good cushioning

Cons:

Some user reports that the waterproof capability could work better
At the higher end of the price scale but good value for money

La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX Hiking Boots Features Summary:

Durable nubuck leather uppers provide protection while the integrated Nano-Cell™ technology delivers maximum breathability to keep your feet cool
Nano-Cell™ technology works with the GORE-TEX SURROUND waterproof membranes to enable unprecedented breathability underfoot
Compression-molded midsoles provide superior cushion and support and a noticeable bounce in every stride for all-day comfort
Vibram® Nano outsoles with Impact Brake System™ provide maximum traction and grip on trails
Available in Regular and Wide sizes to accommodate a broader variety of foot sizes and shapes

Best Uses: Day hiking, Backpacking, general outdoor use, casual use.

The Nucleo High II GTX hiking boots from La Sportiva are a great looking pair of hiking boots, that offer excellent practical and functional use. Although they sit at the higher end of the price scale for ladies hiking boots, they are definitely a good investment.

They provide all the general functionality a hiker needs and their exceptional stability and durability is noted across many user reviews. In short, their construction is tough, strong and very functional, without sacrificing comfort.

These boots can be used all year round and will keep you good on most if not all terrains, for the average hiker.

The boots are constructed using nubuck leather which is always a nice and sturdy material to have around your feet. The boots also come with a ‘GORE-TEX SURROUND’ membrane, which offers excellent water resistance and breathability.

The laces tie up easily complimenting the overall construction of the boots, resulting in a comfortable and secure fit. One of the standout features is the ‘Vibram® Nano’ rubber outsoles with ‘Impact Brake System’. These provide top notch traction and grip on all types of terrain.

These are an excellent pair of hiking boots for the experienced hiker that enjoys a bit of, more adventurous hiking from time to time. However, even someone new to hiking will get a lot from them.

They are excellent quality and will provide you with many, many hours of comfort on the trail. As already mentioned, they are at the higher range of the scale in terms of price, but they provide good value for money in return.

8. Salomon Quest 4 Gore-Tex

Check Availability at Amazon.

Pros:

Lightweight boots in relation to their broad capabilities in terms of use
Waterproof and breathable, overall user experience reports that this capability works well
Perfect for all types of hiking year round
Multi purpose in terms of hiking i.e. day hiking, off trail, backpacking, etc.

Cons:

Possibly too much boot for most light to medium hikers

Salomon Quest 4 Gore-Tex Hiking Boots Features Summary:

GORE-TEX waterproof/breathable membranes keep your feet dry in wet weather
Inspired by trail-running shoes, these boots follow the natural flexion of your feet for a smooth ride
Protecting ankle articulations on the outer foot, the updated ADV-C 4D chassis provides stability and supports your heels to help reduce fatigue when wearing a heavy pack
Contagrip® TD rubber outsoles with deep, aggressive lugs provide extended durability and maximum traction on mixed terrain

Best Uses: Best Uses: Hiking, mountaineering, backpacking.

For those folks who like to spend a few days out backpacking in the wild, the Salomon Quest 4 Goretex Backpacking boots offer excellent stability while not being heavy.

They are a tough pair of all round hiking boots, and an upgraded model from the first very successful version of these boots, with tweaks made based on user feedback.

They are waterproof and breathable, and perform well in both those categories. This performance is offered through a tough construction of leather and Gore-tex which whilst very functional also has the additional advantage of not being too heavy to wear.

There is a lot in these boots and they do a good all round functional job for sure, so from the day hiker to the backpacker they will hold their own very well.

They come in at the higher end of the price scale in terms of hiking boots, but you do get a lot of boot for your money. Possibly even too much for a casual hiker but they’re a good potential choice for the avid hiking / backpacking enthusiast.

They have a very technical look about them which fits well with the overall functional feel and capability that they offer.

9. Oboz Bridger Mid Waterproof

Check Availability at REI.

Pros:

Bright modern look will look great on the trail or for casual use
Excellent support and very durable construction
Soles are functional and strong
Waterproof capability works very well

Cons:

Watch sizing for wider feet
Break-in time typically needed

Oboz Bridger Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots Features Summary:

Waterproof nubuck leather uppers offer the right combination of breathability and protection to keep your feet dry on long treks; soft nubuck doesn’t require breaking in
BDry waterproof, breathable membranes keep soggy elements out while letting water vapor escape, keeping your feet cool and comfortable
Nylon mesh linings wick moisture, dry quickly and further enhance breathability
Deluxe footbeds feature a well-defined arch for support and nest perfectly inside the boots
Dual-density EVA midsoles provide cushioning while keeping the boots light and agile
Nylon shanks and thermoplastic urethane forefoot plates offer torsional stability, increasing surefootedness on varied terrain
Rubber randing on toes and heels helps protect the uppers from abrasion
High-friction, nonmarking rubber outsoles grip with ease in all directions on both wet and dry surfaces thanks to the toothy side lugs and 4mm directional lugs underfoot

Best Uses: Day hiking, day-to-day and general outdoor activity use.

The Bridger Waterproof hiking boots from Oboz are a very well designed and constructed pair of hiking boots. They offer all you would need from a good pair of hiking boots, at a mid to high price point.

The first thing about the Bridger boots that catches the eye is their look and style. They have a very unique appearance, especially if you go with one of the brighter color options like red, which really works and looks the part.

They’re not bad in the weight department, but there are lighter options for sure. However, they provide an easy and comfortable fit for long days out on the trail.

The stand out aspect of these boots, is definitely durability. They are a very supportive pair of boots that are really durable, so they can take anything you can throw at them on your mountain hiking adventures, whatever form they take.

The Oboz Bridger boots offer great traction on the trail via their carbon rubber outsoles. The general material construction of these boots combined with the rubber toe rand, gives you a secure cocoon for your feet that offer excellent protection.

These boots are best suited to day hiking and other types of light hiking, but they will look really well with a pair of jeans too, especially the red ones 🙂

You should get years of great use from them too. Definitely worth a look!

10. Timberland Chocorua

Check Availability at Amazon.

Pros:

Another traditional style pair of boots that work well for casual use as well as hiking
In terms of price, they’re good value for money
The boots are comfortable with good cushioning in the foot bed and shaft

Cons:

Boot construction could offer more ankle support
Some users reporting that they are a tight fit, so watch the sizing

Timberland Chocorua Hiking Boots Features Summary:

Premium full-grain waterproof leather uppers
Padded collar and tongue
Breathable, waterproof Gore-Tex® membrane
Rustproof, speed-lace hardware
Cushioned EVA footbed provides underfoot support and disperses shock
EVA midsole for all-day comfort
Nylon shank
Solid rubber lug outsole provides superior traction

Best Uses: Day hiking, general outdoor use, casual use.

The Timberland Chocorua Hiking boots for women, are another great pair of hiking boots that offer excellent value for money, coming in at a very wallet friendly price point.

They’re a stylish and functional pair of hiking boots. they’re both pleasing to the eye and are a great all round pair of hiking boots.

The boots are seem sealed and the waterproof leather uppers work well under tough trail conditions.

The collar is padded to offer plenty of comfort as you manoeuvre over varying terrain, and the cushioned EVA footbed and dual density EVA midsole provide excellent stability as you hike.

The rubber lugs on the outsole also work well providing good traction and grip on the ground underfoot. Overall, a very good value for money pair of hiking boots.

11. Danner Mountain 600

Check Availability at Amazon.

Pros:

Stylish suede leather construction in these boots is pretty sweet to the eye
Tough and durable
Great boots for all types of hiking and backpacking

Cons:

Could be more breathable

Danner Mountain 600 Hiking Boots Features Summary:

Danner Dry waterproof protection. Two lace options.
Cushioning open-cell OrthoLite footbed
Outer Material: suede leather
Sole: Rubber
Closure: Lace-Up
Heel Type: low-heel
Shoe Width: Medium
Vibram SPE midsole for maximum rebound, comfort and support
Nylon shank. TPU heel frame to enhance support and stability.
Vibram Fuga outsole with Megagrip technology offers superior grip on wet and dry surfaces

Best Uses: Hiking, general use.

A tough pair of traditional style suede leather hiking boots, the Danner Mountain 600 are very functional and pleasing to the eye.

A popular Brand in the hiking boots world, Danner bring a tough offering to the table with these excellent Hiking Boots. Just looking at them, you can tell they have ‘don’t mess with me’ woven within the construction lol 🙂

They’re a suede leather boot so expect a break in period, not a problem if you have the patience to wait as you’ll get a comfortable boot when they shape to your feet.

The outsole is constructed using Vibram Fuga which features self-adapting lugs and a specially formulated Megagrip compound. This means that the outsole provides incredible grip on both wet and dry surfaces. So, you have good grip and traction for the trail.

These boots are perfect all types of hiking and backpacking, 3 to 4 seasons of the year. They’re perhaps too much of a boot for a casual or light hiker but they will still fit that bill if they need to.

In terms of price, these boots sit in the mid to high range of the scale for a good pair of women’s hiking boots. The classic design and style of the Danner Mountain 600 is a joy to behold 🙂

12. Oboz Sawtooth II Mid

Check Availability at Amazon.

Pros:

Waterproof and breathable
Oboz proprietary insole molded to match the specific shape and contour of each boot
Duel-density EVA midsole provides cushioning and stability
Nylon shank provides added support under foot
Minimal break-in required

Cons:

Some users reported that the outsoles were slipping on certain terrain e.g. wet rock

Oboz Sawtooth II Mid Hiking Boots Features Summary:

Waterproof Nubuck leather & highly abrasion-resistant textile
Oboz B-DRY waterproof/breathable membrane
3D molded heel counter
Standard volume — Medium-High volume feet tend to be wider with higher arches and insteps
Weight: W7(1/2 PR): 15.5 oz./439 grams

Best Uses: Day hiking, day-to-day use.

The Oboz Sawtooth II Mid Waterproof boots are a great pair of boots that will cover most of your hiking needs, across the seasons.

They are constructed using waterproof nubuck leather and highly abrasion-resistant textile, so they provide good protection from the elements on varying types of terrain and in varying conditions.

The waterproof capability in these boots is further enhanced via the Oboz B-DRY waterproof/breathable membrane. This keeps the nasty weather out while letting your feet breathe.

The nylon shank enables good stability in the boots and the boots are also cushioned amply to provide a comfortable fit. These boots require minimal break in time, so should be good to go out of the box.

In terms of price, these boots sit in and around the middle of the overall range between cheap and pricey, so in line with many of its competitors for what they offer.

13. Merrell Moab 3 Mid

Check Availability at Amazon.

Pros:

Lightweight, flexible and versatile mean they’re excellent light trail hiking boots
Good entry level boots for someone new to hiking
Vibram rubber outsoles offer excellent traction and grip
Very breathable, in terms of their construction, when out on the trail

Cons:

Not the best option for tougher hiking
Wouldn’t be suitable for backpacking or long day hikes over tough terrain

Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots Features Summary:

Waterproof membrane seals out water and lets moisture escape
Pig suede leather and breathable mesh upper
100% recycled laces and webbing
Bellows tongue keeps out debris
Protective and abrasion resistant rubber heel and toe cap
100% recycled breathable mesh lining
Kinetic Fit™ ADVANCED removable contoured footbed with reinforced heel cushioning for medium support
Molded nylon arch shank
Merrell Air Cushion in the heel absorbs shock and adds stability
Super Rebound Compound provides durable shock absorption to help reduce torque and allow for a smooth transition into the midfoot
Vibram® TC5+ outsole provides exceptional traction for outdoor multi-sport activities. Formulated exclusively for Merrell.

Best Uses: Day hiking, day-to-day use.

Merrell are a very well known and loved brand in the world of hiking boots and the Moab 3 Mid Waterproof hiking boots are one of their most popular options, a best seller in fact.

These boots are another great pair of light hikers, perfect for hiking in fairer weather. The Moab have a long history of happy customers so they’re a fine choice for light trail hiking.

They’re constructed with a combination of leather, Gore-Tex and synthetic materials which enables good breathability and a reasonable level of water resistance.

The construction on the Merrell Moab also means these boots are lightweight and so they are another fine option for all types of day hiking and light backpacking.

The outsole is Vibram TC5+ and they offer good traction and grip. They come in at about the middle of the road in terms of price for a pair of hiking boots.

They’re a fine entry level hiking boot, say if you’re just getting into hiking, and will serve most light to medium hikers needs well.

14. Manfen Thermator

Check Availability at Amazon.

Pros:

Waterproof mesh upper and Hydroshield Membrane
Suitable for winter hiking
Boot construction provides excellent support and comfort
Very competitive price

Cons:

Some reports that the outsole traction performs well on level terrain but not in more challenging scenarios e.g. wet steep rocky terrain

Manfen Thermator Hiking Boots Features Summary:

Waterproof, non-slip, breathable and lightweight
Designed to be warm when hiking in colder conditions
Waterproof mesh upper with a Hydroguard Membrane keeps your feet dry in wet weather
Multifunctional for hiking through rocky areas, wet mud, etc.
Outsole provides good traction
Integrated inserted EVA Cupsole
Molded rubber toe cap provides protection for your toes
Molded TPU at the heel provides protection and support

Best Uses: Day hiking, day-to-day use.

The Manfen Thermator boots are a very wallet friendly pair of hiking boots with a lot of very happy users.

They are designed specifically with cold temperatures in mind so they are suitable for hiking at colder times of year. They are constructed using fabric and synthetic materials and so should take minimal time to break in.

The Thermator boots feature a waterproof mesh upper and a hydroguard membrane, which helps keep your feet dry in wet weather.

The boots have a nice looking and functional rubber toe rand to protect your toes from stubbing them on rocks, etc. The rubber outsole combined with an EVA midsole, and cushioning around the ankle, provides a stable and comfortable fit.

As mentioned above, the main thing of note about these boots is the price. They are very reasonable in what you get for the price you pay.

While one could be a little dubious about that and be concerned about quality, there is a lot of very positive user feedback indicating folks are pleased with their purchase and the performance of these boots.

Some Quick Thoughts to Help you Choose

If you like walking your dog on light trails on the weekends, you don’t need a tough and rugged pair of backpacking boots. Similarly, if you’re planning a hiking expedition through the Himalayas, you need a lot more of a boot than a light day hiker can ever give you.

If you’re just at the start of the hiking boot buying process, check out this post on how to buy hiking boots. It will walk you through all the various things you should consider when picking a pair of hiking boots for the trail.

Even when you have your needs clearly defined, it can be hard to find that perfect pair of hiking boots. It’s almost like the Holy Grail, rumored to exist but no-one has ever laid eyes on it 🙂

With all that in mind, when you do finally get to the ‘ready to buy’ stage, it can be even harder to work your way through the maelstrom of hiking boot options that are available on the market today. It can get very confusing fast, as there is a lot of choice.

The purpose of this gallery is to help with that process by laying out the top hiking boot options for women that are available today. The criteria to get into this gallery are primarily, lots of good user experience and positive reviews across the board.

The boots listed here are listed in order from our top pick at number 1 and on, some boots are number 1 in certain categories though. As mentioned above, what works best for you, really depends what your needs are. Rest assured that they are all excellent hiking boots!

However, whether you’re a light to medium weekend hiker or an avid backpacking enthusiast, there should be a few options listed here which might just be the ticket for you on your quest for the perfect boot. A tall order I know, but one can hope 🙂

FAQ

We find that often people have similar questions, so with that in mind, we thoughts an FAQ section could be useful to folks. It will be added to over time as any new queries come in.

Q1. I’m new to buying hiking boots, what should I look for in terms of functionality, etc.?

That’s a big question 🙂 but one we’re glad you asked. Luckily, it’s one question we have addressed in our hiking boots buying guide. Check out that article for more detailed information on what to consider when buying hiking boots.

Q2. There seem to be so many different types of hiking boots, can I not just buy one pair to cover all my hiking needs?

Good question, and as with most things hiking gear related, it depends. If you are a regular hiker but you only hike over the same forest trails every time, then certainly, given that the weather conditions are not in extremes, it is very much possible to get one all round pair of hiking boots that will cover your needs.

However, if you plan to do a lot of different types of hiking, then you may need more than one pair.

To help illustrate this, I personally currently utilize two pairs of hiking boots and two pairs of trail shoes across the year. I also have a pair of hiking sandals, but I don’t really hike in those much.

I will use my tough leather boots in later Autumn, across Winter into early Spring.

They have a more rigid sole and are also crampon compatible so I can take them for certain hiking trips abroad, say if I will be hiking over a glacier or ice e.g. I am going to the Pyrnees in Spain soon, and need to utilize crampons. These boots are perfect for that.

My other hiking boots, are a lighter more flexible pair, which I tend to use over late Spring across Summer into early Autumn. They’re lighter and are more flexible in the sole, so also nice for scrambling.

For light trail hiking in really good weather, and for casual day to day use, I am a big fan of trail shoes. They are very comfortable and I think they look great with a pair of jeans.

So, the main point being, it really depends on what you need your hiking boots for, what type of hiking you will do, where you will hike, and how often.

All of those things contribute. Most hikers start with lighter trail hiking before ever going on longer hiking adventures where you may need things like crampons.

So getting one all round pair is a great way to get started with your hiking if you are new to it, and you can add as you go. A good all round pair like the Lowa Renegade above are good for this purpose.

Q3. I see some boots have different lacing systems, does that make a lot of difference?

Yes and no. No, in that as long as the lacing system works well, there shouldn’t be any issues regardless of how it works. Yes, in that some people just prefer one type of lacing over another.

What is infinitely more important is ensuring you have a comfortable fit, and tying your laces correctly. If you have those boxes ticked, the lacing set up, shouldn’t make much odds.

Q4. Should I get hiking boots with removable insoles?

Most good hiking boots will allow you to remove the insoles, for airing and so on. I often take them out when drying my boots after cleaning them after a long day on the trail.

You can also get replacement insoles which can add to your comfort if your existing ones wear down over time, which typically they will.

If you’re just starting out hiking and getting a cheaper pair to get started, I wouldn’t get too concerned about this until you get into hiking more.

Q5. Is it better to get leather or synthetic hiking boots?

A lot of hiking boots will use some combination of the two. We are fans of leather hiking boots, but they will usually have a synthetic lining made from Gore tex or the like, so they’re not 100% leather as such.

In my personal experience, purely synthetic hiking boots are usually cheap and cheerful. In the competition between leather and synthetic hiking boots, there is only one winner in my humble opinion, leather all the way.

Synthetic materials do tend to have excellent breathing capabilities though, so if that is something important to you, maybe some further research into a pair of them for you is warranted.

Q6. I bought a pair of really nice leather hiking boots, how do I look after them?

Well, you can start by reading this article on how to clean leather hiking boots. That covers a lot of the main items.

You’re asking the right questions though, as looking after your hiking boots by cleaning them properly, treating the leather, reproofing, etc., will greatly extend their life.

Q7. How long can I expect my new hiking boots to last?

The best way to think of this, is in terms of distance i.e. how many miles you can reasonably expect to get out of a pair.

The type of boots you have, the level of craftsmanship, etc. will also play a significant part in this. We did a post that goes into how long hiking boots should last in more detail.

Although that is a useful guide, it is never an exact science, peoples feet are unique, some folks are heavier, so some will just wear and tear through boots quicker than others.

Q8. The price range for hiking boots, is significant, how much should I spend on a pair of hiking boots?

How long is a piece of string 🙂 Like anything, there are luxury models available, and you can go all out and get a pair of custom made hiking boots, these can run into many hundreds and even thousands of dollars, I kid you not.

However, some people either enjoy and can afford the luxury, while others have no choice as they may have unusual shaped feet and just can’t get comfort in standard pairs from the stores.

While this may sound insane to be that expensive, keep in mind that custom made boots will be very resolable, so you can potentially get decades out of the investment.

For us mere mortals however 🙂 I think it is worth investing as much as you can into good hiking boots, if you plan to hike regularly. Like anything, you tend to get what you pay for.

I hike loads, and I have paid $350 for one of my pairs of hiking boots. Sounds like a lot, but I have had them for three years now, and they will be going on for many more.

There are tips and tricks if you need to buy hiking boots on a budget, but it is worth getting as much comfort as you can.

If you’re just testing the water to see if you will like hiking, you can get away with between $60 to $100 taking advantage of a sale, coupons, etc. But that will only get you going on normal enough terrain, they won’t last forever, so set your expectations accordingly.

Finally, what you need your boots for is of course critical. If you plan to take a trip of a lifetime to scale mountains and traverse glaciers, unfortunately a $100 pair of hiking boots just won’t cut it. So your needs as always play a big role in this.

Q9. Is a ‘gusseted’ tongue necessary?

I would say yes, most decent modern hiking boots have these as standard, and so I think you should try and aim for them if you can.

If you never leave nice and easy trails, it’s not a big deal, but I think it can be handy to have some protection to keep crap out of your boots e.g. little stones, water and dirt if you’re hiking through bog, etc.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoyed this quick look at the best women’s hiking boots of 2023 available on the market today. As you can see, there are a lot of options to choose from.

If you’re in the market for a new pair of hiking boots, you could do a lot worse than choosing one of these options.

Always remember to know your requirements clearly before buying a new pair of boots. It is very possible to get too much boot or too little boot for your needs and you can be easily disappointed.

I would suggest that it’s usually better to have more boot as opposed to less i.e. better to have tougher and more functional boots than you need, rather than boots that don’t deliver enough.

If you found this post useful, please share it around your networks 🙂

KEEN Women’s Targhee III Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots Review

A very popular choice with many, the Keen Targhee III Mid Waterproof hiking boots won’t break the bank. Good for day hiking and casual use.

Check Availability at REI.

Pros:

Reasonably priced and decent value for money
Lightweight and breathable
Patented toe box protection
Should be good to go out of the box
Nice boots for casual day-to-day use
Good day hike boots
Good option for someone new to hiking

Cons:

Lace eyelets are made of woven fabric, if they break, the hiking boots are most likely finished
Not ideal for longer hiking treks e.g. backpacking, etc.
Some comments on the lugs on the sole coming off after only two months (See this video review)

KEEN Targhee III Mid Hiking Boots For Women Features Summary

Waterproof, leather and performance mesh upper
KEEN All-Terrain rubber outsole for higher-traction grip
Dual-density, compression-molded EVA midsole
Breathable mesh lining
Removable, metatomical dual-density EVA insoles
KEEN.Dry waterproof, breathable membrane
Leather mud shield offers resilient durability
Speed hooks, for easy lace adjustment
Injected TPU heel-capture system for stability
ESS shank offers lightweight support
Resilient, internal shank
4mm multi-directional lugs for traction
Cleansport NXT™ for natural odour control
Environmentally-preferred premium leather from LWG-certified tannery
Color: Neutral Gray/Mineral Blue, Gargoyle/Caribbean Sea, Slate Black/Flint Stone, Raven/Bossa Nova, Black Olive/Slate Rose
Weight: 13.2 oz / 375.1 g

Overview

As with the men’s version of the Targhee III, they are a top seller. I would put them in the mid range for a pair of entry level hiking boots. They are priced in and around $150 so while not cheap, should be within reach of many.

Overall, they sport a technical look but there is also a hint of the traditional from them too. As with the men’s version, The upper is made from waterproof nubuck leather and the outsole boasts aggressive lugs to ensure grip on the trail. The KEEN logo appears on the side, rear and sole of the boots but isn’t too aggressive in my opinion. All in all the boots look sturdy.

There are five color combinations to choose from in the ladies version of the Keen Targhee III boots 1. Neutral Gray/Mineral Blue 2. Gargoyle/Caribbean Sea 3. Slate Black/Flint Stone 4. Raven/Bossa Nova 5. Black Olive/Slate Rose. The overall look of the boots is pleasing to the eye and gives off a good first impression.

The Targhee boots list many of the features I’d expect in a decent pair of mid hiking boots. If you’re new to buying hiking boots, check out my hiking boot buying guide to list out some of the main things you need to consider to help ensure you get a good pair of boots to meet your needs.

I am somewhat afraid I will be repeating large parts of the men’s review in this review as the features, for all intents and purposes, are all broadly similar. There are however some unique nuance with the female version e.g. in terms of sizing and so on. Plus, if you’re reading this, you’re most likely a lady and so would, logically, most likely not have bothered reading the men’s review 🙂 So, with that in mind, let’s crack on and take a closer look.

Comfort

When taking a closer look at hiking boots, I always like to start with comfort. It’s a key part of the overall success or failure of a hiking boot. Starting internally, the Targhee III Mid Hiking Boots feature a Removable metatomical dual density EVA footbed (aka insole). This does sound very technical so I want to try and break this down to give you a better idea of what it actually means.

A metatomical insole is an insole that is engineered to provide really good arch support and it is designed to cradle the natural contours of your feet. The acronym EVA stands for Ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), sometimes also referred to as poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate) (PEVA).

In layman’s terms, EVA is a dense foam which can be easily manipulated and shaped. It also has the capability to act as an excellent and durable shock absorber and so, it is regularly used in the construction of boots and shoes. It was first introduced in the athletics world but it is much more widely used in all sorts of boots and shoes these days.

So, we’re of course all about hiking here so how does the above translate in terms of comfort on the trail? Well, the main point of note is that this is where the bottom of your foot meets the insole of the boot. Therefore, you need to have something in there that can take a bit of abuse from the varying types of terrain you encounter on the trail, protecting your feet in the process.

Performance

As already alluded too, the make-up of EVA means it performs this job very well. It’s worth noting that EVA is a commonplace industry standard, so you are guaranteed a certain level of performance in terms of structure and support.

The other word of note referenced in the very technical term above, is ‘removable’. This is self-explanatory but just to elaborate, for those who may not be familiar, it just means you can remove the insole from the boots. This is a handy option to have to enable you to air the insoles and inside of the boots after a tough day on the trail.

As you can see in the image below, the collar of the Targhee III boots for women are thick and padded. Ankle support is provided via a torsion stability ESS shank. We’ll look into that in more detail in another section below.

Tongue

The tongue of the boots is also padded, also visible in the image below. Nothing unusual with that, padding provides cushioning around the foot and ankle and is common in mid style boots. Padding on boots of this style and design also need to work in conjunction with the lacing system which we’ll look at next.

Lacing

As you can also see in the image above, the laces tie criss-crossed to the top of the shank of the boots. This is again all normal but this is also where I notice my first slight concern with the Targhee III, the lace eyelets.

As you can see, they’re made of fabric. I am always somewhat cautious of fabric lace eyelets in hiking boots as should one of them go, your hiking boots are more or less ready for the bin. The photo below takes a closer look at the eyelets to help show you what I mean.

Fabric eyelets, in my humble opinion, aren’t the strongest way to provide a lacing system in hiking boots. Now, there is of course a plus side to them too. In terms of weight, they obviously add minimal overall weight to the boots so the fabric eyelets lend themselves to a lightweight boot which has it’s own advantages.

When I investigated this across user reviews, this item, the lace eyelets ripping, did come up a few times for some folks. It’s not a total red flag but something to be mindful of when when buying hiking boots. How much rough and tumble do your hiking boots need to handle? Always keep that in mind before you purchase as a general rule.

I want to give a quick mention about the laces themselves too as I noted a few people, in the many reviews I read, saying that the laces can come undone quite easily. I find this a common enough problem with mid boots in this style. 9 times out 10, an extra knot will do the trick. Where that doesn’t work, you may need to purchase new laces, one’s that can get a good hold and secure better. Buying new laces is unlikely to be needed in most cases though.

Waterproof

The Targhee boots are waterproof and breathable via the KEEN.DRY ™ waterproof breathable membrane. How waterproof a pair of boots really is, is hard to judge until you take them out on a test run against your personal expectations. I found a mixed bag when it comes to these boots being waterproof.

A lot of folks were happy saying the boots were very waterproof but, of course, there were also quite a few who said that they weren’t waterproof at all. This was exactly the same in the men’s version too. The majority of user reviews, as with the men’s, were in the former, they are waterproof, camp though.

Personally, I find it very hard to say what is or isn’t waterproof without knowing what someones expectations are. You won’t be able to stand submerged in water in the Targhee III for too long, they will eventually get wet. However, will you need to be standing submerged in water for a long period of time? Most likely not, if you do, you will need a much tougher boot anyway.

Most day hikers on established trails need protection from rain showers, puddles and that type of thing, so in terms of those types of conditions, you can expect the Targhee to perform well. Of course the more demands you make of them, into shallow streams and so on, the more likely water will get in.

Breathability

In terms of breathability, the women’s Keen Targhee III Hiking Boots perform pretty good by most side by side comparisons with competitors that I found. The design of the Targhee III, typical of most mid style boots, really lends itself to being more breathable, so you can wear them at hotter times of year with no major concerns.

The listed weight is 13.2 oz / 375.1 g. so certainly on the lighter side for hiking boots. Again, this is what I would expect for a pair of mid style hiking boots and the lightweight make-up means they work very well for light day hiking but probably not ideal for heavier trekking backpacking, etc.

Sizing

The next thing to look at is sizing. The Targhee III Mid hiking boots come in the standard size options. I didn’t seem to see any specific options for narrow or wide feet. Looking at the Keen website, they advise, with regards to sizing, to order a half a size larger than your usual size as they run 0.5 of a size smaller than usual sizes.

I saw this repeated across multiple user reviews and it is the same with the men’s version of the Targhee. I did see one or two reviews suggesting that 0.5 bigger wasn’t enough and maybe a whole extra size may be the best option. However, they were the exception not the rule, which was to go with 0.5 size bigger. So, if you’re normally a size 8, go 8.5 or, on the outer reaches, a 9.

With regards to break-in, the Targhee do very well with nearly all users indicating that no break-in period is required. Again, I would expect that to be the case with this mid style of boots. There’s no tough leather to mold to your feet too so they should be ready to rock out of the box!

At the rear of the boots, pictured above, and on the tongue are boot pulls. Handy when you have to pull your boots on up over your feet with thick hiking socks on. They should also enable you to adjust the boot as a whole and easily move them about on your foot until you find a comfortable fit before lacing them up. Not a major thing of note but still nice to have for sure.

Support, Stability and Grip

Support from the Keen Targhee Mid III Hiking boots for women is provided via a Dual Density Compression molded EVA midsole. We have already delved into the make-up and capability of EVA above. Moving on from there, we’ll have a quick look at the midsole which is the piece that sits between the outsole and the insole. It serves the same purpose as we reviewed above i.e. it takes shock from the ground and helps distribute it evenly across your foot.

The Dual Density bit means that the midsole is made up from material with two different densities making it stronger. Dual density construction is usually incorporated in shoes and boots to help prevent over-pronation (the way your foot roles inward when you walk or run).

The shank of the boots support your ankles via a torsion stability ESS shank. Many reviewers commented that they were very happy with this aspect of the Targhee boots and felt that when they were fully laced up, they gave very good ankle support.

Toe Box

The Targhee III feature a patented toe box which protects your toes from any impact from the side or top. By all accounts, this works well and does offer good protection in that regard. They also feature a Non-marking rubber outsole. The outsole features multi directional 4mm lugs, as pictured below, and are described as ‘aggressive’ to help grip terrain to provide good traction on the trail.

Now, this was one area where I did come across a lot of not so great experiences from users. A lot of folks had issues with grip from the outsole with some commenting that it was practically non existent on wet stones.

The other area I came across a few times from users, was that the lugs on the sole of the boots started coming off after relatively minimal use.

It’s worth noting that this issue seemed to happen for some but of course not for all. If it was a fundamental design flaw, I can only think that everyone would experience the same issue but that doesn’t seem to be the case. However, I feel like I should point it out to you to enable you to come to your own conclusion as I did come across it in my research.

The positive I took from the reviews was that, many were very complimentary of the KEEN customer service. They seemed to be willing and able to deal with the problem swiftly and offer alternatives or a replacement.

Price

The Targhee boots come with a 1 year warranty from date of purchase. When reading multiple reviews, it seems that KEEN offer pretty good customer service. If you have any issues with their products, it seems they have a pretty good track record of sorting your issue out or providing alternatives..

The retail price comes in at $149.00 but if you shop around, check the pricing table above or utilize the coupons in the side bar, you can probably get them for under a hundred dollars. If the Targhee III are the boots for you, take your time and look around, you’ll get a deal on them at some point for sure.

Based on all the reviews I have read, the construction, the brand, etc. I think that overall, the KEEN Targhee Hiking Boots are reasonably good boots for the price you have to pay. They’re a mid range light hiking boot and so the price is in line with similar brand name boots of that style, say running from $60 at the low end up to $200 at the higher end.

I don’t honestly feel that you’re buying a pair of hiking boots that will last for many, many years of hard hiking, that’s not what these are designed to be used for. If you are new to hiking or enjoy light hiking on well worn trails, I think the women’s KEEN Targhee III Mid Hiking boots are a fair option to consider.

If however, you’re a more adventurous hiker and like going off trail a lot and into tougher terrain, or if you’re big into backpacking, I think you need to look elsewhere as you will need tougher hiking boots that will give you more versatility in a much broader sphere of terrain, conditions, etc.

Best Uses

I’m leaving this section pretty much verbatim to the men’s review as the best uses are the same. I think the Women’s Targhee III Mid Hiking Boots are best used for light hiking / day hiking on well established trails. As alluded to above, I don’t think they’re a great option for harder off trail hiking or backpacking. They’re a lightweight mid hiking boot and so I would keep their use light.

They will also be super for general outdoor use, so say fishing, camping and so on. Or, if you like to do a bit in the garden, they’ll work well for that kind of activity too. It’s worth mentioning that they work well as a pair of day-to-day boots too, so they will look great with a pair of jeans or cords.

If you’re new to hiking and just testing the waters to see if it’s something you want to get into, I’d seriously consider the KEEN Targhee III Mid Hiking Boots as an entry level pair of hiking boots.

They’re a reasonable price and will get you started comfortably on the trail with very little break-in and so on required. They’re not super expensive either so you won’t break the bank with them. Worst case, and you decide that hiking isn’t your cup of tea, you can still utilize them for normal day-to-day use as outlined above. All good 🙂

Customer Reviews

As of the date of this post, from about 1160+ reviews, across multiple retailers, 92% gave the Targhee boots 3 stars (out of 5) or more, 83% 4 stars or more and 66% gave 5 stars so they’re scoring good for a lot of people.

Our Rating 4.5 (Out of 5)

Conclusion

In conclusion, the KEEN Women’s Targhee III Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots are a decent pair of entry level hiking boots for folks new to the trail. They also offer a pretty good lightweight hiking boot option for experienced hikers too. Overall, there is pretty good value in the Targhee as long as your expectations are in line with what they’re capable of.

I don’t really consider them a long term pair of hiking boots. I think with reasonable regular use, and assuming they’re not over taxed beyond their capabilities, you should get two to three years comfortable use out of them. Overall, they are a popular pair of hiking boots and there are many happy customers using the KEEN Targhee hiking boots.

If you’re still unsure what type of hiking boots you should get, check out the hiking boot buying guide and my hiking boot recommendations.

I hope you found this review useful. Please comment and / or share it around your networks if you did.

Do you use the Keen Targhee III boots? What was your experience with them?

The Best Men’s Hiking Boots In 2024!

So, the never-ending quest for the perfect hiking boots! Is there such a thing? Can there really be such a thing as the ideal hiking boot? Perfect is a big word so probably not, but you can get darn close to it though.

In this post, we list out the best men’s hiking boots of 2024. This should give you plenty of options if you’re in the market for a new pair of boots for the trail. We keep the descriptions brief enough to try and give a quick but concise overview, along with the main pros, cons, and best uses.

Of course, what makes the perfect boot for you will depend on your personal preferences. So before you go over our list, take some time to identify what you are looking for in a hiking boot.

Whether you want waterproof boots, ankle support, breathable mesh, or any number of features, our list has you covered.

These boots are listed in our order of preference, with some singled out as the number one option in a particular area or category, e.g., best value hiking boots. These are our top-rated hiking boots, so read on to find out more.

Note that prices are not listed in definitive detail here. Any prices referenced are guide retail prices and are meant only to serve as a guide, as prices chop and change all the time. To see live prices, click on the links and you will be taken to the live price for each pair of boots.

If you don’t have time to go through the full list, our number one hiking boots for men are the Salomon Quest 4 Goretex hiking boots, a great all rounder that will perform well across the year on trails.

OK, so with that all done and dusted, let’s roll on and look at the top men’s hiking boots for 2024! We are confident that you will find something on this list that you will enjoy and get a lot of great use from.

1. Salomon Quest 4 Goretex

Check Availability at REI.

Pros:

Fit feels well from day one and you shouldn’t experience a long break in period
Design provides significant stability and support
Perfect for all types of hiking all year round
Waterproof and breathable capability works well

Cons:

Possibly too much boot for the light trail hiker

Salomon Quest 4 Goretex Hiking Boots for Men Features Summary:

GORE-TEX® waterproof/breathable membranes keep your feet dry in wet weather
Inspired by trail-running shoes, these boots follow the natural flexion of your feet for a smooth ride
Protecting ankle articulations on the outer foot, the updated ADV-C 4D chassis provide stability and support your heels to help reduce fatigue when wearing a heavy pack
Contagrip® TD rubber outsoles with deep, aggressive lugs provide extended durability and maximum traction on mixed terrain

Best Uses: Day hiking, backpacking, tough terrain hiking

The Salomon Quest 4 Goretex Hiking Boots are a top seller with many top retailers and outdoor gear stores.

Whether you want to head out for a week of backpacking, or you are more interested in a day hike into the hills, these boots will do the job comfortably. They are a versatile and stable pair of boots that will serve you well.

The Quest 4 boots are also a tough pair of hiking boots. They’re probably more suited to tough hiking and backpacking than they are for casual day hiking, but they have a lot to offer and will work just fine for a day hike out on the trail.

Waterproof and very breathable, their high-quality leather and Gore-Tex construction mean that you actually get a very tough boot without it being overly heavy.

This is of course by design, but in relative terms of day hiking, they are still a heavier option.

Ideal for backpacking and hard hiking, the Quest 4 hiking boots for men are a more technical hiking boot option that should see you well covered for most, if not all, of your hiking needs all year around.

These boots have had several similar iterations incorporating lots of user feedback, so they offer a tried and tested design and construction over time. This is part of the reason that they have a lot of rave reviews from happy avid hikers.

So if you are looking for a great pair of hiking boots and want to make a good investment, consider the Quest 4’s. They’re a quality product.

I know several happy users personally and they all highly recommend the Salomon Quest 4 Goretex boots. Definitely worth a closer look for sure!

2. Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX

Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX

Pros:

Very strong and sturdy construction, excellent grip
Excellent design means they handle varying terrain very well
Perform well in more challenging conditions
Suitable for off trail hiking

Cons:

Lacing system could work better

Check Availability at Amazon.

Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX Hiking Boots for Men Features Summary:

GORE-TEX® Performance Comfort lining
PU + 3D EVA-MP midsole
1.8mm Suede Perwanger upper
Vibram® Drumlin / Mont outsole
Waterproof and breathable
Rubber rand for performance and protection
Asymmetric lace system provides a precise fit

Best Uses: All types of day hiking, scrambling, general and day-to-day outdoor use

The Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX boots are an excellent offering from Scarpa. They come with all the standard things a hiker needs from a good pair of hiking boots, but they also offer a bunch more.

They have a modern and technical design utilizing tried and tested materials, such as perwanger leather and Gore-Tex, in the construction.

The Vibram sole offers excellent grip on varying terrain, so these boots are good for most types of hiking in most conditions, including lighter snow.

They are comfortable and snug in their fitting, with a lacing system to secure them around your feet.

You are get a lot of bang for your buck with the Zodiac Plus boots. These boots will stand up well over time and tick a wide variety of boxes in terms of functionality for most hikers.

3. Lowa Renegade GTX Mid

Lowa Renegade GTX Mid

Pros:

Nubuck leather and waterproof Gore-Tex construction enable year-around hiking
Vibram outsole provides good grip and traction
Comfortable fit with decent ankle and foot support

Cons:

Some reports that laces can come loose quite easily

Check Availability at Amazon.

Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boots for Men Features Summary:

Upper material: Nubuck leather
Construction slip lasted – Injected PU midsole
Lining: GORE-TEX®
Lacing hardware open and closed hooks
Additional hardware locking ankle hook
Monowrap Frame® MONOWRAP® Support Frame
Insole atc footbed
Midsole double injection DuraPU™
Sole VIBRAM® EVO
Stabilizer Hard
Weight Per Pair (lb) 2.44 (1.1kg)

Best Uses: Hiking, light backpacking general outdoor use, day-to-day use

The Lowa Renegade GTX Mid are a global star in the world of hiking boots. They have a lot of very happy users across the board over a long chunk of time, so they’re a tried and trusted model that scores consistently well in terms of performance, comfort, and functionality.

They’re an excellent choice if you are looking for a more functional year-round pair of hiking boots. More 3-season than 4-season, they still offer exceptional functionality and comfort year round.

The construction is waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex, which is, of course, an industry standard when it comes to waterproof and breathable hiking boots. The construction of the Renegade boots boasts of high levels of performance as well.

The soles are Vibram so again, a popular industry standard that performs very well. Perfect for the light to medium hiker most of the year around.

The Lowa Renegade Mid GTX Hiking Boots retail at the higher end of the price range for hiking boots, but they’re an excellent pair of all around hiking boots.

So if you’re looking to invest into a solid pair of all-around boots, then the Lowa Renegade GTX Mid boots are a great choice.

Read the full review.

4. Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof

Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof

Pros:

A best selling boot with a lot of happy customers
Excellent for trail and light hiking
Excellent value at a very affordable price
Gore-Tex waterproof membrane protection
Feel and look great for casual use

Cons:

Great as a light hiking boot, but not sturdy enough for the more adventurous hiker e.g. off trail hiking, scrambling, etc.

Check Availability at Amazon.

Merrel Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots for Men Features Summary:

GORE-TEX® waterproof membrane, exceptional breathability and waterproof performance
Pigskin leather and mesh upper
100% recycled laces, webbing and mesh lining
Bellows tongue keeps out debris
Protective toe cap
Kinetic Fit™ ADVANCED removable contoured insole with reinforced heel cushioning for medium support
Molded nylon arch shank
Merrell Air Cushion in the heel absorbs shock and adds stability
Super Rebound Compound provides durable shock absorption in the heel to help reduce torque and allow for a smooth transition into the midfoot.
Vibram® TC5+ outsole designed with a technical compound with great overall performance for multisport, outdoor, mountain bike, snow sports, and water sports. Its non-marking formula delivers an all-around balance of grip, traction, durability, flexibility
Lug: 5mm
Weight: 2lbs-3oz, 980g

Best Uses: Day hiking, light trail hiking, casual use

The Merrell Moab 3 Mid Hiking boots for men, are a great pair of all round hiking boots that offer excellent value for money.

Not only are they wallet friendly, they are also stylish and functional as a pair of hiking boots. Perfect for trail and light hiking, the Merrell Moab boots offer a great all round performance.

The boots utilize 100% recycled laces, webbing and mesh lining which is wonderful to see. The Gore-Tex waterproof membrane also works well under tougher trail conditions.

There is plenty of cushioning available with the collar generously padded offering plenty of comfort as you hike on the trail. The Kinetic Fit™ ADVANCED removable contoured insole with reinforced heel cushioning offers excellent stability as you hike.

The Vibram® TC5+ outsole has functional 5mm lugs that work well providing good traction and grip on the ground underfoot. For a basic pair of hiking boots at a very friendly price, these are a great choice.

If you do more adventurous off trail hiking, then this is probably not the best option. Overall though, the Merrell Moab 3 Mid are a very functional and good value for money pair of hiking boots.

5. HOKA One Kaha 2

Hoka One Kaha 2

Pros:

Really comfortable hiking boots
Waterproof and durable
Nubuck leather construction
Vibram outsole provides excellent traction on any trail
A nice all year round pair of hiking boots

Cons:

The outsole is thick and chunky, which may take a bit of getting used to
There are more versatile hiking boot options that may perform better over varied terrain

Check Availability at Amazon.

HOKA One Kaha 2 Gore-tex Hiking Boots Features Summary:

Waterproof nubuck leather
GORE-TEX footwear fabric with recycled textile
Dual-density compression-molded foam midsole with HUBBLE® heel and SwallowTail™
Late stage Meta-Rocker with integrated flex grooves
Vibram® Megagrip rubber with 5mm lugs Traction Lug
Quick-lace metal top hooks
Abrasion resistant toecap and heel
Waterproof membrane bootie construction
Recycled content mesh and recycled polyester laces
Anatomical Achilles construction with heel pull tab
Topically applied PFC-free water repellency treatment
Rubberised EVA midsole
Molded PU sockliner with 50% soybean oil

Best Uses: Hiking, day-to-day use.

The first major thing of note for the HOKA One Kaha 2 hiking boots, is the comfort they provide. They boast functional padding, not too much and not too little, which provides excellent stability while not compromising on comfort.

The structural design of the boots is both functional and great to look at. They are modern in design while not compromising on the key things you need from your hiking boots, like stability, comfort and excellent traction.

They come in the usual standard sizes and the fit seems to be largely true to size for most folks. There is a generous toe box and the 5mm lugs on the outsole are very functional providing great grip on the trail.

Some users reported that the main downside with these boots is the lacing with reports of it being both too light and too tight, you just can’t win sometimes 🙂 … but this largely seems down to personal taste more than anything else.

They are available in several color options, all of which work well. The waterproof capability in the Kaha 2 boots also works well via the Gore-tex membrane bootie construction. These also provide good breathability for hiking on hotter days. Your feet can breathe easily and remain dry in a rain shower. They are a comfortable and reasonable weight for a pair of men’s hiking boots, so not heavy on the feet.

These boots are great for hikers who like to stick to trails all year round. While they are excellent year round hiking boots. The HOKA One Kaha 2 Hiking Boots for men are a classy pair of hiking boots that have many excellent user reviews left by many happy customers!

They do all you need them to do while providing the comfort you need at the same time. All round, they are a very functional and comfortable pair of hiking boots.

6. Salomon X Ultra Mid 3 GTX

Salomon X Ultra Mid 3 GTX

Pros:

Affordable entry level hiking boots that won’t break the bank
Gore-Tex lining in the construction offers decent 3-season waterproof hiking protection
A good all-around performer that offers plenty of comfort for the trail

Cons:

For a boot of this design and construction, it should perform better in terms of breathability in hotter conditions
Traction and grip on certain kinds of rock, especially when the rock is wet, is not the best

Check Availability at Amazon.

Salomon X Ultra Mid 3 GTX Hiking Boots for Men Features Summary:

Mid-high hiking boot for rugged trails and backpacking trips
Gore-Tex Performance Comfort insert is waterproof and breathable
SensiFit upper cradles foot for added comfort on the trail
Ortholite footbed cushions foot when hiking over rocky terrain
Advanced Chassis midsole disperses the impact of each step
Protective rubber toe cap and mud guard protects the boot from wear
ContaGrip sole ensures reliable traction on variable surfaces
Injected EVA, shank
Upper material: Textile

Best Uses: Day hiking, trail hiking, light backpacking, general outdoor use, day-to-day use

Another great pair of hiking boots from Salomon on our top hiking boots for men list, the Salomon X Ultra mid hiking boots, are functional and lightweight hiking boots.

As with the Quest 4D 3 GTX, they have a very technical look about them, being both modern and stylish.

The sole of the boots is made from rubber and features a Contragrip traction outsole which performs well on most types of terrain. Although some users commented that the traction wasn’t the best, the boots could be used while hiking over smooth wet rock.

They’re a light pair of boots in comparison to some of their peers, especially their cousin, the Quest 4D 3 GTX mid hiking boots. They provide a very comfortable fit with good cushioning and should not require a significant break-in period.

The X Ultra Mid GTX boots are reasonably water resistant via their Gore-Tex lining and should do well for trail hiking most of the year – certainly for 3 seasons of the year.

There were some comments from users about the breathability not being as good as it could be in hotter conditions, but aside from that and the traction comment referenced above, they have a generally positive run of feedback across the board.

They’re a good entry level pair of hiking boots that are versatile enough to handle various kinds of hiking and shorter backpacking trips.

7. La Sportiva Trango Tech GTX

La Sportiva Trango Tech GTX

Pros:

Excellent for Alpine environments
Suitable for use with compatible crampons
Thick outsole in conjunction with the cushioning provides good shock absorption
Lightweight

Cons:

Sole is rigid and firm so not ideal for average day hiking
At the upper end of the price range for a hiking boot
Some user comments that the boots water resistance does not perform well

Check Availability at Amazon.

La Sportiva Trango Tech GTX Hiking Boots for Men Features Summary:

Upper constructed with abrasion resistant fabric + ThermoTech Injection
Gore-Tex performance comfort lining
Insole: 4mm PP with increased thickness on middle zone
Midsole: Low density polyurethane + Protective PU Skin and rear TPU insert for crampon
Outsole: Vibram® La Sportiva “Cube” outsole with Impact Brake System™
Seamless, waterproof upper made of QB3 waterproof fabric and Thermo-Tech injection coating
Lace-to-toe lacing for a secure fit and maximum volume adjustment
Gusset-free tongue construction for added comfort and freedom of movement
Lightweight

Best Uses: Hiking in Alpine environments

The Sportiva Trango Tech GTX hiking boots are an interesting pair of boots as they are designed with the Alpine environment in mind. This is useful in some regards, but not as advantageous in others.

These boots are lightweight and enable smooth movement at any pace, across most types of terrain, although they really shine in an Alpine type environment.

The thick outsoles are quite rigid and work well with suitable crampons. The outsole also delivers fantastic shock absorption too, which helps keep your feet from getting tired and stressed on tough ground.

They offer good levels of comfort with their secure heel fit and the cushioning around the boots works well, providing comfort and stability.

They are labelled as waterproof, but it seems the capability in this area is limited, as many users commented that they could perform better in that area. However, as a purpose built Alpine hiking boot, many users also commented that these boots do tick most boxes in that regard.

These boots, as advertised, are designed for Alpine environments and in that regard, they perform well. However, for an average hiker, they are not the best all-around performer.

8. Timberland Chocorua Trail Mid GTX

Timberland Chocorua Trail Mid GTX

Pros:

Fine all-around hiking boots with wide feet options available
The boots are light enough in weight while still offering good support
Waterproof and breathable capabilities should be fine for 3 season hiking
Very accessible price coming in at around $100

Cons:

Eyelets and laces can loosen easily when tied
Soles are thin so not ideal for backpacking or tough terrain hiking

Check Availability at Amazon.

Timberland Chocorua Hiking Boots for Men Features Summary:

Waterproof Leather
Rubber sole
Shaft measures approximately 3.5″ from arch
Upper made with premium waterproof leather from an LWG Silver-rated tannery
TimberDry™ eco-conscious waterproof membrane
Rustproof, speed lace hardware with lace hooks at the top
Removable contoured sock liner
Solid rubber outsole with lugs for superior traction and shock absorption

Best Uses: Light to medium year-round trail hiking, general outdoor use, camping, day-to-day use

The Timberland Chocorua hiking boots are a stylish pair of high-quality leather hiking boots that offer decent comfort and performance, without breaking the bank. If you like the looks of classic, leather boots, then these could be a great choice for you.

Last time we checked, the Chocorua hiking boots were actually in the top sellers on Amazon, which is quite a claim to fame. That makes sense given the nature of these boots as excellent hiking boots for general outdoor use and day hikes.

The Chocorua boots are another good option for the light to the medium hiker. They’ll perform great on trails with a bit of off trail action, but I wouldn’t push them too hard beyond that.

If you’re a newbie to hiking or recently started and you are considering getting a better pair of boots to see you through plenty of day hikes without breaking the bank, these could be the ticket.

They utilize the leather upper and Gore-Tex lining combination, so they offer a reasonable level of protection from the rain and moisture. They’re a very accessible option, in terms of price, for day hiking, general outdoor use (fishing, camping, etc.) and normal day-to-day use.

We recommend these boots if your needs aren’t overly extensive and you’re looking for great value for your money.

Read the full review.

9. Meindl GTX

Meindl GTX

Pros:

Excellent boots that can handle all types of terrain the trail can throw at you, as well as off-trail hiking
Vibram soles work really well providing excellent traction
Waterproof and breathable utilizing a Gore-Tex lining
Very comfortable hiking boots all around

Cons:

Not ideal for hiking in hot and humid weather
Expect a long break-in period as they mold to your feet

Check Availability at Amazon.

Meindl Vakuum GTX Hiking Boots for Men Features Summary:

Outer material: Leather upper with Gore-Tex lining
Vibram outsole
Lace up closure
Block heel
Fit type: Regular size
Shoe width: Normal

Best Uses: All types of hiking, backpacking, general outdoor use

These are the editor’s current favorite boots at the moment. Meindl definitely seems to be more well-known and common in Europe than in the US, but they have a lot of quality hiking boots in their product offerings.

The Meindl Vakuum hiking boots are a sturdy, tough and very durable pair of hiking boots. They feature Vibram outsoles which perform excellently on all types of terrain.

I’ve been using them now for about a year, and they have held up very well in everything from snow to bog and everything in between.

The only downside is that they are a bit too much in very warm conditions. They’re constructed using Nubuck leather in the upper and Gore-Tex lining for protection from the elements. They have a very traditional hiking boots look about them; one I personally like a lot.

Although technically they are a three season boot, I think they are a really a four season boot (with the exception of when it’s very hot), and they perform well in light to medium snow when it’s cold and wet underfoot.

So while they are great for the cold, you might find them a bit too insulated when it is very hot outside.

They definitely sit at the higher end of the price scale, but you get a lot of bang for your buck! The boots are also resolable, and so you can expect to get a very long life from them.

Read the full review.

10. KEEN Targhee III Mid

Keen Targhee III Mid

Pros:

Good 3 season boots with a minimal break-in period
Multi-directional lugs provide good traction and grip over varying terrain
Rubber toe protectors offer significant toe protection
Comfortable fit

Cons:

Some users reported durability issues after 5 or 6 months

Check Availability at Amazon.

KEEN Targhee III Mid Hiking Boots for Men Features Summary:

KEEN.DRY® waterproof breathable membrane
4mm multi-directional lugs
Injected TPU heel-capture system provides next-level stability
Dual-density compression-molded EVA midsole
Non-marking rubber outsole
Removable metatomical dual density EVA footbed
Torsion stability ESS shank
Nubuck leather upper

Best Uses: Day hiking, trail hiking, general and day-to-day outdoor use

The Keen Targhee boots range have been around for a few years at this stage. In that time, they have made many customers happy with their reliable and comfortable performance, and with this latest model upgrade from the Targhee II, that pattern looks to continue.

The Keen Targhee III Hiking Boots are a top seller on Amazon. They’re a popular boot in the mid-range category. They are probably best suited for a lighter day hiker who stays on trails. They still have a lot of very good user experience reported across the board on their performance.

The Targhee III are waterproof and breathable, so they’re perfect most of the year around – definitely 3-season, maybe 4-season depending on where you go hiking.

The level of waterproofness is not on the same level as say the Asolo Power Matic boots that we will take a look at below, but they will keep you dry under reasonable tests, e.g. puddles, moisture on grass, lighter rain showers, etc. So before you pick these up, make sure you understand the type of terrain you are working with.

Their look is a kind of hybrid, an autumnal feel but definitely taints of the technical design there too. It works though, they’re about middle of the range in terms of price, so you could do a lot worse for a light hiker.

11. Vasque Breeze GTX

Vasque Breeze GTX

Pros:

Lightweight and exceptionally breathable
Another good day hiking boot, perfect for trails and valley hiking
Perfect for all types of hiking across the year
Waterproof and breathable capability works well

Cons:

Not as durable as other options in the same class
Waterproof capabilities aren’t the best in its class either

Check Availability at Amazon

Vasque Breeze GTX Hiking Boots for Men Features Summary:

High-abrasion leather uppers with mesh panels are supportive, breathable and strong
GORE-TEX® Extended Comfort waterproof breathable membranes keep feet dry, yet breathe for comfort
Dual-density midsoles with EVA cushion pods offer all-day comfort and support
Heel and toe ventilation ports increase airflow along the footbeds
Thermoplastic polyurethane Exo-plates add lateral stability and structure
Vibram® Contact Grip outsoles with Megagrip rubber compound are stickier than ever, enhancing your control in all weather and trail conditions

Best Uses: Light to medium year around day hiking, light backpacking, camping, general outdoor use, day-to-day use

This is a pair of boots with a very ‘pleasing to the eye’ design. The Vasque Breeze Gore-tex hiking boots are the latest iteration of a very successful and popular hiking boot. They are another excellent choice for trail and lighter day hiking.

In a similar vein as the timberland Chochoruas and the Keen Targhee boots also listed here, the Vasque Breeze are a light hiker option. They’re a lightweight mid boot and are designed for light hiking over relatively easy terrain.

They are waterproof hiking boots, but I wouldn’t expect too much from them in that regard; some light showers you’ll be fine, walking across a river at foot level, they won’t cut it.

However, for on-trail light hiking at a reasonable price, you’re in the ballpark with the Vasque Breeze GTX Hiking Boots. You’ll get a comfortable, light hiking boot that will do great for light weekend day hiking.

So if you have basic need and just want a lightweight, comfortable boot, then the Vasque Breeze will suit you just fine.

12. Asolo Falcon GV

Asolo Falcon GV

Pros:

Lightweight and breathable
Another good day hiking boot, perfect for trails and valley hiking
Perfect for all types of average hiking across the year
Waterproof capability works well

Cons:

Not as durable as other options in the same class

Check Availability at Amazon.

Asolo Falcon GV Hiking Boots for Men Features Summary:

Waterproof breathable Gore-Tex® liners keep feet dry while hiking in wet conditions
Water-resistant suede and high-tenacity nylon uppers produce lightweight, comfortable protection
Dual-density EVA midsoles provide cushioning and support
Board lasted construction made from polypropylene material offers support, stability and protection underfoot
Heel counters are designed around the last using Salpa material to maintain a correct heel shape, delivering superior support and control
Self-cleaning Vibram Megagrip soles deliver unparalleled grip on wet and dry surfaces
Boots can be resoled

Best Uses: Light to medium year around day hiking, light backpacking, camping, general outdoor use, day-to-day use

This is a pair of boots with a very ‘pleasing to the eye’ design. The Asolo Falcon GV hiking boots are another excellent choice for trail and lighter day hiking.

In a similar vein as the Vasque Breeze boots listed above, the Asolo Falcon GV are a light hiker option. They’re a lightweight boot and are designed for light hiking over relatively easy terrain.

These boots definitely sit at the higher end of the price scale, but they are constructed with out of the box comfort in mind, along with good functionality for your investment.

They are waterproof and that capability performs pretty well by most accounts. They also offer excellent ankle support with a high top that comes with very comfortable cushioning.

It should be noted that some users reported concerns about the durability of these boots. For example, fraying of the stitching, the sole wearing away quite quickly, that type of thing.

However, for on-trail light hiking, you’re in the ballpark with the Asolo Falcon GV Hiking Boots. You’ll get a comfortable, light hiking boot that will do great for light weekend day hiking.

So if you have basic hiking needs and just want a lightweight, comfortable, ‘out of the box’ pair of hiking boots, then the Asolo Falcon GV will suit you just fine.

13. Asolo Power Matic 200 GV

Asolo Power Matic 200 GV

Pros:

Sturdy and tough construction means you have boots for all seasons
Waterproof capability works exceptionally well
Constructed using high-quality leather

Cons:

Much heavier than average hiking boots
Not as breathable as they could be, so not ideal for hiking in hotter conditions

Check Availability at Amazon.

Asolo Powermatic 200 GV Hiking Boots for Men Features Summary:

Asolo/Vibram® highly technical sole is comprised of three different PU densities that are co-injected and molded together
The high-density front portion secures and guarantees maximum stability
The medium-density heel reduces shock and fatigue during take-off and landing
Further shock absorption is obtained through the four strategically placed low-density cylinders that are linked from the outsole to the midsole.
One-piece water-resistant 2.8 mm full grain leather upper
Gore-Tex® lining, waterproof boot, and breathable
Micro Pulley lacing system
Gripped with a dual-density molded rubber outsole produced in conjunction with Vibram®
The outsole has self-cleaning lugs designed for optimum performance on varying types of terrain

Best Uses: Backpacking, hiking on rough terrain on and off the trail

What can you say about the Asolo Power Matic 200 GV boots!? A whole lot as it turns out! They are a power-packed pair of backpacking boots that can take on the toughest hiking you can throw at them.

These are a tough pair of hiking boots from Asolo. What is really sweet about them is that their construction includes tough, one-piece leather, which is always stronger than when sewing separate parts together.

Even though they are leather, they have a very technical no-nonsense look and style to them. These are ideal for hard backpacking trips or hiking over tough and rough terrain like snow, mud and off trail legs.

They’re waterproof and, again, as we’re looking at a leather construction, a significant break in period will be needed. These boots will be heavier than a standard pair of hiking boots, but that’s why they’ll last the course. These are great if one of your priorities is an investment that will last you a long while.

You’re looking at the higher end of the price range in terms of retail prices for the Asolo Power Matic 200 GV boots. It could seem like a lot, but these boots will last for a very long time so the investment will prove to be worth it.

14. Scarpa Kinesis Pro

Scarpa Kinesis Pro

Pros:

Excellent nubuck leather and Gore-Tex construction
Waterproof and breathable hiking boots
Vibram soles offer good grip on most types of terrain

Cons:

Break in might take a while
Not the best choice for off-trail hiking

Check Availability at Amazon.

Scarpe Kinesis Pro Hiking Boots for Men Features Summary:

Upper: Smoothed out leather provides good support and protection
VVibram Biometric / XS Trek provides excellent grip
Breathable waterproof lining ensures the wet stays out

Best Uses: Day hiking, trail hiking, general outdoor use

A classic look and style all over, the Scarpa Kinesis Pro hiking boots are ideal for trail hiking and low to mid-level difficulty hiking.

I have a friend who bought these about a year ago and absolutely adores them. They are a good option for the medium hiker who enjoys day hiking on trails with a bit of off-trail thrown in every now and then.

Their Vibram soles provide good traction and the smoothout leather, and Gore-Tex lining combination ensures a good level of breathability and waterproof qualities.

I like the look and style of these boots; they have a traditional yet modern look that will look as well with a pair of jeans as they do on the trail.

They’re not a very heavy pair of boots, but not the lightest either. They’re designed more for trails and lower level hiking, i.e. in valleys, forests, etc. Overall, they are a very nice pair of functional hiking boots which really look the part.

The Scarpa Kinesis Pro boots are a good option for the medium day hiker that likes to push things a bit further every once in a while.

Some Quick Thoughts to Help You Choose

It’s a hard one to call as even with the best user experience in the world, one man’s meat can always be another man’s poison… ergo, the boots that you think are the best thing since sliced bread might well be anathema to the next man.

Everyone has different and unique requirements as well as a preference for a different style or look. Some love that traditional Alpine leather look while others want a more technical and modern statement from their hiking boots.

Of course, as always, the market caters to all tastes, shapes, and sizes, and you can, generally, learn a lot from people’s functional user experience with hiking boots. The most important bottom line piece of advice to know before you buy is simply, know what you need your hiking boots for.

So before you decide what boots you really want and dive into our buyer’s guide, take a while to evaluate your needs and consider what you actually need your boots for.

Maybe you are an avid outdoorsman and need some heavy duty boots, or maybe your light hikes put you more in need of some lightweight boots. Or maybe you would be more suited with something else, such as trail runners, trail shoes, or hiking sandals.

Suffice it to say, everything listed on this page are all top quality hiking boots with lots of good user experience to go along with them. However, some of them are better suited to particular hiking activities than others.

For example, a perfect day hiking boot may not cut the mustard on a backpacking trip. It can also be a common mistake for someone to get too much boot for their needs, so keep that in mind.

If you’re totally new to buying hiking boots and would like some more information on how to choose, check out the hiking boot buying guide to give you an idea of what you should be thinking about before picking a pair of boots.

More Information

Still having trouble making your decision? Understandable, boots can be a big investment and you really want to make sure you get it right.

Here’s a few more common questions and areas that many people get hung up on. There’s so much to consider that we decided to include these sections as well.

Hiking Boots versus Hiking Shoes

When it comes time to choose the right hiking footwear, one of the biggest considerations to make is whether you prefer over the ankle boot footwear or low-top hiking shoes.

Both of these options are suitable for hiking and backpacking trips, but the biggest deciding factors come down to stability and ankle protection.

If you will be moving quickly through trails and you won’t have a bag or pack to weigh you down, then you may want to opt for a lighter pair of low-top shoes.

Durability and Stability

Hiking boots are designed with stability and durability in mind – which is something you will find with each pair of hiking boots we have included on this list.

If you are looking to reduce calf fatigue, then you should find a stiff boot with a heal that will not drop on the ascent. Many of the lighter weight options for hiking boots are actually more reminiscent of a flexible hiking shoe.

Weight

With heavier packs and longer hikes, you should consider a hiking boot that provides more than adequate ankle support. The Lowa or Salomon botss above are both great picks if this is the kind of hiking you will be doing.

Also heavyweight boots offer the most support and are ideal for when you are faced with more treacherous and rough terrain while you are out.

Unfortunately, trading off a heavier weight for more stability and durability is usually just a choice you will have to make. It is tough to make a boot more durable without it becoming heavier as well, so it is definitely an important consideration when buying a new pair of boots.

Waterproofing

The majority of boots are waterproof, so what you are really looking for in this category is to see if Gore-Tex technology is being used and if there are breathable booties inserted into the outer fabric of the boots.

Water repellent coating may also be added to the boot. When water hits the coating, it will bead up and fall from the hiking boots keeping them nice and dry for your hike.

Breathability

While Gore-Tex definitely helps with waterproofing, it may prove to be an inconvenience when it comes to breathability.

Waterproof items are known to run warmer during the hotter months and days, so you want to make sure to find a pair of hiking boots that are well-ventilated to accommodate the warmer weather.

Lacing

A good lacing system is also important to ensure a good and comfortable fit. It is also a hiking boot feature that many people tend to overlook. Who wants to be tackling the trails only to have to stop every few minutes to readjust their footwear?

Higher end hiking boot models will more than likely have a higher-quality lacing system that causes less fuss for the hiker.

What is a Gusseted Tongue?

While you are surveying new boots to choose from, you may have come across some that have “gusseted” tongues. Many people don’t know what these are, so here’s a quick explanation.

A gusseted tongue is actually a very helpful feature in a hiking boot. It basically prevents dirt and water from getting into the boot, because the tongue is sewed to the insider of the boot itself.

Therefore, there isn’t the gap in between the tongue and the boot, as you see with many shoes. A very useful feature to ensure that your feet remain comfortable and dry.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoyed this quick look at the best men’s hiking boots of 2024 available on the market today. As you can see, there are a lot of great options to choose from.

If you’re in the market for a new pair of hiking boots, you could do a lot worse than choosing one of the options listed here.

Always remember to know your requirements clearly before buying a new pair of boots. It is very possible to get too much boot or too little boot for your needs, and you can be easily disappointed.

I would suggest that it’s usually better to have more boot as opposed to less, i.e. tougher boots than you need rather than boots that don’t deliver enough.

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KEEN Men’s Targhee III Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots Review

The KEEN Men’s Targhee III Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots are another top seller. I would put them in the mid range for an entry level hiking boots. They are priced in and around $150 so affordable and accessible for many.

KEEN Men's Targhee II Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot

A reasonable light weight mid hiker, the Keen Targhee are good for day hiking 2 to 3 seasons of the year, will work well for day-to-day use too.

Check Availability at REI.

Pros:

Reasonable price and value for money
Lightweight
Patented toe box protection
Minimal break-in period
Perfect for normal day-to-day use
Good day hike boots

Cons:

Lace eyelets are made of woven fabric, if they go, boots are most likely done
Not the best option for longer hiking e.g. backpacking, etc.
Some comments on the lugs on the sole coming off after only two months

KEEN Targhee III Mid Hiking Boots For Men Features Summary

Waterproof, leather and performance mesh upper
KEEN All-Terrain rubber outsole for higher-traction grip
Dual-density, compression-molded EVA midsole
Breathable mesh lining
Removable, metatomical dual-density EVA insoles
KEEN.Dry waterproof, breathable membrane
Leather mud shield offers resilient durability
Speed hooks, for easy lace adjustment
Injected TPU heel-capture system for stability
ESS shank offers lightweight support
Resilient, internal shank
4mm multi-directional lugs for traction
Cleansport NXT™ for natural odour control
Environmentally-preferred premium leather from LWG-certified tannery
Weight: 17.3 oz / 489.9 g

Overview

Overall, they have quite a technical look about them but there is also a nice traditional feel added, with a nice mix of autumnal type colors the Targhee III is available in. The upper is made from waterproof nubuck leather and the outsole boasts aggressive lugs to ensure grip on the trail. The KEEN logo appears on the side, rear and sole of the boots. Nothing too ‘in your face’ on that front. All in all the boots look pretty good and solid.

There are five color combinations to choose from 1. Raven/Tortoise Shell 2. Magnet/True Blue 3. Chestnut/Bossa Nova 4. Black Olive/Yellow 5. Shitake/Brindle. All in all the aesthetics in the boots look pretty good and the boots, on first impressions, seem solid.

It lists many of the features I’d expect in a decent pair of mid hiking boots so I wanted to take a closer look into the usual key areas to see what I could learn about performance, comfort, etc.

Comfort

As always, when reviewing hiking boots, let’s start with comfort. The insoles in the Keen Targhee III Mid Hiking Boots for men come in the form of a Removable metatomical dual density EVA footbed. Sounds very technical but let’s run through it.

A metatomical insole is an insole that has been anatomically engineered to provide really good arch support and cradle the natural contours of the foot. EVA stands for Ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), also known as poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate) (PEVA). EVA is a dense foam which can be easily shaped.

It acts as an excellent and durable shock absorber. For that reason, it’s used in many types of shoes. It was first used in the athletics world but it has became a standard across the footwear industry for many different types of footwear.

So, what does that mean in terms of hiking? Well, this is the part of the boot that touches your feet, albeit through your socks, so it is important that it can take a bit of a pounding and protect you from the impacts of the trail.

EVA can perform very well in this area and as it’s an industry standard, you are guaranteed a certain level of capability with that kind of design and make-up. The insole, or foot bed, is also removable so you can air the soles out or give them a wash if required.

Padding

The collar of the Targhee III boots are thick and padded and provide ankle support using a torsion stability ESS shank. We’ll take a closer look at that further down in another section below.

The tongue of the boots are also padded, as per the photo below, again nothing unusual there. Overall a good layer of cushioning on the tongue and shank which you would expect in mid boots of this style. Padding on boots of this style need to work in conjunction with the lacing system which we’ll look at next.

Lacing

As you can also see in the photo above, the laces tie criss-crossed up to the top of the shank. All fine but the first thing I noticed on these boot was the lace eyelets. As you can see, they’re made of fabric. I am always cautious of fabric lace eyelets like this in hiking boots as should one of them go, your hiking boots are more or less done. The photo below takes a closer look at the eyelets.

In my opinion, fabric eyelets aren’t the strongest way to provide lace system support and if you’re unlucky enough to get a pair from a batch that wasn’t manufactured well, it could happen that they give sooner rather than later. When I investigated this further across user reviews, sure enough this item came up as an issue for some. Laces eyelets did break and laces broke.

I mentioned the laces as I noted a few people saying that you need to have very specific laces for these boots. However, they also pointed out that in many cases, when they broke after not much use, and they contacted KEEN, they were sent a pair out for free.

An Aside

Now, I am not sure if that is standard but the complimenting of good customer service did come up numerous times when people had issues with the Keen Targhee III boots for men. Always nice to have good and prompt help if the product isn’t coming up to scratch 🙂

Also, it is worth noting that I got the impression that if you are unlucky enough to get a pair from a batch that wasn’t manufactured well, you will have more problems that you would normally expect. In some cases, falling apart type problems. I guess if you’re unlucky and this happens, as long as you have good customer support to fall back on, it should hopefully be more of an inconvenience as opposed to a nightmare.

Waterproof

The Targhee boots are waterproof and breathable via the KEEN.DRY ™ waterproof breathable membrane. How waterproof a pair of boots really is, is hard to judge until to take them out for yourself against your personal expectations. I came across a lot of folks saying the boots were very waterproof but, of course, I also came across quite a few who said that they weren’t waterproof at all. The majority of users were in the former, they are waterproof, camp though.

Again, the folks with issues maybe got a pair from a bad batch or something or it could just be that their expectations were too high. Walking across 2 inch deep puddles or across wet ground, you will be fine in the Targhee boots. Of course the harder you push them, into water and so on, the more likely water will get in.

Breathability

In terms of breathability, the Targhee perform pretty good so you can wear them at hotter times of year with no major concerns.

The listed weight is 17.4 oz/493.3 g. so lightweight for sure. With that in mind, I think they work for light day hiking but probably not suitable for backpacking, wearing a heavy pack and so on.

The next thing to look at is sizing. The Targhee III Mid hiking boots for men come in only standard size options, no narrow or wide feet options. The advice on the KEEN website with regards to sizing is to order a half a size larger than your usual size as they run 0.5 of a size small. I saw this same advice coming up on several other sites too. So, if you’re normally a size 10, go 10.5 or, on the outer reaches, an 11.

With regards to break-in, the Targhee come up trumps with nearly all users indicating that no break-in period is required. I would expect that to be the case with this style of boots. There’s no tough leather to mold to your feet so they should be pretty much out of the box and good to go.

At the back of the boots, pictured above, and on the tongue are boot pulls which you can use to help get the boots onto your feet. Handy for pulling them up over your feet with thick hiking socks on and adjusting them till you get a comfortable position before lacing them up.

Support and Stability

Support from the Targhee Mid Hiking boots is provided via a Dual Density Compression molded EVA midsole. We have already delved into the wonders of EVA with regards to the insole, this time we’re at the midsole which is basically the bit that sits between the outsole and the insole. It serves the same purpose as we reviewed above i.e. it takes shock from the ground and helps distribute it evenly across your foot.

Grip

The Targhee III features a Non-marking rubber outsole. The outsole features multi directional 4mm lugs and are described as ‘aggressive’ to help grip terrain to provide good traction on the trail.

The other area I came across a few times from users, was that the lugs on the sole of the boots started coming off after relatively minimal use.

After reading so many reviews, my hunch is that as these boots are manufactured abroad, it is possible that a batch of defective boots got through and so, some people had bad issues. I say this as this seemed to happen for some but of course not for all. If it was a fundamental design flaw, I can only assume everyone would experience the same issue but they didn’t.

The positive I took from the video linked above is that, again, the KEEN customer service seemed to sort the problem out pretty quickly and offer alternatives or a replacement. I genuinely feel that this is not an ongoing problem but felt I should highlight it to you as I came across it when researching into the Targhee III Hiking Boots.

Price

The Targhee boots come with a 1 year warranty from date of purchase. As already alluded to above, it does seem that they are pretty good at sorting issues out if you have any with their products.

The retail price comes in at the mid range level for a pair of hiking boots, but if you shop around, if you have your heart set on them, take your time and you’ll get a deal on them. Click on the image at the start of this review or on any of the product link below to be taken through to Amazon where you can see a live price.

Based on all the reviews I have read, the construction, the brand, etc. I think that overall, the KEEN Targhee III Hiking Boots are good boots for the price you have to pay. They’re a mid range light hiker and so they fall in and around that price area, say $60 at the low end up to $200 at the higher end.

I don’t feel that you’re buying a pair of hiking boots that will last for many, many years of hard hiking, that’s not what these are designed to be used for. If you are new to hiking or enjoy light hiking on well worn trails, I think the KEEN Targhee Mid Hiking boots are a decent option to consider.

Best Uses

I think the best uses for the Targhee III Mid Hiking Boots are for light hiking on well established trails. I don’t think they’re the best option for harder off trail hiking or backpacking. They’re a lightweight mid hiking boot and so I would keep their use light.

They will also be fine for general outdoor use, so say fishing, easy camping and that kind of thing or if you like to potter about in the garden, they’ll work well for that kind of activity too. They look pretty good as a pair of boots too so they can easily be used for casual and general day-to-day use.

If you’re new to hiking and just testing the waters to see if you like the whole Great Outdoors thing, the KEEN Targhee III Mid Hiking Boots are a good option to consider as an entry level pair of hiking boots. They’re a reasonable price and will get you started comfortably on the trail with very little break-in and so on required. You won’t break the bank with these boots and if you decide that hiking isn’t for you, you can still utilize them for normal day-to-day use.

Customer Reviews

As of the date of this post, from about 1400+ reviews, across multiple retailers, 93% gave the Targhee boots 3 stars (out of 5) or more, 87% 4 stars or more and 69% gave 5 stars so they’re scoring pretty well with a lot of folks for sure.

Average User Rating: 4.5 (Out of 5)

Conclusion

In conclusion, the KEEN Men’s Targhee III Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots are a reasonable entry level pair of hiking boots and a good lightweight hiking boot for more established hikers. I think you are getting pretty good value for money in them as long as you know what to expect from them.

They’re not a longer term pair of boots. What I mean by that is that they have a very specific length of service to give you depending on how and what you use them for, how often and so on. They are a very popular pair of hiking boots though and the many reports of good customer service from the company is good to have to fallback on in case things go wrong when you get your boots.

If you’re still unsure what type of hiking boots you should get, check out the hiking boot buying guide and our hiking boot recommendations. I hope you found this review useful. Please comment and / or share it around your networks if you did.

Do you use the Keen Targhee III boots? What was your experience with them?

Timberland Men’s Chocorua Trail Gore-Tex Mid Hiking Boots Review

I have to be honest from the start here and state that, for some reason, I always associated Timberland with fashion as opposed to Outdoor Gear. Granted, fashion with a leaning towards the outdoors but fashion all the same.

Timberland Men's Chocorua Trail Mid Hiking Boot

A good all round hiking boot ideal for light to medium day hiking at a good price, definitely worth a closer look.

Check Availability at Amazon.

Pros:

Good price and value for money
Minimum to zero break in time for most
Perfect for multi purpose use, good all round boot
Wide feet option available
Lightweight, waterproof and breathable
Stylish and traditional hiking boot look

Cons:

Insole not as comfortable as it could be
Need to be careful with the eyelets and new laces may be necessary from early on
Not ideal for backpacking, etc.
Might be a bit thin on the soles for tougher terrain

Timberland Men’s Chocorua Mid Hiking Boots Features Summary

Premium full-grain, waterproof leather uppers
TimberDry membrane provides breathable waterproof protection
Adjustable, rustproof lacing system for a customized fit
EVA midsole for lightweight, all-day cushioning
Removable contoured sockliner for additional underfoot comfort
Solid rubber outsole with lugs for superior traction
Colorway: Brown / Green and Brown with Green
Weight: 2 Ib.

Overview

Now, I have some Timberland stuff, normal clothing not hiking gear as such, and I really like it. It is good quality stuff. With that in mind I was interested to come across the Timberland Men’s Chocorua Trail Gore-Tex Mid Hiking Boots as, after some investigation, I found that they are one of the top sellers in Amazon.

The price is on the mid to lower end of the scale, 90 to 140 US dollars, for a waterproof Gore-tex and leather pair of hiking boots. I was interested as from initial observations they looked quite sturdy and functional for that reasonable price.

Style

From a style and look perspective, the Chocorua’s have a traditional hiking boot look which I like. As mentioned, the upper is constructed using premium full-grain waterproof leather. That combined with a Gore-tex membrane would point towards these boots being pretty good in terms of waterproof capabilities.

The Logo is quite visible both on the outer rear side of the boots, the tongue and the bottom back of the boot. Standard enough positioning for the logos. They don’t look overbearing and blend in quite well with the actual color of the boots. This is not really relevant, but I actually quite like the Timberland logo 🙂

There are two color combinations to choose from 1. Brown with Green 2. Brown and Green. These two sound the same but there is a difference, it being that the Brown with Green is predominantly brown. I like the simplicity of the autumnal color options and, as mentioned above, overall the boots look pretty good and pleasing to the eye.

It has most of the things I consider a must in a good three, possibly four depending where you’re hiking, season hiking boot but I wanted to look further into key functional areas to see what I could find in terms of the usual headings like comfort, durability and so on.

Comfort

The Chocorua boots feature an anti-fatigue comfort technology that provides all day comfort, that’s the tag line 🙂 after piling my way through over a hundred user reviews, it seems that the boots really do score well in the comfort department.

We’ll start with the insoles. The Chocoruas feature a removable, dual-density EVA footbed which is perforated for additional air circulation. a removable insole would be standard enough in a good mid pair of hiking boots.

What is nice is that in terms of air circulation, the footbed, in combination with the breathable Gore-tex, seems to work pretty well in regulating temperature in the boots which is a definite nice to have. We’ll look at breathability more below though.

One or two people did comment that they had to add their own Dr Scholls insole after a time. Not too much of an issue and this only came up once or twice. From what I could ascertain, the insoles did their job for a period as expected but then had to be replaced after they were worn out. So, the boots themselves were broadly speaking still good to go, just needed a new insole after a time. Seems pretty reasonable to me.

Collar

In the photo below, we can see an aerial, if you will, close up view of the boot collar. The collar of the boots are, as you can see in the photo below, thick, as is the tongue so a good layer of cushioning is provided to protect the ankle and upper foot.

In all the user reviews I read of these boots, ankle support was not mentioned as an issue and was singled out for the thumbs up by quite a few.

Waterproof Membrane

Now, I would have initially taken these boots to be a 3 season boot but in many cases I think you could get away all year round with them. It will depend on how severe the winter is of course but I think you can expect year round use on the trail within reason.

Next up, we look at the Waterproofness of the Chocoruas. Again, the feedback across the board was generally positive on this front too. they are pretty good on the waterproof front. I think for puddles, snow and very shallow rivers these should do just fine.

For anything more, they probably aren’t suitable but I wouldn’t expect them to be as they’re a general purpose light to medium hiker. As with any boots, you need to take care of them to maintain their functionality e.g. waterproofness and so on. From all accounts, if you do, you’ll get longevity out of them, anywhere from 1 to 3 years would be a reasonable expectation with heavy use.

Lacing

Moving on, we come to the lacing. Broadly speaking, there didn’t seem to be a whole lot of issues in terms of the lacing but it was called out as an issue by some, mainly in the context of the eyelets failing in some cases. If you look at the picture below you can see a close-up of the lacing on the left side of the boot.

Broadly speaking the eyelets are secure and I think the level of issues you may experience with lacing may depend on your feet shape and size. Many times laces on hiking boots don’t tie well. I usually find this to be an issue with the laces more often than with the boot (Not in all cases though I hasten to add). Other times it can simply be a question of tying your laces a little differently or adding an extra knot.

If it is a lace problem, it is usually pretty easily solved by getting a new pair of laces so pretty handy to sort out. I don’t mean to flag this as a big problem with these boots, in truth it came up only a handful of times so I expect for most people, there will be no issues.

The tongue is gusseted; although I didn’t see this listed in the feature list, several people commented on the gusseted tongue holding up well to water. A gusseted tongue is really a must for a hiking boot I feel.

Build and Construction

With regards to general build and construction, there was one reviewer who made a very interesting observation and subsequent comment pertaining to a manufacturing issue. Having been a long term fan of these boots they noted that the boots made in Vietnam fared better than the pair they got that were made in China. I’m not sure how much you can really read into that but it was an interesting observation from a keen user and obvious Chocorua boot fan.

The Timberland Chocorua hiking boots for men weigh in at 2 pounds. so not heavy. This is something commented on many times i.e. how lightweight the boots feel when in use. Always a good thing on the trail to not have to lug heavy boots on your feet as well as all your other gear on your back. Depending on the price range, lightweight can be a trade off for durability but that isn’t such a big issue in terms of day hiking.

I think you’ve got a really great day hiking boot here but it may not be as suitable for longer trekking over weeks or months. I didn’t see too many references or comments on longer trekking or backpacking trips though so can’t say for sure.

Sizing

The next thing to look at is sizing. The Chocorua’s overall seem to fit pretty well. I think from looking at the overall reviews, 85% said it fitted true to size so that’s a pretty good hit rate. Some folks did say that they needed to get a half size larger but there weren’t too many in this camp.

If you’re wide footed, you should pay a bit more attention to the sizing information anyway but wide sizes are available so you should be able to get something to suit. For most people though, I think it’s safe to say they fit true to size. Not the end of the world if they don’t fit as you can return and swap them easy enough.

dfs

I was impressed that one gentleman had to order a pair of boots, to go hiking in the rain forests in Costa Rica, to literally arrive on the day he started his week long hiking trip. The boots came in in perfect time and he had no blisters or any pain breaking them in. Pretty cool!

I hasten to add though, everyone is different and some people may need to take longer to break a pair of boots in than others so a glove like fit from day one isn’t a guarantee but it is a very common experience with the Chocorua’s.

Support and Stability

The shaft of the Chocorua’s measure approximately 5″ from the arch which is pretty much typical for a mid hiking boot. The heel measures 1″ and ankle is supported with a padded collar, pictured above, and tongue as pictured below.

One thing to mention here is the toe box. A few folks commented on it being a little bit stiff and hard on their feet but I actually think that this is a good thing as that is just part of the breaking in process and it will work itself out.

Steel toes are a no-no for hiking boots so having a sturdy leather toe box isn’t a bad thing in my opinion. The boot will flex out where required but still give protection. It is actually mentioned as a feature of the design as ‘Flexible forefoot construction provides greater comfort’. Basically, there are times on the trail, a bit of toughness on the toe box can come in handy.

This was highlighted by one Guy who said he uses these boots for working and they took the hit of a shovel at a very fast pace, bouncing off and protecting his feet in the process! If I transpose that to the trail, I’m thinking of a nasty rock rolling onto my feet, no harm to have the strength in a pair of boots to keep me good.

Grip

In terms of grip and traction, the Chocoruas feature a durable rubber lug outsole. By all accounts it seems to perform very well on all types of terrain from wet rocks, to mud, soil and snow.

The soles are solid rubber and overall seem to be sturdy enough and so should perform well on the trail in most terrains. However, this is one of the few places I did see a repeated comment on the soles wearing down.

To be fair, this is after people have been using them for some time, day in day out kind of thing. The boots aren’t advertised as resolable though so I guess when they’re gone, they’re gone. I wouldn’t really expect that option though in terms of the price these boots are available for.

Price

I have to say that the price seems very reasonable for a pair of mid hiking boots constructed from Leather and Gore-tex. The difference comes in terms of size and so on. Prices are always changing, so to check live prices, please click on the picture at the start of this review or on any of the product links throughout, and you will be taken through to Amazon where you can find an up to date price.

In terms of warranty, the most I could ascertain is that Timberland offer a 60 day return policy as long as the boots aren’t damaged, worn, etc. Now, if you’re ordering online you can of course wear them inside and see if they feel comfortable just don’t tell them that or wear them outside 😉

Longevity

From all the reviews I have read and the fact that Timberland is a quality and well regarded brand, I think the price is very good for the Chocoruas. As always, be sure to set your expectations correctly.

I think you will get anywhere from 1 to 3 years out of these boots depending what you put them through. If you’re wearing for year round weekend day hiking, I think you will be leaning towards the 3 years of use end. If you are wearing them every day for ordinary use, which is absolutely cool, the time may well go down depending on what you’re doing in them of course.

If you’re an established day hiker these boots could well be a good option to consider. I think they also would be great as an introductory boot for folks starting off hiking. they should be able to cope with most trails and terrains for average hiking use all, or most of the, year round.

While the more seasoned hiker will probably be looking for something a bit more versatile in terms of backpacking, hiking and so on, I do think this is a pair of boots for them to consider. Aside from hiking, I think the Timberland Chocorua hiking boot’s for men will be great for casual use too.

Best Uses

The best uses for the Timberland Men’s Chocorua Trail Gore-Tex Mid Hiking Boots are for day hiking on established trails but I think they’re tough enough to take on some off trail action too. I don’t think they’re the best option for very hard off trail hiking or backpacking, there are many other options that suit that better.

They’re a lightweight mid hiking boot but they are well constructed and so I think they will work well for light, medium and, just dipping into, hard hiking terrain.

They’re a multi-purpose pair of boots. For every person I saw talking about hiking, there were equal amounts who used the Chocoruas as work boots. for other general outdoor activities, they should do well getting you from A to B. They also score very highly in the day-to-day use category and won’t look out of place with a pair of jeans.

With that last comment in mind, if you’re new to hiking the Timberland Men’s Chocorua Trail Gore-Tex Mid Hiking Boots could be a good option to consider. If the whole hiking thing doesn’t cut it for you, you’ll still have a very fashionable, comfortable and cool pair of boots to use as you see fit, perfect for the colder months for sure.

Customer Reviews

As of the date of this post, from about 1100 reviews across multiple retailers, 88% of people gave the Chocoruas 4 stars or more, so they are coming up trumps for the vast majority of folks.

Our Rating 4.5 (Out of 5)

Final Thoughts

I have to say I was pleasantly surprised at the Chocorua’s, not because I have any reason for expecting them not to be good boots but mainly as I always took Timberland to be more of a fashion brand as opposed to a hiking gear maker who would construct well made and fit for purpose hiking boots. I stress again, that’s purely a perception thing on my part 🙂

I think the question has to be, as en experienced hiker myself, would I purchase these boots? I would probably say I wouldn’t as I tend to go for something in the 2 to 400 dollar range as that’s where I usually get the quality and construction I need for what I need my hiking boots to cope with.

However, would I totally rule them out as a light hiker for easy trails and day-to-day use? Definitely not, so I could see me buying a pair and putting them through their paces. They look great and they tick all boxes for many, many people and I think they’re at a very good price level for what you get.

Conclusion

For the newbie or casual day hiker on light even trails, the Chocoruas are an ideal choice. For the experienced trekker who pushes things a bit further, although I wouldn’t rule them out, you will probably want something more demanding in terms of durability and capability to take on the elements and more varying types of tougher terrain.

I always like to look at positives on hiking boots and so I will mention again that 88% or reviewers from a pool of 1100+ gave them 4 stars or more! That is pretty hard to argue with in terms of customer satisfaction and user enjoyment.

Taking everything into consideration, the Timberland Men’s Chocorua Trail Gore-Tex Mid Hiking Boots are a very good pair of all year round boots that will meet the needs of most hikers so they’re worth a look for sure.

Do you use the Timberland Chocorua boots? What was your experience with them?