We Are So Lame Hiking Boots

Montrail, Merrell, Teva, Keen, Dunham, Lowa or Vasque?

Which manufacturer makes the very best hiking footwear? What styles have you tried and what’s your opinion of them? I’m up to buy a new pair of shoes and a new pair of boots, and I want to get an idea of which ones give the legs the biggest sense of enhanced energy, or steppin’ power. You know the feeling of power that a really GOOD pair of shoes can give you, right? Which shoe has done that for you the most? (You can write in the name of a different company if you want.)

Having sold most of these brands I can say that there is no “best” brand. In fact, there is a wide range of differences just within a single brand’s styles.

I will say that Merrell has probably the most variety of styles and fits most people well. The overall quality with Merrell boots is good. I had very few returned due to poor fit or poor construction. I have not personally owned a pair of Merrell shoes in years, but am extremely familiar with their line.

I have not been a fan of Teva…ever. The vast majority of their technology is second generation stuff already developed by other companies. My last pair of Teva sandals died in 1999 and I switched to Chaco. I now own four pairs of Chaco sandals. My next sandal purchase will most likley be Keen.

Keen shoes, by far, are the most comfortable shoes I own. While my sole pair are more casual than aimed for hiking, I have tested a number of Keen boots and sandals. For someone with a wider foot they are fantastic. I have a friend who is up to something like 9 pair of Keen shoes. She only wears those and Crocs for the most part. Additionally, I saw very few Keen shoes returned to my store for the same reasons as I mentioned with Merrell.

Vasque, Asolo, Lowa, Montrail, and Scarpa also make very good boots and shoes. I find these companies produce slightly better quality mid-weight and heavy-duty boots as opposed to light-weight hikers. If you are considering a boot with more durability and plan to hike more rugged trails, consider some of these brands over Merrell or North Face. The Asolo “Stynger” (can’t remember if that’s the men’s or women’s version) is an excellent all-around boot. (Men’s and Women’s both available, but have different names.) The Vasque “Sundowner” was the industry standard for mid-weight full-leather boots for years. Also an excellent choice.

I currently use two other brands than those listed above. My light-weight hiking shoes are Garmont “Nagevi”. I have had them for two years and they get heavy use, as I am a professional guide. I am about to retire them and plan on replacing them with the exact same shoe, except I’m upgrading to the Gore-Tex version. I had used Hi-Tec and Solomon shoes prior to this. The Hi-Tecs were comfortable, but always blew out and the Solomon shoes I owned had lots of problems. Mostly sole delamination and unusually quick wear. Since I switched to Garmont I have never had problems. My heavy-weight, backpacking/mountaineering/ winter boots are Limmer “Standard”. The Limmer “Standard” is a pricy boot and is a bugger to break in. Full-grain leather, very stiff, etc. But it has a stitched sole and I will most likley not buy another pair of heavy boots for a bunch of years. (The selling point here was I met a guy who has had a pair for 15 years and has had them resoled six times.) The Limmer is the best comparison I can make to Dunham heavy-duty boots, but the Merrell “Wilderness” and Scarpa also make a stitched sole boot. I had a pair of EMS “Summit” boots I used for two years as a guide. I was also not happy with these as the Nubuck leather cracked rather quickly. However, they served their purpose.

Go visit a good bootfitter. A specialty outdoor gear store or the boot fitters at EMS or REI usually know their stuff. They can explain the pros and cons of various styles and brands. Actually seeing the construction of the shoe is important. They can cut insoles for your shoes, work out the leather, make lacing adjustments to give you more volume if needed and give you a good fit.

Also, I always go for a Vibram sole because it is a bit more durable, but Vibram sucks on ice because it is a hard rubber.

Wet Watery Western Washington Hike

Vasque Men’s Summit GTX Hiking Boot $199.95 Men’s and Women’s Vasque Summit GTX Boots from Red Wing take you to the top with rugged performance, supportive comfort! A premier backpacking Boot! The special Kinetic insole system works to give you proper heel placement and lateral stability… making Summit GTX Boots incredibly comfortable without sacrificing comfort. With pair on your feet, you can be bold on the trail, my friend! Explore the…

Vasque Men’s Breeze GTX Hiking Boot $159.99 Men’s Vasque Breeze Backpacking Boots, ideal for warm temperatures because they’re breathable! Here are some boots that are ideal for warm temperatures under light loads! Looking to cover a lot of miles in a short amount to time? This aerobically-inclined boot is a perfect companion! What makes them a perfect choice: Upper leather: 2 mm Waterproof Nubuck leather and Airmesh fabric; Midsole: Molded…

Vasque Men’s Breeze Hiking Boot $10,000.00 Don’t “suffocate” your feet… lace up the Men’s and Women’s Vasque Breeze Hikers from Red Wing and breathe easy! Looking to cover a lot of miles in a short amount of time? This aerobically-inclined Boot is a willing companion. Airmesh and leather uppers plus a Gore-Tex XCR liner make it breathable and comfortable in warm temperatures and under light loads. More: Waterproof nubuck leather and airm…

Vasque Women’s Mantra Hiking Shoe $89.95 Women’s Vasque Mantra Multi-Sport Athletic Shoes Equally suited for trolling the farmer’s market and a day hiking your favorite trail… the Vasque Mantra Multi-Sport Athletic Shoes: Lightweight, polyurethane coated nubuck leather and airmesh uppers are breathable and durable; Vibram Ananasi outsole for excellent hiking traction; Molded EVA midsole and dual density molded EVA footbed for comfort; …

Vasque Men’s Sundowner GTX Hiking Boot $169.95 Men’s Vasque Sundowner GORE-TEX Backpacking Boots The Vasque Sundowner Boots are mid-weight Backpackers with a reputation for comfort and old-school style, which may explain why they’re as common at the grocery store as on the trail. These Hikers are also equally at home under the weight of a pack and on a usual day hike. More details: Waterproof smooth leather uppers; Vasque classic outsole; Wate…

Vasque Briza GTX (Women’s) – Dusty Olive/Seneca Rock $139.95 This hiking boot has a full grain leather, suede, and Airmesh upper with a waterproof Gore-Tex membrane and a molded rubber toe bumper, a dual density EVA footbed, a molded EVA midsole, and a Vasque exclusive Vibram Contact Lite outsole.

Vasque Mantra (Men’s) – Graphite/Grey $89.95 Equally suited for trolling the farmers market or day hiking your favorite trail, the sleek new Vibram Ananasi bottom package is built for the trail and all-day comfort. An attractive leather and airmesh upper assures you will look good no matter what you’re doing. Dual Density EVA footbed.

Vasque Mantra (Women’s) – Olive/Taupe $89.95 Equally suited for trolling the farmers market or day hiking your favorite trail, the sleek new Vibram Ananasi bottom package is built for the trail and all-day comfort. An attractive leather and airmesh upper assures you will look good no matter what you’re doing. Dual Density EVA footbed. Available Colors: Chocolate Chip/Pale Khaki, Olive/Taupe.

Vasque Mantra XCR (Men’s) – Shadow/Slate $124.95 Equally suited for strolling the farmers market or day hiking your favorite trail, the sleek new Vibram Ananasi bottom package is built for the trail and all day comfort. An attractive leather and airmesh upper assures you will look good no matter what you’re doing. Features a leather upper, a molded EVA midsole, Vibram outsole and a dual density EVA footbed.

Vasque Mantra XCR (Women’s) – Red Grey/Almond $124.95 Equally suited for strolling the farmers market or day hiking your favorite trail, the sleek new Vibram Ananasi bottom package is built for the trail and all day comfort. An attractive leather and airmesh upper assures you will look good no matter what you’re doing. Features a leather upper, a molded EVA midsole, Vibram outsole and a dual density EVA footbed.

Vasque Volta GTX (Women’s) – Olive Night $129.45 The Volt sneaker is built for women with comfort and versatility in mind, the Volta handles a spectrum of outdoor pursuits from hiking your favorite trail to strolling the daily circuit at the dog park. This versatile shoe is further enhanced with our new VST comfort technology. When your time outdoors requires a shoe designed for all day comfort that can tackle a variety of terrain, look no further. This is built on the Blur last.

Vasque Boreas GTX (Women’s) – Chocolate Chip/Adriatic Blue $140 This hiking boot has a nubuck, split leather, and Airmesh nylon upper with a waterproof Gore-Tex membrane and a rubber toe bumper, a dual density EVA footbed, and a Vibram Viking dual density rubber outsole.

Vasque Velocity (Men’s) $95 Built for motion control on rugged trail runs, the Velocity’s dual-density EVA midsole reduces pronation while TPU-reinforced Airmesh and synthetic leather uppers provide support. Vasque Mako outsole offers superb traction.

Venturer Cold Weather Hiking Boot $29.95 For cold, snowy and wet conditions, these winter boots keep feet warm and dry. Padded collar, suede leather upper, rubber bottom, removable cushion insole, 100% waterproof, 200gm 3m thinsulatet insulation for warmth down to 5f Available in sizes:

Vasque Blur (Women’s) – Rust $84.95 This supple, well cushioned shoe has an exception feel for the trail. Its lightweight bottom package is designed for fast-paced runners, or those making the switch from road to trail. Upper: Microfiber and Airmesh Nylon Fabric. Midsole: Molded EVA w/Soft Crashpad. Outsole: Vasque Blur. Lining: Nylon. Footbed: Dual Density EVA, Reflective Trim, Keystone Control System.

Vasque Velocity (Women’s) – Lichen/Ash $94.95 Built for motion control on rugged trail runs, the Velocity’s dual-density EVA midsole reduces pronation while TPU reinforced Airmesh and synthetic leather uppers provide support. Vasque Mako outsole offers superb traction. Synthetic nubuck leather and airmesh nylon fabric upper with dual density phylon midsole. Vasque Mako outsole. Nylon lined with dual density EVA footbed; Beneke-Ceroprene Rand and Running Last.

Patagonia Midweight Hiking Alpine Socks (2 Pairs) – Mid Grey Heather $36.95 Versatile sock for alpine climbing and trekking in cool to cold conditions, variable knit construction: loopy weave under toes and heel for cushion, grid pattern under the arch for breathability and knitted-in moisture-wicking performance. Fabric content provides the ideal balance of durability, wicking performance and warmth, elastic, ravel-free welt is non-restrictive and prevents socks from sloughing into boots and elastic arch band provides arch support and a snug fit. Soft, plush merino wool is chlorine-free and maintains durability and cushion for the lifetime of the sock, 3-layer knitted construction increases next-to-skin comfort, durability and adds a soft hand and shaft length extends to just below the knee for leg coverage under hiking boots. 100% felted merino wool footbed under the foot and up shin increases cushion and durability, Looped Lintoe toe construction creates the smallest and flattest seam possible for ultimate toe comfort, and formfitting.

Vasque Mantra (Infants’) – Graphite/Grey $56.45 Need a trailworthy kids shoe for the young hiker or playground cruiser?. The kids Mantra has many of the same great attributes as the adult style, like textured leather/suede and mesh upper and that great Vasque fit. The kids contact rubber sole offers the same lug pattern as our popular Breeze boot. Features a water resistant suede and nylon mesh upper and a contoured EVA footbed.

Vasque Mantra (Children’s) – Graphite/Grey $54.95 Need a trailworthy kids shoe for the young hiker or playground cruiser?. The kids Mantra has many of the same great attributes as the adult style, like textured leather/suede and mesh upper and that great Vasque fit. The kids contact rubber sole offers the same lug pattern as our popular Breeze boot. Features a water resistant suede and nylon mesh upper and a contoured EVA footbed.

Vasque Velocity II (Boys’) – Charcoal/Vibrant Yellow $54.95 This speedy trail shoe is Vasque’s most breathable kid’s offering making it perfect for warmer temps and high output activity. Two layers of mesh are supported with synthetic microfiber and PU nubuck and the Vasque Kids Blur sole lays down lightweight traction to the trail. A speed lace system with cord lock allows for quick adjustments, plus easy entry and exit. Available Colors: Charcoal/Vibrant Yellow, Dark Denim/Orange Peel.

Vasque Solera VST (Women’s) – Adriatic Blue/Brindle $110 This sleek crossover shoe is great for wear on the trail or around town with its nubuck, polyurethane coated leather, and Airmesh nylon upper, dual density EVA footbed, single density molded EVA midsole with VST (Vasque Spine Technology, a co-molded TPU and SEBS gel component that reduces impact and stabilized the heel) and an instep TPU plate, and a Vasque exclusive Vibram Vima outsole.

Vasque Breeze Low VST (Men’s) – Beluga/Gunmetal $109.95 This crossover shoe is great for wear on the trail or around town with its full grain leather, nubuck, and Airmesh nylon upper with a molded rubber toe bumper, dual density EVA footbed, single density molded EVA midsole with VST (Vasque Spine Technology, a co-molded TPU and SEBS gel component that reduces impact and stabilizes the heel), and a Vasque exclusive Vibram Contact Lite outsole.

Patagonia Lightweight Hiking Alpine Socks (2 Pairs) – Charcoal Heather $32.95 Versatile, lightweight socks with the benefit of moisture transport for superior comfort in cool to warm conditions. Looped construction on foot bed, front shin and top of foot for next-to-skin comfort and shin protection and Looped Lintoe toe construction creates the smallest and flattest seam possible for ultimate toe comfort. Lightweight is perfect for multifaceted use, variable knit construction creates specific zones within the sock for additional cushion and increased breathability and knitted-in moisture-wicking performance. Fabric content balances wicking performance, cushion and durability, elastic, ravel-free welt is non-restrictive and prevents socks from sloughing into boots and elastic arch band provides arch support and a snug fit. Soft, lightweight, chlorine-free merino wool is itch-free and maintains durability and cushion for the lifetime of the sock, 3-layer knitted construction increases next-to-skin comfort, durability and adds a soft hand and shaft length extends to just below the knee for leg coverage under hiking boots. Available Colors: Charcoal Heather, Mid Grey Heather.

Patagonia Lightweight Hiking Alpine Socks (2 Pairs) – Mid Grey Heather $32.95 Versatile, lightweight socks with the benefit of moisture transport for superior comfort in cool to warm conditions. Looped construction on foot bed, front shin and top of foot for next-to-skin comfort and shin protection and Looped Lintoe toe construction creates the smallest and flattest seam possible for ultimate toe comfort. Lightweight is perfect for multifaceted use, variable knit construction creates specific zones within the sock for additional cushion and increased breathability and knitted-in moisture-wicking performance. Fabric content balances wicking performance, cushion and durability, elastic, ravel-free welt is non-restrictive and prevents socks from sloughing into boots and elastic arch band provides arch support and a snug fit. Soft, lightweight, chlorine-free merino wool is itch-free and maintains durability and cushion for the lifetime of the sock, 3-layer knitted construction increases next-to-skin comfort, durability and adds a soft hand and shaft length extends to just below the knee for leg coverage under hiking boots. Available Colors: Charcoal Heather, Mid Grey Heather.

Vasque Momenta (Women’s) – Bungee Cord/Nile $104.95 This lightweight and high performance trail running shoe has a synthetic nubuck, TPU weld, and Airmesh nylon upper with a reflective trim and a DriLex lining, a neutral molded EVA midsole sole with high rebound heel and forefoot inserts, a dual density EVA footbed, and a Vasque Aether outsole.