7 Best Backpacking Boots in 2023
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Why trust us
Pack adventures and backcountry trips that last for days need the right gear. In the realm of footwear, backpacking boots are your sure allies.
This guide is exclusive to those in dire need of the best kicks built for extended journeys. So, whether you need something dependable on all fronts, a lightweight pair, or a boot that can tough it out there for months, we got you covered.
To make this best-of-the-best selection a reality, we’ve thoroughly tested over 100 backpacking boots available on the market. Check out our top picks in several categories below.
How we test hiking boots
We aim to provide you with unbiased reviews on the best backpacking kicks known to man. Here is what we do:
- We receive no backpacking boots for free. All pairs are purchased with our own funds to help us stay unbiased.
- We test every pair for days on various types of terrain—from manicured trails to off-the-beaten-path locations. We also put each boot through the wringer in different weather conditions to gauge its longevity and overall performance.
- To make our reviews as comprehensive as possible, we factor in tons of reviews from both regular users and gear experts.
With all that in the bag, we come up with a CoreScore, which plays a major role in determining the best, and in most cases second best, backpacking boots.
Best backpacking boots overall
Aku Trekker Pro GTX
92
Superb!
What makes it the best?
People have happily used the Aku Trekker Pro GTX for varying activities on and off the trail. It can be stiff at first. But after the break-in period, wearers feel much more comfortable wearing these hiking boots.
Pros
- Grippy
- Super comfortable
- Superb performance on varied terrain
- Excellent underfoot support
- Superb waterproofing
Cons
- Long break-in period
Best lightweight backpacking boots
La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX
86
Great!
What makes it the best?
Backpacking with boosted strides may have been unheard of years ago, but with the Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX, it might soon become the norm. Expect your extended expeditions spanning multiple days to be speedy with nary a drop of moisture in sight. But one complained that the shoe takes time to dry once it gets wet. It is a keep-you-coming-back-for-more hiker, especially if you play to its many strengths.
Pros
- Lightweight boot
- Comfy right away
- Stellar waterproofing
- Great for wet conditions
- Grippy
- Offers lateral stability
- Supportive
- Stout build
Cons
- Slow-drying
- Tight women’s version
Today's best price
Men
Women
Any color
Amazon
Prime & free shipping
$136
REI
Free shipping
$149
Backcountry
Free shipping
$157
Outland USA
Free shipping
$199
Zappos
Free shipping & returns
$209
Moosejaw
Free shipping
$209
Best leather backpacking boots
Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX
91
Superb!
What makes it the best?
I really like these boots. They have everything I am looking for in a “proper” hiking boot whilst not costing the earth. They look and feel great and give me so much confidence to be aggressive on terrains where I have to be a bit more cautious before. I would wholeheartedly recommend you give them a try if they have the characteristics you are after, you won’t be disappointed.
Pros
- Superb comfort
- Very secure fit
- True to size
- Stable
- Perfect ankle support
- Fantastic grip
- Great for long-distance hikes
Cons
- Expensive
Today's best price
Unisex
StockX US
$216
Zappos
Running Warehouse
REI
Best waterproof backpacking boots
Salomon Quest 4 GTX
86
Great!
What makes it the best?
At $230, the Salomon Quest 4 GTX is reasonably priced. It is durable, comfy, and grippy. With its waterproof protection, your feet will stay protected even on wet hiking sessions.
Pros
- Waterproof
- True to size
- Secure fit
- Comfortable
- Durable
- Grippy
Cons
- A few days break-in needed
- Runs hot
- Not for easy hikes
Today's best price
Men
Women
Any color
Amazon
Prime & free shipping
$138
Backcountry
Free shipping
$161
Zappos
Free shipping & returns
$230
REI
Free shipping
$230
Sun and Ski
Free shipping
$230
Moosejaw
Free shipping
$230
Best backpacking wide toe box hiking boots
Hanwag Tatra II GTX
92
Superb!
What makes it the best?
Hanwag satisfies adventurers with the performance granted by the Tatra II GTX. Its sturdy build, ankle support, and plush feel were well-received by the outdoor community. On the other hand, the boot’s stiffness might need some getting used to. All in all, the Hanwag Tatra II GTX is a commendable piece of gear for trekkers, thanks to its set of positive qualities.
Pros
- Robust
- Sufficient ankle support
- Waterproof
- Sticky outsole
- Efficient lacing system
- Feels secure
Cons
- Too stiff
- Expensive
Today's best price
Men
Women
Any color
Outland USA
Free shipping
$345
Amazon
Free shipping
$370
Moosejaw
Free shipping
$395
Zappos
Best value boot
Vasque St. Elias FG GTX
88
Great!
What makes it the best?
Ideal for backpacking and day hiking in extreme conditions, the Vasque St. Elias FG GTX gets overwhelming positive responses from avid hikers. It ticks the box for durability, weather protection, stability, and performance. It's not lightweight by any means but that makes it an ideal boot for backpacking in challenging terrain with heavy loads.
Pros
- Comfortable hiking shoe
- Durable
- Tough boot for all trips
- Ideal for extreme conditions
- Excellent stability and flexibility
- Offers availability in wide widths
- A great choice for cold and wet weather conditions
Cons
- Flimsy laces
- Heavy
Today's best price
Men
Women
Any color
Amazon
Free shipping
$165
Backcountry
Free shipping
$165
Zappos
Free shipping & returns
$220
Moosejaw
Free shipping
$220
Eastern Mountain Sports
$220
Shoe Mall
Free shipping
$230
Most popular backpacking boots
Scarpa Rush TRK GTX
90
Great!
What makes it the most popular?
Blurring the divide between trail runners and backpacking boots is the Rush TRK GTX from Scarpa. In other words, this hiker is fully equipped for pulling off more daring strides, even on rocky and root-strewn terrain. Its greatness also translates to grippy hikes in the rain minus the soaking-wet feet.
Pros
- Immensely stable
- 10/10 support
- Among the lightest backpacking boots
- Spacious toe box
- Through the roof comfort level
- Great grip
- Watertight
- Shock-absorbent
Cons
- With break-in
- Quite expensive
Today's best price
Unisex
Any color
Amazon
Prime & free shipping
$219
Backcountry
Free shipping
$239
Zappos
Free shipping & returns
$249
Running Warehouse
Comparison of the 7 best backpacking boots
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