Backpacking is a fun and exhilarating activity that can take you to some of the most beautiful and remote places in the world. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, having the right gear is crucial to ensure a successful trip.
One of the most important pieces of equipment you’ll need is a good pair of hiking boots. In this blog post, we’ll be discussing the 6 best hiking boots for backpacking, as well as why it’s important to wear them, how to find the perfect fit, and how to use them.
6 Best Hiking Boots for Backpacking
- SALOMON Men’s Quest 4 GTX Hiking Boots
- La Sportiva Womens Ultra Raptor II Hiking Boots
- Merrell Men’s Moab 3 Hiking Boots
- Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Hiking Boots
- ALTRA Men’s AL0A4VQH Hiking Boots
- La Sportiva Mens Nucleo High II Hiking Boots
SALOMON Men’s Quest 4 GTX Hiking Boots
Looking for a reliable and comfortable pair of hiking boots that can keep up with all your adventures? Look no further than the SALOMON Men’s Quest 4 GTX Hiking Boots.
Designed for long expeditions and tough conditions, these boots are waterproof and have a rubber sole that provides excellent grip and support. With updated chassis technology, the boots target sensitive articulations and wrap around your foot for extra support.
The Quest 4 hiking boots are light and cushioned with tail-running shoe-adapted technology, making them perfect for backpacking.
They will help you get to the next campsite with happier feet, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or a beginner, these boots are designed to help you conquer any trail.
The SALOMON Men’s Quest 4 GTX Hiking Boots are part of Salomon’s innovative line of hiking and backpacking shoes and boots for men and women. Whether you prefer trail running, hiking, backpacking, or mountaineering, Salomon has shoes and gear to help you conquer any challenge.
Pros:
- Waterproof
- Supportive
- Comfortable.
Cons:
- Not the most stylish option.
La Sportiva Womens Ultra Raptor II Hiking Boots
The La Sportiva Womens Ultra Raptor II Hiking Boots are perfect for hikers who want a boot that is protective and supports light to medium loads.
These boots have a light and fast trail-running influence, making them perfect for those who want to move quickly on the trail. The Gore-Tex waterproof and breathable lining will keep your feet dry no matter how wet the trail gets.
The Frixion XT 2.0 Outsole with Impact Brake System provides excellent traction and stability on steep descents, slick trails, and uneven ground.
The microfiber mudguard adds protection from trail elements, while the anti-shock rubber toe cap protects your toes from unexpected obstacles.
The comfort collar adds ankle protection with an easy-fit spoiler, and the reinforced heel cup provides stability for high mileage days on rugged and rocky trails.
These boots run small, so be sure to buy one size up if you have normal or large feet. If you have small feet, consider buying half a size up. They are available in both Regular(C) and Wide(D) widths.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Good ankle support
- Waterproof.
Cons:
- Run small
- May need to size up.
Merrell Men’s Moab 3 Hiking Boots
If you’re looking for a versatile hiking boot that can handle a range of terrains and conditions, the Merrell Men’s Moab 3 Hiking Boots are an excellent choice. These boots are made with high-quality materials, ensuring that they are durable and long-lasting.
The Moab 3 features a fabric upper, a rubber sole, and a waterproof membrane that seals out water and lets moisture escape. The Pigskin leather and mesh upper are complemented by 100% recycled laces and webbing, making these boots a sustainable choice for environmentally-conscious hikers.
The boots also feature a Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable contoured insole with reinforced heel cushioning for medium support, a molded nylon arch shank, and a Merrell Air Cushion in the heel that absorbs shock and adds stability. The lightweight EVA foam midsole provides additional stability and comfort, making these boots a pleasure to wear on long hikes.
Pros:
- Durable
- Waterproof
- Supportive
Cons:
- None
Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Hiking Boots
As a hiker, I understand the importance of having a durable and comfortable pair of boots. The Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Hiking Boots are just that!
These boots are made with 100% leather and have a rubber sole. The shaft measures approximately 3 1/2″ from the arch, while the heel measures approximately 1.5″ and the platform measures approximately 1 inch.
One of the features that I love about these boots is the waterproof membrane that seals out water while letting moisture escape. This is perfect for hiking in any weather condition.
The pigskin leather and mesh upper provide breathability, while the metal hook traditional lace closure ensures a secure fit. The bellows tongue keeps out debris, and the protective toe cap provides added protection.
Inside the boots, there is a breathable mesh lining and a Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable contoured insole with reinforced heel cushioning for medium support. The molded nylon arch shank provides added stability, and the Merrell Air Cushion in the heel absorbs shock.
The lightweight EVA foam midsole provides both stability and comfort, making these boots perfect for long hikes. Overall, the Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Hiking Boots are an excellent choice for any hiker looking for durable, comfortable, and waterproof boots.
Pros:
- Waterproof
- Durable
- Comfortable.
Cons:
- None.
ALTRA Men’s AL0A4VQH Hiking Boots
I’m always on the lookout for hiking boots that provide comfort and support while on the trail. The ALTRA Men’s AL0A4VQH Hiking Boots are just what I need! These boots have a rubber sole and are imported.
One of the standout features of these boots is the Altra EGO foam, which provides added energy return and a responsive, yet soft, comfortable feel.
The signature Altra balanced cushioning and FootShape toe boxes allow your toes to spread and encourage proper, low-impact form throughout your hike. This is great for those who suffer from foot pain or who want to avoid it altogether.
The MaxTrac outsole and multi-directional TrailClaw lug pattern provide grippy traction, allowing you to focus on the trail ahead. The weather-resistant eVent bootie surrounding your foot keeps you prepared for even the wettest conditions, ensuring that your feet stay dry and comfortable.
Overall, the ALTRA Men’s AL0A4VQH Hiking Boots are a great choice for anyone looking for a comfortable and supportive pair of hiking boots.
Pros:
- Comfortable
- Supportive
- Weather-resistant.
Cons:
- None.
La Sportiva Mens Nucleo High II Hiking Boots
As an avid hiker, I’m always in need of a durable and reliable pair of hiking boots. The La Sportiva Mens Nucleo High II Hiking Boots are just that! These boots have a rubber sole and are designed to be waterproof hiker/backpacking boot that offers the ultimate combination of durability, protection, and comfort.
The durable Nubuck leather uppers provide protection, while the Nano Cell inserts deliver maximum breathability. The waterproof Gore-Tex Surround membrane enables unprecedented breathability to keep feet dry while allowing heat and sweat to escape, keeping feet cool.
The Vibram Nano XS-Trek sole provides unparalleled traction and grip with large lugs and well-positioned lugs. The compression-molded EVA foam midsole cushions each step while a stiffener insert provides support for hiking with a pack.
The 3D Flex ankle hinge greatly reduces break-in time and offers enhanced mobility. Available in both medium and wide widths to deliver comfort during long days on the trail.
Overall, the La Sportiva Mens Nucleo High II Hiking Boots are top-performing and durable hiking boot that offers the perfect balance between comfort, protection, and style.
The combination of high-quality materials and innovative technology ensures that these boots will provide the support and stability needed to tackle even the most challenging trails, while also keeping your feet dry, cool, and comfortable.
Pros:
- Waterproof and breathable
- Durable Nubuck leather uppers
- Vibram Nano XS-Trek sole for excellent traction and grip
- Compression Molded EVA foam midsole for cushioning
- 3D Flex ankle hinge for enhanced mobility
- Available in both medium and wide widths
Cons:
- The price is on the higher side
Why Is It Important to Wear Hiking Boots?
Hiking boots are designed specifically for the rigors of hiking and backpacking. They provide a level of support and protection that regular shoes simply can’t match.
Hiking boots are typically made with sturdier materials, such as leather, and have thicker soles for better traction and stability. They also have more ankle support to prevent sprains and injuries on uneven terrain. Wearing hiking boots can greatly reduce the risk of foot and ankle injuries, and make your backpacking trip more comfortable and enjoyable.
How Should a Backpacking Boot Fit?
When it comes to hiking boots, the fit is everything. A poorly fitting boot can cause blisters, hot spots, and even foot injuries. When trying on hiking boots, make sure to wear the same type of socks you plan to wear on your backpacking trip.
You should also try on boots later in the day when your feet are naturally more swollen. Your toes should have some wiggle room, but not so much that they slide around inside the boot.
The boot should feel snug around the heel and ankle, but not so tight that it cuts off circulation. Make sure to walk around in the boots to test for any discomfort or rubbing.
How to Use Hiking Boots?
Once you have found the perfect pair of hiking boots, it’s important to know how to use them correctly. Before your backpacking trip, break in your new boots by wearing them around the house or on short walks. This will help prevent blisters and ensure that your boots are comfortable on longer hikes.
When on the trail, make sure to lace your boots tightly to prevent your feet from sliding around inside. Always wear appropriate socks, such as wool or synthetic blends, to wick away moisture and prevent blisters.
It’s also a good idea to bring along a spare pair of socks in case your feet get wet. Finally, take care of your boots by cleaning and conditioning them regularly to extend their lifespan.
Read our best guide on hiking boots for beginners
Conclusion
In conclusion, investing in a good pair of hiking boots is crucial for any backpacking trip. They provide support, protection, and comfort that regular shoes simply can’t match. When shopping for hiking boots, make sure to find the perfect fit and break them in before your trip.
Once on the trail, use them correctly and take care of them to ensure they last for years to come. With the right pair of hiking boots, you can tackle any trail with confidence and comfort.
Tyler Looney is an avid hiking enthusiast and the author of HikingBootsPros.com, a website dedicated to providing helpful insights and advice on choosing the best hiking boots. His expertise and passion for hiking have made him a valuable resource for both beginner and experienced hikers alike.