Backpacking Boots

Recent Backpacking Boot Reviews

Limmer Boots The Standard

If you want long lasting, rugged, durable and repairable boots, for hardcore hiking, construction, etc. Limmers are probably the best! In 1971 I had some new Dunhams, as a rookie hiker. When I got to the White Mts. where I was starting a summer job on a Trail Crew, I learned after two weeks that my Dunhams were done. I ordered custom Limmers and got them several weeks later (Trail Crew members were taken care of quickly by the Limmer family, thank goodness) and I soon understood why. Some fellow… Full review

Asolo TPS 520 GV

The soles of both boots fell off three miles into a five-mile hike and the boots had seen very little use. No support from the manufacturer. I’ve had two pair now and the soles have fallen off of each pair. Happened just the other day three miles into a five-mile hike. No support from the manufacturer. Full review

Fabiano Trionic

This looks suspiciously like the Scarpa Trionic SL circa 1984, even down to the laces. If so, I've got a pair that were usable for about 25 years of hard wear, but not beyond that. Excellent boot, but nothing similar made today. If this is the same boot and it looks very much like it, I wore a pair for 25 years of Scottish hill and Continental alpine use. They were very good all round and comfortable on easier terrain, as well as mountain use. If they were still made, I'd buy a pair tomorrow. Oh… Full review

Crispi Thor II GTX

Nice synthetic boot 🥾—withstands the harsh Northern Nevada rocky trails. I own another Crispi boot 🥾 used mostly for shooting and outdoor activities. These kicks are lighter and you can get away wearing them in a semi-formal office setting. I use the Thors for mountain biking. They are plenty tough and lightweight. The sole is firm and you won’t feel sharp jagged rocks anywhere through the sole to your feet.   Full review

Limmer Boots The Lightweight

Wearing these boots is like walking around with 2x4s tied to your feet; you will get blisters after short distances. The boots are uncomfortable, even with the addition of aftermarket insoles. The sole has no flex whatsoever, which is probably why I have rolled my ankle so many times wearing them. It's unfortunate because I like the way they look, and the leather is super durable. I had the boots resoled and the Meindl replacement soles separated at the front just like the originals.   Full review

Scarpa SL Active

Sub-standard boot after the Scarpa Kinesis Pro GTX boot. In Australia (at least) I can't get the Kinesis Pro boot anymore and the "next best" Scarpa product is the SL Active boot. But the SL Active lace clasps aren't nearly as good, and the liner causes SEVERE blisters when they become wet. Mainly comparing the SL Active to the Kinesis Pro GTX premium Scarpa boot.  In Australia, as well as many other countries, they are phasing out the Kinesis Pro boot.  I've had three pairs and they have been… Full review

Lowa Tibet GTX

Only used a couple of times BUT this showed, as with other recent Lowa boots, NO break-in period is required. Very good support and comfort off trail. Mine are the wide fitting version. These are tough, heavy, and fairly stiff boots. They are suitable for carrying heavy camping loads. The first time out was for a 5.5km hike off trail. The boots were immediately comfortable and no break-in was required. I have bought boots in the past that never were broken in! The shank varies in thickness. Thicker… Full review

Asolo TPS 520 GV

Abhorrent quality. The shoe did not last more than a few months. I am a researcher who does fieldwork in an alpine environment. I've had two pairs (one on warranty) and the stitching has frayed and broken three months into work both times. Old colleagues recommended these shoes as they were unbreakable. Obviously in the 5 years since their purchase the quality has dropped immensely. $200 shoes from Kathmandu have lasted better than this $500 shoe. Take your business elsewhere.  Full review

Crispi Nevada GTX

I really enjoy the fact that everyone has spent some time with these boots and gives a very valid opinion. I just got done with a set of Schnee's Granite boots, and they absolutely destroyed my feet. This is not a knock on Schnee's, it's how my feet are built. I have had the Crispis for 18 months now, and have a lot of time hunting/hiking. For the way my feet are built, this is one of the best pair of boots that I've had to date. If you are looking for an all-around boot with good stability, decent… Full review