Backpacking Boots

Recent Backpacking Boot Reviews

Hanwag Alaska GTX

Had these boots three years and only used occasionally. Both boots leak when out on the fells, and one boot just makes creaking noises when I am out walking. I have to say, I will be going back to Lowa boots. Very comfortable walking boot, but as an occasional walker, it did not take long for both boots to take in water, which was hard to take. I think I will go back to wearing Lowas. Also, the left boot was making creaking noises from day one, which I found very irritating. Full review

Herman Survivor

I bought them three days ago and they started falling apart on the first day. By the third day I had to throw them away They are a joke. Fifty dollar pair of shoes for three days. Full review

Zamberlan Vioz GT

Beware of the sole on the Vioz GT/GTX series of boots. Though the boot fits great and needs almost no break-in, the sole problem is a trip-stopper. I cannot go onto what is good about this boot yet, as the soles are a complete trip-stopper. Within a few miles, the Vibram sole starts coming off in large chunks—whole lugs at a time. I have never witnessed this on any boot. That is particularly surprising for a premium brand with a premium-branded sole manufacturer. And so far, Zamberlan has ignored… Full review

Zamberlan 996 Vioz GT

Very comfy and waterproof, but poor sole construction. Like many others, I too have problems with chunks of sole falling off. When I put them on, most comfy boot ever had on. Very durable uppers, great looking, waterproof. Took them on hard trips, noticed chunks missing out of soles, and nose of boot nearly broken off as well. Vibram is supposed to be extremely long lasting and durable. So I can only assume this is a QC issue. I love these boots, but now need to get another pair. I want Zamberlan,… Full review

Lowa Tibet LL

On a recent Escarpment Trail (Catskills) hike I blew out my Lowa Renegade boots. After ten years of good service, I wasn’t too upset but since I liked them so much I upgraded to the Tibet. After two months use (three hiking trips of two nights each) I have to say the Tibets are an amazing boot. They are big but help me support a heavy load. I was careful to waterproof them each time so I had no problem with water. I bought a half size larger than my street shoe and they fit well. I love them. Full review

Merrell Wilderness

I've had a pair of Merrell Wilderness boots for 23 years, bought for $200. I've put a lot of miles on them. Sadly, I now have bone spurs and can't wear them anymore. Best boots ever. I don't know if this boot is the same as mine; they look the same. Amazing boots. I bit the bullet and spent a huge wad of cash ($200) in about 1998 and I'm super glad I did.  Full review

Esatto Classic Hiker

Horrible customer service and now I'm out nearly $1K. Made my third order with Esatto 11/2019 and haven't heard a word back in over eight months in spite of numerous requests for an order update and now refund requests of the nearly $1K purchase price. Reported to State of Washington Attorney General and to BBB. Would NOT recommend this business. Full review

Limmer Light-Weight

Limmer Light-Weights are a solid, full leather boot built to handle rugged terrain. German made from the original Limmer lasts. Heavy duty construction along with amazing comfort. Designed to handle rough trail they do pretty well off-trail too. A Little History:The Limmers have been making boots for generations, starting in Germany. Peter Limmer Sr learned the skill there and then moved to the Boston area. Later he moved to New Hampshire and his sons learned the trade as well. Leather ski boots… Full review

Hanwag Alaska GTX

Alaska GTX—not my cup of tea. These boots are too stiff for me. They leaked within months of purchase. The eyelets move. They unlace. Rand has come away. Compared to my Hanwag Lhasa they are VERY disappointing. Hanwag make fantastic boots but these not for my purpose. I walk a lot—2,000 miles a year. Buy Hanwag Lhasa Instead. You won't be disappointed. I know they don't have Goretex, but just treat them regularly.  Hanwag Lhasa are AMAZING!!! Full review