Boots
Hundreds of pieces of outdoor gear from all the major outdoor retailers - now in an easy-to-print digital format.
A burly boot that doesn't beat up your feet.
An expert bootfitter can help. Here's how Phil Burgess of Ski Stop in Westwood, MA, a certified fit expert, helped one editor overcome a chronic and debilitating fit problem.
High-performance trail shoes that look good on the street.
The midcut Snow Junkies are for people who like their cold-weather adventures light and fast.
Climb, hike, or run with snow-ready shoes.
A high-cut winter hiking boot at home on steep slopes and deep snow.
Low-cut hiking boots with plenty of support.
Winter trail runners that stick
Ultralight, cold-weather speed hikers
A Gore-Tex-lined boot that handles big loads and deep snow.
A shoulder-season boot that goes the distance in any terrain.
One of the world's lightest mountaineering boots designed by climbing phenom Ueli Steck.
On the third day of the 2012 Summer Outdoor Retailer show, our reader reporter team found some great boots and essentials for under $20.
The ultimate boot for the long approaches and class 3+ scrambles.
Upgrade your footwear: We found seven models that can take you from dayhikes to thru-hikes, and from desert to rainforest to peaks.
These after-market insoles control motion, fill excess volume, and more.
Comfortable, sneaker-like feel with a roomy toebox.
Flexible support and instant comfort; great for trips with lighter loads.
This supple leather boot has top-notch shock absorption and nearly an inch of arch support.
Running-shoe-like comfort, fit, and breathability.
For hikers in blazing climates who need well-ventilated, waterproof protection and all-terrain traction.
Testers prized these all-leather boots for their tenacious traction, superior comfort, and midsole support.
Named the best all-around boot by testers because of its unusually strong combination of protection, support, and nimbleness.
Skip the new wrench sets and the flowery ties. Give the man on your list something that he’ll really be stoked about. We’ve got a slew of great dad-tested gift ideas starting at $20
Don't go shopping until you've read these comprehensive guides to buying and fitting the right pack, boots, bag, and tent.
First: Buy the right boots. Second: Keep them in tip top shape with these tips.
A perfect lightweight hiker for people with a wide forefoot
From a smart-and-light pack to a groundbreaking backcountry communicator, here are the 12 products that passed the ultimate gear challenge.
From a pack that accommodates curves to two sports bras that go the distance, we've rounded up our favorite women's gear of the year.
Go fast or go far–it all starts with your footwear.
Our littlest testers give a thumbs-up to these field-proven products.
The shoe has less width in the heel and ball and more curve in the arch compared to men’s hikers.
These heavy duty boots provide great stability, support and solid weather protection, allowing you to tackle any terrain in any condition.
These mid duty boots offer a great fit with comfort and stability to help you conquer any terrain.
These light duty shoes and boots offer support and protection in one lightweight package.
Comfort, support and durability is something all of these trail running favorites offer.
With a tough exterior and gentle inside, these boots protect feet from rough terrain while offering comfort and support.
The Khumbu is an all-terrain mountain boot with a design that promotes comfortable walking for any kind of adventure.
This affordable, all-purpose boot provides a great fit and can handle all seasons and conditions.
Great support and stability for any cross-country exploration.
A supportive and protective heavy-duty boot that keeps your feet cool with excellent breathability.
This boot offers serious protection and stability for a trustworthy support.
This off-trail champ is both built tough and lightweight.
Waterproof, breathable, and protective, this boot has it all.
A thick spongy sole gives the cushion and arch support you need on long hikes or climbs.
This mid duty boot provides maximum stability to prevent ankle rolling on the most dicey terrain.
With great lateral stability and all around protection, this boot can handle the rockiest terrain.
This shoe is built tough for the roughest paths, but offers a barefoot feel giving you comfort and breathability.
This minimalist shoe offers great protection and stability.
Fast and light and luxe: Get running-shoe comfort and hiking-boot stability.
Is old world craftsmanship and custom fit worth the price?
All the great gear specs you're used to seeing in the Gear Guide - now in an easy-to-print digital format.
This reader's wardrobe was letting her down on the trail. We outfitted her in some comfy boots with a versatile clothing layering system.
This hard-charging editor needs gear that can stand up to long, hard days.
From snowshoeing boots to winter trail runners and electric boots - we found the best cold-weather footwear for every activity.
These boots offer classic style with modern-day comfort -- and they'll last a lifetime.
Warm winter boots that are also light and nimble.
The trail-runner-like Forge Pro has the teeth to take on ice, slush, and shallow snow.
This boot is packed with 600 grams of Thinsulate, the most insulation in any non-mountaineering boot we tested.
Warm enough for lifties but in a light and nimble package.
A rigid, all-leather boot with an integrated heel crampon.
Serious conditions require serious footwear, like these double-plastic alpine boots.
A boot with interchangeable soles--one for ice and one for snow and mud.
A versatile deep-winter boot
If the prospect of cold feet keeps you off the trail come winter, get these battery-charged boots.
A low-cut hiker that fits and feels like a supportive sneaker.
Get light yet supportive shoes that stand up to the worst boot-chewing terrain–and satisfied our crew of Grand Canyon rangers and guides.
These cushy dayhikers are perfect for hiking with light loads.
This light hiker is practically abrasion resistant thanks to the thick pig suede upper.
This light hiker can carry up to 50 pounds!
A Five Ten shoe that excels at scrambling and smearing.
Bootlike support and traction with trail-runner shock absorption and weight.
What do dads really want? Hint: not more ties or car wash gift certificates. We polled our male staffers to find out what they hope to get (or give) this June 19th.
A Vibram sole adds a bit of burly sturdiness to the Mammut Teton GTX boot.
A low-cut hiker for all your daily adventures.
If light and fast is your hiking/trail running motto, these are your kicks.
Two of BACKPACKER's 14 Editors' Choice Award winners fall into this all-purpose hiking boot category.
For big mountain climbs, these are your boots
From fit to grip, this year's shoes do everything better.
Bedroom-slipper light and instantly comfortable
Women love this comfortable, stable and affordable boot.
Lightweight book with a lightweight price.
The Terra's soft PU midsole, gives the boot a cushy, shock-absorbing feel.
One of the most versatile boots around.
Voted Editors' Choice 2011 as the best all-around boot.
A classic looking boot with above average support and stability.
One shoe for everything from dayhikes to dog walks to peakbagging epics.
This boot offers maximum performance and durability.
A great lightweight boot for heavy duty hiking.
The perfect boot for big, unpredictable mountain adventures.
Outfit your mama with the perfect overnight gear.
If the lady on your gift list likes to go hard or go home, we have eight pieces of gear calling her name.
Whether you're shopping for your wife, mom, girlfriend, or BFF we've done the heavy lifting for you with 40 picks that are sure to make her Mother's Day.
All-terrain stability and all-day comfort in this women's only hiking boot.
Incredible traction, light weight, and zero break-in
Say hello to my second-most guiltiest pleasure in the backcountry.
From a bargain ultralight tent to perfect-fit boots, here are 14 products that passed the ultimate field test.
Want boots with maximum support and protection for minimum weight?
550-fill down booties that are perfect winter camp shoes.
A leather slipper with a rubber sole–the perfect camp shoe.
Get instant, all-day comfort and superb traction with this ultralight waterproof hiker.
Tackle any terrain in these midweights, and don't worry about blisters. We–er, they–guarantee it.
Your boots will last longer, fit better, and hike farther if you give them a little TLC.
Keep your favorite shelter in tip-top shape with this advice.
Your sleeping bag is critical to backcountry enjoyment - keep it happy.
Proper fit and care will keep your backpack comfortable and functioning.
Online gear reviews of boots featured in the 2011 Gear Guide charts.
More than any other category of gear, boots can make or break your trip. In this guide, gear editor Kristin Hostetter shows you how to pick the right pair for any outing, any feet.
Comfortable low-cut trail runners that offer support and performance.
For weeklong trips that range above treeline, you want gear that's light, protective, and built for abuse.
In this guide, we show you methods for lacing your boots to prevent blisters and maximize comfort.
Boots with solid support and stability without being too heavy or clunky
These trail runners have exceptional shock absorption and a Gore-Tex liner to keep feet dry
Our own gear diva met with Martha on December 20th to talk about cold-weather layering. Here's the gear Kristin suggested:
Just because they have fur doesn't mean they're not serious backcountry boots.
Over the years we've tested a lot of gear, and learned a lot of lessons.
BACKPACKER testers have endured numerous blisters over the years finding the best boots on the shelves.
You can't be a backpacker...without a backpack.
Extra gear reviews from our January 2011 Reader Test Team reports.
Air chambers embedded in the heel and arch and polymer gel in the forefoot put extra cushioning exactly where you need it most.
Warm up with 7 picks for every winter pursuit.
These are the warmest (and lightest) boots you will ever need for winter.
These will keep your feet warm on the coldest of hikes.
Your toes will stay warm while snowshoe running with these insulated runners.
These runners have such good traction, you'll love running in the snow.
Have the best protection in any weather with these all-season runners.
These heavy duty mountaineering boots are surprisingly lightweight and comfortable.
This all-purpose boot provides great support and warmth.
The most versatile cold-weather boot for backpacking and snowshoeing.
These zippered gaiters keep out crusty debris.
These gaiters thrive in wet, wet conditions.
Made for ice climbers–perfect for anyone who needs tough, tall gaiters.
Ski socks that protect shins from boot bang.
Multi-season socks with tons of cush.
Bargain socks that are warm and resilient.
Perfect fit and great performance
A waterproof boot that's comfortable for dayhikes and weekend outings.
255 gear reviews and cold-weather tips!
If you're a men's size 9 and plan to hike more than 100 miles by mid October we want you to help us test boots.
For casual winter adventures, a warm-and-cozy boot.
Shockingly light, impressively warm, fabulously supportive...need we say more?
Lightweight boots that are comfortable enough to wear on dayhikes, yet burly enough to mount on to a pair of crampons for three-season summit efforts.
Heading into rough terrain? Our crew of Grand Canyon rangers and guides abused nine pairs of boots for four months. Only five survived.
For lightweight stability these boots can't be beat.
Rocks, cacti, and clay were no match for these boots.
These boots are light and fast like a trail runner but offer the support and protection of a boot.
For less than $150 bucks you get a whole lot of boot.
Super tough boots that are also super comfortable.
These four flip flops are made with the outdoor enthusiast in mind–massaging footbeds, illuminating LED lights, sturdy straps, and rock-solid arch support are just some of their sporty features.
When the conditions call for grip but not burly crampons, strap on one of these three microcrampon options and feel secure on ice and snow.
Good trail feel, and protection, in these trail runners.
Barefoot running with shoes.
The official report from our resident sandal junkie: "My feet are ecstatic!"
Go the distance with these tried and true heavy duty boots.
From the most versatile to the best all around, these mid-duty boots pass the test.
Go fast and furious with these light duty boots.
After 15-hour trail days with 50 pound packs on 100-miles of Switzerland's Via Alpina, we're proud to present the best gear of the year.
Whether you need a trail runner or a burly mountaineering boot, here's the best of the year.
Quite possibly, the last boots you'll buy.
Thirty indestructible gear picks from two decades of hardcore field-testing.
Solid on the trail, this entry sparks a philosophical debate.
The test's best trail performer nets savings by cutting weight and waste.
As we saw with packs and bags, weight savings equal carbon savings.
Eco-friendly leather and recycled fabrics turn this bestseller green.
An upstart blows the doors off with recycled and natural materials.
Five manufacturers answer our call to design greener trail shoes.
These five-toes socks squelch blisters.
These midweight boots tread lightly on the planet.
Squash stinky feet.
Revitalize the soles of your hiking boots and climbing shoes.
Tackle the biggest terrain–under the heaviest loads–in this uncommonly comfortable boot.
Hike far, fast.
Boost your boots' warmth with these insoles.
Buy the right boots for you–and get the right fit.
A boot with mega support without the extra weight
A summer mountaineering boot that's armor-tough
A luxurious leather-lined boot built for backpacking
A real backpacking boot for kids
A versatile boot with impressive support for its weight
A superlight boot for high-mileage speedhikers
Killer traction in all sorts of slippery terrain
An all-purpose hiker with a bargain pricetag.
If you need boots for wet, soggy conditions, these winners are a bargain.
Crampons that won't weigh you down
A souped-up trail runner.
Every week we go into our gear closet and pull out a sweet prize.
This all-purpose midweight hits the hiking boot trifecta–great fit, support, and price.
To survive mixer-tough mountain trails, get Old World craftsmanship.
We took durability testing to the extremes, so you would know which gear lasts–and why.
Whether you're mountaineering, snowshoeing, hiking, or trail running we've tested the winter boot/shoe models you'll want.
Genuinely breathable winter running shoe, great for long slushy runs.
Insulated backpacking boots with enough support to carry a 50-pound pack.
Ideal for treks on packed snow, this boot is great for wintry day hikes.
Ideal for snowshoeing, or wintry day hikes, this boot keeps your feet dry and warm.
Whether it's snowshoeing, light day hiking, or sloshing through town, this boot does it all.
Sturdy yet light, this boot is great for the most extreme day hikes.
Made for big peaks, this boot is warm, and great for ice and snow
Multiple layers and materials make this boot perfect for the summit.
Want to enjoy more time on the trail? It's simple: Bring the whole family, but make sure the kids stay comfortable with gear built for them.
Solid, mid-weight support, waterproof, and grippy tread make this classic boot your kid's go to for all their hiking needs.
Can you really get high performance on a shoestring budget? Our testers found five pairs of light-duty synthetics that deliver huge returns.
Traveling trail runners will be all over this The North Face shoe.
This midcut hiker is great for wet conditions.
This boot earned our best all-around mark, and fits a wide range of foot shapes as well.
This dual-purpose runner works well on everything from roads to rough trail.
We tested 150 boots this year, tallying enough trail miles to hike from Acadia to Denali–and back. Why? To help you find the perfect outdoor footwear.
We tested 150 boots this year, tallying enough trail miles to hike from Acadia to Denali–and back. Why? To help you find the perfect outdoor footwear.
We tested 150 boots this year, tallying enough trail miles to hike from Acadia to Denali–and back. Why? To help you find the perfect outdoor footwear.
Tent leak like a sieve? Boots stink like a compost pile? Don't worry. Class is now in session. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, this in your one-stop, do-it-all user's guide.
We tested 150 boots this year, tallying enough trail miles to hike from Acadia to Denali–and back. Why? To help you find the perfect outdoor footwear.
The best new gear. That's what earns our seal of approval, and only after months of hardcore testing. This year, we subjected dozens of products to heinous trail conditions from Alaska to Wales. In the end, 18 survived to take our top honor.
Soaked, scuffed, and beat up? We'll show you how to get your trusty footwear back to trail-ready.
This Gore-Tex hiking boot has only improved since we named it Editors' Choice last year.
Expect heavy-duty performance in this lightweight hiking boot by La Sportiva.
The Outdry treatment and ultralight weight mean this hiking shoe will go wherever you do.
Get a grip—the soles of these boots stick to any surface.
These boots are tough on terrain but nice and comfortable on feet.
Heavy loads and dangerous terrain are no obstacle for these waterproof mountaineering boots.
The North Face packs extreme waterproofing and long distance comfort into this bargain boot.
This boot is the perfect fit from the first lace-up to the top of the tallest, wettest mountain.
For tough hikes with heavy loads and varying terrain, choose this waterproof and super supportive boot.
Brave cold, wet weather with LOWA's sturdy, Gore-Tex winter boot.
Don't let the tough and sturdy exterior fool you—inside this boot is pure, luxurious comfort.
Tackle the soggiest, wettest, and coldest terrain with this solid traction boot.
For all-around performance, check out this ultralight and super comfortable boot.
Submerge these comfortable waterproof boots in snow and your toes will never know the difference.
For extreme waterproofing at a good price, you can't beat these insulated, high cut boots.
Scramble, bushwhack, and ascend with this all-around solid boot.
This updated Editors' Choice winner stays true to its roots—but now it's a lighter and more breathable boot.
You won't find a boot more supportive or breathable with this low of a price tag.
For lightweight versatility, lace up this low-cut and supportive shoe.
Hit the trail with this waterproof and ultralight boot from Teva.
Use and abuse this tough, low-cut, and lightweight boot by Patagonia.
The supportive midsole, tough build, and bargain price of the Teton proves looks can be deceiving.
Run and hike through any terrain thanks to the sticky outsole of this shoe.
This boot combines lightweight, sneaker-like comfort with solid support.
Testers loved everything about this women's specific shoe, especially the arch support and breathability.
These trail runners are the perfect mix of waterproof and breathable.
New ion mask technology is great for breathability in this lightweight midcut boot.
Take a bite out of dirt and snow with the tough soles on this midcut boot.
If you want the perfect pair of trail runners, look no further than the Gel-Trabuco's.
This low-cut, waterproof shoe is a bargain and perfect for dayhikes and light overnights.
Bring us your narrow feet, your wide feet, or the freakishly long–these boots are the answer.
Can't decide which boots are right for the trip? Stop wondering and start hiking with this all-purpose midweight.
Get technical layers that work everywhere from hotel bars to high-mountain trails. Our testers vetted more than 50 products from the Alps to the Andes to bring you these top systems.
A great pair of versatile leather boots that handle most conditions well.
The stylish Ahnu Mirage is tough enough for the backcountry or streets.
I'm organizing my first group trip. Can I rent gear for newbies who may not be ready to buy?
The latest word from our testers. This month, we test the Marmot Cauldro jacket, Gregory Z65 pack, Exped Andromeda, tents, Danner Formation boots, and more.
4 sole-saving tips from a veteran boot doctor
Does your pack smell like last summer's cheddar? Here's how to clean up.
The latest word from our testers
Get maximum support, traction, and protection without wafflestomper weight or break-in. Welcome to the new breed of all-terrain, any-load boots.
The year's best packs, boots, tents, jackets, and sleeping bags. Period. Plus, a never-die headlamp, a life-saving beacon, a back-saving ultralight chair, and more innovative, trail-tested gear.
We know. You meant to scrub and scour your gear last fall. But...[insert excuse here]. Now, set aside one weekend afternoon to get your gear back into action and promise to be better next year.
The best gear in the world can be worthless in the wrong conditions. That's where Backpacker's Perfect System comes in.
You won't go far with sore feet. So our testers went the distance–5,000 miles, to be exact–to bring you the best shoes for every foot and hike.
We found 17 pioneering products that will cut your carbon cost without sacrificing performance.
There's a bewildering array of tent options available, including hundreds of three-season tents and specialized models built for hot deserts, Arctic summits, and steamy rain forests.
Before shopping for gear it's important to plan a budget, do your research, and prioritize.
Clothing is gear that's just as important as a tent or sleeping bag. We'll help you choose wisely.
Pick the boot that's right for you with this guide.
Vibram continues to expand on its successful mission of reaching a younger, broader audience with work for innovators in the trail running field.
Make sure you don't forget a thing with our comprehensive gear checklists for pretty much any trip occasion. Plus, learn how to pick the perfect piece of gear.
Backpacker's Ultimate Fix-It Guide
Choose the right type of gaiter for your trip.
By keeping your gear (relatively) free of dirt and grime and storing it properly you can make your gear last forever.
If the February '08 Backpacker article "Magnifique" inspired you to take a hut trip to France's Maritime Alps, here are ten lodging options.
Stay light on your feet with the Lafuma Active Raid GTX XCR, Garmont Eclipse XCR, Merrell Chameleon II XCR, Montrail Mountain Mist XCR, and Vasque Breeze Low XCR.
Go light on your feet with the Adidas Cloudcap XCR and Garmont Nasty.
Get killer ankle and underfoot support in an ultralight hiking boot.
Light boots that are good for medium-sized feet.
Boots for women that are both sturdy and compact.
Boots that are amazingly stable, delightfully lightweight, and surprisingly waterproof.
Breathable low-cut hikers for medium-volume feet.
Keep your feet warm and dry while snowshoeing, camping, and shoveling the driveway with the Columbia Ice Dragon, North Face Ice Storm GTX, and Kamik Patriot.
A hiking boot that provides outstanding protection against rocks, cactus, snow, and rain
What to do when your soles come undone.
Catch the hot spot before it's too late
Enough support and comfort to carry a big load for 56 miles in four days--that is, if you're up to it
Introducing a new breed of synthetic boots: fast, nimble, and surprisingly supportive.
Prevent blisters, hike grit-free, and find arch support in a lightweight boot
Channel your nimble-footed inner child with these grippy, hikeable shoes.
Don't throw big-ticket boots in the bin when a quick makeover will do the trick.
On hot summer days, these breathable shoes beat the heat.
A cushy sole makes these a good choice for long trail days.
These nimble shoes are a steal for hikers with narrow feet.
Excellent fit, support, and waterproofing set a high bar for low-priced boots.
Be cool in fastpacking's finest footwear
New Zealand is pretty to look at, but harsh on gear--making it just what we needed for our Kiwi challenge.
Young hikers deserve performance shoes
Pamper your feet with the most supportive footbeds we've tested
Slip into the most comfortable all-leather backpacking boot you've worn in years
If there's a rough and tough masochist in the ultralight category, it's the Cyclone.
Mesh-covered vents take these strong midcuts into the future of fastpacking shoes.
The Trek brings serious trail mileage capabilities to the original (and winning) Trango S.
When it was time for Ladies' Choice, they picked the boot that 'just plain fit.'
Despite its name, Garmont's lighter boot provides excellent support, but a bit too much for fastpackers and trail runners.
What kind of scrambler would pass up a shoe with soles described as Spider-Man-like? C'mon!
If you wake up wanting to walk 1,000 miles, go out and purchase a pair of these first.
The Terrastryder-Mid triumphs in the "Best Fit" category for the hard-to-fit group -- just beware of its sogginess factor.
Don't underestimate the power of this model's plus sign -- the new and improved shoe almost offers too much to use the same name.
This scrambler provides everything you need to go anywhere you want: support, grip, comfort, and waterproofing.
Give this boot a little time to really feel broken-in, and it will reward you with years of comfortable hiking.
Check out the best lightweight boot for your heavyweight foot.
A complete guide to buying gear that will keep you dry--no matter what
How do you know that your gear is crying out for help? Consult our handy list of signs and solutions.
You think thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail is a long walk?
Ventilation and traction are a nice combo, but stability doesn't match the best.
One of the lightest shoes in the test scores big with trail runners.
Pillows underfoot might be softer, but they won't last like these cushy shoes.
Ready, set, go. You'll literally run down the trail with these featherweight kicks.
Let others wilt in the heat; your feet are air-cooled by these ventilated runners.
No toes will be lost in these mountaineering boots.
Not a speed demon? These traditionalists are great for light hiking.
Even big guys with wide feet will feel agile with these supportive shoes.
These shoes can handle any terrain.
Light and supportive all in the same package
Snow-covered trails are no match for this shoe
Hike on the trail then run on the road with these versatile shoes.
Want a midweight that can tread in heavyweight terrain?
These aren't Elvis' blue suede shoes.
Boreal gives us a boot that provides stability and waterproofing.
A top all-purpose midweight boot
The cork-bed of your sandals in a boot.
Boots ideal for summer fast-packing
A well valued boot, great of every level of hiking.
You won't find a better all-purpose lightweight boot.
While these shoes aren't for running they are great on the trail or on the town.
Not the best for long days and heavy loads, but great for fastpacking.
If a short trip is your plan, grab these boots and go.
A long lasting, hard working boot
Whether you're on rocks or a grassy trail, you're sure to love these boots.
A favorite among mountaineers
A boot that actually improves your agility
They're not fancy, but they do the job.
New technologies make this pair of boots a standout.
Become geckolike the minute you slide into these shoes.
Given an Editors' Choice Award in 2001, this boot continues to be a great value.
Socks are as important as the footwear we buy. Follow our two-step buyer's guide.
...From The Experts At Montrail
Waterproof boots can make the difference between a sick hike and a miserable slog.
Lengthen your boots' life span by following this simple maintenance plan.
Consider these points when deciding if an approach shoe is right for you.
You can experience heavenly hiking even if you lose your boot sole.
Rubber boots are essential gear in the tundra.
Think blisters are a sure thing when you hike? Think again: Here's your ticket to preventing and treating the dreaded sores.
There are different boots for different types of terrain. Follow these 10 essentials to match sole to trail.
Before you get a new boot, make sure the shoe fits with our sizing chart.
Inventor finds a way to harness all that energy you burn on switchbacks and long trails.
Know what can and can't be repaired on your boots, and who to call.
Insiders' tips to keep your hikers on the trail longer.
Take care of your hiking boots and they'll take care of you.
A simple blister remedy gets you back on the trail fast.
For maximum comfort, keep your feet drier and cooler.
Log some easy "city" miles in your new hiking boots before that epic trip.
