Backpacker Magazine – March 2006

Hiking Boots Review: Montrail Stratos XCR

Boots that are amazingly stable, delightfully lightweight, and surprisingly waterproof.

by: Steve Howe, BACKPACKER Rocky Mountain Editor

Tags:
• Gear
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• Hiking boots
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This staff favorite topped a recent test of lightweight boots (8/05), thanks to its ounce-scrimping combination of ankle support, versatile fit, cushy sole, and innovative waterproofing (it features an external Gore-Tex XCR sock). Cut mid-high, this trail-runner-style shoe has impressed us from the Canadian Rockies to Glacier and the North Cascades, handling 5-day trail treks with up to 50 pounds. They've gotten us up Class III Mt. Siyeh in Glacier, and across crumbling moraines in Switzerland. They gained yet another fan on a recent speed blitz of seven national parks in a week, where our female tester called them "surprisingly stable on rocky terrain, dreamy lightweight, and insanely waterproof." Best for narrow- to medium-width feet.

Price: $140

Weight: 2 lbs. 2 oz.

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