Readers' Choice 2014: Asolo Vertex GV Hiking Boots
Quintessential backpacking boots - high-cut, durable, and can handle rugged terrain.
Brand: Vertex GV Hiking Boots
Model: Asolo
[durable boots]
These are the quintessential backpacking boots. High cut and made from a combo of split grain leather and synthetic fabric, they’re burly and supportive enough for any type of trip in any type of terrain, yet break-in was practically instantaneous. Whether I was climbing up scree fields in Yellowstone, glacier hiking in Banff, doing trail work in New Hampshire, or backpacking in the Grand Canyon, the Vertex gave me killer traction thanks to an aggressive heel brake and deep Vibram lugs. I carried up to 90 pounds while wearing these boots, and my feet never complained. A polyurethane lasting board provides stiffness and support from heel to arch. Durability is top notch: Mine have seen 300+ days and 3,000+ trail miles and, besides some expected wear on the tread, they show no sign of weakness. $245; 2 lb. 12 oz. (m’s 8); asolo-usa.com