Vasque Inhaler II Mid GTX Hiking Boot

Weight

They weigh 2 pounds, but these felt lighter on our feet than some trail runners we tested. Chalk it up to the springy EVA midsole and rockered toe, which gave us a smooth, rolling gait.

Support

One tester carried 50 pounds in Alaska’s Tongass National Forest without issue, thanks to the ankle support. “The high collar has generous padding and is especially cushioned at the Achilles,” he says. The honeycomb overlay on the heel and upper helped the shoe maintain its shape and kept rocks and brush from damaging it.

Breathability

The foam and mesh upper allows air to move relatively freely through the boot (for a shoe with a waterproof liner), keeping feet cool and comfortable on warm-weather hikes.