Footwear

For lightweight stability these boots can't be beat.

For lightweight stability these boots can't be beat.

For lightweight stability these boots can't be beat.

For lightweight stability these boots can't be beat.

For lightweight stability these boots can't be beat.

For lightweight stability these boots can't be beat.

For lightweight stability these boots can't be beat.

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 fast and light boot weighs in at 1 lb. 11 oz.

If you're hiking rugged terrain, this $100 boot is for you.

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.

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.

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.

A great pair of versatile leather boots that handle most conditions well.

The stylish Ahnu Mirage is tough enough for the backcountry or streets.

Climbing, hiking or trail-running, this shoes' sticky soles won't let you down.

4 sole-saving tips from a veteran boot doctor

Get maximum support, traction, and protection without wafflestomper weight or break-in. Welcome to the new breed of all-terrain, any-load boots.

Mountain runner has superior grip.

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.

Check out The Backpacker Editors's author page.

Check out The Backpacker Editors, Photos by Julia Vandenoever's author page.

Check out The Backpacker Editors, Photos by Julia Vandenoever's author page.

Check out The Backpacker Editors, Photos by Julia Vandenoever's author page.

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.

Check out The Backpacker Editors's author page.

Choose the right type of gaiter for your trip.

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.

This low-cut's shallow tread grips well through it all

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.

Catch the hot spot before it's too late

A hiking boot that provides outstanding protection against rocks, cactus, snow, and rain

Enough support and comfort to carry a big load for 56 miles in four days--that is, if you're up to it

What to do when your soles come undone.

Prevent blisters, hike grit-free, and find arch support in a lightweight boot

Introducing a new breed of synthetic boots: fast, nimble, and surprisingly supportive.