The Best Boots For Backcountry Hiking
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 26 พ.ค. 2023
- The Best Boots For Backcountry Hiking
Chadd knows that most of you don’t hike and all you do is eat Bojangles. But, in case you ever do decide to hike, he wanted to make this video to help you decide on a pair of boots. Thanks for watching!
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One of the best back country boot reviews I’ve watched. Thank you!
Great review, fellas. I’ve worn the same model Lowa’s for several years and have been very happy with them. Many of my hikes are in winter conditions and they have faired extremely well.
Thanks! Last year I purchased my first pair of Hokas. You were spot on concerning that referral. Going to be checking out these boots, it is great to have an independent consumer review.
Thank you guys for all your reviews posts!
Great informational video Chad. Really do appreciate your reviews.
Chad, just saw this video in April 2024. Thank you for the boot review, I've been looking for a more durable backcountry boot and have always been a true Lowa fan because their boots have been good to my feet, especially now at 58 years old. Your word is as good as gold as far as I'm concerned, I'm ordering the Lowa Camino today! Thank you, brother!
Hi Chad! Love you, Chili, Blake and Brook. I also love truck talk and your intro music. Love your faith and common sense.
I'm retired SF and I've also done a lot of traipsing through the woods, to include a thru-hike of the AT. Most of the time, I prefer light trail runners with Merino wool socks and maybe a pair of light gators for 3-season footwear. I'd get a durable boots like the Lowas if I was tackling rocky, mountainous terrain. For winter weather, I might go for the waterproof boot depending on what I was doing, but I usually don't wear waterproof footwear. And I would always carry a pair of down booties to put on at a cold weather campsite.
I have over 75 pairs of boots and shoes as a footwear collector and user. Red Wing USA, Danner USA, White's USA, Chippewa USA, Bates, Belleville USA, Wolverine, CAT, 5:11 Tactical, Tony Lama USA, Justin, Durango USA, Ariat, Merrell, Allen Edmonds USA, New Balance USA.......etc etc etc.
I like them all and they serve any purpose I can dream up. I have to say though the most "Doomsday" "Bombproof" pair of them all are my White's Smoke Jumper Lace To Toe boots. Those would go through a apocalypse and still survive. If you know anything about these boots or have seen them before you will understand what I mean. They were designed and are used by U.S. Forest Service Wildland Firefighter "Smoke Jumpers".
@Ned Kelly
I stopped buying 4 years ago and wear them every day at work in the HVAC and maintenance trades.
@@JohnDoeEagle1 nice to see whites boots are ur top choice. I visited Spokane last winter and put in an order for the exact same pair u mentioned. Going to pick them up in a few weeks. Hands down the most comfortable & form fitting boot I’ve tried on. Plan on using them in the backcountry of Idaho
@@jsf8145
They were specially designed and made for Paramilitary Wildland Firefighters who jump out of planes to parachute in on ground zero to extinguish the fires. You can't hardily keep a serious face looking at these glue on sole boots. White's Smoke Jumpers are glued/chemically welded, Goodyear welt down stitches AND SCREWED. Yes...like wood/sheet metal screwed. The sole is anchored three ways and ain't coming off no matter what you do.
@@JohnDoeEagle1 my dad worked as a hotshot for a number of years, he still has his White’s boots and they still fit him like a glove to this day some 19 years after he stopped firefighting.
Good content. I've had great results with my Lowa Renegades. I've bought 2 pairs over the last several years.
For years I have used Altra Lone Peak trail runners. I am flat footed so they are perfect for me. And the toe box is what is the best. I have never had 1 single blister. Even after pounding out miles on the Appalachian Trail.
Great to see some detailed review of top quality boots compared to lightweight junk. In a world where trail runners have become way to popular imo, I’m one of the few who has stuck with a heavy duty boot like you. I suppose it depends on the terrain, mileage, weight you’re carrying, etc- but I would never risk saving a little weight over potentially getting stranded in the backcountry over a shoe failure or rolled ankle. My experience has taught me that just about any boot costing over $350 is going to be in a different league in quality, comfort, and durability than those under that price range and worth every penny. Finding the boot or brand that fits is where it’s at.
My Merrell waterproof Moab 3 Mid boots are the bomb. I've worn these walking snowy trails in Colorado and hot humid summer trails in Texas. They provide great support and are incredibly comfortable.
Solid review thank you.
Good information.. I have no experience with boots as comfortable as running shoes, but my Danner boots usually last me a long..long time.
I've been using Keen Dover's for years as my go to work boots and hiking boots. They have held up well for me filling a dual role. My Doctor told me years ago I needed to buy better boots to protect my feet. I finally took his advice after being cut on the 2nd time and haven't bought cheap boots since then.
People don't realize how much "pay now or pay later" means when it comes to boots and shoes. If your dogs are barkin' and all jacked up you are out of the fight. A lot of back, hip and knee problems can be traced back to cheap footwear too.
Waterproof for winter. Breathable for every other season
I think I am on my 4th pair of Lowa Baffin Pro. They are not listed as waterproof, but are more waterproof than a lot of boots I have had that were supposed to be. My first pair of Lowa boots shrank like your Scarpa’s. I have found that using Hubberds shoe grease helps to keep them from shrinking. Neatsfoot oil will definitely keep them from shrinking but you want to use it very sparingly or the leather will actually stretch. Just picked up a pair of Lowa at Midway clearance for $182!
I had a pair of kenetrex 10 years ago, had them for 7 great years with No blisters ever. The pair I bought 3 years ago blisters all time now in the heals and the pad before the toes. I will be trying the lowa boots next. Thank you for the review.
I was waiting for this video!
I use HanWag shoes myself.
Used to love Vasque boots, then went to Asolo - great boot until the sole delaminated and could not be reattached, wanted to buy Crispi as everyone that has them love them, but they were not comfortable to me. I now have HanWag and love them. Comfortable and durable and made for carrying a pack. I also have a pair of Danner Pronghorns for upland hunting. Most comfortable I have ever owned, but I do have a custom insole. Not stiff enough for heavy loads, but great for miles a day in the field or spot and stock. Keep up the great content!
I second ASOLO
The best boots I've ever owned were first a pair of Vasque in the 90's. Hiked the AT in them. Feet stayed dry and not a single blister. Since then I've own two pair of Danner's. One my dad gifted me. Liked them so later on I bought the ones on my feet now.
I found the asolo sole falls off after a lot of exposure to roadsalt in winter. But still love asolo boots till they loose their soul.
I’ve been using Zamberlan and La Sportiva, found both very durable and comfortable. They’re pricey but quality costs money. Thanks for all the info.
I dig the gear reviews man.
Thank you Chadd, very useful vid: used to love Lowa boots, Zephyr gtx are great
Thanks for the review, brother! I nearly pulled the trigger on a pair of $500 Kenetrek Mountain Extreme boots today, but after watching this video I decided to go with the Lowa boots.
Lowa tibet for me in the rocky mountains. Or miendls are amazing also I've been hunting packing and construction in both for years. Great video thanks
Chadd! Congratulations on the Cocodonia finish! You killed it man!! Skål! 👍
Thanks for the review. Been buying boots every 6 months, prob will try the lowa!
I've switched to breathable footwear with quality merino wool socks...combat type boots with drain vents and breathable uppers...I waterproof the toe area but everything else is breathable. They won't be as warm as waterproof boots in the first part of the day but will be warmer and dryer during longer use. Waterproof footwear holds moisture and compromises the insulation value of your socks.
I’m still in search of the perfect boot… it may not be achievable in this lifetime! Haha. That said, my current two submissions (with months and months of wear while rotating between the two) are: Asolo Greenwood EVO and the Salewa Repace GTX. Both are more rigid than a day hiker / sneaker type boot. Both have held up very well in the woodlands of Alabama and while removing hurricane debris from the swamps and urban terrain of Louisiana. Full disclosure though, I immediately “file 13” the factory boot inserts and use my tried and true favorite Rocky Air-Port footbed gel inserts. I have been using these inserts for nearly 30yrs and they would make Chuck Taylor’s bearable 😏👍🏼
I did back country ell hunts in the steeps for 30 years. You need a boot that can hold you and the weight of your pack on side hill traverses. For me Danners were the boot I liked with the bob sole. But over the years they cut back on the quality and they just don't hold up in terms of water proof, stiffness, and the soles start to delaminate at the toe. I switched over to the Kennetrek Mountain Extreme 4 years ago. I do wish they had a bob sole as that provides the ultimate in traction but it is adequate. The support that these boots provide are awesome. I don't have issues with blisters or hot spots with these boots.
Military boots are the best I have found. The same goes for an excellent field jacket with liner. Wool socks bedspread, you just can't beat your local military surplus store.
Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boots are working great for me. Couple hundred miles and no issues
Please dont throw those boots away. They might be trash to you but Donate them you might make someones day when they find a decent pair of boots in goodwill
Eh, if you don't have a job and are a worthless bum you don't have the right to wear a boot/shoe formally owned and worn by a U.S. Navy SEAL. To compound the problem all the wrong people are making money and being rewarded for laziness. Even people who work at Walmart and McDs buy their own footwear!
Goodwill is shit
Throw them and buy a homeless person comfortable shoes
Throw them at a homeless person
@@FirstName-df7yj you're not funny Dick.
I knew the Lowas would be your choice when I first saw them. I’ve had a pair (non-Evo) about 6 years now and they’re the most comfortable I’ve ever worn. They feel like they have inflatable bladders inside that conform to my feet.
The laces are almost too easy to tighten, if I pull on them like I do with all my others they crush my toes. I give them gentle tugs, just enough to tighten the laces between the bottom eyelets, then lock them in place with the first hook.
I use mine for winter hiking & snowshoeing down to around 15F/-10C, and keep them beeswaxed so the leather doesn’t absorb water and freeze.
Mine have been all through the White Mtns of NH and the Longfellows in NW Maine, and handle everything I put them through. I never thought I’d find a pair I liked better than my Fugitives but these are those boots.
Asolo wide model boots fit my feet the best, particularly the gtx fugitive wides are top notch for my foot.
I have a pair of Crispi Colorado boots that I really like. I have had them for 3 years and have had great luck with them in the steep mountains.
I have a pair of Carolina high top riding boots that I cut the heel down. These are great waterproof work boots. For hiking, I always choose Danner boots.
The Lowa's look interesting. The best waterproof boot j have found are the LA Sportiva Nucleo 2. Waterproof, pretty durable, wide available, and fairly lightweight belive it or not. Way lighter than my previous choice, the Salewa. Those were tanks, but narrow, and heavier than they should be.
I don't do trail running but for everyday use I love my Keen Braddocks soft toe. I wear them every single day. Keen seems to make some awesome shoes and work boots! I usually stay with their American made products. They aren't as heavy duty as most work boots but they are so comfortable and last a few years for me.
11B2V here. I've always had great success with the higher end Asolo boots for hiking, backpacking, and mountineering combined with merino wool/spandex blend socks. Something I do with every pair of boots I own is change out the insoles. Even in some of my $200 boots and up, I ALWAYS change the insoles to something better. It makes a monumental difference in the boots performance. And sometimes you have to try different ones to find the best ones for your feet.
I also never try to get one boot to do everything. Just as you would use different tools to do different jobs, boots function the same way. Trail running shoes can be great for day hikes, but not for 10 mile hikes with backpacks on.
I hope this helps you guys make smarter choices in footwear. Don't forget to change your socks often ! Someday, your footware decision could be life and death.
Merrell and Danner boots are also fantastic brands to check out
Great advice
I agree 110%. Do Navy SEALs even hump packs much? I heard they are trained to travel light.
Asolo boots, my go to boot for the adirondacks Bushwackin and easy rock climbing up to 5.4
Like knee high rubber farm style boots for swamps and soggy or slush conditions. Winter Like old snowboarding boots with griival g 10 crampons
I use the lowa for upland hunting. I guide so I put roughly 15 miles a week in them. Good boots.
I agree, the LOWA boots are awesome.
Eh depends on which one you get. Most will burn a hole in your pocket.
Thank you 😊
My favorite water proof hiking boot with good ankle support for packing is Salomon Quest 4 GTX. With out a doubt most comfortable long lasting hiker. Can be used spring, summer, fall and I pair with a 80% merino wool sock, yes sir mighty fine walking right there.
I love the Zamberlan Trail Lite -- amazing comfort and durability.
Thank you, one thing I found out after being deployed to the desert is the socks along with good boots quality water wicking socks will save your feet.
You our great to review boots. First one I’ve seen.
I was a tree climber for a living most my life… the boot I wore was a key factor in my performance at work and competition
I’ve retired from climbing and now a captain flying med evac and I still La Sportiva boots to work… the Trango is my favorite boot for comfort, support and warmth
$400 is a small investment for comfort and performance
Thanks!
Good job
Nicks water works would be an amazing hiking boot. Waterproof, very thick 7-8oz leather with a pliable rubber sole. Also I use thorogood wedge sole boots to hunt. Love em
the water works are water resistant not waterproof
Nicks make a fantastic boot, expensive but great. For someone in your position, a pro, I would suggest having a last made of your feet and then have some good American boot maker make you some to your spec and last. Expensive but the way to go.
Baz
Only Salomon Quest 4d GTX for me.
17 hours hiking in two days on mountain Olympus in Greece was made easier with these boots! Lightweight and rigid enough for the rocky parts and flexible enough for pace. No blisters. The Goretex lasted two years only though.
We love our Salomon’s!!! We have a set of Oboz that are extremely uncomfortable (boots, shoes were ok).
I'm surprised no Solomon reviews
These are really good boots. My first backpacking trip in these was 57 miles over four days in the Ozark Mountians. No blisters and no complaints,
The right boots and socks are some of the most difficult to find essentials I ever had to purchase. Danner USMC RAT combined with Darn Tough socks has been the perfect combination for my needs.
I’ll only wear Darn Tough socks
Asolo Fugitive. Amazing boots. Very durable. No break in required. Out today the box and on the trial now problem. Waterproof and very breathable. You should at least try a pair once
Love my Lowa boots (wide) that I have had for almost 10 years. I'm going to have new heels put on them and hopefully wear them for another 10 years.
Solomon makes an excellent waterproof hiking boot. I’ve tried Vasque, Asolo, Merrill, etc. and I’ve liked Solomon the best.
solomon used to make a good boot. not anymore
I owned a bike messenger service and wore scarpas low top hiking/climbing shoes and they were great! Long lasting and I wasn’t easy on them, they were comfortable well made shoes. My shoes were most like the scarpa mojito 👍🏻
I bought a pair of Scarpa hiking boots on a trip to Italy back in 96 and they lasted me 25 years..re-soled twice. One piece leather with no plastic..they need to bring that boot back.
I’ve started wearing Xero boots. Love em
Have you heard of and looked at the Russell Moccasin Boots ? These are a true moccasin made boot from leather and they can make them from any variety of leather and material combination you desire. The design makes them water proof and comfortable. The boots are completely rebuildable. They are not cheap. However they have a sound history. Would be interesting to see if they hold up to your standards.
Love my Timberland boots. From day one they feel great.
Nice review Chad. Crispi are my goto, they are very expensive but they perform. No other boot holds up to intended Backcountry abuse like them, I wear the insulated Guide model but they have alot of variety in their lineup if you need a lighter more athletic style boot.
Hey bud I don’t run races or anything like that but I hunt and hike a good bit here in Floyd CO . And way up in Cohutta at my cabin there’s a lot of rocks around my off grid place up there and all mountains too I’ve been liking the Rocky SV 2 the soles come up around my feet and with the goretex they don’t leak and are pretty damn warm too I was never a fan of rocky boots till I tried these but my favorite is Danner boots for mostly static situations they are pricey but so are the Rocky’s these are my opinions on boots lol thanks for sharing the info
I’ve got Lowa renegades. Love em👍🏼
I’d highly recommend Kenetrek or Drew’s boots, I switch between their LPC and Loggers for all my long rucks depending on terrain.
Best boot = the old jungle warfare boot with the water drain vents 🤣
They still work great and I have a pair of the OD/Black ones somewhere myself from back in the day.
Mcrae manufactures the jungle boots closest to what used to be used from the sixties through late nineties. Mcrae jungle boots are also American made...in North Carolina. Not in communist China or Vietnam.
Chad, with footcare such a priority, how do you contend with the bottom of your feet turning black &layers of skin & toenails falling off? The clock & miles per day needed seems to be opposite of being able to maintain your feet properly. In addition how do you condition your feet better for the next rqce, won't skin breakdown & toenails falling off always be a concern. Congratulations on your achievement love your vlogs & podcasts
Gotta try Salomon 4D XA mid or higher forces duty boots!! Give them a wear to the back country and you won’t be disappointed. I’ve used and wear the XA forces shoes, XA mid and insulated 4D GTX boots and they all perform well. A boot bottom with a sneaker feel.
I’ve found the RedWing Exos Light to be a great boot… waterproof, everyday comfort and has the boa lacing system… take care of your feet and they’ll take you anywhere you wanna go! Cheers! 🍻
Good stuff
Altra makes a good shoe. One pair got me thru two R2R2R hikes.
Altama abbottobad hikers are good. Fairly waterproof unless you submerge your boots. Very comfortable
I like Keen because of the wide toe box. I found only their full leather boots to be their only true waterproof boots regardless of the "Keen Dry" label on all Keens. Many miles with that brand backpacking here in Appalachia.
Bought a pair of Keen after trying a ton on. Thought I bought a year ago.. looked and it was in 2021. Love them. I do wish they had two hooks per side vs just one. I wear them casually and hiking.. and anytime we go on ski trips.
Thanks brother👍🇺🇸👍
I just bought a pair of Zamberlan LYNX MID GTX RR BOA hunting boots. Best boots ive everworn bar none. Extreme comfort and great flexibility when walking. A bit pricey at $470 but more than worth it.
Thank you for your review. I’ve considered purchasing the Hard Scrabble in the past so this was great information.
My go-to boot at the moment is the Crispi Summit. Comfortable, durable, and not too hot. Has a nice wide to box.
I wore Danners for decades and they’re a solid choice: Elk Hunters, Mountain Light, and Mountain Light 2. They can be a bit tight in the toe box.
Keen nxis explores. Love those boots. They are waterproof as well with some gtx. The others I love are asolos. A lot like those lowas
Lowa makes a great boot. Good call by the tech guy.
I have 2 pair on Danner boots and I love them!
Solomon Quest 4D GTX Backpackng boot. Solid Comfort and durability. The lower profile of the same model are great.
My best pair ever were Vasque Sundowner's 3/4 steel shank late 80's early 90's model... bulletproof comfortable.. one of the best.
I've had Merril, Asolo, Vasque, Solomon. etc.. etc I have to say my preferred today is the Solomon 4D Quests.. light, comfy, waterproof, and durable. Darn Tough Socks... well worth the combination of those socks and boots. FYI Darn Tough gives you a lifetime warranty on their socks.. high-quality Merino Wool.
Thank you Chad, for the review and bringing this most important topic to the front. I live out in Utah, and spend alot of time in the back country here, mostly above 8000 ft to 11,000
I wear merino wool socks everyday, my feet sweat something terrible in any other sock or a non leather boot.
Yes, they are a great pair with multiple options for different seasons and different cuts low, mid, high etc... and different cushion levels. I really enjoy the Darn Tough brand.
As far as boots, I did go try on a pair of Hoka's that seem very promising, I wanted a lighter softer boot to do some. I'll post a review in here after using them.
Again, great information. On a personal note, I think the braids look more Viking and better than just the free flowing beard. Keep all the info coming.
if you are getting blisters 2 things sizing is off because your foot is sliding or 2 just get a different insert. I am a forester and I wear those Kenetreks and theyre the best thing I have ever put on my feet.
Lowa Renegade GTX + darn tough socks for me, It ried my first pair of Lowa 10 years ago and never switched for another brand.
Good reviews, its hard to find that perfect boot. Iv tried!
I recommend Lundhags hiking boots... quick break in and comfortable.
I do quite a bit of hiking and I always take Bojangles with me.
I would encourage you to try La Sportiva boots, I use them for Alpine climbing and have a lighter pair for basic pack packing and muti day hiking
Thorogood are my favorites. Danner close second. Foundation Repair installer here.
Nice and Just FYI I have Destroyed boots in 9 days Hunting where they were coming apart with about 10-14 miles in a day and I have tried a lot of brands. I buy the best I can get as a quality boot is my most important piece of hunting gear period. But Marine’s can be hard on gear.
I've yet to find anything better than Lowa personally
Try Crispi boots. Specifically ones with their ankle bone support system (abss). Spent 2 weeks in the San Juan mountains chasing elk and I don't think I could've rolled my ankle even if I tried to. Even with my 70 lbs pack on my back.
Got the lowa renegade gtx and it's very rigid, one thing I've got to have is vibram soles, plus it's gor-tex guaranteed to keep you dry, if they fail within a yr you get 100% refund or replacement, my girl got the Hokas hopefully they will hold up for her, Thanks Chad 😊
How are the Lowe’s in winter? Have you had any sustained winter wear? Are they warm? Thx!
I spent a lifetime wearing cheap, crap boots that felt horrible, not knowing any better; this caused my feet to be in a state of unending discomfort. My feet hurt today non-stop.
The only footwear I can even put on is made in Oregon USA by Danner Boots. The only line they make that I haven't tried is their famed hiking boot.
I use their hunting and work boots every day. If you want support and protection I recommend their Fort Lewis boot. My 2 favorite boots in the world are:
1) non safety toe, Danner Hood Winter Lights; these are my church boots because there are so pretty.
2) safety toe, Danner Centurion; best work boots I've ever put my foot into.
3) anything else, Danner Fort Lewis.
One pair may last a lifetime but what a better way of life!!
Can’t beat a Lowa Hiking Boot. Right out of the box
Great video and information. What type of socks would you use. I have been wearing pretty good wool socks. I good out hiking here in Florida. I'm still wearing lightweight issue boots. I didn't have great socks in the Marines.
I have some Merrell Crosslanders. They're a lot like a tennis shoe and work for me. My daughter has some Scarpas of some sort. The expensive sort, IIRC. My wife... I don't know what brand hers are, but they have about a 4 inch heel and flashing lights in the soles. Don't get much hiking out of her, but she has her uses.
No one mentioned Danner boots, rocky desert hiking holds up forever. Burned up merrels redwings in a year, Danners going strong 4 years! Yea baby 💪
What style of danner
Lowas are great; I now use the boots made by his brother's company, HanWag.
..Learned back in Boy Scout days " take care of your feet ,, they will take care of you " .. with the mass hikers today that want tennis shoe feel , the quality boots have a tough go ,so the costs go up ...
You should try a pair of Russell Backcountry boots. Has served elite outdoorsmen for over 100 years.
nice boots you have there fellar, must benn them big ol sale in the boot shop mister