Comparison Review: Lightweight Hiking Boots for Day Hiking and Fastpacking
Written by Yasushi Hisatomi
When choosing the perfect hiking boots, the first and foremost thing is that they fit your foot shape. This remains an unchanging rule even today, even after the long history of mountaineering. However, with the diversification and segmentation of genres in recent years, it's not as easy to find the perfect pair just by doing that, which is a bit of a hassle. You have to go from store to store, trying on multiple pairs each time, and the current situation is that choosing shoes is becoming increasingly complicated and troublesome
The same is true for hiking shoes, which are among the lightest mountaineering boots. They look and feel similar to everyday sneakers and are ideal for beginners, allowing them to be used for a wide range of activities, from day hikes on relatively gentle terrain to overnight stays in lightly equipped huts. Thanks to technological advances and the popularity of easy hiking, the options for hiking boots are becoming increasingly numerous
This time, we've compared hiking shoes from various perspectives over the course of about six months and compiled the results. We selected 10 recommended models from major brands available as of 2016, then compared them under the same conditions and evaluated them from various perspectives, including comfort, slip resistance, and fatigue resistance. Personally, I was a little worried about whether there really was much difference between sneakers other than design, but after carefully comparing them, we found that small differences accumulated, and ultimately, the results were interesting, with clear differences depending on the angle from which they were evaluated
Taking the above into consideration, Outdoor Gearzine has selected the best hiking shoes from several perspectives. We hope that this will be of some help in choosing shoes for people who are thinking about taking up mountain climbing or hiking, people who are interested in light mountain climbing such as fastpacking, and people who are looking for shoes that will not tire them out on long trips
Although the term hiking shoes is more commonly used, there are various opinions as to the correct name. For example, according to REI, an American outdoor gear specialty store, "shoes" currently refers to low-cut models , so from here on, we will refer to the mid-cut and above models as "hiking boots."
table of contents
table of contents
- About the items tested this time
- Test Results & Spec Comparison Table
- Summary of evaluation results ~ Recommended hiking boots by type ~
- Detailed review of each item (page 2)
About the hiking boots we compared this time
When it comes to hiking boots, trekking boots (mountaineering boots) are typically expensive and sturdy, weighing between 500g and 1kg per pair. However, when hiking short trails that can be done in a day from urban areas, or even long trails when walking lightly, they can be a bit bulky and can actually make you tired. For this reason, hiking boots that are easy to walk on mountain trails, lightweight and comfortable, and especially hiking boots that cover up to the ankle, are recommended these days. We've summarized the benefits of these boots and recommended models in our article " 10 Pairs of Lightweight Hiking Shoes You'll Want to Wear Out, " but first let's look at the criteria for selecting recommended candidates when actually trying them out.
- Lightweight type weighing less than 500g per shoe
- Mid-cut model that protects the ankles and is highly waterproof
- Basically, models specialized for hiking, approach shoes, etc. are excluded
- Available for purchase in Japan, limited to one pair per manufacturer
Hiking boots are basically worn "door to peak" from the city, so frankly, design is especially important. For this reason, personal preference inevitably comes into play when selecting, but even so, it was quite difficult to narrow it down. The tricky part was models that weighed just over 500g, even for similar uses. In reality, a weight difference of around 100g hardly has a significant impact on the evaluation, but this time there was no end to it, so I reluctantly left them out. For this reason, there were many other shoes that looked good that were not included in the selection, but even though it was a bit of a drag, I settled on these 10 items
Test environment
The hiking boots were tested over a six-month period, from May to early October 2016. The test was conducted by the author alone. All items were purchased independently. The boots were used in the Tokyo area and in the mountains of Okuchichibu and Joshinetsu (at altitudes of around 1,000-2,000m)
The test begins by walking (or trail running) all day on a day trip with ups and downs, carrying a load of about 7kg. We also randomly wear different boots on each foot and walk the same course to compare them under the same conditions (however, we do not compare all combinations of the 10 types). As a rough guide, we calculate that we walk 20km in a normal day trip (including walking around town), 20km comparing the left and right boots, and a total of at least 40km in each shoe
Furthermore, we tested all 10 pairs of shoes in the same place under specific terrain conditions, such as on wet monoliths. We also wore models that seemed particularly suitable for running on trails and roads. Other detailed test conditions are provided in the detailed reviews for each item
Five indicators were set for the evaluation items based on the following assumptions. Note that the evaluation values of the test results are merely relative indicators within the test, based solely on the judgment of the evaluator who conducted the test, and are not objective in any way
- Comfort, such as good fit and breathability, is essential for comfortable walking for long periods of time
- "Grip" to land without slipping even on rough terrain and transmit the power of your feet to the ground without loss
- "Support = stability" that reduces shaking when landing and kicking off
- Weight is essential for light footwork and fatigue reduction
- "Protection" that protects the feet from friction, tearing, and other external pressure
When you walk in different shoes, the difference in cushioning and grip is immediately apparent
Test Results & Spec Comparison Table
| Overall ranking | 1st place | 2nd place | 3rd place | 3rd place | 5th place | 6th place | 7th place | 7th place | 9th place | 10th place |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| item |  THE NORTH FACE Ultra Fastpack II Mid GORE-TEX |  adidas TERREX FAST R MID Gore-Tex |  montrail SIERRAVADA MID OUTDRY |  Mont-Bell Lapland Boots | TECNICA TCROSS MID SYN GTX |  MERRELL CAPRA BOLT MID GORETEX |  La Sportiva SYNTHESIS GORE-TEX SURROUND |  VASQUE Inhaler II GTX |  Salomon X ULTRA MID2 GTX |  Salewa HIKE ROLLER MID GORE-TEX |
| Overall score (out of 100) | 84 | 83 | 82 | 82 | 80 | 79 | 77 | 77 | 75 | 70 |
| Reference price | 21,600 yen | 21,600 yen | 17,820 yen | 15,984 yen | 21,492 yen | 19,440 yen | 25,920 yen | 25,920 yen | 19,980 yen | 29,160 yen |
| Here is ◎ | Grip, stability, weight, protection | Comfort, grip, stability and protection | Comfort, grip and stability | Grip, stability and protection | Protection and good balance | Grip strength and weight | Comfort, weight | Grip | Comfort and protection | protection |
| Here is △ | Nothing in particular | Nothing in particular | Weight, protection | weight | Nothing in particular | Stability and protection | Grip, stability and protection | Comfort and protection | Grip, stability and weight | Comfort, stability, weight |
| Comfort (30 points) | 24 | 26 | 27 | 23 | 25 | 25 | 27 | 22 | 27 | 21 |
| Grip (25 points) | 24 | 22 | 22 | 24 | 21 | 22 | 18 | 23 | 17 | 19 |
| Stability (20 points) | 15 | 15 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 11 | 13 | 12 | 11 |
| Weight (20 points) | 18 | 17 | 15 | 15 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 17 | 16 | 16 |
| Protection (5 points) | 3 | 3 | 2 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 3 |
| Specifications | ||||||||||
| item | THE NORTH FACE Ultra Fastpack II Mid GORE-TEX | adidas TERREX FAST R MID Gore-Tex | montrail SIERRAVADA MID OUTDRY | Mont-Bell Lapland Boots | TECNICA TCROSS MID SYN GTX | Merrell Capra Bolt Mid Gorete | La Sportiva SYNTHESIS GORE-TEX SURROUND | VASQUE Inhaler II GTX | Salomon X ULTRA MID2 GTX | Salewa HIKE ROLLER MID GORE-TEX |
| size | 27cm | 27cm | 27cm | 27cm | EU42 | EU43 | EU42 | 27.5cm | 26.5cm | EU43 |
| Actual weight (one foot) | 434 | 448 | 481 | 480 | 447 | 425 | 418 | 442 | 456 | 475 |
| Upper Material | Midfoot support cable, rubber toe cap | Synthetic | Synthetic | Synthetic, suede leather | Synthetic upper, stretch fabric. | Synthetic | AirMesh / Nano-Cell direct injection /PU Leather | 1.6mm waterproof leather, air mesh | Synthetic (SENSIFIT) | 1.6mm suede leather, stretch fabric |
| Outsole | Vibram MEGAGRIP | Continental rubber | Rubber outsole | Trail Gripper | Vibram outsole | Rubber outsole (M SELECT GRIP) | Vibram Nano with Impact Brake System | Vibram MEGAGRIP | Rubber outsole (CONTAGRIP) | Vibram RGS Speed Ascent |
| waterproof | GORE-TEX | GORE-TEX | OutDry | GORE-TEX | GORE-TEX | GORE-TEX | GORE-TEX | GORE-TEX | GORE-TEX | GORE-TEX |
| Footbed | Ortholite | Ortholite | original | original | Ortholite | M SELECT FRESH | Ortholite | Dual Density EVA | Ortholite | MFF+ Multi-Fit Footbed |
Summary of evaluation results ~ Recommended hiking boots by type ~
Overall No. 1: Great for all-around use, from rough terrain to speed hiking
THE NORTH FACE Ultra Fastpack II Mid GORE-TEX
Taking first place overall is TNF's lightweight mid-cut boots for fastpacking, which evolved into their second generation in the 2016 season. The main reason for their high rating is not just their lightness, but also their high level of perfection, which combines the security of a mountaineering boot. The previous model was a shock to me, weighing just 400g. Trying out this season's updated model again and comparing it with others, I realize that with this evolved model, lightness is now just part of the shoe's appeal
Although it's not fluffy to the touch, the upper is neither too soft nor too hard, and has just the right thickness and strength to provide a snug, enveloping hold without feeling cramped at all. The sense of unity with the shoe continues to be excellent, as with the previous model. The ankle is higher than others, which feels a bit restrictive, but in return it provides high protection around the ankle and a sense of stability when landing
What really stood out this time was the high level of grip on a variety of terrain. The newly introduced compression-molded Cradle Guide technology and Vibram MEGA GRIP outsole sole structure provided exceptional stability, not only on dry terrain, but also on wet rocks and in forests soaked with mud and moss, with excellent grip and a smooth kick-off. In particular, the grip of the Vibram MEGA GRIP outsole, which I found after trying other models, is genuine . Of course, it's natural that it's inferior to full-fledged hiking boots when compared purely, but it's amazing to see the technological advances that have allowed this lightness to be adapted to such a wide range of terrain.
While there are quite a few models that aim for the perfect middle ground between running shoes and hiking boots and end up being neither, this pair stands out among the 10 for its well-balanced design that leans slightly more towards full-fledged trekking shoes while maintaining the lightness of running shoes. Of course, this assumes that your foot shape fits, but the Ultra Fastpack II Mid is an all-around versatile pair that can be used in any situation and is recommended for anyone.
Best value for money
montrail SIERRAVADA MID OUTDRY
The Sierra Bada which I had high hopes for after experiencing how comfortable they were the moment I tried them on , actually lived up to my expectations. Strictly speaking, the Montbell Lapland Boots are cheaper, but these boots seem more suitable for a variety of activities, including trail running, so they have been awarded the No. 1 spot for value for money as the best value model.
In terms of weight, these shoes are actually the heaviest of the ones compared in this study. However, the great thing about these shoes is that when you walk in them, you don't feel any difference in weight at all. The combination of numerous mechanisms that create comfort, such as the supple fabric used in the upper, the shoelaces that provide excellent hold, the FluidFoam midsole and the unique rubber outsole , makes hiking (or trail running) one of the most comfortable shoes in this study.
On the other hand, you have to overlook the weak protection that is almost like that of a running shoe, and the lack of grip on technical terrain such as wet rocks. For this reason, I can't say that you can go on any mountain, but if you are looking to use these shoes to run lightly on trails on gentle terrain, then I would highly recommend them as your first pair of shoes
No.1 Fastpacking Boots
adidas TERREX FAST R MID Gore-Tex
Many people are surprised to hear that Adidas is a hiking boot manufacturer, but in fact, it is a global outdoor brand with a long history and many excellent models in the fields of trail running and fastpacking. The TERREX FAST R MID Gore-Tex boots clearly prove their capabilities.
Continental rubber with excellent cushioning and grip , and the high mobility around the ankle allow for quick and sure footwork. Furthermore, the heel surrounded by hard plastic and the formotion technology
THE NORTH FACE Ultra Fastpack II Mid GORE-TEX certainly a suitable model for fastpacking, this one is recommended if you prioritize speed. While it lacks grip on tricky terrain like wet rocks and mud, it offers more comfortable cushioning and a more comfortable fit. In other words, if you're looking for overall peace of mind, The North Face is the best choice, but if you prioritize speed, this is the best choice. In fact, this was the one I chose when I attempted a day trip (approximately 30km) to Mt. Kumotori.
In any case, the shoes are surprisingly well-balanced given their colorful appearance, so they are definitely a lightweight pair of shoes that can be used for all-around activities without having to think too hard. Perhaps because they change models frequently, they often have special sales at the end of each season, so they are actually a good value model
All-terrain type with excellent grip and protection
Mont-Bell Lapland Boots
Among the many running shoe-like feel of the boots in this comparison, Montbell's lightweight mid-cut boots offered a unique feel. They provided the most stable walking experience despite their light weight, in harsh environments ranging from dry mountain trails to mud, sand, and wet rocks
The leather-reinforced upper feels a bit bulky despite its light weight. It's true that the stiff sole, deep ankle, and poor breathability make it quite unsuitable for comfortable walking, but on the other hand, it's a truly flawless shoe for mountain climbing. What particularly surprised me was the high performance of the unique outsole, Trail Gripper . In tests on wet rock, Vibram 's MegaGrip, allowing even beginners to wear them with confidence, regardless of terrain or weather.
In this comparison, the model is ideal for casual hiking and fastpacking, so the scores are weighted more towards lightness, resulting in the results shown here, but honestly, it's rare to find a model that's this light (and this price) and this strong when compared to regular hiking boots. In terms of use, it's not suited to running-type activities, so mountain climbing might be your only choice, but in terms of the places you can go, I think it's actually quite versatile. As a first pair of shoes for people who are just starting out in mountain climbing, I actually recommend it
Recommended for those who want to pursue a different level of comfort
La Sportiva SYNTHESIS GORE-TEX SURROUND
Sportiva SYNTHESIS GORE-TEX SURROUND handles these challenges with ease while providing an extraordinary level of comfort that rivals that of running shoes .
GORE-TEX SURROUND which combines excellent waterproofness with maximum breathability, was far more breathable than expected, and it was far less stuffy than expected. Its breathability and quick-drying properties rivaled those of running shoes that don't require a waterproof membrane. NanoCell technology , provides a natural fit and extremely lightweight construction without sacrificing strength. Furthermore, the shallowest heel of the shoes offers excellent ankle mobility, and combined with the soft, cushioned Vibram outsole, these shoes will ensure you have a superbly comfortable day out on a sunny midsummer trail.
However, considering that Sportiva manufactures a wide range of shoes for a wide range of mountain activities, I couldn't help but feel that the grip on rough terrain was a little weak. The softness of the Vibram outsole means that it loses stability under heavy loads in exchange for cushioning, and combined with the weak ankle and upper protection, the stability isn't very high. For this reason, while it's perfectly suited to situations where this model shines (high-intensity activities such as speed hiking or trail running with a light load in low mountains in mild seasons), I wouldn't recommend using it anywhere else
The La Sportiva Core High GTX model with improved stability, is only available at select stores in Japan