Comparison review: Comparing lightweight hiking boots perfect for day trips and fast packing

When choosing the best mountaineering boots, the most important thing is to make sure your shoes fit your foot shape. This is a golden rule that remains unchanging even after a long history of mountain climbing, but in recent years, when genres have become more diverse and subdivided, it is a problem that it is not easy enough to reach the perfect pair of shoes. The current situation is that you have to go around the shops and try on multiple pairs each time, making choosing shoes more complicated and cumbersome.

The situation is the same for hiking shoes, which is one of the lightest among mountaineering boots. These hiking boots are similar to everyday sneakers in appearance and comfort, and are perfect for beginners, from day trips on relatively mild terrain to staying in a light-wearing hut. These hiking boots are becoming increasingly available due to the evolution of technology and the popularity of easy hiking.

This time, we've been comparing these hiking shoes from various perspectives over the course of about six months and compiling the results. We have picked out 10 recommended items from the models sold in 2016 of major brands, and compared them under the same conditions, and evaluated them from various perspectives, including comfort, slip resistance, and fatigue resistance. In my personal opinion, is there such a difference in sneakers other than the design? I was a little worried, but when I tried to compare them carefully, I found that small differences were piled up, and in the end, the results were interesting, with a clear difference being made up of the angle I was assessing.

With the above in mind, we have selected the best outdoor gearzine hiking shoes from several perspectives, so we hope this will be of some help to choose shoes, such as those who are about to start mountain climbing or hiking, those who are looking for light mountain climbing such as fast packing, and those who are looking for shoes that won't get tired of long-term travel.

In general, the term hiking shoes is more popular, but although there are various theories about the correct terminology, for example, according to REI, an American outdoor gear specialty store, "shoes" now refer to low-cut models , so we would like to unify models that are mid-cut and above that will be discussed first to be called "hiking boots."

table of contents

• About the items we compared and tested this time
• Test results and spec comparison table
• Summary of evaluation results - Recommended hiking boots by type -
• Detailed reviews of each item (page 2)

About the hiking boots compared this time

When it comes to mountaineering boots, trekking boots (climbing boots) are expensive, sturdy, and weigh almost 500g to 1kg per shoe. However, if you walk in light clothing even on short courses that allow you to go on a day trip from urban areas, even if you are walking in a long course, it can often be a bit exaggerated and more tiring. For this reason, these days, it is easy to walk on mountain trails, and we also recommend hiking shoes that are light and comfortable, especially hiking boots that cover the ankles. summarized the benefits and recommended models here, " 10 pairs of lightweight hiking shoes you'll want to wear to the fullest ," but first we'll look at the criteria for selecting recommended candidates when actually comparing them.

• Lightweight type weighs less than 500g per foot
• Mid-cut model that protects your ankles and is highly waterproof
• Basically, models that specialize in hiking and approach shoes are excluded.
• Available in Japan, up to one pair of each manufacturer

Hiking boots are basically "door to peak" and are worn all the way from around town, so to be honest, design is especially important. For this reason, I have no choice but to have personal preferences when picking up, but I still had a lot of trouble narrowing down the search. The trouble is that even for similar purposes, this model is just over 500g. Realistically, a weight difference of about 100g is almost unlikely to have a major impact on the evaluation, but this time I've been ignoring it so I've ignored it. For this reason, there were still many shoes that would be good even if they were out of the selection, but despite the backlash, we have settled down to the 10 items this time.

Test environment

The test period for the hiking boots is approximately six months from May to early October 2016. The test is only done by the author. All items are purchased by themselves. It was used in the suburbs of Tokyo and in mountains in Okuchichibu and Joshinetsu (around 1,000 to 2,000m).

To test, we first try out the day trip course, which involves walking (or trail running) with about 7kg of luggage on our back. In addition, we randomly wear separate boots on both sides and the left and right, and compare them under the same conditions by walking on the same course (but we do not compare all combinations of 10 types). As a guideline, it is calculated that you walk normally on a day trip (including walking around town) and 20km in comparison to the left and right sides, and that you walk for a total of at least 40km with each shoe.

Furthermore, all 10 pairs are compared and tested in the same location in specific terrain conditions such as wet monoliths. Models that seem particularly good at running are also worn on trails and roads. Other detailed test conditions are supplemented in a detailed review of each item.

Five indicators are set for the evaluation items based on the following assumptions. Note that the evaluation values ​​for the test results are merely relative indicators within the test, based on the judgment of the evaluator who conducted the test and do not have any objectivity.

• Comfort is necessary for comfortable walking, such as comfort and breathability.
• "Grip" is used to land without slipping even on harsh terrain, and to convey the strength of your feet to the ground without letting it escape.
• "Support = stability" to prevent shaking when landing or kicking
• "Weight" is essential for light foot movement and fatigue reduction
• "Protection" protects your feet from friction, tearing, and other external pressure

When you walk in different shoes on the left and right sides, you can clearly see the difference in cushions and grips.

Test results and 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
This is ◎	Grip power, stability, weight, protection	Comfort, grip, stability, protection	Comfort, grip, stability	Grip power, stability, protection	Protection, good balance	Grip power, weight	Comfort, weight	Grip power	Comfort, protection	protection
This is △	None in particular	None in particular	Weight, protection	weight	None in particular	Stability, protection	Grip power, stability, protection	Comfort, protection	Grip power, stability, 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 pieces)	18	17	15	15	17	18	19	17	16	16
Protection (5 points)	3	3	2	4	3	2	2	2	3	3
Specs
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 g)	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 -

1st overall: Tough terrain and speed hiking are all-around

THE NORTH FACE Ultra Fastpack II Mid GORE-TEX

Ultra Fastpack II Mid GORE-TEX

THE NORTH FACE

The top overall ranking is TNF's lightweight mid-cut boots for fast packing, which evolved into the second generation in the 2016 season. Their high level of perfection, which combines not only lightness, but also a sense of security as a mountain climbing boot, is a major reason for their high praise. This previous work was personally shocking because it was light at 400g. When you try again with this renewed model of this season by comparing it with other models, you will realize that lightness is now only part of the appeal of these shoes in this evolved model.

Although it doesn't feel soft to the touch, the exquisite thickness and strong upper, which are neither too soft nor too hard, does not feel cramped at all, and the sense of unity with the shoes remains incredible, continuing from the previous model. Although the ankles, which are higher than others, feel like they restrict movement, they provide high protection around the ankle and stability when landing.

And what stands out more this time was the high grip power over a variety of terrain. the compression molded cradle guide technology and the Vibram MEGA GRIP outsole introduced this time showed outstanding stability, with dry terrain being the most resistant to slipping in wet rocks and wet forests with mud and moss wet, and was smooth to kick off. The grip of the Vibram MEGA GRIP outsole, which I have seen in other models in particular, . Of course, it is naturally inferior to authentic climbing boots compared to purely pure climbing shoes, but I am amazed at how advances in technology can accommodate such a wide range of terrain with its lightness.

There are quite a few models who aim to go exactly the same line between running shoes and mountaineering boots, but despite their slightly more serious trekking shoes, the balance of running shoes is the best out of the 10 pairs. Of course, it is assumed that the foot shape is correct, but the Ultra Fastpack II Mid is an extremely easy-to-use pair that can be used in all-round styles regardless of the situation.

No.1 in cost performance

Montrail SIERRAVADA MID OUTDRY

SIERRAVADA MID OUTDRY

Montrail

The Sierra Bada was excited by the amazing comfort I felt the moment I tried it on , actually made it as easy to use as expected. Strictly speaking, the Montbell Lapland Boots are cheaper in terms of price, but this one is probably the one that can be used for a variety of activities, including trail running, and it has achieved the No. 1 value for money as the most "value" model.

In terms of weight, it is actually the heaviest of the comparisons this time. Despite this, the great thing about these shoes is that they do not notice any difference in weight when you walk. The supple fabric used for the upper, shoelaces with excellent hold, FluidFoam midsole and a unique rubber outsole that creates comfort, and the numerous mechanisms overlap, making it a perfect match for hiking (or trail running) in this comparison.

On the other hand, we need to look a little out of weak protection that is almost like running shoes, and lack of grip on technical terrain such as wet rocks. For this reason, it cannot be said that you can go to any mountain, but if you are using it as shoes that allow you to easily run along the trails on calm terrain, this is a pair of shoes that I highly recommend as your first pair.

Fast packing boots No.1

adidas TERREX FAST R MID Gore-Tex

TERREX FAST R MID Gore-Tex

adidas

Everyone is surprised when you hear about Adidas' mountaineering boots, but it is a global outdoor brand with a long history and a large selection of models that are also highly excellent in the fields of trail running and fast packing. This time, the TERREX FAST R MID Gore-Tex also clearly demonstrated its abilities.

The lightness of the 400g range, the continental rubber , and the high ankle mobility allow for quick and reliable walking. Furthermore, the heel surrounded by hard plastic and formotion technology It meets the functions required for fast packing, which moves quickly under heavy loads, more accurately than any other model.

It is true that THE NORTH FACE Ultra Fastpack II Mid GORE-TEX is also a model suitable for fast packing, but if you are more concerned about speed, this is the one that we recommend. Although it is slightly inferior in grip on troublesome terrain such as wet rocks and mud, this one is the best in terms of comfortable cushioning and comfort. In other words, if you want to have overall security, the North Face is the best, and if you place more importance on speed, this one is the best. In fact, this was the one I chose when I tried a round-trip day trip at Mt. Kumotori (about 30km).

In any case, the colorful appearance makes it unexpectedly well-balanced, so there is no doubt that this is a light pair of shoes that can be used all-around, without thinking about anything too difficult. Perhaps due to frequent model changes, they often sell special prices at the end of the season every year, so they are actually a good value model.

Excellent grip and protection for all terrain

mont-bell lapland boots

Lapland boots

mont bell

Montbell's lightweight mid-cut boots were extremely unique in comparison, as they featured a running shoe-like feel. It has made it possible to walk in harsh environments such as dry mountain paths, mud, sand, and wet rocks, while lightweight, making it the most stable walking possible.

The upper, reinforced with leather, has a slightly rough feel despite its lightweight. It is true that it is quite poor in terms of comfortable foot movement, such as a stiff sole, deep ankles, and poor breathability, but on the other hand, the high level of perfection as a shoe worn for mountain climbing is incredibly unobtrusive. was the high performance of the unique outsole and trail gripper In tests on wet monoliths, Vibram MEGAGRIP , allowing even beginners to safely place their feet on their feet regardless of the terrain or weather.

In this comparison, this model is ideal for casual hiking and fast packing, and the results are as follows, with a slightly more emphasis on lightness, but to be honest, if you look at it as a normal climbing boot, it is rare that a model has such a lightness (and price) and is so strong. In terms of purpose, it may not be suitable for running activities and you may have the choice to climb, but I think it is actually quite versatile in terms of a place you can go to. This is actually a surprisingly recommended pair for those who are just starting to climb mountains.

Recommended for those who want to pursue comfort in another dimension

La Sportiva SYNTHESIS GORE-TEX SURROUND

SYNTHESIS GORE-TEX SURROUND

La Sportiva

La Sportiva SYNTHESIS GORE-TEX SURROUND responded safely to these challenges, but provided an extraordinary comfort that rivals running shoes .

, GORE-TEX SURROUND a next-generation waterproof material that combines high waterproofness and highest degree of breathability, is by far the least likely to get stuffy than you would expect. It was breathable and quick-drying, just as fast as running shoes that do not require a waterproof membrane. Nanocell technology covers the entire upper with mesh-shaped resin, providing a natural fit and ultimate weight reduction without compromising strength. Furthermore, this shallowest heel makes the ankle mobility and pairs it with a soft and cushioned Vibram outsole, making it a perfect day to walk along sunny midsummer trails with these shoes.

However, for Sportiva, which manufactures many shoe products for a wide range of mountain activities, I was forced to feel a bit weak in grip on rough roads. The softness of the Vibram outsole reduces stability due to heavy loads, and combined with weak ankles and upper protection, it is not very stable. This makes it more fitting in situations that highlight the good points of this model (high-power activities such as speed hiking with light luggage and trail running in low mountains in mild seasons), but it may not be recommended to use it anywhere else.

the La Sportiva Core High GTX, a high-cut model with even greater stability, is available only in some stores in Japan

Next page: Go to detailed reviews for each item