The first step to a good hike
I didn’t understand the need for hiking boots until the day I hiked up 10,064-foot-high Mt. Baldy in tennis shoes. After 10 hours of jabbing feet and toes on sharp rocks, a few things became clear: Hiking is a serious fitness activity, and boots are necessary for stability and protection on steep and rocky trails. Here are some good choices in the latest hiking footwear.
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Flexible, stylish and versatile
La Sportiva North Dome: Versatile shoe for many trail activities.
Likes: A multi-function shoe suitable for day hikes, “scrambling” (climbing on all fours up bounders and walls), “fast-packing” (speed hiking), short-distance trail running, even mountain biking (low-profile lugs easily slip into toe clips). “Sticky rubber” sole, usually found in climbing shoes, grips well on wet, rocky surfaces. Unique close-to-the-toes lacing provides stability on steep downhills. Rubber toe bumper protects against rocks.
Dislikes: Low-top upper and flexible sole don’t provide enough support to let you carry a backpack long distances.
Price: $95. (303) 443-8710; sportiva.com.
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For beginners
Hi-Tec Altitude: An entry-level boot for moderate day hiking.
Likes: What most people need: good looks and decent function at a reasonable price. Waterproof leather. A three-quarter-length steel shank in the foot bed for protection from rocks. Large metal eyelets allow tight, secure lacing. Roomy fit.
Dislikes: The sole may not be stiff and supportive enough to keep feet fresh all day. Hi-Tec’s typical one-size-fits-all interior is too big for some feet.
Price: $79.99; (800) 521-1698; hi-tec.com.
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Solid and supportive
Lowa Tempest Mid: Good boot for day hikes and light overnight backpacking.
Likes: Solid and more supportive than a basic day hiker. Should keep feet comfortable while hiker lugs a 20-pound backpack 15 to 20 miles overnight. Polyurethane coating on heel and toe for durability.
Dislikes: None. If you prefer a low-top, the Tempest Lo is just $100.
Price: $125, (888) 335-5692; lowaboots.com.
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The burly overnighter
Merrell Yukon Gore-Tex: An all-weather backpacking boot.
Likes: Classic seamless-leather looks. Gore-Tex lining provides waterproofing while also helping to reduce foot moisture. Easy-pull laces. Ultra-stiff sole (with a steel shank and burly rubber lugs) blasts over rocks and protects feet on extended backpacking trips.
Dislikes: A narrow toe box that may not work for people with wide feet. Like all serious backpacking boots, these need 25 to 50 miles to be broken in. Too stiff and heavy for casual day hiking.
Price: $175. (800) 789-8586; merrell.com.
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-- Roy M. Wallack