Backpacking on rugged terrain, uneven terrain, and multiple challenges puts pressure on the feet toe. Therefore, the boot should justify ultimate comfort under the feet, durable manufacturing, and excellent traction that prevents slipping.
I have tested dozens of the best hiking boots for backpacking that are exceptional for many reasons. Some boots are excellent for backpacking, while some are only best in specific environments/ terrain. So, let’s see which boot you will choose for your next backpacking trip!
Backpacking Hiking Boots Reviews
1. Timberland Men’s White Ledge Ankle Boot
Timberland Men’s White Ledge hiking boot is among the lightweight footwear with only 1.1 pounds which has been a good factor for removing stains from my feet.
Also, its flexible leather uppers, imported material, and rubber outsole provided excellent value for backpacking and when I have to carry a load during ascending.
With that, this boot has 4.74 shaft measurements from the arch, which is reasonable for stability. The overall resilience in its insoles and cushioning further provided a decent amount of support for my feet.
This Timberland boot features seam-sealed waterproof construction and rustproof speed lace hardware for custom fit. Wearing this boot in misty and mossy environments becomes reliable, and I never get my feet wet.
The interior felt supreme plus, and this boot has no apparent reason to overlook its performance for backpacking.
Its laces are long enough, plus the stability is appreciable.
The laces never come loose for backpacking, and this helped me the most. Also, the laces are easy to knot and style.
- Great stability and a sturdy outsole
- Anti-rust hardware and waterproof uppers
- Soft and flexible interior with full-grain leather
- Lightweight manufacturing
- None
2. Skechers Men’s Relment-Pelmo Hiking Boot
Skechers Men’s Relment-Pelmo is a compact hiking boot; therefore, it works perfectly for backpacking on different trails.
The durable uppers and thickset synthetic outsole are supreme for maintaining performance on abrasive and bumpy terrains.
Its rugged outsole is ideal for traction; therefore, I quickly hiked and carried backpacking with ultimate grip.
The flexed grip and relaxed interior cushioning enhance the day-long wearing.
What made this boot a top choice for backpacking is the water-resistance performance that made sure of the dry and cozy features.
With that, the memory foam let out delivered absolute plush.
The toe box is sole, which gave me enough satisfaction for feet safety, and I didn’t get injured while carrying the load.
So this boot became my best pick for its safety and solid manufacturing.
To its wraparound ankle support, I quickly hiked and continued backpacking for more than 15 miles, which tells the durability and comfort level of this Skechers Relment-Pelmo.
Overall, this boot is fine for hiking as well as backpacking.
- Rugged outsole maintains grip while backpacking
- Perfect neat and flexible seams
- Keeps feet dry and cozy due to waterproof uppers
- Comfortable out-of-the-box design and plush cushioning
- Feels somewhat heavier
3. Vasque Women’s Breeze GTX Hiking Boot
Best Women Hiking Boots for Backpacking
This Vasque hiking boot for women has been well-received for backpacking for several reasons.
For instance, it offers Gore-Tex waterproofing upper, which keeps feet dry and warm enough to maintain coziness.
Also, the combination of leather and fabric delivers comfort and flexibility on sensitive skin.
Also, this women’s boot offers breathability with AirMesh uppers which is impressive for foot hygiene and absolute airflow.
For backing activity, the rubber outsole is there. The molded toe cap and rigid TPU stability plate are what save you from unexpected injuries.
The design and build of this boot are between sporty and athletic and hiking durability, making it the perfect choice.
Among many qualities, the fitting and size of this boot are the main appreciable highlights.
Additionally, it goes in line with your daily stretching, making it very comfortable for your foot after a few days of usage.
The padding from the tongue and collar is pretty much plush and feels amazingly comfortable for day-long hiking.
Overall, Vasque is a durable hiking boot with excellent backing stability, plus the solid toe box and roomy interior further let out value.
- Waterproofing uppers and mesh liners
- Ultra-soft interior comfy ankle support
- Water-repellent laces add stability
- Springy and a flexible Vibram outsole
- Seam-sealing technology
- Not true to size; feel tight
- The soles may come off
4. Thorogood Crosstrex Breathable Leather Boot
Thorogood is the best 8-inch hiking boot, providing the most excellent and 1000g warmer insulation with ankle support I have ever imagined.
Also, it’s efficient enough to maintain stability and balance on abrasive and bumpy terrain, which I quickly hiked and wore for backpacking with minimal strain on the toes.
With that, the breathability factor of the uppers and leather flexibility remain around.
Since the mesh uppers were on this boot, I never got my feet all sweaty or humid while inside the boot.
For me, this boot is a must-have backpacking essential especially for its anti-slip outsole, lightweight build with only 2.2 pounds weight, and flexibility that keeps feet at solace no matter if I jump, hike, or strain the feet while climbing and rocking.
Another thing I notice is its composite shank construction which always maintains that durable flex factor guaranteed.
Features like waterproofing and ideal durability are valuable, even for warehouse and construction work.
In short, this boot is excellent for backcountry and backpacking.
- Oil and slip-resistant outsole
- Abrasion-resistant heel and toe
- Insulated interior and enhanced ankle support
- All-terrain waterproof hiking
- Breathable moisture-wicking lining
- Tight interior; needs a break-in
- Size may differ
5. Asolo Men’s Fugitive GTX Hiking Boot
Asolo is already among top-quality boot brands, but Asolo Men’s Fugitive is undoubtedly the best for its design and appearance.
For instance, it’s red laces and sporty look come with ultra-durability and a tremendously comfortable interior that is plush.
The high-quality material choice and soft uppers ensure the backpacking experience is supreme for feet solace.
For instance, its Cordura, leather, suede material, superb gripping rubber outsole, and the Vibram rubber material adds springiness while you walk or hike.
Flexibility is essential in a backpacking boot, and this boot, with its resilience and the 5.75 shaft-to-arc measurement, provides enough stability to the feet in a supportive manner.
In short, its comfort from the midsole, uppers, and overall cushioning is worth experiencing. Plus, the protection design with anti-supination and anti-torsion gives feet the privilege to walk with even more safety on abrasive and bumpy terrains.
For moisture, Asolo offers GTX waterproofing membranes, which are famous for their efficiency and keep feet dry.
- High-quality material and catchy design
- The lightweight, breathable but solid toe box
- Outsole is efficient in wet and dry places
- Super flexible from its interior to the outsole
- GTX waterproof
- Laces have a problem staying in place
- They get fray too soon
6. Vasque Men’s Sundowner Gore-Tex Backpacking Boot
Nothing is 100% perfect; the same goes for this boot. There could be any reason why Vasque Men’s Sundowner boot is on today’s list.
For instance, its leather uppers are compact and slightly built, and the Gore-Tex is waterproofing.
However, some of the flip sides of this hiking pair have surprised me for its performance, such as its lesser traction and lack of non-marking outsole.
Therefore, I’m not sure if this boot is my ultimate choice to not.
In view of comfort performance, I have its leather uppers and waterproof GTX, which is appreciable.
For impairment, I felt that the toe box could be improved, and the interior was not roomy.
However, this personal preference depends on one’s customs approach to the interior fit and overall stability. This boot is a mediocre choice, especially for its design.
- Offers D-ring lace hooks for better fit
- Gore-Tex wear-resistance and breathability
- Compact and minimal design
- Ankle support is cozy
- Squeaky sounds while walking
- Outsole may crack during the scorching heat
- Not true to size
7. Salomon Women’s Outback 500 GTX W Backpacking
Finalizing the best backpacking boot is difficult, especially if you have to judge footwear based on multiple factors.
For instance, this Salomon boot is very much reliable for outsole resilience and a robust tractor.
Also, this boot is lightweight, and the overall material choice is appreciable.
I purchased this boot for my cousin’s sister, and the shell has appreciated outsole traction on wet and dry terrain without any below-par performance, which is a good feature.
However, some factors still need improvement, and I’m unhappy about them.
Such as this boot does not have the famous Gore-Tex waterproofing, so I was having problems with keeping dry feet.
Another poor thing about this boot is the ankle support which causes chafing on the sensitive skin, especially if you wear this boot without socks.
This certainly created a hindrance for a day-long backpacking trip. Moreover, the limited color range is a poor thing. My sister didn’t like it.
- Outsole traction is reliable on wet and dry terrains
- Ultra-lightweight design helps in brisk walking
- Shock-absorbing midsole
- Poor fit causes chafing
- No Gore-Tex membrane
- Color choice is limited and dull
- The interior is not insulated; not best for wearing in snow/cold
Comparison of Best Hiking Boots for Backpacking
| Sr. No. | Name | Best Feature | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Timberland Men’s White Ledge Ankle Boot | Great stability and a sturdy outsole | Check |
| 2 | Skechers Men’s Relment-Pelmo Hiking Boot | Rugged outsole maintains grip while backpacking | Check |
| 3 | Vasque Women’s Breeze GTX Hiking Boot | Waterproofing uppers and mesh liners | Check |
| 4 | Thorogood Crosstrex Breathable Leather Boot | Oil and slip-resistant outsole | Check |
| 5 | Asolo Men’s Fugitive GTX Hiking Boot | High-quality material and catchy design | Check |
| 6 | Vasque Men’s Sundowner Gore-Tex Backpacking Boot | Offers D-ring lace hooks for better fit | Check |
| 7 | Salomon Women’s Outback 500 GTX W Backpacking | Outsole traction is reliable on wet and dry terrains | Check |
Buying Advice to Select the Best Backpacking Hiking Boot
As an avid backpacker, I have personally tested and reviewed seven different backpacking hiking boots based on my experience. From waterproofing to weight, I’ve considered every aspect of these boots and provided honest opinions. When shopping for your backpacking hiking boots, it’s crucial to consider the fit, material, sole, ankle support, waterproofing, weight, and break-in period. Remember that the most expensive option isn’t always the best; each individual’s needs and preferences will vary. By carefully examining these factors and trying on different boots, you can find the perfect pair for your next adventure. Happy hiking!
