Quick Take
The LOWA Renegade Evo GTX Mid is our top pick for 2025, offering excellent comfort, durability, and waterproofing for all-season backpacking. This guide ranks the best backpacking boots across High-End, Mid-Range, and Budget tiers using verified lab data, expert reviews, and aggregated user feedback.
Introduction
Backpacking shoes are evolving: mids and boots are lighter, waterproof membranes more breathable, and sustainability standards are higher. But for multi-day trips with heavy loads, the essentials remain: support, durability, and weather protection.
In this guide, we compare the strongest options for 2025 models that balance weight savings with the stability needed for backcountry travel.
Testing & Selection Process
We reviewed 20+ mid/high-cut boots listed on official US and Canadian brand sites.
Data sources:
- Manufacturer specifications
- Independent lab test data (weights, flex ratings, waterproofing)
- Expert field reviews from reputable publications
- Aggregated buyer feedback from authorized retailers
Evaluation criteria:
- Performance under load
- Durability
- Waterproofing
- Comfort
- Weight
- Value
Scoring Weights
- Performance Under Load: 25%
- Durability: 25%
- Waterproofing: 20%
- Comfort: 15%
- Weight: 10%
- Value: 5%
Top Picks: High-End Tier
| Rank | Product | Weight (g) | Price (USD) | Key Strength | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | LOWA Renegade Evo GTX Mid | 1110 | $255 | Comfort + durability | All-season backpacking |
| 2 | Zamberlan 996 Vioz GTX | 1510 | $375 | Leather longevity + support | Rugged alpine |
| 3 | Salomon Quest 4 GTX | 1430 | $230 | Stability under load | Heavy-pack expeditions |
| 4 | SCARPA Zodiac Plus GTX | 1220 | $299 | Precision + support | Rocky, mixed terrain |
| 5 | Asolo TPS 520 GV Evo | 1640 | $340 | Classic full-leather build | Harsh conditions |
| 6 | La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX | 1250 | $239 | Breathable waterproofing | Long summer hikes |
Top Picks: Mid-Range Tier
| Rank | Product | Weight (g) | Price (USD) | Key Strength | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | HOKA Kaha 2 GTX | 1240 | $240 | Cushion + grip | Long miles, mixed trails |
| 2 | Oboz Bridger Mid Waterproof | 1100 | $190 | Support + durability | Backpacking in wet climates |
| 3 | KEEN Targhee IV Waterproof Mid | 1120 | $170 | Wide fit + proven build | Everyday backpacking |
| 4 | Danner Mountain 600 Leaf GTX | 1125 | $210 | Heritage + eco GTX | Style + trail use |
| 5 | Salewa Mountain Trainer 2 Mid GTX | 1180 | $269 | Technical grip | Steep, rocky routes |
| 6 | AKU Trekker Pro GTX | 1340 | $270 | European craftsmanship | Extended treks |
Top Picks: Budget Tier
| Rank | Product | Weight (g) | Price (USD) | Key Strength | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof | 1010 | $145 | All-around value | Beginners, weekend trips |
| 2 | The North Face Hedgehog 3 Mid Waterproof | 940 | $150 | Versatile support | Day-to-weekend trips |
| 3 | Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof | 940 | $110 | Affordable waterproofing | Entry-level backpacking |
| 4 | Columbia Crestwood Mid Waterproof | 950 | $100 | Lightweight + budget | Casual users |
| 5 | KEEN Circadia Mid Waterproof | 970 | $145 | Durability + comfort | New backpackers |
Detailed Product Reviews — High-End Tier
1. LOWA Renegade Evo GTX Mid
Overview
A modernized classic with Gore-Tex waterproofing, Vibram outsole, and a supportive midsole at just over 1100 g.
Pros
- Excellent out-of-box comfort
- Proven durability in long-term use
- Balanced support without feeling clunky
Cons
- Narrower fit than some competitors
- Premium price point
Best For
Backpackers wanting an all-season boot balancing comfort, waterproofing, and pack stability.
Why It’s Ranked Here
Longtime gold standard, consistently top-rated in expert reviews and user feedback.
2. Zamberlan 996 Vioz GTX
Overview
A heritage full-grain leather boot built in Italy, with Gore-Tex lining and Vibram sole.
Pros
- Unmatched durability with proper care
- Superior support for heavy loads
- Excellent traction
Cons
- Requires break-in
- Heavy compared to modern synthetic boots
Best For
Rugged alpine and multi-week expeditions.
Why It’s Ranked Here
Expert consensus confirms this as the most durable premium leather backpacking boot.
3. Salomon Quest 4 GTX
Overview
Stable and protective, with Salomon’s ADV-C chassis, Gore-Tex, and Contagrip outsole.
Pros
- Excellent ankle stability
- Handles heavy packs well
- Comfortable fit after short break-in
Cons
- Runs narrow for wide feet
- Slightly heavy
Best For
Backpackers carrying 35+ lb packs.
Why It’s Ranked Here
A frequent top recommendation for demanding trips where support is critical.
4. SCARPA Zodiac Plus GTX
Overview
Hybrid design with suede upper, Gore-Tex lining, and a precise fit for mixed alpine terrain.
Pros
- Secure fit for rocky ground
- Strong waterproofing
- Great under technical loads
Cons
- Less cushioned for casual use
- Higher cost
Best For
Alpine hikers and those tackling scrambles or rocky passes.
Why It’s Ranked Here
Stands out for precision and technical grip under pack load.
5. Asolo TPS 520 GV Evo
Overview
Classic full-grain leather, heavy-duty Vibram outsole, and Gore-Tex lining.
Pros
- Time-tested durability
- Very supportive platform
- Excellent waterproofing
Cons
- Heavy
- Long break-in
Best For
Harsh terrain, cold weather, extended durability seekers.
Why It’s Ranked Here
Among the most durable boots on the market; leather longevity is unmatched.
6. La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX
Overview
Lightweight leather boot with Gore-Tex Surround technology for enhanced breathability.
Pros
- Breathes better than most waterproof boots
- Lightweight for a supportive mid
- Good ankle coverage
Cons
- Less durable than full-grain leather
- Narrow fit
Best For
Backpackers wanting breathability in warm climates.
Why It’s Ranked Here
Unique balance of breathability and waterproof protection.
Visual Comparison Matrix — Best Backpacking Shoes 2025
| Tier | Product | Weight (g) | Waterproofing | Comfort | Durability | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High-End | LOWA Renegade Evo GTX Mid | 1110 | GTX | 🟢 9 | 🟢 9 | 🟢 8 |
| High-End | Zamberlan 996 Vioz GTX | 1510 | GTX | 🟡 8 | 🟢 10 | 🟡 7 |
| High-End | Salomon Quest 4 GTX | 1430 | GTX | 🟡 8 | 🟢 9 | 🟢 9 |
| High-End | SCARPA Zodiac Plus GTX | 1220 | GTX | 🟠 7 | 🟢 9 | 🟡 7 |
| High-End | Asolo TPS 520 GV Evo | 1640 | GTX | 🟠 7 | 🟢 10 | 🔴 6 |
| High-End | La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX | 1250 | GTX | 🟡 8 | 🟡 8 | 🟢 8 |
| Mid-Range | HOKA Kaha 2 GTX | 1240 | GTX | 🟢 9 | 🟡 8 | 🟢 8 |
| Mid-Range | Oboz Bridger Mid Waterproof | 1100 | B-DRY | 🟡 8 | 🟢 9 | 🟢 9 |
| Mid-Range | KEEN Targhee IV Waterproof Mid | 1120 | KEEN.DRY | 🟡 8 | 🟢 9 | 🟢 9 |
| Mid-Range | Danner Mountain 600 Leaf GTX | 1125 | GTX | 🟡 8 | 🟡 8 | 🟡 7 |
| Mid-Range | Salewa Mountain Trainer 2 Mid GTX | 1180 | GTX | 🟠 7 | 🟢 9 | 🟡 7 |
| Mid-Range | AKU Trekker Pro GTX | 1340 | GTX | 🟡 8 | 🟢 9 | 🟡 7 |
| Budget | Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof | 1010 | M-Select DRY | 🟡 8 | 🟡 8 | 🟢 9 |
| Budget | The North Face Hedgehog 3 Mid Waterproof | 940 | Futurelight | 🟡 8 | 🟡 8 | 🟡 8 |
| Budget | Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof | 940 | Omni-Tech | 🟠 7 | 🟡 8 | 🟢 9 |
| Budget | Columbia Crestwood Mid Waterproof | 950 | Omni-Tech | 🟠 7 | 🟠 7 | 🟡 8 |
| Budget | KEEN Circadia Mid Waterproof | 970 | KEEN.DRY | 🟠 7 | 🟡 8 | 🟡 7 |
🔑 Legend:
- 🟢 = Excellent (9–10)
- 🟡 = Good (8)
- 🟠 = Adequate (7)
- 🔴 = Below-average (≤6)
Buying Guide
- Cut height matters: For backpacking loads above 25 lbs, mid or high-cut boots provide stability and reduce ankle strain.
- Leather vs. synthetics: Leather lasts longer but weighs more; synthetics dry faster and are lighter.
- Waterproof membranes: GTX, KEEN.DRY, Futurelight all work, but each has tradeoffs in breathability.
- Fit first: Wide-foot hikers benefit from KEEN or Oboz; narrow-footed hikers often prefer Salomon or La Sportiva.
- Weight vs. durability: Ultralight mids save energy, but leather boots handle long-term abuse.
Verdict & Recommendations
- Best Overall — LOWA Renegade Evo GTX Mid
- Best Durability — Zamberlan 996 Vioz GTX
- Best Value — Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof
- Best for Heavy Loads — Salomon Quest 4 GTX
- Most Comfortable Cushioning — HOKA Kaha 2 GTX
FAQ
Do I need mid or high-cut boots for backpacking?
Yes. With loads above 25 lbs, mids/highs provide ankle stability and reduce fatigue.
Are leather boots better than synthetic?
Leather is more durable and weather-resistant, but heavier. Synthetic boots dry faster and are lighter.
How long do backpacking boots last?
Typically 500–800 miles depending on terrain, weight carried, and materials.
Do I need waterproof boots?
If you backpack in wet or snowy conditions, yes. In hot/dry climates, a non-waterproof boot may feel cooler and dry faster.
Sources & References
- Manufacturer specifications: LOWA, Zamberlan, Salomon, SCARPA, Asolo, La Sportiva, HOKA, Oboz, KEEN, Danner, Salewa, AKU, The North Face, Columbia, Merrell
- Expert reviews: Switchback Travel, Outdoor Gear Lab, Section Hiker, Popular Mechanics
- Aggregated user feedback: REI, MEC, Backcountry, Moosejaw
