best backpacking boots 2024

Men and women backpack in almost any footwear these days: hiking boots, hiking shoes, trail running shoes, sandals— even barefoot. At the end of the day, though, backpacking boots are the safest choice for most people. Carrying extra weight places extra pressure on your feet and ankles, and a sturdy pair of backpacking boots gives them stability and support to carry more weight and hold up for big-mile days. That's why it's worth doing your homework to buy the best backpacking boots for you.

Many hiking boots work for backpacking. However, you don't want to make the mistake of buying wimpy boots that won't hold up with extra weight on your back. At the same time, most hikers don't need to drop $350 on bomb-proof backpacking boots that weigh nearly four pounds, either. (If you do, check out these heavyweight recommendations.) Most backpackers will be happier with mid-weight hiking boots—boots in the 2.5-3+ pound range—with good foot and ankle support.

best backpacking boots for women and men

La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX

La Sportiva’s Nucleo High GTX is a lightweight backpacking boot for men and women. It has a higher ankle cuff than other lightweight hiking boots, which makes it an interesting option for hikers with ankle issues who want lighter footwear. The Nucleo is also packed with premium components, including GORE-TEX Surround (the most breathable GTX membrane), soft Nubuck leather uppers, and grippy Vibram outsoles. Sportivas run narrow, but this Nucleo is also available in wide (new for 2021). With its flexible yet supportive soles, the Nucleo GTX isn't super-supportive, but it may be a good choice for backpackers who want to go lighter. My pair kept my hiking feet happy on my hardest hikes and backpacking trips of 2021.

Vasque Breeze

The Vasque Breeze is a mid-duty hiking boot that strikes the right balance between stiffness and flexibility to pull double-duty as a backpacking boot and day hiking boot. It features a beefy build and premium leather for foot and ankle support along with ventilating mesh windows and ventilation ports (for some "breeze") to keep our feet cooler. At a time when other brands are raising their prices, the best-selling Breeze has dropped its price for 2022-2032 by using Vasque's proprietary waterproofing and outsoles (instead of GORE-TEX and Vibram). That makes it one of the best options for budget-oriented backpackers. Vasque runs a little narrow, but it offers best sellers (including the Breeze) in wide sizes (which aren't always easy to find). For Vasque fans, this is lower-priced version of the classic Vasque Breeze III from a few years back. 

Lowa Renegade GTX

It’s a classic that's in Backpacker Magazine's Gear Hall of Fame. The Lowa Renegade has old-school appeal for men and women who want a tough leather hiking boot for their backpacking trips. It’s long been a top choice for off-trail hikers, trail crews, overweight hikers, or backpackers who carry heavier loads. That’s where the Renegade’s stability, support, and traction crushes budget hiking boots, like the Merrell Moab and Keen Targhee (as it should, given the price.) This boot may be a touch heavy for the average day hiker. However, the Renegade checks in under three pounds--and checks many boxes: Leather? Check. Gore Tex? Check. Durable TPU midsoles? Check. Vibram outsoles? Check. Fit-wise, Lowa offers this boot in narrow, regular, and wide widths. If you add all of this up, the Renegade may be a good option for backpackers and off-trail hikers, especially if you find it on sale.

Scarpa Zodiac GTX

A softer, lighter version of Scarpa's Zodiac Tech mountaineering boot, the Zodiac Plus is an athletic backpacking boot that excels on mountainous terrain. Made for Alpine trekking, it features soft suede leather and a GORE-TEX Performance comfort lining for breathable waterproofing. Its Vibram rubber outsoles offer excellent traction on steep and rocky trails. Like most Italian brands, Scarpa runs a little narrow by U.S. standards, which may require sizing up more than usual. Overall, this is a premium backpacking boot that incorporates mountaineering and climbing features into one of the best backpacking boots for men and women. 

Salomon Quest 4 GTX

The Salomon Quest is an iconic backpacking boot that’s dominated award lists in backpacking magazines and outdoor gear sites for years. The Quest is built on the chassis of a trail running shoe, but it more or less matches the stability and support of much heavier backpacking boots. It also features excellent ankle protection, waterproof-breathable Gore-Tex, a locking shoelace system, and excellent uphill and downhill traction. The Quest is athletic enough that you&nbsp;<em>could</em>&nbsp;day hike in it; however, it’s a better match for backpacking or off trail hiking. As far as fit, Salomons run slightly narrow, but they may fit wider feet if you size up about one size. This boot gets my vote as the best overall backpacking boot on the market.

buy the best backpacking boots

I skimp on plenty of outdoor gear, but not my hiking boots —especially not my backpacking boots. Backpacking is hard on the body, so it makes sense to buy the best backpacking boots that you can afford. A good pair of backpacking boots will help your body carry extra pack weight, may prevent foot fatigue, and may prevent falls, sprains, blisters, or overuse injuries that are more likely in lighter, less supportive footwear. 

This short list should make your boot-buying mission much easier. These are five of the best backpacking boots on the market. One of them is bound to have the fit, feel, and features that you want. (If not, please browse my brand recommendations  or my lists of the best hiking boots for men and women.)

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