Backpacking is one of the best ways to interact with nature. But like any other outdoor activity, backpacking requires that you have the right gear. And the right gear, in this case, is not just outfits but also footwear. A piece of footwear like men’s backpacking boots will make your outdoor adventures unforgettable.
These boots are normally built tough, and, therefore, have what it takes to keep your feet comfortable. When your feet are comfortable, expect to backpack for longer and enjoy the moment to the fullest. But knowing whether a particular pair of backpacking boots is the best and suitable for you can be quite challenging.
That’s why we provide you with the following buyer’s guide. The buyer’s guide discusses factors to keep in mind when choosing a pair of backpacking boots. Here they are.
- Waterproof Technology: A backpacking boot should be equipped with a GORE-TEX membrane or a feature that enables it to be waterproof. Having a waterproof boot is very important because backpacking, like other outdoor activities, can have its little surprises. At one point you will be on dry land, the next, you will find yourself in a wet environment. Therefore, if your boot is waterproof, this will not ruin your outdoor moments.
- Traction: Apart from your boots being waterproof, they should have excellent traction. Good traction helps ensure sure footing. By so doing, traction will let you walk on any trail with maximum confidence. Since traction is offered by the soles, try to pick a boot with soles that have lug patterns.
- Durability: Backpacking is not for the faint-hearted. You should, therefore, be well prepared when taking part in it. And the best way to prepare is to be keen enough to pick boots that are solidly built. Such boots will not give in when the conditions become tough. Needless to say, you will be able to use them longer.
This article also brings you the top 10 best men’s backpacking boots reviews in 2021.
Contents
- 10. Salomon Men’s Authentic Leather & GORE-TEX Backpacking Boots
- 9. Salomon Men’s Authentic LTR GTX Backpacking Boots – Preferred
- 8. Salomon Men’s Quest Prime GTX Backpacking Boot – Preferred
- 7. Vasque Men’s Skywalk Gore-Tex Backpacking Boot – Preferred
- 6. NORTIV 8 Men’s Waterproof Snow Winter Hiking Boots
- 5. NORTIV 8 Men’s Ankle High Waterproof Hiking Boots
- 4. Vasque Men’s Sundowner Gore-Tex Backpacking Boot
- 3. Salomon Quest 4D 3 GORE-TEX Men’s Backpacking Boots – Preferred
- 2. NORTIV 8 Men’s Waterproof Snow Hiking Boots
- 1. Vasque Men’s St. Elias Gore-Tex Backpacking Boot
10. Salomon Men’s Authentic Leather & GORE-TEX Backpacking Boots
The best hiking boots for men are all you need to traverse any terrain you come across. The Salomon Men’s Authentic Backpacking Boots are as authentic as their name suggests. They are, therefore, well suited for anyone who wants to conquer every adventure. They are perfect for trail running, mountaineering, backpacking, and hiking. Salomon was established in 1947, and since then, it has remained passionate about outdoor sports and innovation.
| PROS | CONS |
| Perform well on any terrain | Require some breaking in |
| Versatile; ideal for work, hiking, backpacking, etc | |
| The ankle support is impressive | |
| GoreTex helps keep water out | |
| Hold up nicely to water | |
| They are fairly flexible | |
| Buy on Amazon | More Information |
9. Salomon Men’s Authentic LTR GTX Backpacking Boots – Preferred
Adventures are memorable with these backpacking boots. Their shaft measures around 4 inches from arch to help provide enough protection without being hard to put on. What’s more, these boots are lightweight, which is great, considering that you will be able to walk in them for long periods. The boots also have a deep and aggressive lug pattern that maximizes traction on different terrains. Plus they are equipped with waterproof GORE-TEX to protect against all kinds of weather conditions.
| PROS | CONS |
| The soles grip trails nicely | The laces tend to come untied |
| Comfortable and perfect for wide feet | |
| They do not require break-in time | |
| Boots hold up nicely | |
| Buy on Amazon | More Information |
8. Salomon Men’s Quest Prime GTX Backpacking Boot – Preferred
We like the fact that this backpacking boot is equipped with a rubber toe cap. This feature protects feet from all kinds of hazards; making backpacking adventures unforgettable. We also like the fact that these boots have a GORE-TEX membrane, which ensures breathable weather protection. Another great feature is the incredible cushioning that allows for long-distance comfort. The shaft of these boots is approximately 5 inches from arch, which is just fine.
| PROS | CONS |
| Comfortable and offer protection | The lace eyelet leaves a lot to be desired |
| The waterproofing is perfect | |
| The arch support is perfect | |
| The insoles are as advertised | |
| The wide heel absorbs all the impact | |
| Buy on Amazon | More Information |
7. Vasque Men’s Skywalk Gore-Tex Backpacking Boot – Preferred
This backpacking boot weighs 3 pounds and 5 ounces. It is incredibly lightweight to let you walk for long without any issues. Nonetheless, its lightweight construction should not fool you. This boot is a beast when it comes to standing up to anything the harsh outdoor terrains throw at it. It is made of 2.4mm waterproof rough-out leather to keep your foot dry in wet conditions. The boot also features an abrasion-resistant mesh.
| PROS | CONS |
| The soles have great traction | Takes a little longer to break in |
| Waterproofing is perfect; water beads off | |
| Looks great and gets a lot of compliments | |
| The GORETEX lining is surprisingly comfortable | |
| Available in two colors to choose from | |
| Buy on Amazon | More Information |
6. NORTIV 8 Men’s Waterproof Snow Winter Hiking Boots
These men’s winter hiking boots are a product of a reputable manufacturer plus they are high quality yet they are some of the most affordable hiking boots you have ever seen. This means if you do not want to spend a lot on backpacking boots, this is the pair to go for. The boots have waterproof protection, and, therefore, will keep your feet dry. They also have a heat-reflective lining that further enables them to provide maximum comfort.
| PROS | CONS |
| The quality is much greater than expected | They run small |
| Feel comfortable right out of the box | |
| They come with an extra set of laces | |
| The price is very competitive | |
| Buy on Amazon | More Information |
5. NORTIV 8 Men’s Ankle High Waterproof Hiking Boots
The shaft of these hiking boots measures around 6 inches from arch and the heel measures around 1 inch. The boot opening, on the other hand, is approximately 13 inches around. We think these are great measurements that hugely improve the performance of these waterproof hiking boots. Besides, the hiking boots are equipped with a durable rubber outsole that has multi-directional lugs to provide traction on different terrains.
| PROS | CONS |
| The grip is perfect | Might rub the ankle a bit |
| Easy to put on and take off | |
| Very light; hence, easy to walk in | |
| Boots have plenty of room inside | |
| The price is hard to beat | |
| Boots come with extra strings | |
| Buy on Amazon | More Information |
4. Vasque Men’s Sundowner Gore-Tex Backpacking Boot
Vasque is committed to making innovative, functional, and aesthetic footwear. Well, one of these pieces of footwear is the Vasque Men’s Sundowner Gore-Tex Backpacking Boot. It is packed with all the basic features, and this means it will provide you with the expected results. Its shaft measures around 5.5 inches from arch. It is an ankle-high backpacking boot that will not just keep you comfortable during backpacking but also will keep your feet protected.
| PROS | CONS |
| The boot breaks in nicely | The fit is a bit narrow; therefore, try to go for a size larger |
| Stitching is well done | |
| Not too heavy and offers good support | |
| Feels great on the feet | |
| Buy on Amazon | More Information |
3. Salomon Quest 4D 3 GORE-TEX Men’s Backpacking Boots – Preferred
The manufacturer’s 4D advanced chassis shows that these backpacking boots are designed to deliver maximum traction on many different terrains. Needless to say, these are boots to go for if you expect to walk in wet areas. The 4D advanced chassis also guides the foot and helps minimize fatigue even when you find yourself walking the roughest terrains. What’s more, these backpacking boots are equipped with running shoe adapted technology that makes them light and well-cushioned.
| PROS | CONS |
| They seem to eliminate foot fatigue | The laces could be more durable |
| The grip and bottom hold up well | |
| Comfortable right out of the box | |
| Boots are 100-percent waterproof | |
| Buy on Amazon | More Information |
2. NORTIV 8 Men’s Waterproof Snow Hiking Boots
The shaft of these hiking boots is approximately 3 inches from arch. And this means these waterproof hiking boots are extremely easy to put on and take off. The heel, on the other hand, measures around 1 inch. Well, it is worth noting that these backpacking hiking boots run bigger, and, therefore, you should order half size down. That aside, these are great boots that will serve you well every time you walk out of the door.
| PROS | CONS |
| They fit great and break in nicely | The eyelet could be sturdier |
| Boots appear to be sturdily constructed | |
| The price is pretty much unbeatable | |
| Boots look beautiful and are available in several colors | |
| Buy on Amazon | More Information |
1. Vasque Men’s St. Elias Gore-Tex Backpacking Boot
This backpacking boot is another wonderful piece of footwear by Vasque. Its shaft measures approximately 6 inches from arch, and this means it will provide you with great protection. The heel, on the other, measures approximately 1.75 inches, whereas, the platform measures around 0.75 inches. The boot boasts GORE-TEX waterproof, and, therefore, it will perform really great in wet conditions. Additionally, this boot is equipped with a dual-density EVA footbed that enables it to provide exceptional comfort.
| PROS | CONS |
| The sole provides a nice grip | The laces are thinner than expected, but they serve their purpose |
| The waterproofing is excellent | |
| The boot breaks in nicely | |
| No blisters even after long hours of backpacking | |
| Buy on Amazon | More Information |
Conclusion
People only want the best northside boot or the best Asolo boot. But we say, in the above reviews, we have talked about the best backpacking footwear only. In fact, the performance of these boots can match the performance of premium boots by Northside and Asolo. So, go ahead and pick the pair you feel will serve you right during a backpacking adventure.
