The Salewa Mountain Trainer Mid GTX Backpacking Boot for men is a durable, adjustable, secure, and supportive boot that is designed to last multiple hiking seasons. The boot may be a little more burly than what casual hikers need, but the Vibram sole, flexible collar, Gore-Tex liner, and tight lacing system make this a great option for avid hikers who tackle tough terrain. Some people will find a need to buy an additional liner for the inside due to the limited comfort on the one that comes with the boot.
The La Sportiva Baruntse Mountaineering Boot is a heavy-duty, durable, insulated, and weatherproof option that is best suited for intense mountaineers or alpine athletes who want a boot that fits like a glove. Those with wide or narrow feet should make sure the fit is correct first and some may find this boot too heavy, but for a burly and warm boot mountaineering boot, this is a top choice.
The Danner Jag Hiking Boot for men is a comfortable, retro, and supportive option that is a combination between heavy-duty sneaker and lightweight hiking boot. The limited durability with this model should be noted, but for the casual hikers who care more about style, comfort, and padding over technical performance, this could be a good option.
The Vasque Grand Traverse Hiking Shoe for men is a lightweight, versatile, and well-constructed shoe that provides a balance between approach shoes and trail running shoes. The narrower fit, limited cushioning, and sensitivity provided may not be suitable for some, especially those who prefer pure climbing performance in a shoe. However, the versatility this shoe provides makes it good at both hiking and approaches, but not the best at any one category.
The Timberland Chocorua Trail Mid GTX Boot for men is a supportive, roomy, long-lasting, and stiff boot that is best for wider feet that require extra support and cushioning. The limited tread definition and some questions about the waterproofing abilities should be considered, but these are still a solid boot for those with normal-to-wide feet who prefer cushioning over tread.
The Vasque Sundowner GTX Backpacking Boot for men is a comfortable and seamless-upper boot that has garnered some mixed reviews in recent times, due to manufacturing issues. The reports of durability problems with the soles cracking, soles coming off completely, and the boots wearing-out much quicker than the older models will deter most from purchasing this boot. Once the quality-control issues are fixed, we look forward to seeing how this boot performs on adventures, but for now, we would say to purchase with caution.
The Salomon XA Pro 3D Trail Running Shoe for men is a supportive and traction-filled option with a waterproof membrane for avid hikers or trail runners. There are some reports of the waterproofing and tread failing quickly and the heavier material may not be for everyone. However, the XA Pro 3D is still a top choice for those looking for a supportive trail runner.
The Vasque Mantra 2.0 GTX Hiking Shoe for men is a comfortable, breathable, and moderately-supportive shoe. Possible durability and thinner tread issues may deter more heavy-duty hikers, but the moderate support and mostly waterproof material make this a good choice for casual hikers.
The Scarpa Mont Blanc GTX Mountaineering Boot for men is a great option for mountaineers needing one boot for their outdoor activities. This is a good option for mixed terrain, steep ice, and even some rock climbing, due to the support, rigid sole, and traction the boot provides.
The La Sportiva Mutant Running Shoe for men is a great combination of stiffness and comfort, allowing the efficient approaches, trail running, and a variety of outdoor excursions. The combination of ventilation, support, adequate grip, and protection outweighs the heavier weight and intricate lacing system.