How long will you be on the trail?
- Hiking shoes: day hikes or ultralight backpacking
- Hiking boots: multiday treks with heavier loads
What upper is right for you?
- Leather: water- and abrasion-resistant, durable
- Synthetic: lightweight, break in easily, dry faster
Look at the lugs
- Deep, thick lugs improve grip
- Wider lug spaces sheds mud and offer good traction
Check crampon compatability
Mountaineering and winter hiking may call for crampons. Narrow your search for boots with crampon compatibility.
Read full article: How to Choose Hiking Boots
