Things That Matter

It’s one thing to “talk” boots, another to buy them. Consider the following:

Leather or lightweight? Leather is strong, tough, durable and heavy. Great for serious mountaineering. Lightweights are made of plastics, nylon and other synthetics. They literally take a burden off your feet. Sturdy, flexible, and comfortable, they are perfect for hiking and most backpacking.

Soles the thicker the Vibram rubber sole and the deeper the treads or “lugs,” the greater the traction but the heavier the boot. Likewise, the stiffer the “mid-sole” layer above the robber sole, the stronger but less pliable and comfortable the boot. Day hikers don’t need steel/plastic mid-sole; mountaineers do.