La Sportiva Thunder III GTX — Super stiff, strong boots with a big mountaineering influence, these are not “trail boots” in my mind — they will be overkill for many backpackers with their beefy build and steel shank for support in the midsole.
You can add crampons and kick steps on steep snow in the Thunders, or the low but aggressive tread digs in fine on mud.
They have thick uppers with a Gore-Tex liner and are among the heaviest in this review. Look at the La Sportivas if you’re a mountain hiker who needs serious support.
Weight: 27 oz. (per boot, men’s size 12); MSRP: $185; More info/buy now
