First Look: Waterproof Altra ‘Lone Peak’ Hiking Boot

The first mid-height hiker by Altra comes to market later this summer, and we got a first look in Deer Valley, Utah.

With just a year under its laces, Altra’s lauded Neoshell Lone Peak series is getting a lift. The release of a waterproof mid-height hiker later this summer will give fans of Altra trail running shoes a more protective option for hiking.

The brand is known for its wide toe box and zero-drop platform. With only five years on the market, the brand has garnered a strong following among runners and hikers alike. And it’s not all hype; last year, Gear Junkie put the Lone Peak 2.0 Neoshell on the top of our 2015 gear list, naming it one of the best winter trail runners ever made.

By popular demand, the Utah-based footwear company is heeding the call to release a dedicated hiker.

Putting the shoes on the trail in Deer Valley, we found the to-be-released Neoshell Mid ($160) a stable chassis made for nasty weather protection.

Review: Altra Lone Peak 3.0/Neoshell Mid

Like the Lone Peak 3.0 Neoshell trail runner, this shoe is protected by Polartec’s Neoshell waterproof/breathable material. Rather than lining the shoe like a sock, the material sits on the outside of the shoe, blocking water from the get go.

The waterproof tongue gives it a gasket-like fit for further protection from moisture and scree. To get truly burly, it can take a gaiter. A gaiter ring is attached below the laces and its unique velcro “GaiterTrap” keeps lighter weight trail gaiters from riding up over the heels.

The tongue, lateral and medial ankles have extra padding to buffer trailside bumps and rocks. The padded collar just crests the ankle bones, allowing plenty of protection without compromising mobility.

A pair of metal pulley rings route the laces over the ankles. Because the rings are not hooks, the laces easily cinch the shoe snug. But for the same reason, unless you loosen the laces quite a bit, it an be a struggle to slip into the boot. A heel loop helps tug the foot into the boot.

At 11.9 ounces, the Lone Peak 3.0 Neoshell Mids weigh as much or less than most of my trail shoes, and weigh only two ounces more than the Altra’s Lone Peak 3.0 Neoshell trail runner.

True to Altra’s iconic fit, the roomy toe box lets toes spread, providing a more relaxed and stable platform. This is really appreciated after a long day on the trail.

Who Should Buy The Lone Peak Hiking Boot?

Like the Lone Peak 3.0 Neoshell, the Neoshell Mid is best for hikers who might find themselves tromping through wet underbrush or across snow patches. The padded collar provides protection and stability for those with a pack crossing more technical terrain might appreciate.

The Neoshell is probably too warm for the hot desert hikes. For you thru-hikers, you’ll probably want to ship these to meet you in the mountains for added warmth and protection.

For the rest of us, give the Altras a look if you’re seeking some lightweight footwear for fast hiking over rough ground in wet, slushy, or sloppy conditions.