Columbia PeakFreak Enduro Mid — With a standout style in a review chocked full of brown leather boots, the Enduro offered a light, fast ride. It has more of a trail shoe fit than that of a boot. However, the Enduro is relatively stiff and supportive (there’s a TPU shank inside), especially for its light weight — it was the airiest boot in this roundup at just 15.7 ounces a foot (in men’s size 12).
The high cuff is great for trail protection. It has a nimble, light feel and wraps the foot nicely. I like the uppers, which are waterproof via an OutDry treatment and made with breathable mesh. The outsole is rounded on all sides to discourage abrupt lateral motion present on some boots when you “catch an edge” on the trail.
Weight: 15.7 oz. (per boot, men’s size 12); MSRP: $135; More info/buy now
—Stephen Regenold is editor and founder of GearJunkie.
