Vasque St. Elias GTX — Called the “lightest backpacking boot” in the Vasque line, the St. Elias GTX was actually among the heaviest in our review at 28 ounces a boot. But on the foot they don’t feel overbearing, with a wider toe box and medium-stiff sole good for long days with a heavy pack.
A Gore-Tex liner makes them waterproof, and a thick sole plus a clean but durable upper offers protection from anything you’ll see outside, from daylong mountain climbs to long backpacking treks.
Weight: 28 oz. (per boot, men’s size 12); MSRP: $189.99; More info/buy now
