The Best Hiking Boots of 2026

Bottom Line: This burly, over-the-ankle boot provides plenty of support and protection for tough trails and moderate off-trail hiking. It’s light enough for long miles, but it’s not super breathable and is best suited for cool weather.

The Salomon Quest 5 GORE-TEX ($240) is a real-deal hiking boot that’s a premier choice for backpackers and hikers who crave stability and protection, but without the burdensome weight of a typical leather workhorse.

The Tech: The fifth iteration of the Quest improves upon its predecessor by shaving off 10% of the weight and introducing a roomier toe box, addressing a common request from long-distance trekkers. Built with a robust Nubuck leather and ripstop upper, this boot utilizes Salomon’s 4D Advanced Chassis to provide exceptional ankle support and promote a natural walking gait, making it ideal for navigating rocky trails or carrying loads of up to around 40 pounds. Note: The Quest 5 women’s model, which is specifically designed to fit women’s feet, is now called the Quest Echo GORE-TEX ($220).

What We Like: The Quest 5 excels in demanding environments. GearJunkie Editor in Chief and AllGear Digital Editorial Director Sean McCoy tested it while off-trail turkey hunting in Colorado, and reported that its GORE-TEX lining provided reliable waterproofing during stream crossings and on muddy terrain. The Contragrip outsole grants confident traction on steep ridges and technical scrambles, and, despite its heavy-duty appearance, the Quest 5 feels nimble underfoot. Its EnergyCell midsole is tuned for responsiveness rather than plush cushioning, allowing hikers to maintain a good feel for the terrain. The lacing system, with locking hooks, ensures a secure, highly adjustable fit that prevents heel slip during long climbs and descents.

What We Don’t: While it’s certainly a top-tier boot, the Quest 5 is best suited to specific climates and use cases. Because of its waterproof construction, it runs hot and lacks breathability in temperatures above 75 degrees. Additionally, users should note that the sizing runs slightly large, often necessitating a half-size step down for the perfect fit.

Should You Buy It? This stalwart boot is a great pick for hikers who often face wet, cold, or rugged conditions, offering a near-perfect balance of protection, comfort, and durability for serious mountain adventures.

Read Review: Affordable Awesomeness: Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Review

Bottom Line: The Moab’s price may have risen a bit recently, but it still offers plenty of bang for the buck. Comfort, traction, breathability, and a reasonable weight for a mid-cut leather boot are all highlights of its widely appealing design.

If you want an amply cushioned, mid-height leather hiking boot but don’t want to spend more than $200, look no further. The Merrell Moab 3 ($175) provides solid stiffness and support, and presents excellent value thanks to its all-around performance.

The Tech: The updated Moab 3 is a capable boot for day hikes and modest backpacking trips alike, thanks to its molded nylon arch shank, reinforced heel, and EVA footbed. Its new insole has more backbone than the previous iteration, and it now boasts a more cushioned midsole and a revamped Vibram TC5+ outsole for improved traction and confidence. Merrell also crafted the new Moab with sustainable materials, making this the most environmentally friendly version yet.

What We Like: This boot’s largely mesh upper is reinforced with a suede pig leather overlay for increased durability. And despite the mesh, which improves breathability, the Moab proved completely waterproof during our tester’s eight (count ’em!) river crossings on outings around Bishop, California. Miya Tsudome wore the boot while ascending gullies, tramping through meadows, and working her way up to tree line — both with a heavy backpack and without — and she praised the Moab 3’s midfoot support, which makes it a smart choice for hikers with high arches, as well as its overall comfort.

What We Don’t: The Moab 3 isn’t super heavy, but it is relatively wide and bulky, which holds it back in technical terrain that requires precise steps. (For scrambly missions, we’d go with a more nimble boot, such as the Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GORE-TEX.) Its proprietary waterproofing is not as bomber as GORE-TEX, though Merrell sells a GORE-TEX version for $20 more.

Should You Buy It? The Moab 3 will work well for anyone on a budget seeking a traditional, durable leather hiking boot. Its slightly dated look might not win any fashion awards, but this is a functional, comfy boot that deserves its status as a perennial hiker favorite. 

Bottom Line: This boot punches above its weight class. It provides protection and grip that are usually found in heavier competitors, while its responsive midsole will put a spring in any hiker’s step without compromising stability too much.

The Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GORE-TEX ($190) is an impressively comfortable, fairly light, waterproof boot that meets the needs of both backpackers and day hikers. It nails an appealing balance between the support of a hiking boot and the agility of a trail running shoe, and many will enjoy its accommodating feel right out of the box.

The Tech: The X Ultra line has churned out top hiking boots for several years. With the latest iteration, released in spring 2025, this boot got a little more durable thanks to an upgraded MATRYX synthetic upper. Salomon didn’t mess too much with what was already working, though: The X Ultra 5 Mid GORE-TEX maintains its burly Contagrip outsole for superb traction across a wide range of surfaces, as well as the “Advanced Chassis” (ADV/C) introduced in the X Ultra 4, which provides lateral support. A premium GORE-TEX liner prevents moisture from sneaking in.      

What We Like: We’ve lauded previous versions of the X Ultra Mid as crowd favorites, and the fifth edition builds on that reputation. The molded Advanced Chassis insert in the outsole provides solid lateral support while keeping the forefoot flexible enough for unrestricted movement; a comparative lack of support was a slight complaint with older models, and Salomon addressed it well. The prior X Ultra’s laces were also prone to slipping, but more aggressive hook eyelets on the 5 prevent that. A GORE-TEX liner remains as effective as ever: GearJunkie Editor in Chief and AllGear Digital Editorial Director Sean McCoy tested the boot at Great Sand Dunes National Park during spring runoff, and his feet stayed bone dry even though he stood in shallow, fast-flowing Medano Creek for more than half an hour.

What We Don’t: While the X Ultra 5 is undoubtedly supportive for its sub-two-pound weight, it’s still not a workhorse like the heavier Salomon Quest 5 GORE-TEX. Hikers who are carrying heavy pack loads or who face steep side-hilling may want a boot with more structure. This version also comes in a bit heavier than the previous model.

Should You Buy It? This is a perfect boot for day hikers and backpackers willing to trade a little support for less weight. For many, it will be a Goldilocks boot, as it fits most feet well, is light and responsive, and offers enough of a foundation for most outings. Whether it’s on a quick trip or an overnight excursion, the X Ultra 5 Mid will keep the wearer on their feet and in control. 

The video below dives into details about the previous iteration of the X Ultra Mid, which has a similar design.

Bottom Line: A top-tier winter boot for hiking, snowshoeing, and other cold-weather adventures. It’s warm, waterproof, and provides a safe, reliable grip on snow and ice.

The KEEN Revel IV Polar Boot ($200 for the mid-cut version, $220 for the high) is a standout winter hiking boot that delivers a rare balance of insulation, weather protection, comfort, and traction, making it ideal for serious cold-weather hiking, snowshoeing, or winter peakbagging. It deserves consideration from anyone who refuses to let a little snow stop them from hitting the trail.

The Tech: This boot is packed with winter-ready features. Both the mid and high versions contain recycled KEEN.Warm insulation and a heat-trapping insole, which combined to keep tester Chris Kassar’s feet warm on frigid hikes in the Tetons and Colorado, including a February ascent of 14,200-foot Mount Yale. (The mid is rated to 25 below zero, and the high to -40.) The Revel IV employs a KEEN.Dry waterproof membrane beneath a leather-and-mesh upper that shrugged off snow, slush, and other wet conditions during testing. A KEEN.Polar Traction rubber outsole delivered consistent grip on packed snow and ice — enough to inspire confidence on steep, frozen slopes and rocky approaches.

What We Like: The higher-cuff version adds extra coverage for deep snow and unrelentingly wet conditions, while the mid offers a more natural, agile stride for long hikes or mixed terrain. Comfort and fit round out the Revel IV’s appeal: It offers a secure heel and midfoot hold, a roomy toe box that accommodates thick socks, and a padded collar and tongue that reduce pressure points even under load. While the high sacrifices a bit of ankle mobility for maximum warmth and coverage, the mid strikes a balance between protection and agility.

What We Don’t: The Revel IV Polar holds its own when the mercury drops, but this is not a very versatile boot. It’s far too warm to wear outside of winter, and you’ll have more fun walking in lighter, more pliable boots on outings that don’t involve snow travel. Even for casual use around town, the rigid sole might feel like a bit too much.   

Should You Buy It? The answer is a resounding “yes” for hikers who thrive on winter trails and need a warm, protective boot that can keep up — and keep them upright. 

Bottom Line: A hybrid boot that has the speed and weight of a hiking shoe, but with more protection from debris and water. With a dialed fit and high levels of comfort and traction, it’s a compelling option for hikers who want fleet feet but prefer a mid-cut design. 

Carrying on the Speedgoat tradition, the HOKA Speedgoat 6 Mid GTX ($180) continues to walk the narrow line between hiking boots and hiking shoes. HOKA makes a wildly popular low-top version, but the Mid is unique enough that we have no qualms about including it in this guide alongside traditional hiking boots. In fact, this is our favorite ultra-lightweight boot, and it includes notable improvements over the Speedgoat 5 Mid. 

It’s worth noting that we’re approaching hiking shoe territory with this crossover. If those are more your jam, check out GearJunkie’s guide to the best hiking shoes.

The Tech: If you’re used to hiking in a high-top leather boot, the Speedgoat 6 Mid may look a little underpowered with its all-synthetic upper, cushy midsole, and elastic ankle cuff. It won’t last a generation like your father’s Danners, and this is not the boot to pair with a heavy pack, but it’s wearable and comfortable right out of the box. That’s one of the biggest advantages of choosing a more shoe-like boot: The Speedgoat cups the heel snugly, allows for some toe splay up front, and fits very true to size. A Vibram rubber outsole provides plenty of grip on smooth rock surfaces and ball-bearing gravel, on both uphill slogs and downhill charges. What really stands out about hiking in the Speedgoat is that, step for step, it just acts more like a running shoe than a hiking shoe, with a locked-in feel and increased agility. 

What We Like: The ankle cuff on the 6 is quite a departure from the Speedgoat 5, erring on the side of breathability with an elastic and Velcro closure system instead of the latter’s much higher design. The new closure functions like a gaiter: It cinches snugly around the ankle and keeps out pebbles and sand as well as — or better than — most high-top boots. The midsole and insole have enough arch to prevent your foot from sliding to the front of the boot on downhills, and the Speedgoat 6 fit our lead tester well. Actually, that might be an understatement: He experienced a sublime balance of security and roominess on hikes around the desert region of eastern California.

What We Don’t: The mid version of the Speedgoat has a GORE-TEX liner, which is the source of our major gripe. GORE-TEX is breathable, but having no liner at all is even more breathable, which we’d prefer on a boot made for going fast. Our tester definitely noticed his feet sweating on hot days. Plus, due to the elastic ankle cuff, the waterproof portion of the shoe isn’t actually that high up the ankle, so it doesn’t take much of a puddle for water to get in over the top and into the shoe. The Speedgoat 6 Mid also doesn’t have as much ankle support as the 5; if ankle stability is an issue for you, consider the HOKA Anacapa Mid (if you’re still keen on the HOKA fit) or the Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid.

Should You Buy It? If you’re a hiking boot-wearer who’s trail-shoe curious or just want to see what all the HOKA fuss is about, the Speedgoat 6 Mid GTX is a good entry point to the comfort and nimbleness you get from a lightweight hiker. For those in the know, it’s also a great winter alternative to your favorite HOKA trail running shoes.

Bottom Line: The full-leather exterior of this brawny boot hides a secret: A memory foam liner that makes it surprisingly comfortable straight out of the box, with a reduced break-in time. You also get rugged durability and exceptional support.

More often than not, choosing the protection and support of a leather hiker comes with the pain of breaking in a stiff, rigid boot that may not fit perfectly by the end of the day. German bootmaker Meindl largely remedies that tradeoff with a unique memory foam liner in the MFS-Vakuum Hiker ($380), which makes this otherwise traditional boot more comfortable than you’d expect on the first wear.

The Tech: Memory foam lines the upper, the back of the heel, and the sides of the boot, and it’s also present in the footbed. Tester Will Brendza said that the MFS-Vakuum Hiker enveloped his feet in a memory foam hug and were some of the most comfortable leather hiking boots he’d ever encountered; that means a lot, coming from a guy who prefers all-leather mid-height hiking boots and is no stranger to breaking them in. (Meindl recommends sizing half a size down from your regular size, which worked well for Brendza.) The boot’s GORE-TEX liner ensures it stays completely waterproof, and a tough Vibram outsole means the tread will remain grippy for hundreds of miles. 

What We Like: Brendza tested the MFS-Vakuum Hiker on dusty trails in Colorado, splashing across creeks in Oregon, and traversing summer snow-covered passes high in the Rockies. He also wore it around town — impressive for a boot this burly — and found that its blend of plushness and support stood out no matter what was underfoot. A six-eyelet, 11-hook lacing system effectively locks the heel in place and maintains ankle stability, with plenty of adjustment points to dial in the fit. In most other ways, the Vakuum Hiker can go toe-to-toe with the other heavy-duty leather boots. 

What We Don’t: The lacing system is also the source of our major gripe, as the lace hooks will bend if you crank down too hard. They can be worked back into place, but this will weaken them over time. Like most all-leather high-top boots, the Vakuum Hiker does not breathe well. If you’re worried about your feet cooking, the Salomon Quest 5, with its more breathable synthetic upper, would be a better choice that still offers significant support. If you prefer a stiff-soled boot that can really handle gnarly and off-trail terrain, check out GearJunkie’s guide to the best hunting boots for more options.

Should You Buy It? Meindl isn’t well known but makes excellent boots, and the MFS-Vakuum Hiker is a top-shelf model. It’s a great choice for those who carry heavy packs and want significant support and foot protection, but also crave a custom-feeling cushion that’s rare in this category.

Bottom Line: Hikers with narrow feet are in for a treat with this light, agile boot. Ankle padding and a flexible build result in a slipper-like feel, but it also has enough oomph for rough terrain and backpacking trips.  

Blending the agility of a trail runner with the support of a more traditional hiking boot, the SCARPA Rush 2 Pro Mid GTX ($199) is a welcome update to the original Rush 2. It’s full-featured and versatile, with a healthy dose of maneuverability and plenty of traction in a mid-cut, waterproof design.    

The Tech: The Rush 2 Pro Mid GTX has a slightly taller ankle cuff than the previous version, which, paired with the GORE-TEX liner, allowed Pam LeBlanc, our Texas-based tester, to slosh through shallow creeks rather than rock-hop. This boot weighs 2 pounds, making it one of the lighter entries in this guide, but a TPU frame in the heel area supplies welcome lateral stability. The Rush 2 Pro doesn’t have a Vibram outsole, but LeBlanc never had any issue maintaining grip with the PRESA HIK-01 outsole, even on wet rocks — a major advantage for her, as she had ACL surgery a few years ago.  

What We Like: LeBlanc thrashed this boot while hiking in the dry, cactus-strewn Texas Hill Country and Big Bend National Park, and it proved to be great protection against spiky plants, as well as much more breathable than all-leather hikers. It also feels sprier and more wearable than most of those overbuilt tanks, which has made the Rush 2 Pro Mid her go-to footwear for everything from paved trails to rock-strewn routes. Her favorite part, though, is the boot’s lightweight cushioning, which swaddles the foot without much of a weight penalty.  

What We Don’t: Because the Rush 2 Pro is a bit pared down compared to traditional mid-cut hiking boots, it offers a bit less arch support. If that’s a dealbreaker, take a look at the Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof, which has a molded nylon shank at the midfoot. Hikers who want to shave off even more ounces — that Rush occupies somewhat of a middle ground, for a lightweight boot — should also consider the HOKA Speedgoat 6 Mid GTX.   

Should You Buy It? Finding a boot with a sufficiently narrow last can be a chore for some hikers. If that describes you, the Rush 2 Pro Mid GTX might be the answer. It’s an attractive option for anyone (narrow-footed or not) who wants a supportive, breathable, warm-weather boot. We recommend sizing up a half size, especially if you have a wide foot.

Bottom Line: The headliner of this boot is its RECCO reflector, but it’s also a solid, dependable light hiker that’s stable in varied terrain and waterproof enough to handle creek crossings and adverse weather.

The SCARPA Moraine Mid WP ($189) is the first lightweight hiking boot to incorporate RECCO rescue technology, a reflective system that helps search-and-rescue teams locate lost or injured hikers. Previous RECCO-equipped footwear had been limited to heavy-duty winter, mountaineering, and ski boots. The rest of the boot is much more than merely an afterthought, though, and it performed well during testing.

The Tech: We need to address the main reason you may have heard about the Moraine: This boot contains a RECCO reflector, which can help search-and-rescue teams pinpoint your location. While it’s no substitute for backcountry experience and safety, RECCO is a peace-of-mind feature that might save your life if things take a turn. In terms of components that you’ll actually notice when you’re hiking, SCARPA’s proprietary PRESA outsole and 4mm lugs kept our tester in control on scree, rocky riverbeds, and even wet rocks beneath a waterfall.    

What We Like: The Moraine is a solid — if not standout — everyday hiking boot. Tester Will Brendza praised its out-of-the-box comfort and didn’t experience any pinching or other discomfort during his testing on day hikes, a camping trip, and town outings around Colorado. The Nubuck leather and fabric upper sheds water well, and Brendza’s socks never got wet when he was kicking around in a creek thanks to the proprietary waterproof membrane. 

What We Don’t: Though relatively light for a mid-cut boot, the Moraine isn’t suited for trail running; however, it offers ample stability and support for day hiking. As far as light hikers go, we prefer the Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GORE-TEX, which breathes better and weighs less, but the Moraine is a fine trail boot. Compared to the Merrell Moab 3 Mid, another all-rounder, the Moraine has a narrower, more technical fit that might not work for those with wide feet.

Should You Buy It? If backcountry safety is top of mind and you’re looking for a supportive, comfortable boot with a fairly traditional leather upper, the Moraine should fit your needs. It probably won’t blow you away, but it’s hard to put a price on peace of mind.

Bottom Line: This is a traditional leather backpacking boot that’s lighter and more breathable than it looks. It’s also the rare La Sportiva model to receive a “wide” version, making it wearable for a larger range of hikers.

When it was first released, the high-cut Nucleo High II GTX ($259) was big news for La Sportiva: Along with the Ultra Raptor Mid II GTX, it was the brand’s first hiking boot designed for wider feet. That’s relative — the “wide” version is more akin to a normal fit — but we’re fans of anything that makes this protective, sturdy boot more accessible.

The Tech: The Nucleo High II effectively seals out moisture, courtesy of a GORE-TEX liner. Despite the extensive waterproofing, the boot’s breathability is enhanced by mesh-covered micro-vents that run from the arch of the foot to the ankle along the sole. This design — known as GORE’s Surround system — makes the Nucleo High II more breathable than we would have expected. A Vibram rubber rand and toe cap deflect scuffs and rocks, hinting at long-term durability to match the hardy Nubuck leather upper.

What We Like: During testing, we found that the Vibram Nano XS-Trek outsole provided steady grip as we climbed and braking traction on descents. The boot’s slightly rockered shape also made it easy to smoothly heel into a step and toe out of it. For a traditional-looking, high-cut boot, the Nucleo High II has a modern feel akin to models from HOKA and Altra. Well-padded fabric at the Achilles provides plenty of pressure-free range of motion at the ankle on steep descents. On rocky trails, a polypropylene stiffener in the midsole protects feet from bruising, an essential feature considering the natural footfall this boot promotes.

What We Don’t: If you have truly wide feet, it’s likely that even the “wide” version of the Nucleo High II GTX will be too narrow. While this boot is roomy for La Sportiva — and it welcomes more hikers than ever to wear the company’s classic European hiking boots — it’s more of a wide-medium cut, limiting toe splay for those with a wide forefoot. (If you’re lamenting the change of last because you have narrow feet and have always loved how La Sportiva fits, don’t stress. The brand offers the Nucleo in a “normal fit,” too.)

Should You Buy It? Hikers who’ve been curious about La Sportiva’s boots but have never managed to wriggle their feet into them might finally find success with the Nucleo High II GTX’s wide version. If the boot fits, you’ll be able to take advantage of its leather-clad durability, stability, and waterproofing that won’t make your feet overheat.

Read Review: KEEN Targhee IV Test: PFC-Free, Comfortable, Durability Guaranteed

Bottom Line: The latest incarnation of a modern trail footwear icon. It continues to offer steadfast traction and midweight support for hikers who ask a lot of their boot, but who don’t necessarily want to pay top dollar. 

The KEEN Targhee IV ($190) is a lot of hiking boot for a very reasonable price. It packs in a durable leather upper, a long-lasting “fused” midsole, and a reliable waterproof membrane into a roomy design that’s great for those with higher-volume feet.

The Tech: The 2024 version of the Targhee was introduced with a technology that KEEN claims makes it much more durable. The boot’s midsole is fused to the upper using a process that eschews glue; the brand guarantees that it will never delaminate, and the Targhee also comes with a lifetime warranty against that defect. KEEN kitted the Targhee IV out with its proprietary midsole, which is quite grippy and effective — surprisingly so, for a non-brand-name design. (While we tend to prefer Vibram, this outsole works well and keeps the price reasonable.) 

What We Like: The Targhee is an iconic boot in the KEEN lineup. It’s earned a lot of love from both our testers and hikers all over the country for its rugged build and versatile features. GearJunkie Editor in Chief and AllGear Digital Editorial Director Sean McCoy tested it through mud, snow, and rocky trails, where it proved that it remains a capable boot ideal for cooler conditions and rough ground. While it’s not a top choice for off-trail hiking or scrambling, it’s a great option for those who put down a lot of miles and want significant support.

What We Don’t: Unlike the non-branded outsole, we’re a bit wary of the Targhee’s KEEN.Dry waterproofing. Straying from the GORE-TEX path may help with pricing, but it could mean less protection in the long run. Additionally, hikers should be aware that the Targhee IV runs significantly large. McCoy sized down a half size, and some may even want to go down one full size from their normal street shoes.

Should You Buy It? If you want to keep your boot budget below $200 but want a tried-and-true leather model, the KEEN Targhee IV is one of the best bets on the market. As long as your foot meshes well with its wide fit, this is a stable, hard-wearing boot that fits a variety of hiking styles.

Bottom Line: Perhaps the Platonic ideal of a stout leather hiking boot. It’s not made for going fast and light, but it rewards hikers with the patience to break it in with uncompromising support, protection, and durability. 

The Asolo TPS 520 GV EVO ($400) is the reigning heavyweight of this guide, coming in at over 4 pounds. But its beefy construction and full-leather upper are tailor-made for shouldering a heavy pack over variable terrain, and it provides essential comfort and confidence on the toughest trips. 

The Tech: Asolo builds the TPS 520 with a full-grain leather upper, which, along with a GORE-TEX waterproof membrane, allows it to ward off water if the weather on your expedition turns nasty. The deeply channeled Vibram outsole provides excellent traction and reduces debris buildup, and the padded ankle collar is comfortable and useful for keeping rocks out. A PU (rather than EVA) midsole is designed for carrying weight rather than plush rebound, which aligns with the boot’s intended use.

What We Like: This is a seriously durable boot. The TPS 520 GV EVO has lasted one of our testers for nearly 10 years. She’s taken them on numerous backpacking trips throughout the West, including the Tetons, Wind River Range, Glacier National Park, and the Sawtooths. It’s proven itself comfortable, durable, and supportive throughout. As you might expect, the TPS 520 is stiff and requires a break-in period. But once broken in, it feels like an extension of your body, ready for whatever conditions might lie ahead.

What We Don’t: You won’t be setting any speed records in the TPS 520, which is the heaviest boot we’ve reviewed in this guide. It’s probably a bit overbuilt for casual day hikes. Breathability is on the low end due to the leather upper, and we’ve read some complaints about the sole coming off. We’ve never experienced that ourselves, though, and in doing some research, it seems most complaints of sole failure are from boots that are 10-plus years old. (It’s worth noting that this boot can be resoled. This generally costs around $100, but it makes the TPS 520 a boot for life, as happened with our tester.)

Should You Buy It? Hikers who want to go all in on stability and protection in a boot that might outlast their trail legs should consider grabbing the TPS 520 GV EVO. It’s burly enough for the biggest multi-day missions, and its construction quality is top-notch — we’d even go so far as to say it’s worth the eye-watering price if you take its longevity into account.

Bottom Line: It’s hard to take your eyes off this boot, but its on-trail performance makes up for its futuristic aesthetic. Failsafe traction, responsive midsole construction, and a luxurious amount of cushion have won it lots of fans (and made it some enemies). 

HOKA has always been about innovation — and can consequently be quite polarizing. Since the brand’s inception, it’s churned out futuristic designs with bleeding-edge tech, in wild color schemes that pop off the shelf. The Anacapa 2 Mid GTX ($195) brings unique flair to the traditional hiking boot last, seemingly forcing people to either end of the spectrum. You either love it or you hate it, but one thing’s for sure — there are few hiking boots quite like it.

The Tech: The Anacapa 2 Mid benefits from HOKA’s Meta-Rocker technology, which is a curved silhouette that has denser foam placed at strategic points in the midsole, giving each stride a degree of smooth propulsion. With this boot, designers placed the rocker point closer to the toe for added stability during slower strides, perfect for those who want stable confidence over variable terrain. The Anacapa 2 Mid also boasts a “self-cleaning” lug pattern that channels mud away from the lugs as you step, forcing it to slide off the sole and allowing the deep, sticky tread to work its magic. This, paired with a GORE-TEX liner, makes this boot a power player in wet, sloppy conditions.

What We Like: Tester Chris Carter spent several days testing the Anacapa 2 in Zion National Park, putting the boot through the wringer in red-rock desert terrain. While he doesn’t usually pick boots as his steed of choice for long treks, it made quite an impression on him. One standout feature is the flexible cushioned insert that molds around your Achilles heel. It makes for one of the coziest heel cups we’ve experienced, and Carter had zero blister issues. Vibram Megagrip — one of our favorite outsole compounds — decorates the bottom of the shoe. Its performance on rocky terrain or muddy, uneven trails is second to none.

What We Don’t: The protruding SwallowTail heel is perhaps the first feature you notice on the Anacapa 2 Mid — and it isn’t for everyone. It undeniably provides better traction and stability while you’re bombing down uneven hills, but can sometimes snag on roots and rocks (or even the other boot) as you clunk down the trail. (For less boot, check out the HOKA Speedgoat 6 GTX.) We also find that this boot runs a bit large, so make an effort to try it on in a store before snagging a pair. Finally, it’s on the heavier (and pricier) end of the spectrum, but the comfort and cushion it affords make up for those sins.

Should You Buy It? For a healthy balance of plush comfort and broad stability over rough, wet terrain, it’s hard to beat the Anacapa 2 Mid GTX. The supremely tacky Vibram outsole, thoughtfully placed rocker, and unique Achilles tendon cushion should make the Anacapa a shoo-in for any serious hiker’s shortlist.