Forest II vs Alaska GTX
top ten:hiking and bushcraft boots
When venturing into the wild, your boots are arguably your most critical piece of gear. Today, we're putting two heavy-hitters in the trekking boot world head-to-head: the Lundhags Forest II and the Hanwag Alaska GTX. Both are revered for their robust construction and performance in challenging terrain, but they approach boot design with distinctly different philosophies. The Forest II champions the classic shell-boot concept, prioritizing longevity, packability, and a customizable fit, while the Alaska GTX offers a more traditional, single-unit waterproof membrane design focused on immediate comfort and out-of-the-box water resistance. Your choice will largely depend on your priorities: do you prefer the reparability and adaptability of a shell boot, or the integrated protection and familiar feel of a fully lined Gore-Tex model? Let's dive into the details to help you decide which is the better companion for your next expedition.
Spec-by-Spec
| Spec | Forest II | Alaska GTX |
|---|---|---|
| Weight (per boot, size EU42) | Approx. 850 grams | Approx. 875 grams |
| Capacity/Size | Mid/High ankle support | High ankle support |
| Materials | Perwanger Split Leather (upper), Cellular Rubber (lower), Vibram Traction sole | Waxed Nubuck Leather (upper), GORE-TEX membrane, Vibram Fuora sole |
| Price Tier | Premium | Premium |
| Warranty | Not published (Lundhags typically offers repair services) | Not published (Hanwag offers repair services) |
| Best Use | Trekking, hiking, bushcraft, wet environments (with chosen socks) | Trekking, backpacking, mountaineering (light), rough terrain |
| Portability | Shell boot allows for easy drying, integrated gaiter | Traditional boot, less breathable than shell without membrane |
| Durability | Excellent, highly repairable, long lifespan due to shell construction | Excellent, robust leather upper, solid construction |
| Feature Highlights | Shell construction, removable felt insole, integrated gaiter, repairable | GORE-TEX lining, one-piece upper, deeply profiled sole, reduced seams |
Forest II
Best for: The long-distance trekker, bushcrafter, or professional user who values repairability, customization, and ultimate longevity in challenging, often wet, environments.
Pros
- Exceptional durability and repairability due to shell construction
- Highly customizable climate control through sock choice
- Quick-drying lower section allows for wet use without saturation
- Integrated gaiter prevents debris entry
- Excellent ankle support and robust build
Cons
- Requires careful sock layering for warmth and waterproofing
- Can be slower to break in compared to traditional boots
- Higher initial learning curve for optimal comfort and performance
- Not inherently waterproof without proper sock system
Alaska GTX
Best for: The serious backpacker or hiker seeking immediate comfort, robust support, and reliable out-of-the-box waterproof protection for multi-day trips in varied conditions.
Pros
- Out-of-the-box waterproofness and breathability with GORE-TEX lining
- Superior immediate comfort and cushioning for long treks
- Minimal seams reduce potential failure points and chafing
- Excellent grip and stability on varied terrain
- Proven track record in demanding conditions
Cons
- Dries slower if the GORE-TEX membrane is compromised or water gets over the top
- Less repairable if the internal membrane is damaged
- Can feel warmer in hot climates due to the membrane
- Heavier than some lighter trekking alternatives
The Verdict
The choice between the Lundhags Forest II and the Hanwag Alaska GTX boils down to your preferred approach to outdoor footwear. The **Hanwag Alaska GTX emerges as the clear winner for most hikers and backpackers** seeking immediate, fuss-free performance. Its integrated GORE-TEX membrane provides reliable waterproofness and breathability straight out of the box, offering superior comfort and cushioning for long days on the trail without needing complex layering. However, the Lundhags Forest II is a specialized, incredibly robust shell boot that shines for specific users. While it demands more understanding of layering, its repairability, adaptability to various climates via sock changes, and quick-drying nature make it an enduring choice for those who value longevity and customization above all else. For general use, the Alaska GTX's convenience and proven performance make it the better all-rounder.