Top 10 · Compare
Compare Best Hiking Boots head to head
Pick any two picks from this list and see specs, current price, pros, cons and reader ratings side by side.
Back to the full Top 10
#7 on this list
Quest 4 GTX
Salomon
The lightest boot here with real load support, and the best out-of-box comfort in the category.
- Price
- Check current price
- Reader rating
- No reader votes yet
- How we assessed it
- Specification researched
#8 on this list
Nucleo High II GTX
La Sportiva
Gore-Tex Surround vents through the midsole — the coolest waterproof boot made.
- Price
- $255 MSRP
- Reader rating
- No reader votes yet
- How we assessed it
- Specification researched
Specs side by side
| Spec | Quest 4 GTX | Nucleo High II GTX |
|---|---|---|
| Maker | Salomon | La Sportiva |
| Model | Quest 4 GTX | Nucleo High II GTX |
| Waterproofing | GORE-TEX | Gore-Tex Surround |
| Weight (approx.) | 1 lb 7 oz (single, men's 9) | — |
| Shaft Height | High-cut | — |
| Primary Use | Backpacking, long hikes | — |
| Weight (pair) | — | Approx. 2 lbs 5 oz (men's 9) |
| Upper | — | Nubuck leather, Nylon inserts |
| Outsole | — | Vibram Nano |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Quest 4 GTX
- Exceptional out-of-box comfort and minimal break-in
- Excellent balance of support, stability, and relatively low weight
- Reliable GORE-TEX waterproofing and breathability
- Aggressive Contagrip outsole provides superb traction
- Solid ankle support for carrying moderate pack loads
- Not ideal for ultralight minimalist hikers
- Can feel warm in extremely hot climates despite breathability
- Upper materials may eventually show wear at flex points
Nucleo High II GTX
- Exceptional breathability for a waterproof boot due to Gore-Tex Surround technology
- Reliable waterproofing keeps feet dry in consistently wet conditions
- Excellent traction from the Vibram Nano outsole on varied terrain
- Durable construction with quality materials suggests long-term reliability
- Comfortable fit and good ankle support for carrying a pack
- Heavier than some competitors, not ideal for ultralight hikers
- Initial break-in period may be required for optimal comfort
- Premium price point compared to some other mid-weight hikers
Prices change constantly — the figure shown is the last verified catalog price, and the buy buttons always go to the current listing.