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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.
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#6 on this list
Zodiac Plus GTX
Scarpa
Approach-boot precision with backpacking support. The pick for rocky, technical routes.
- Price
- $255 MSRP
- Reader rating
- No reader votes yet
- How we assessed it
- Specification researched
#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
Specs side by side
| Spec | Zodiac Plus GTX | Quest 4 GTX |
|---|---|---|
| Upper Material | Perwanger Suede | — |
| Waterproofing | GORE-TEX | GORE-TEX |
| Outsole | Vibram Drumlin | — |
| Weight (pair) | Approx. 2 lbs 10 oz (men's 9) | — |
| Ankle Support | Mid-cut | — |
| Intended Use | Technical Hiking, Scrambling | — |
| Maker | — | Salomon |
| Model | — | Quest 4 GTX |
| Weight (approx.) | — | 1 lb 7 oz (single, men's 9) |
| Shaft Height | — | High-cut |
| Primary Use | — | Backpacking, long hikes |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Zodiac Plus GTX
- Exceptional precision and grip on technical rock
- Robust construction with full rubber rand for durability
- Excellent ankle support and torsional stability
- Reliable GORE-TEX waterproofing for wet conditions
- Vibram outsole with dedicated climbing zone
- Stiff feel on flat or less technical trails
- Requires a break-in period
- Less cushioning than some dedicated hiking boots
- Price point is on the higher end
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
Prices change constantly — the figure shown is the last verified catalog price, and the buy buttons always go to the current listing.