#2 on this list
Sawtooth X Low
Oboz
The Oboz Sawtooth X Low is engineered for hikers who want the stability and protective underfoot feel of a traditional backpacking boot in a low-cut package. Built on Oboz's women's-specific last, this shoe locks down narrow heels remarkably well while providing adequate room across the ball of the foot. It is a fantastic option for long, technical day hikes where ankle mobility is preferred over high-cuff support. What sets the Sawtooth X Low apart from typical low hikers is its structural integrity. While many low-profile trail shoes lean into squishy running-shoe foams, Oboz utilizes an internal nylon shank and a sculpted dual-density midsole that stops sharp rocks from bruising your arches. The proprietary O FIT insole included with the shoe offers genuine arch and heel support, sparing most hikers the expense of buying aftermarket orthotics. The Trail Tread rubber outsole delivers deep, aggressive perimeter lugs that claw into loose dirt and scree. Because this shoe is built like a tank, it comes with the associated drawbacks: it is noticeably heavier and stiffer than a trail runner. It requires a short adjustment period to soften the oiled nubuck leather and Cordura mesh upper. Additionally, because it is a low-cut shoe, trail debris, pebbles, and water can easily enter over the collar unless you pair it with low gaiters. **Highlights** - Exceptional heel lock and arch support via the stock O FIT insole - High-traction Trail Tread rubber outsole with deep perimeter lugs - Integrated nylon shank provides superior underfoot rock protection - Durable oiled nubuck leather and high-tenacity Cordura mesh construction - Rubberized heel counter enhances lateral stability **Watch-outs** - Noticeably heavier and stiffer than trail-running-based low hikers - Low collar allows trail debris inside without gaiters
- Price
- Check current price
- Reader rating
- No reader votes yet
- How we assessed it
- Specification researched
#3 on this list
Targhee IV Waterproof Hiking Boot
Keen
Keen has long been synonymous with wide forefoot geometry, and the Targhee IV Waterproof takes that proven formula and addresses the brand's historically vulnerable failure point: outsole delamination. Built with KEEN.FUSION construction, the sole is fused directly to the upper using heat and pressure rather than conventional glue. This creates an exceptionally durable bond that holds up to abrasive rocks, mud, and endless flex cycles without peeling at the toe or midfoot. On the trail, the Targhee IV is a dream for women who suffer from compressed toes or bunions. The toe box allows for natural splay during long descents, while the external heel-capture system pulls the rear of the foot firmly back into the pocket when laced. The KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane handles mud and wet grass reliably. Traction from the multi-directional lugs is predictable across wet roots and loose soil, supported by a semi-rigid shank that absorbs trail chatter under moderate pack weights. The wide, high-volume shape that makes this boot so comfortable for broad feet can feel sloppy on narrower profiles. Even with tight lacing, hikers with slender heels may experience lateral slippage inside the heel cup on steep traverses. The boot also has a relatively wide profile, which makes precise foot placement in narrow rock crevices somewhat clumsy. **Highlights** - Glue-free direct-attach construction eliminates outsole delamination - Generous, anatomically shaped toe box allows full toe splay - KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane keeps feet dry - Multi-directional rugged lugs provide dependable mud and dirt grip - External heel-capture system improves lock-in **Watch-outs** - Excess volume for hikers with narrow feet or slender heels - Wide exterior profile feels clunky on technical, narrow rock paths
- Price
- Check current price
- Reader rating
- No reader votes yet
- How we assessed it
- Specification researched
Specs side by side
| Spec | Sawtooth X Low | Targhee IV Waterproof Hiking Boot |
|---|---|---|
| Weight per pair | 26.8 oz / 760 g (women's size 7) | — |
| Upper materials | Oiled nubuck leather and Cordura mesh | — |
| Midsole | Dual-density ACT EVA with nylon shank | — |
| Insole | O FIT Insole with Bloom foam | — |
| Outsole | Trail Tread rubber with 4.5 mm lugs | Direct-attach rubber with multi-directional lugs |
| Collar height | Low-cut | — |
| Upper Material | — | Waterproof nubuck leather and breathable mesh |
| Waterproofing | — | KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane |
| Construction | — | KEEN.FUSION glue-free direct-inject bond |
| Footbed | — | Removable dual-density footbed with arch support |
| Ankle Height | — | Mid cut for moderate collar support |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Sawtooth X Low
- Integrated nylon shank provides outstanding protection against sharp rock bruising
- Factory O FIT insole delivers genuine arch support without aftermarket inserts
- Oiled nubuck and Cordura upper resists tearing on abrasive technical terrain
- Aggressive perimeter lugs bite reliably into loose dirt, scree, and mud
- Noticeably heavier and stiffer than modern lightweight trail runners
- Stiff leather collar requires a deliberate break-in period to avoid blisters
- Low ankle collar readily collects trail debris unless paired with gaiters
Targhee IV Waterproof Hiking Boot
- Glue-free sole construction eliminates the risk of toe delamination
- Spacious, anatomical toe box accommodates wide feet and bunions
- Durable nubuck leather upper withstands heavy trail abrasion
- Predictable underfoot traction in deep mud and loose soil
- Substantial toe cap guards against sharp rock impacts
- Excess volume can cause heel slip for hikers with narrow feet
- Wide platform feels clunky when navigating technical rock scrambles
- Runs warm during high-output summer hikes
Prices change constantly — the figure shown is the last verified catalog price, and the buy buttons always go to the current listing.