![]() Best Max-Cushioned Hiking Boot: Hoka Anacapa Mid GTX.Best Backpacking Boot for Rough Terrain: Salomon Quest 4 GTX.Best Budget Hiking Boot: Merrell Moab 3 Mid WP.Best Overall Hiking Boot: Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX.If you prefer to go even lighter and faster, check out our article on the best hiking shoes. For more information, see the comparison table and buying advice below the picks. Our picks for the best hiking boots of 2023 below are broken down into three categories: lightweight boots for day hiking and fastpacking, midweight options that work well for most backpacking trips, and heavyweights for rough terrain or hauling a large load. The trend is toward lighter materials that still offer decent support, and waterproof boots are the most popular by far (some are offered in a non-waterproof version for hiking in hot or dry climates). The Nucleo still feels like a lightweight hiker which is impressive considering that it’s a high cut supportive boot.Hiking boots are critical to your comfort and performance on the trail, but this no longer means a stiff and burly model that will weigh you down. ![]() The North Face Ultra Fastpack II and the Lowa Levante are both about 5 ounces lighter, but they sacrifice a lot to achieve that weight. The Nucleo is middle of the pack in terms of actual weight compared to the other boots tested. On the other hand, this could prove to be a disadvantage if you’re primarily hiking in cooler conditions or navigating icy stream crossings (purely for heat loss, not because of any water ingress). It also uses a Gore-Tex Surround lining that is fully waterproof and breathable, so it is great for hiking in warmer temperatures. However, since it doesn’t use any mesh and has a high cut, it provides a lot of protection from rocks and debris entering the boot. After a few uses the boots did show more signs of wear, mostly due to their color which displays scuffs more prominently than a darker colored boot. In terms of durability the Nucleo is full nubuck leather which is highly resistant to abrasion and much more durable than the more commonly seen combination of mesh and synthetic uppers. It also uses a so-called Impact Brake System on the outside heel to cushion impact when hiking down steep hills. It provides great traction on wet, slippery surfaces or when scrambling over rocky terrain due to its aggressive tread and sticky Vibram rubber. The Nucleo features a Vibram Nano sole which grips well in many conditions. The only downside is that the boot does feel a bit warm in hotter conditions. The Nucleo is a high-cut boot that sits above the ankle to provide support without ever feeling restrictive thanks to its flexible leather material. It uses compression molded EVA and TPU inserts that do a great job of providing the needed stability, even on tricky terrain like steep and rocky trails. ![]() Overall the Nucleo provides a lot of support and stability and is only beat by the Oboz Sawtooth. La Sportiva got around this problem by using Nano Cells, a polyurethane, fine mesh material, which allows air to circulate under the foot. Another common complaint among waterproof hiking boots is their lack of breathability. It is made of full nubuck leather, which provides immediate comfort right out of the box. It is by far the most comfortable of the boots tested due to the padding all around the ankle and tongue. While the Nucleo is an all-around impressive boot, comfort is one category where it really shines.
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