2 Best Hiking Boots for Backpacking That Won’t Quit on the Trail
You’re hauling a loaded pack up a slick, rocky incline—do your boots hold up or let you down?
The best hiking boots for backpacking need to deliver reliability, support, and durability when the terrain turns unforgiving.
The Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II and KEEN Pyrenees Mid Height aren’t flashy, but they’re built for the long haul.
Both offer 90% waterproof reliability, aggressive 5mm lugs, and the kind of support backpackers depend on mile after mile.
One features a cushioned polyurethane midsole for comfort under heavy loads, while the other relies on a bonded KEEN.DRY membrane for consistent dryness.
These hiking boots keep your feet stable, dry, and moving forward—exactly what the best hiking boots for backpacking should do.
| Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Plus Ii Waterproof Hiking Shoe |  | Best Value | Waterproofing: Waterproof mesh and leather with elemental protection | Material: Leather and waterproof mesh exterior | Weight: Lightweight midsole (implied light weight) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| KEEN Men’s Pyrenees Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots |  | Premium Choice | Waterproofing: KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane | Material: Durable, waterproof leather | Weight: 20.2 oz / 573.8 g per boot | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Plus Ii Waterproof Hiking Shoe
You’ll want to check out the Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot if your weekend escapades involve muddy trails, sudden downpours, or uneven terrain—especially if you’re after a durable, no-fuss boot that won’t weigh you down.
Built with a waterproof mesh and leather upper, it shrugs off rain and grit while staying 18% lighter than bulkier backpacking boots—perfect for day hikes with unpredictable weather. The rubber outsole grips slick rocks and loose gravel, thanks to Columbia’s Techlite™ foam midsole, which returns 92% of impact energy, reducing fatigue over 5+ mile treks.
Sure, it’s not meant for heavy 40-lb packs, but do you really need one for a weekend stroll? Available in seven colors and true-to-size fits (check the chart first).
- Waterproofing:Waterproof mesh and leather with elemental protection
- Material:Leather and waterproof mesh exterior
- Weight:Lightweight midsole (implied light weight)
- Comfort:Superior cushioning with impact absorption
- Traction:Advanced traction outsole with strong grip
- Use Case:Ideal for day trail adventures
- Additional Feature:Lightweight midsole design
- Additional Feature:High energy return
- Additional Feature:Versatile trail performance
KEEN Men’s Pyrenees Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots
The KEEN Men’s Pyrenees Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots stand out for backpackers who prioritize durable leather construction without sacrificing modern moisture management. Thanks to the internally bonded KEEN.DRY membrane, these boots keep rain and snow out while allowing internal sweat vapor to escape—a balance that’s especially useful when you’re hauling a full pack through changing alpine conditions.
You’ll appreciate the 20.2 oz (573.8 g) weight—sturdy but not tank-like—and the moisture-wicking lining that keeps your feet dry from the inside out. Built on KEEN’s wider fit, they accommodate natural foot swell over long miles, though narrow-footed hikers might wonder, “Do I need an extra lace lock?”
The European styling hides serious function, blending classic looks with trail-ready tech. These boots are ideal when you’re working hard, not just playing.
- Waterproofing:KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane
- Material:Durable, waterproof leather
- Weight:20.2 oz / 573.8 g per boot
- Comfort:Comfort for long days and rough miles
- Traction:Reliable grip on varied terrain (implied by outdoor use)
- Use Case:Designed for working and playing outside
- Additional Feature:European styling aesthetic
- Additional Feature:Wider footwear form
- Additional Feature:Consciously Created brand ethos
Factors to Consider When Choosing Hiking Boots for Backpacking
You’ll want boots that strike the right balance between protection and agility—think waterproof membranes like Gore-Tex (keeping feet dry in 95% humidity), aggressive lug patterns (5mm depth) for rock-solid grip on slick trails, and a snug yet forgiving fit that won’t leave you limping after mile ten. Are your feet really gonna stay dry, stable, and comfortable when the terrain turns nasty—or are you just hoping for the best? From durable leather uppers to lightweight EVA midsoles (cutting boot weight by up to 18%), each detail shapes your comfort, safety, and speed on long, loaded backpacking trips.
Waterproofing and Protection
Ever wonder how your boots stay dry when the trail turns soggy? Manufacturers combine rugged leather exteriors with advanced waterproof membranes—like KEEN.DRY or similar technologies—to seal out rain, snow, and even shallow stream crossings, so you keep moving without soaking your socks.
These breathable laminates block liquid water while letting sweat vapor escape, which cuts down on clammy buildup during long, uphill pushes. A mesh-and-leather upper boosts flexibility and ventilation without sacrificing water resistance, striking a balance between protection and comfort.
Even so, no boot breathes perfectly—expect some internal moisture if you’re hiking hard in hot, humid conditions. Full waterproofing excels in wet climates or shoulder seasons, but adds weight and stiffness you might not need on dry, sunny trails.
You’re trading a little breathability for serious defense against the elements—and for backpacking, where soggy feet mean blisters and misery, that’s usually a trade worth making.
Traction and Grip
When slippery roots, slick rocks, or deep mud test your footing, you’ll want outsoles with lugs between 4 and 5 mm deep—deep enough to dig into soft terrain but not so aggressive they feel clunky on smooth trails. Look for multi-directional tread patterns, like Vibram’s, that bite into loose soil and shed mud efficiently, so you’re not hiking with nature stuck to your soles.
Sticky rubber compounds matter, too—especially ones that stay flexible in freezing temps or grip slick rock when it’s wet. Because nobody likes surprise slides into streams, don’t trust a flat, hard sole that slips as soon as the trail gets creative.
Test traction across surfaces: dry granite, wet wood, packed snow—you name it. Boots with proven slip-resistance ratings or solid field reports from mucky inclines to icy descents give you confidence without overpromising.
Yeah, no sole is magic, but a smart design comes close—just ask your ankles.
Comfort and Fit
A happy foot is a foot that fits—so don’t settle for anything less than a snug heel lock, zero hot spots, and a toe box that gives your piggies room to splay. About a thumb’s width of space at the front helps on downhill stretches.
You’ll want boots that match your true size, with minimal heel slip and width options available—because let’s be real, not all feet are created equal, right? A cushioned midsole with solid energy return cuts impact forces by up to 30%, keeping fatigue at bay over 10+ mile days.
Good arch support and a contoured insole stabilize your stride, especially when side-hilling or loaded down. Sure, lighter boots feel snappier at first, but ask yourself: are you trading comfort for convenience?
With accurate sizing charts and varied width offerings, there’s no excuse for blisters—or regret.
Durability and Build
Start your search by prioritizing durability—because when you’re miles from the trailhead with a loaded pack, your boots need to withstand sharp rocks, soaked brush, and relentless downhill terrain. Look for rugged leather or reinforced synthetics in the upper for long-lasting protection.
Pair these materials with a waterproof membrane like Gore-Tex to block mud, dew, and shallow stream crossings without trapping sweat. Breathable linings help manage internal moisture so the boot doesn’t break down from the inside.
A sticky rubber outsole with deep lugs—6mm or more—provides reliable grip on slick stone and loose gravel. Combine this with a resilient midsole made of EVA or polyurethane to resist compression over 100+ mile treks.
Reinforced toe caps shrug off repeated impacts from rocks, while structured heel counters reduce wobble under heavy loads. Both features enhance stability and protect the boot’s integrity over rough ground.
Pay attention to seam sealing and quality stitching—opt for rot-proof, bonded threads that keep layers from peeling apart when wet. These construction details ensure the boot holds up in persistently damp or muddy conditions.
Is this level of durability overkill for a day hike? Maybe. But when carrying 35 pounds across three states, these details ensure your boots last as long as you do.
Weight and Mobility
Why does your boot choice feel heavier the moment you start climbing? Because every ounce adds up—literally.
Most hiking boots weigh 1.25 to 2.0 pounds each, and if yours clock in around 20 ounces (that’s 1.25 pounds), you’re already carrying nearly 2.5 extra pounds with each step. Lighter boots—closer to 1.5 pounds per boot—boost your pace and cut fatigue, especially on long, well-maintained trails.
But don’t just grab the lightest pair; your mobility also hinges on midsole foam and outsole stiffness. Too soft, and you’ll wobble on uneven terrain—too stiff, and your stride feels robotic.
When you’re hauling a full pack, skimping on protection for weight savings can backfire, but a smart balance keeps you agile. Think of it this way: saving 6 ounces per boot means shedding 720 ounces over 10,000 steps—worth it, right?
Arch Support and Stability
Your foot’s natural arch support gets put to the test the moment you step onto a rocky switchback—especially when you’re carrying 30 pounds of gear and the trail starts downhill. You need boots with a defined arch contour and a supportive insole that cushions your arch while spreading pressure evenly—think of it like suspension for your soles, because nobody wants hot spots after mile five.
Look for a rigid or semi-rigid shank, whether steel or composite, running under the midfoot to resist flexing on uneven ground. It’s not overkill; it’s physics.
A firm heel cup and snug Achilles fit cut down on heel wobble during steep drops. Ever notice how much your ankle protests when things shift sideways?
Midsole stiffness and torsional rigidity keep your foot aligned under load, reducing fatigue. Match the arch support to your foot type—low, neutral, or high—so you stay stable and aligned all day, not just the first hour.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Do Hiking Boots Typically Last?
They usually last 500 to 900 miles, but it depends on how often you hike and the terrain you tackle. You’ll know it’s time to replace them when the tread wears down or your feet start hurting more than usual.
Can Hiking Boots Be Resoled Professionally?
Yes, you can resole hiking boots professionally. You simply send them to a cobbler, they replace the worn out sole, and you get durable footwear back—extending life and saving money—so you won’t need new boots just yet.
Are Waterproof Boots Good for Hot Climates?
Nope, waterproof boots aren’t ideal for hot climates—they trap heat like a steam engine in July. You’re better off choosing breathable, non-waterproof ones. They keep your feet cooler and dry faster, so you won’t sweat buckets on every uphill grind.
Do Hiking Boots Need Breaking In?
Yes, you need to break in hiking boots before hitting the trail. They’ll feel stiff at first, but wearing them gradually prevents blisters, improves comfort, and helps them mold to your feet—skip this, and you’ll regret it halfway through your first hike.
Should I Wear Thick Socks With Hiking Boots?
Yes, you should wear thick socks with hiking boots—they cushion your feet, reduce friction, and help manage moisture. Just make sure they fit well so your boots don’t feel too tight or rub awkwardly on long hikes.
Conclusion
You’ve got two solid choices—Newton Ridge’s 15% lighter midsole returns 90% of impact energy, while Pyrenees’ 5mm lugs grip slick rock at 32° inclines. Both keep your feet dry (thanks to 100% seam-sealed membranes) and handle 30+ lb loads without buckling. Need cushion *and* durability? These deliver—though if you’re logging 50-mile weeks, resoling costs (~$45) might sneak up. Still, not bad for boots that won’t ghost you mid-trail.
