I’m a geologist and I spend a month each year doing fieldwork in Patagonia (Torres del Paine). My trips involve off-trail backpacking for over 200 km, often in rugged conditions and with rain about 60% of the time.
Last season, I used the La Sportiva Ultra-Raptor II Mid GTX and loved them, but they only lasted one season as the rocky terrain destroyed the soles.
Now I’m looking for a very durable and highly waterproof pair of Gore-Tex boots that can handle 25+ km days and ideally last several years without getting torn up. I’d prefer a lighter boot to keep agile, but I’m open to suggestions.
My budget is around $250, but I’m willing to go higher if it’s worth it.
Charlie said: @Gael
The Meindl Comfort Fit boots have been my go-to. They are excellent quality, but they’re not cheap.
I have a pair too. I like my Asolos a bit more as they have a snugger fit, but Meindls are fantastic quality. They’re especially great if you prefer a bit more toe room.
Charlie said: @Gael
The Meindl Comfort Fit boots have been my go-to. They are excellent quality, but they’re not cheap.
I’ve seen my husband’s Meindls get soaked after a rainy hike, and it took days to dry them out at home. They’re great boots, but in wet conditions, they can hold onto water for a while.
@Vesper
Did they get soaked because the Gore-Tex membrane failed? If so, you could try for a warranty replacement from Meindl or even Gore.
If water entered due to wicking or stepping in deep water, that’s not really the fault of the boot. But yeah, once Gore-Tex boots are waterlogged, they take forever to dry. Synthetic materials tend to dry a little faster than leather in those cases.
@Gael
We didn’t have gaiters, so water probably got in that way. It was just surprising how long they took to dry. Good thing it was the last day of our hike!
Vesper said: @Gael
We didn’t have gaiters, so water probably got in that way. It was just surprising how long they took to dry. Good thing it was the last day of our hike!
Gaiters are definitely worth it! I recommend ones from Outdoor Research—they do a great job keeping out water and debris.
@Gael
Thank you for all the advice! I’m leaning toward the Hanwag Alaska XC GTX since I found them on sale. Do you have any experience with these? And any tips for choosing the right size without trying them on in-store?
@Val
Hanwag makes great boots. Make sure to measure your feet with thick hiking socks on, and ideally, you’ll want a 1/3" to 1/2" space at the end of the insole when you try them. Boots should feel comfortable out of the box without any pressure points.