What Goretex boots do you recommend for fieldwork?

Review
1

I’m a geologist, and every year, I do a month-long fieldwork trip in Patagonia, hiking off-trail or on unmaintained trails in Torres del Paine. It rains about 60% of the time, so waterproof gear is essential. Last year, I tried the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX, which I really liked, but the rough terrain quickly wore down the soles.

I’m looking for a durable, very waterproof pair of Goretex boots that can handle long treks (25+ km in a day) without breaking down on sharp rocks. Preferably something light but rugged enough to last at least a few seasons.

Budget: under $250, but I could go higher if convinced! Any advice or suggestions?

2

I’d recommend leather boots. They’re pricier, but they’re definitely worth it!

Some solid options include Asolo TPS 520 GV Evo, Scarpa Kinesis Pro GTX, Kenetrek Mountain Extreme, Meindl Comfort Fit Hiker, Hunter, or Extreme, Zamberlan Vioz GTX, and several models from Hanwag.

These boots last a long time with resoles if needed. Just find a pair that fits you well, and you won’t regret it!

3

@Daire
I’ve been using Meindl Comfort Fit lately. They’re great boots but definitely on the expensive side.

4

Noor said:
@Daire
I’ve been using Meindl Comfort Fit lately. They’re great boots but definitely on the expensive side.

I also have a pair. Personally, I prefer my Asolos because they offer a snugger fit, but Meindl makes high-quality, traditional boots with a roomier toe box, which is excellent for longer hikes.

5

Noor said:
@Daire
I’ve been using Meindl Comfort Fit lately. They’re great boots but definitely on the expensive side.

My husband has Meindls, and they took forever to dry out after getting soaked on a short rainy hike. I can’t imagine trekking in those while they’re wet! Might not be the best for super wet conditions.

6

@Harper
Did they get soaked due to a GTX failure? If so, Meindl or Gore might warranty them. Or maybe it was from not using gaiters, which can let water wick from pants into the boots. Unfortunately, once GTX boots get waterlogged, they take forever to dry!

7

@Daire
Thanks for the advice! We didn’t use gaiters, which definitely contributed. The boots are still great, but that drying time was eye-opening, especially in perfect drying conditions at home.

8

Harper said:
@Daire
Thanks for the advice! We didn’t use gaiters, which definitely contributed. The boots are still great, but that drying time was eye-opening, especially in perfect drying conditions at home.

Yeah, GTX boots can take an eternity to dry out. Gaiters make a big difference—they help keep debris and water out, especially in wet conditions. I really like the ones from Outdoor Research.

9

@Daire
What do you think about the Zamberlan Tofane RR GTX?

10

Westley said:
@Daire
What do you think about the Zamberlan Tofane RR GTX?

Solid choice, but it’s on the heavy side. If weight isn’t an issue, it should serve you well as long as the fit works for you.

11

@Daire
Thanks! I’m looking for something sturdy that can handle my weight plus a loaded pack. Weight isn’t a big concern for me.

12

If DestructablePinata’s around, I’d ask him. He knows a lot about boots!

13

Sage said:
If DestructablePinata’s around, I’d ask him. He knows a lot about boots!

Thanks, I appreciate that!

Boots are sort of my thing. I’ve tried a ton to find the best and love sharing what I’ve learned. :blush:

14

@Daire
You’re a real asset to this forum! :+1:

15

Sage said:
@Daire
You’re a real asset to this forum! :+1:

Thanks, I try my best! :smile:

16

Sage said:
If DestructablePinata’s around, I’d ask him. He knows a lot about boots!

Wish there was an option to upvote this more!

17

Check out the Lowa Ranger GTX or Meindl Vakuum GTX. Both are tough as nails.

18

For long hikes, I’d suggest leather with a rubber rand or ballistic nylon for protection.

I’ve used Asolo Fugitives for off-track hiking, and they’ve held up well over rocky terrain. Lighter than leather, which is a nice bonus.

If you opt for leather, a rubber rand around the boot will help resist scrapes. Gaiters also help protect your boots from abrasion and debris.

19

I like the Salewa Mountain Trainer Lites. They might not last multiple years, but they’re comfy, grippy, waterproof, and support well over rocky paths.

They do tend to wear where the boot meets the sole, though.

Leather seems popular here, but honestly, hiking over 25 km a day in leather with a pack would be a pain. Go for a lighter boot if weight’s a concern.

20

@Emerson
Yeah, leather work boots for hiking would be rough!

Leather hiking boots are a different story, though. With conditioning, they’re comfortable and durable. For waterproofing and durability, leather is generally the way to go. However, if you want lightweight options, synthetics can also be great.

Here’s a list of reliable synthetic boots:

Asolo Fugitive GTX, Lowa Zephyr GTX, La Sportiva Ultra Raptor Mid II GTX, and Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX.

Synthetics and leather both have their strengths, so it depends on what you’re looking for.