Now that spring is here in full force, we thought it was time to post our picks for spring 2012 hiking shoes. When out hiking this spring you need to be prepared for different types of weather, from snow to dry and hot. Most likely if you are hiking in the mountains you encounter spring runoff, which means mud. With those things in mind, we have gathered shoes that are waterproof to thwart of the snow and water and shoes that are breathable to wear when it is hot and dry. Included are men’s specific shoes, shoes that are available in both men’s and women’s and the last 6 shoes are women’s specific. Look the guide over and then give a pair or two a try. Happy feet make a happy trip.
Wolverine Pulsar iCS Low-Cut Trail Hiker
The lightweight Wolverine Pulsar is designed for ultimate performance, comfort and fit during every outdoor adventure. Featuring patented Wolverine ICS™ (individual comfort system) technology, wearers can personalize their level of comfort for how they walk by simply adjusting the gel disc under the Pulsar’s performance OrthoLite® footbed. A mesh upper is equipped with PU Action Frame stabilizers that wrap from the heel and arch of the shoe to the lace eyelets for a secure fit. Unique, double-wrapped laces stayed tightly tied while navigating over miles of rough terrain. A Vibram® rubber lug outsole offers performance arch support and traction. Breathable GORE-TEX® waterproof lining guarantees that feet stay dry.
Features:
• GORE-TEX® waterproof membrane protects in wet conditions
• Breathable mesh upper for extended comfort
• Bumper for ultimate protection
• Action frame stabilizers for full foot support
• Performance arch stabilizers
• Air-light midsole, ideal for day hikes
• Action frame stabilizers for a secure ankle wrap, preventing lateral movement
• External heel counter for added ankle support
• Rugged Vibram® rubber outsole with Wolverine Claw-Trax™ traction
• Ortholite® X-40 Footbed: gel insert in the forepart for long lasting cushion comfort, air ow for cool foot, moisture wicking, performance arch, odor resistant
• Toe-strike and heel-strike protection for ultimate durability and comfort
• Available in men’s and women’s.
• MSRP: $160.00
Vasque Talus UD
Old school charm meets new school performance in this heritage-styled boot. With leather eyelets and no toe cap, the Talus with the UltraDry membrane, offers up a lightweight classic-hiker look at a great price. Fully waterproof nubuck leather, coupled with the PU midsole for stability and support, guarantees premium fit and performance no matter the weather.
Features:
• Vibram – Our longest standing partner.
• Perpetuum Last – As the name suggests, the Perpetuum Last creates a fit for steady, long distance endeavors.
• UltraDry™ combines management lining with waterproof components
• Weight: 2lb. 9 oz. (1168g)
• Outsole: Vibram® Nuasi
• Last: Perpetuum
• Midsole: Molded PU
• Available in Men’s and Women’s
• MSRP: $155
The North Face Hypershock
Say goodbye to soggy shoelaces. Designed for the amphibious adventurer, these featherweight, quick-drying shoes provide comfort, traction and durability. They feature a breathable mesh upper, a HydroTrak™ outsole, and welded construction. Quickly adjust the shoes while you’re on the go using the BOA® lacing system, which tightens or loosens with a twist of the dial. Wearable without socks thanks to no exposed stitching.
Features:
• Quick-drying, breathable mesh upper
• Durable, welded protective mudguard
• Welded, microfiber internal support system
• Micro-adjustable Boa® lacing system
• Compression-molded EVA footbed
• Featherweight, injection-molded EVA midsole/outsole with HydroTrak™ rubber pods for increased traction
• MSRP: $115.00
• http://www.thenorthface.com/catalog/sc-gear/men-39-s-hypershock-boa.html?cm_vc=Search
GoLite Scram Lite
GoLite believes that footwear should complement the design of the human body, and that feet work best when they stay flat. But they also understand that feet need protection from rocks and roots on the trail. That’s why they created the Zero-Impact Platform. These shoes have a zero drop last which promotes a natural stride, along with a soft midsole, offering full protection from the terrain. Inspired by gravity-defying geckos, miniature lugs on their Sticky Gecko sole replicate the tiny hairs on the lizard’s feet that create surface contact and friction.
Features:
• Engineered for a wet terrain approach
• Men’s PreciseFit™ system sizes 7-13; 14
• 4 Different Color Options
• Premium Nubuck Upper
• Brushed Rubber Rand
• Dual Density EVA Midsole
• MSRP: $120
• http://www.golite-footwear.com/products/view/men/search/79
Chaco Torlan
The Torlan is a lace-up shoe made with a Nubuck leather upper and articulated panels for exceptional fit and water drainage. Also the Torlan is built on the same LUVSEAT™ platform as the beloved Chaco sandals. Lightweight and ready for adventure, the Torlan has articulating panels for both airflow and a customized fit. The Torlan is then finished with a removable comfy ChaPU footbed, stay-‐tied square laces, and the new Vibram™ Bulloo non-‐marking outsole for grip in wet or dry conditions.
Features:
• Nubuck leather upper with articulating panels for airflow and fit.
• Lace-toe with webbing lacing gilleys.
• LUVSEAT™ XO3 platform.
• Lace-up fit.
• Second lace color available.
• Vibram® Bulloo Outsole. Non-marking.
• Available in Men’s and Women’s
• MSRP: $125.00
• http://www.chacos.com/US/en-US/Product.mvc.aspx/27550M/0/Mens/Torlan-Shoe?dimensions=0
TrekSta Kobra II GTX
This high-tech light hiker features the Boa Lacing System, which provides unparalleled security, comfort by preventing pressure points and its micro-adjustability provides a dialed-in fit, all of which equals improved performance on the trail. You can learn more about the Boa Lacing System and its benefits here: http://boatechnology.com/technology/Overview
Features:
• NestFIT system cradles your feet, accounting for every contour as it follows the natural flow and design of the foot. Upper, insole, midsole, and outsole come together like never before.
• HyperGrip/IceLock sole provides traction in any condition.
• Lightweight, variable-density Zero-Gravity™ EVA midsole joins the sole and insole to create a a supportive whole.
• Triple-density EVA insole supports the arch, cushions key strike zones, and strengthens your stride.
• TPU shank protects against impact and supports natural foot structure.
• Boa Lacing system locks the foot securely in place.
• Gore-Tex waterproof/breathable membrane for dry feet.
• 15.6 oz. per shoe (M9)
• MSRP: $175
• http://www.trekstausa.com/p-35-treksta-mens-kobra-ii-gtx.aspx
Patagonia Drifter A/C Mid
The more traditional, award-winning Drifter A/C goes tall with the new Drifter A/C Mid for spring 2012. An all-terrain boot with a ventilated mesh/leather upper and Vibram® EcoStep sole with 30 percent recycled rubber. Breathable components of the boot include a durable air-mesh/waterproof nubuck leather upper, a bellows tongue that sheds debris, and a polyester air-mesh lining that circulates airflow. The 15%-recycled EVA anatomical footbed provides cushioning, comfort and support; while the Bi-Fit™ 80% post-consumer recycled polyurethane waterproof insole board offers support and stability underfoot.
Features:
• Breathable air mesh/durable waterproof nubuck leather upper; breathable bellows tongue to keep out debris; breathable polyester air mesh lining
• 15% recycled EVA anatomical footbed provides cushioning, comfort and support
• Patagonia Air Cushion Plus provides shock absorption
• Bi-Fit 80% post-consumer recycled polyurethane waterproof insole board provides support and stability underfoot
• Board-lasted construction provides support and durability
• Vibram® Trail Ecostep outsole with 30% recycled rubber provides excellent traction
• Last characteristics: medium width, full toe box, medium arch/instep
• 510 g (1 lb 2 oz)
• MSRP: $160.00
• http://www.patagonia.com/us/product/patagonia-mens-drifter-a-c-mid-shoe?p=78510-0-685
Boreal Hurricane
The Hurricane includes the new developed Sympatex Climate Technology, that makes it completely waterproof, 100% breathable and abrasion resisting. It has been testing for almost 2 years and is a huge step forward. The upper is constructed from an innovative combination of high-tech outer material, lining and membrane. It has a TPU overlay for added lateral support and rubber toecap for protection. A extra-hydrophobic lining with H2O-finishing and high-performance Sympatex® membrane enables fast and effective transport of sweat away from the foot.
Features:
• 100% waterproof
• Optimum breathability
• 100% windproof
• Optimum protection against viruses and bacteria
• Guaranteed functionality
• Robust membrane
• 300% stretch
• MSRP: $179.00
• http://www.e-boreal.com/ing/comienzo.htm
Gronell Grappa Boot
This spring Sport Hansa will release the Grappa, a classic hiking and backpacking boot made by long-established Italian boot maker Gronell. The Grappa sports a classic heavy-duty boot design that is well suited for hiking and backpacking with moderate loads over most terrain. With a high upper made of Anfibio leather, this 4.6 pound waterproof boot was designed for great comfort and ankle protection. The Grappa is made with Goodyear-welt construction, which means the boot’s Vibram soles are stitched to the boot’s upper, making for a very rugged, waterproof, and durable design that can be re-soled. The Grappas boots, as well as the entire line of Gronell footwear, are all manufactured in the mountains just north of Verona, Italy.
Features:
• Upper: Water-repellent Anfibio oil leather
• Lining: Real leather
• Insole: Arch support real leather
• Sole: Vibram – Goodyear stitching 2
• Sizes 5-13U.K. with ½ sizes
• Weight: 900 g (1/2 pair sz. 8)
• MSRP: $349.00
• http://www.gronell.it/gb/tradition/tradition.html
Zamberlan 1024 Lagorai NW GT
Handcrafted in Italy and part of the Norwegian Welted boot line, the full grain leather 1024 Lagorai NW GT is one of Zamberlan’s most capable and beautiful boots. Using Norwegian Welted construction to apply a new, lightweight PU sole to waxed Tuscan leather uppers, Zamberlan has created a truly a unique combination that includes a Gore-Tex liner. Its Vibram® NorTrack sole is a lightweight, dual-density PU platform with a tread ideal for navigating a variety of terrain. Hydrobloc waxed tuscan leather adds a layer of water-resistance to the very capable Gore-Tex liners.
Features:
• Made in Italy
• Upper: Hydrobloc full grain leather
• Leather thickness: 2.6/2.8mm
• Lining: Gore-tex
• Zamberlan Z-Comfort fit footbed
• Thermoplastic toe and heel
• Zamberlan Vibram NorTRAK
• MSRP: $440
• http://www.zamberlanusa.com/catalog/index.php?lang=en&pg=prod&idprod=204&idcat=3
Tecnica Dragon X-Lite W
The new Dragon X-Lite is a hybrid shoe offering hiking protection, approach precision and running performance. The TRS X-Lite sole combines the rolling rocker of the TRS with a semi-oversized profile that is super lightweight. The Tecnica Rolling System (TRS) is an energy and cushioning system that provides superior forward energy transfer, comfort and grip resulting in a faster, smoother and safer ride. Rolling, cushioning and lightness in one sweet package.
Features:
• Durability. Safety. Control
• Performance insoles enhance fit and comfort.
• TRS X-Lite
• Sizes: US 5 – 10.5
• Weight: 260 gr
• Colors: Violet – Lime, Dark Grey – Lime, Brown – Azure
• Upper: Suede 1.4-1.6 mm
• Lining: Textile;
• Outsole: TRS X-Lite with Tecnigrip
• Midsole: Phylon EVA
• Footbed: Anatomic Ortholite®
• MSRP: $115.00
• http://shop.tecnicausa.com/Product/1501%2012%20DRAGONW%20XLITE%20VIO/outdoor-dragon-x-lite-w’s
GoLite Women’s Lava Lite
Built on the belief that footwear should be built on a zero drop last, the Lava Lite has the Zero-Impact Platform. Also the Lava Lite has Rock Absorber technology which makes the shoes perform without compromise on unforgiving terrain, creating a shoe that mimics the suspension of an SUV. The closer the shock absorbers are to the ground, the better the vehicle’s stability. Rock Absorber™ technology applies the same physics to these shoes, providing a stable platform under foot with soft shock-absorbing foams close to the ground. GripstickTM rubber is an exclusive high-grip compound that provides extra traction on slick surfaces like wet rocks, snow and ice. It’s lightweight and durable for maximum performance.
Features:
• Engineered for approaches and light hiking
• Women’s PreciseFit™ system sizes 5.5-11
• Premium Nubuck Upper
• Dual Density EVA Midsole
• MSRP: $115
• http://www.golite-footwear.com/products/view/women/27/82/190
adidas Terrex Fast X GTX
Featuring a breathable GORE-TEX membrane, the adidas women’s Terrex Fast X GTX shoes offer 100 percent weather protection during fast-paced outdoor pursuits. This very light, technical hiker has adaptive FORMOTION™cushioning and a TRAXION™outsole to grip trails during fast hikes. Also the Terrex Fast X GTX is made with high-abrasion mesh and synthetic upper materials for breathability and durability.
Features:
• Weight: 13.6 oz. (per shoe, size 7)
• Outdoor-specific FORMOTION unit for enhanced motion control and downhill comfort
• Synthetic upper material mix for lightweight durability and enhanced fit
• Waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX lining
• Speed lacing construction for fast and snug lacing; Comfortable textile lining
• adiPRENE+ in the forefoot maintains propulsion and efficiency
• TRAXION outsole provides the best grip and agility during fast activities
• MSRP: $160
• http://www.adidas.com/us/product/womens-outdoor-terrex-fast-x-gtx-shoes/QP676
Scarpa Moraine Mid GTX Womens
An ideal shoe for those who prefer additional ankle support without the weight and stiffness of a boot. Dual-density compression molded EVA midsole provides comfort all day. The tongue lining made with stretch GTX XCF gives outstanding fit and comfort through the midfoot area. It also has a structured toebox with abrasion-resistant toe rand. Gore-Tex® will provide protection from spring runoff and rain while delivering maximum breathability.
Features:
• Planet Friendly
• 29% recycled polyester mesh
• 40% recycled synthetic leather
• 100% PC recycled lining; 70% recycled stroebel
• Lace and webbing is 100% Ecosensor recycled polyester
• Midsole has EcoPure EVA additive to promote degradation in landfill conditions
• 25% recycled rubber outsole
• Extended Comfort Gore-Tex®
• Structured toebox
• Tongue lining made with stretch GTX XCF
• Upper: Suede/Nubuck leather and recycled polyester mesh
• Lining: Gore-Tex® – Extended Comfort
• Plate: Arch Suspension Insert
• MSRP: $129.00
• http://www.scarpa.com/scarpa/products/p_32009-202
Zamberlan 310 Skill GT- Women’s
Designed for trekking & hiking, the 310 Skill GT features outstanding old-world workmanship and modern day technology combined to provide comfort, support and stability. The perforated leather lining in the heel and ankle areas and one-piece leather tongue and gusset grip the feet snugly to ensure a great fit. The Gore-Tex® lining and premium Hydrobloc® full-grain, single-leather upper combines to provide superior water repellency. The Zamberlan Vibram® L.H.0.7 sole with moderate gauged lugging will ensure stability while traversing uneven terrain and comfort on flat surfaces. Made with Zambelran Ladies Fit, a female-specific last to properly match the shape of a woman’s foot.
Features:
• Upper: Hydrobloc full grain leather
• Leather thickness: 2.4mm
• Gore-Tex lining
• Zamberlan Z-Comfort fit footbed
• Thermoplastic toe and heel
• Zamberlan Z-Flex GT insole/shank
• Zamberlan Vibram L.H.0.7
• Weight: 560 g
• MSRP: $250.00
• http://www.zamberlanusa.com/catalog/index.php?lang=en&pg=prod&idprod=18&idcat=2
Ahnu Montara Boot
Providing performance and style for women the Montara Boot is Ahnu’s first ever mid-height light weight hiker. With Vibram outsoles and eVent waterproofing, the Montara Boot walks firmly on the performance side of the street. Lace-up versatility, waterproof oiled leather, a suede quarter panel, rubber toe and heel wraps create the Montara Boots snug, stylish, comfortable fit for the town or the trail. The Montara features Ahnu NUMENTUM™ HIKE technology engineered to center and guide the foot, promoting a balanced, even stride.
Features:
• Padded Collar
• eVent® breathable waterproof bootie
• Nubuck upper
• Rubber toe protector
• Vibram® outsole for traction on variety of surfaces
• Mid-cut for added security and protection
• Genuine Leather Lined collar and tongue
• Available in Black, Tawny Port, Astral Aura and Coffee Bean
• Weight: 15oz.
• MSRP: $150.00
• http://www.ahnu.com/womens-montara-stability-hiking-boots/AF2128,default,pd.html
Footbalance Dynamic Blue Insoles
So we know that these are not hiking shoes but I do believe they can be a great asset to many people, and that is why we included them. Footbalance is a personalized footbed, individually custom-molded on the basis of a foot analysis to ensure perfect arch support. Footbalance footbeds support the feet in proper alignment to help reduce overpronation, counter the effects of excessive supination, and foster healthy foot function. Studies have shown that regularly wearing custom footbeds can help improve overall body alignment, which can help reduce the incidence of stress injuries. By giving the exact support needed underfoot, Footbalance footbeds customizes footwear for ultimate fit and comfort, so feet feel better every step of the way. Footbalance Cushion Blue is an all-around performance and comfort solution for multiple sports and activities. These high density 3.0 mm EVA footbeds are perfect for both recreational and performance athletes, including active outdoor enthusiasts. The high-tech polyester fabric, with a Sanitized® antibacterial treatment, wicks moisture away from the foot and provides a cool, friction-free surface to help prevent blisters and other foot problems.
Features:
• Benefits – All around comfort and performance
• Perfect for – A wide range of sports and All foot types
• Cushioning: 3
• Stiffness: 1
• Surface Material: Moisture-wicking Atlanta
• Weight (size 42): ≈ 1.55 oz / 44 g