Reddit mentions: The best hiking boots for men

If you were looking for shoes, rather than boots, I'd recommend a pair of the Patagonia Drifters, which I picked up recently. There might be a boot for them, without the gore-tex/waterproofing (since you're looking for breathability and high temperature use), but if not then you could look at the waterproof Drifter boots: http://www.amazon.com/Patagonia-Drifter-Mid-Waterproof-Hiking/dp/B006WEH7WC/ref=sr_1_5?s=shoes&ie=UTF8&qid=1394235747&sr=1-5&keywords=patagonia+drifter

Very strong and stable Vibram outsole, comfortable insole, and great lacing system (at least it's good on the shoe, I haven't tried the boot. The other two factors should be the same.) I've done about 10 miles or so in my pair so far (total over two hikes), and I haven't had a single blister. I'll try one of the longer 10-mile hikes I can do around here and see how they feel, but I'm pretty sure they'll hold up better than the rest of my body.

Anyway, check out those boots. Great brand, great look, the shoe version fits great on me, amazing outsole, strong toe-box, etc. etc. etc.. Too bad Amazon doesn't have them in a non-waterproof boot.

Vests

First decide what kind of vest you want:

Chest rig: Light, breathable, comfortable. Usually has a decent amount of room for stuff.

Plate carrier: Hot, bulky, uncomfortable (In my opinion), but has a lot of room for stuff

Belt (May need harness to keep it in place): Very comfortable and light, but not much room.

Generally Condor stuff is pretty good, and I'd recommend it if you're on a budget. They have a bunch of different styles as well. If you let me know your budget and what you're looking for I can make some suggestions.

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Helmets/Goggles

I find helmets to be uncomfortable, and usually just use a hat myself. I also use goggles and mesh, specifically Pyramex I-force and One Tigris mask. I also use Howard Leight Impact Sports for ear protection.

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Gloves

I use Mechanix M-pacts and love them. I have 2 pairs (Multicam and black) and my brother has a pair as well. Good protection, durable, comfortable, and well priced.

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Other

I'd suggest some boots or hiking shoes. Something with ankle support. I use Merrel MOAB Mid and love them, but I'd highly recommend going to a store and trying some on.

A Shemagh is nice to have as well. You can use it as neck protection, head/ear protection, as a tactical towel, or get it wet and use it to cool down.

> -How easy is the route finding on the E-5? That is, is it well sign posted and it is usually clear which way you have to go? I've done plenty of hiking, but never one where the trail wasn't easy to follow. I wouldn't want to lose the trail and get lost in the Alps.

You will usually finds signs that look like this. Notice the the sign at the top and how it says "E5"? The different trails are also marked with a color code/trail label. If for whatever reason no signs are available you can find stone figures which usually also have the trail lable painted on.

> -Would it be a problem doing this hike not speaking German? I'd try to learn a little before coming and bring a phrasebook.

That + english should be alright.

> -Would there be an issue finding places to stay in the mountain huts if I went in the middle of the summer and traveled independently? I know it would be easier with a group tour but I really don't like them.

Check beforehand if the huts you intend to stay in are privatly owned or if they belong to one of the alpine clubs and also if they are managed or unmanaged huts. Depending on that they work differently. I never hiked the E5 so i don't know for sure but i'm guessing most/all of them are managed huts belonging to either the german, austrian or italian alpine club. Those usually have beds and matress rooms. If the hut is full, they don't turn wanderes away, instead they "stack them wherever they can". I was in that situation twice i think. The tables in the dining room were pushed together, some people slept on the tables, some under the tables. It wasn't the most comfortable night but it worked.
You are required to bring your own sleeping bag - at least a small/lightweight one out of linen, silk or similar - since washing the bed lining, pillows or wool blankets isn't possible every day.

Here you can find the hut regulations for (managed) huts with the german and austrian alpine club. The rules for huts with the italian alpine club are very similar since the alpine clubs are working closely together with each other.

Also the following stuff:

Use proper hiking boots meaning they cover your ankles

The amount of people who go hiking in the alps in sneakers/running shoes etc. is astonishing. The amount of those who end up dead or need to be rescued by the "Bergwacht" however is not.
Yes hiking boots like these (not trying to advertise, i just used the first amazon search result to show which type of shoes i'm talking about) are heavier than trailrunning shoes etc. However these do support the ankles and have a stabilizing effect which is especially important when you're exhausted after a long day of hiking. Safety should be your top priority, not convenience.

Bring cash

The higher you go the less likely it is that you can pay via any other type of payment.

Don't rely to much on your phone

Bringing one with you is of course a good thing in case you need to call for help or just to stay in contact with family/friends, however don't expect to have the best cell reception everywhere. You probably won't be able to charge your phone every night which renders modern smartphones pretty much useless after the first few days unless you carry small solar cells/mobile cahrgers and so on with you. I prefer to use one of those good old nokia phones. Seemingly indestructible and usable for weeks without the need to charge it.

Hut Book

Upon arrival at a hut enter your name, mobile number and destination/tour of the next day into the hut book. That way it's easier for the Bergwacht to organize and send help in case things go awry, like an avalanche.

On the matter off phone numbers and help

EU wide emergency number: 112

Special emergency phone number for mountain rescue services (Bergwacht/Bergrettung) by country:

Austria: 140

Italy: 118

https://www.alpenverein.de/dav-services/alpine-auskunft/alpine-telefonnummern_aid_10705.html

Bring a up-to-date-map, a compass and a little package with some emergency medicine.

Some might say that especially a compass might be over the top. I always feel better carrying those things with me in case i need them instead of needing them but not having them with me. I also have some glow sticks in my backpack.

Prepare for bad weather

Bring clothes with you for warm, rainy and/or cold weather. Don't rely to much on the weather forecast. The weather in the alps can change very quickly.

The things you carry up are the things you carry down again, including and especially garbage!

Nothing is more infuriating than trying to enjoy the view when pieces of trash are lying around everywhere. Bring a trash bag with you for your trash like the packaging of snacks and so on.

You say you've done a lot of hiking so some of this might be unnecessary but for now i just wrote down what i could think of off the top of my head. Feel free to ask, if you have more questions.

Edit: More things added...

Sorry, I don't have much MFA approved shoewear to go off, but if this helps: 10.5 Wide in Sperry Top Siders, 10.5 in all Asics running shoes (they run wide as a brand.) For my hiking boots, I have a pair of Merrell Moab hiking boots in Size 11, which might I add, are amazingly comfortable hiking boots, though pretty hideous. All of those are pretty standard and easy to find, so maybe that can help you out. I also tried on a pair of 10 regular Heritages, and they were definitely too tight, and a little too long in the front, whereas the 9.5EE surprisingly felt great. A lot of people complain about the RW's being too tight and hard to break in, but these felt great. FYI, I can't find the wide ones online in the model I'm looking for very easily. I may have to get them directly from RW

Good news! Your boots are definitely legit. These were a limited collaboration between Timberland and Pendleton in 2015, they're called the Mt. Heston WP Hiker. The style number for your shoe is located right under the size, 8705B. Here's a current retailer listing

Now on to your questions.

1. Not all Timberland boots use the same laces as the 6" Premium. In fact almost none of the Hikers will use the taslan/nylon lace from the original boots. These should be traditional plastic aglets on the ends of this style as it is a more fashion oriented hiker.
   
   
2. Scratches and dents on leather shoes being shipped across country is not only common, it's almost unavoidable, especially with this type of unfinished oiled leather. To keep them looking good, do not use alcohol pads or any harsh/abrasive cleaners. You're only damaging the boots you paid good money for. All you need to do is apply your favorite brand of neutral reconditioning cream every so often to remove scratches and scuffs. This will also help relieve some of the "color loss" you experienced, but it may not return back to normal perfectly, as once again these boots are a "raw" oiled finish and will always have marks and scratches and wrinkles.
   
   
3. Gore-tex. So let's take a second and talk about what Gore-tex really is. It's a thin nylon fabric that's used as a sock liner to help make boots waterproof. It should feel slightly scratchy to the touch, as it is porous. There's 9 million little cones in every square inch that letter water out (e.g. sweat), without letting water in to the shoe. There will almost never be an interior signifier on almost any Timberland shoe interior that calls out Gore-tex. That almost certainly 100% looks like Gore-tex to me from your pics. If you want to test it out run the boot under a faucet and put your hand in. If it's dry, you're good to go!
   
   Hopefully that helps!
   
   
   
   

OK... So let's get started on what you'll need to wear....

Footwear Well the good news is that the University & town generally do a pretty good job of keeping the streets & sidewalks clear of snow, so you will probably NOT need special snow boots (unless you want them because they're fashionable or intend on winter hiking out it the woods or something like that) However, you'll still be doing a lot of walking around campus and will be encountering icy patches & slushy puddles, so I'd recommend a waterproof, comfortable/lightweight hiking boot similar to this. A lower cut would be OK, if you prefer that style. But I recommend a higher cut, at least above the ankle, to prevent any snow/slush you might step in from getting into your shoe from the top.
Remember, to keep your feet warm you absolutely MUST keep them DRY... Wet feet are not only extremely uncomfortable, they can be dangerous and lead to frostbite if exposed for too long.

Winter Socks Forget those cotton athletic "tube" socks that you might wear during warmer weather... They provide no insulation & actually trap & retain moisture if your feet sweat... leading to (you guessed it) WET FEET.... Aaaaarrrggghhh!!!!
So get yourself some warm woolen winter socks (as suggested in the article that I linked) and also some thin, polypropylene liner socks to wick the moisture away from your skin.
Dry Feet are Warm & Happy Feet.... And don't forget your winter shoes need to be a little larger than your regular shoes to accomodate the extra thickness of your woolen socks... You don't want the shoes to be too tight on your feet because that doesn't allow your socks to "breathe" and wick moisture away from your feet.

Thermal Underwear is understandably a personal choice... Unless you intend a lot of outdoor sports activity (snowmobiling, downhill skiing) you really don't need the more expensive "wicking" styles... All you're looking for is a little extra insulation under your usual clothes... So I'd recommend the two-piece "waffle knit" classic style from Hanes or Fruit of the Loom as "good enough" Two-piece is better than full body single piece because you can choose to wear tops or bottoms seperately.

NOTE: Wear your regular underwear under the thermal underwear... That's not to keep you warm... but it helps keep the thermals clean & you don't need to change & wash them quite as often as your regular underwear... which also means you don't need to buy as many pair of thermals as you would regular underwear.

Same with the woolen socks... if you wear them with liners, the woolen outer socks stay "fresher" than the inner liners, so you wind up needing to wash the liners more frequently than the woolen socks.

So in (partial) summary, you're going to at least need:

• 1 pair of comfortable/waterproof hiking shoes
  
• 3 pair of woolen winter socks & 7 pair of thinner liners
  
• 3 pair of 2-piece thermal underwear & 7 pair of regular underwear
  
  That should get you started... You can adjust the quantities depending how often you do your laundry... The wool socks require special care but are well worth it... Warm feet are Happy feet!

I can't say enough for Keen hiking boots. I've had a pair of the Targhee II's for about 4 years now and I'm just now getting to the point of "yeah I should probably replace them". They are still waterproof and as comfortable as heck. You can snag a pair for $119 on Amazon.

On a side note, we were hiking the trail just past Laurel Falls in Great Smoky Mountain NP and were overtaken by an older gentleman with just himself and a singular trekking pole. He asked us how far we were going (We are quite the site with myself, my wife and 4 kids all in a row) and we told him we were going to see the trees (there are a bunch of old growth forests up on the mountain) and he told us it was beautiful up there and that he loves this trail. He then explains that he is a local and he hikes from the visitors center, where his wife drops him off before her job, over the mountain to Wears Valley where his truck is. Some 7 miles every Sunday and it takes him about 2 hours. He was BOOK'N it! He then reaches down and picks a leaf off the ground and starts eating it... then hands it to us to try. Says it's called Tea Berry and sure enough, it tasted like sweet berry gum. Supposedly there is an old gum brand called Tea Berry that uses the same leaf.

All that to say that I look down and he has Keens on... I mean if they are good enough for the self-described hillbilly they are good enough for me!

In answer to your first question: Yes, now is a good time to find sales on boots. You may need to look a little harder for your size or preferred colour, but the sales can be good since it's offseason right now.

To start your research, I found this to be a helpful resource recently: NY Mag Strategist Best Men's Winter Boots.

As for where to buy in Canada? You have a few options:

Browns has some decent sales on right now.

SoftMoc carries well-known brands.

MEC or SAIL will both have a broad selection.

And I recently just bought a pair of these off Amazon.ca, luckily finding them on a really good sale. I know Columbia isn't really a MFA-standby brand, but being in Ottawa I really need something with decent height against snow), grip and insulation. Amazon can be a great resource if you're willing to do the browsing.

Think about those elements, mainly. If you're mostly commuting and sitting indoors, don't buy anything taller than 6 inches roughly ankle height). You'll be more comfortable and they'll be easier to walk in.

Finally, be aware that brand isn't everything. Stay away from Sorels. My personal experience with the classic Sorel Caribou was terrible. The rubber on the toe cracked after a year, and I look after my footwear. Really disappointed, and it seems to be a common flaw right now.

Friendly face saying hello, SOBO start around the same time.

Regarding shoes, it's really up to you. That's a double edged "situation dictates" sort of answer, but it's truth.

If you're comfortable in trail runners, use them. Realize as /u/jdlogicman said, you'll probably have snow being kicked around all over them and your feet may very well be wet most of the day. As long as you have a fresh pair of socks and a warm place to put them at night, and you're good with that, go for it.

Also think about your crampons (if bringing), post holing, kicking steps, and god forbid glissading, in trail runners.

I suppose a wise decision (to me) would be to wear something more substantial in the snow zones, switching to trail runners elsewhere.

Personally, I wore these when I thru hiked the AT, and I'm going to wear them on the PCT as well.

But that's me. I like a sturdier boot, and the Gortex works enough that it's worth it for me.

I've always believed ankle support to be important, but comfort to be more important haha. I have two pair of identical Vasque Breeze 2.0 GTX which I wear more than the Vans my wife bought me because they're so comfortable. I don't have any hiking shoes, but my wife LOVES her Merrell Siren Sport shoes. I agree with your small hike with a loaded pack idea. That's how I tested my Redwing, and the Redcloud, and the Vasques.. I loaded the pack like I was preparing for a weekend trek and did about 6 miles. Are you relatively new to things like this, or just trying to get back into it?

> You will NOT find those being worn by racers

You'll also find racers wearing tight leather onesies...I'm not gonna hike in those. I love the subtle knock on "bad ass" image riders. Plenty of us ride for pleasure and don't race, which is why Engineer boots are popular among many motorcyclists - whatever their riding style. The will keep our feet and ankles protected in a slide.

> Ok, you want a citation from me, so where is yours?

I provided you with 2.

>why do service members carry so much gear, even special forces?

Yeah, military is a good example. I think they are going to be in a a lot worse terrain than I'll ever experience on an approach. I have the choice to stay out of the muddy ditch...they don't. I agree if you are going to see ground like those guys maybe rethink trail-runners. It looks like quite a few operators like mid-hikers like the Merrell Moab which looks more like a hybrid approach/hiking shoe.

Military also does a lot of dumb shit for....reasons. I know...I was in for 9 years. The issued boots were pretty mediocre and most of us favored the jungle boot which provided very little ankle support. Holy shit, if I could have worn approach shoes I would have for every patrol.


> Your body will adapt

Exactly. In my 2nd source you see that the ankle support can actually cause the body to adapt and rely on the artificial support weakening the ligaments in the ankle and making you more susceptible to ankle injuries. I'd also like to think about the extra 5 lbs of water/food/supplies I could carry shedding a pound off my foot.


EDIT: Here's an operator wearing a low top shoe

Boots: Skechers Boots - Like as they are warm and water proof while also still being casual enough to wear around the office.
https://www.amazon.com/Skechers-Mens-Sergeants-Verdict-Waterproof-Brown/dp/B000G377ZW/ref=sr_1_1?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1517938519&sr=1-1&nodeID=679307011&psd=1&keywords=skechers+boots

Jacket- Baxter State Parka - Very warm and wind proof which is nice for the cold windy days. Also recommend going into the store to try on as I am a size large in shirts and yet a size small is plenty big on me. Plus side is it has tons of pockets to store gloves, hat, and face mask.

https://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/506673?originalProduct=60850&productId=1016122&attrValue_0=Charcoal%20Heather&pla1=0&mr:device=c&mr:adType=plaonline&qs=3125252_google&lsft=qs:3125252_google,product:0HMP512006&gclid=CjwKCAiAweXTBRAhEiwAmb3Xu5mmA090ip0gli9Gni4OzIRRRQQYgXhbziZ8r6L57VbzHCwtdsKG4xoCdgQQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds&dclid=CLegvLDqkdkCFey0swodMgkCDA

Gloves- Head Ski Gloves - Like how they have an adjustable opening to help keep out the wind and cold air. Also they have a warming pocket in them for a hand warmer.

https://www.amazon.com/DuPont-Sorona-Insulated-Glove-Pocket/dp/B01N3D48Y8/ref=sr_1_3?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1517939090&sr=1-3&nodeID=7072331011&psd=1&keywords=head+gloves

you will also need a good pair of long johns and also some nice warm wool socks. For socks I suggest Darn Tough as they have a life time warranty.

(http://www.amazon.com/Danner-Mountain-Light-II-Outdoor/dp/B002OSY04S/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top?ie=UTF8)

This is a highly recommended hiking boot. A few of the reviews on amazon say how these run wide, and that when normally they are 4E, a 2E with thick socks fits great. They are marked down to $232, and there is a 30% off code (GRNMON14 ) that you can use. Pretty good deal.

Another option I know of would be some hunting boots. Brands like Rocky, Wolverine, and Irish Setter all make multiple widths and have a range of price points. They are usually a higher boot, and insulated, which might be better for the snow too. Most sporting good stores (Dicks, Bass Pro Shop, Gander Mountain) carry a bunch of these.

This looks pretty nice (I filtered by 4E and this came up):
(http://www.shoebuy.com/rocky-9-cornstalker-600g-rkys087/715730/1472179)

The Salomon Quest 4D II GTX is an amazing boot. I've done Acadia, Zion, Bryce Canyon, Glacier, and countless state parks in these boots and they have held up impeccably after hundreds of miles of hiking. They're waterproof and nearly indestructible. They are about $230 at REI but can be found cheaper in certain sizes on Amazon and they come extremely well rated on Outdoor Gear Lab, winning the Editors' Choice. I love them and as soon as mine wear out (who knows when that will be) I will buy another pair without a second thought.

• Surplus ESS LandOps Goggles (eBay) - Most important item, MilSpec far exceeds ANSI standards, and ridiculously cheap if you don't mind a used pair - $13.99
  
  
• Random Lower Face + Ears Mesh Mask (Airsoft GI) - Just say no to dental bills - $14.00
  
  
• Salomon Mid-Ankle Hiking Boots (Amazon) - Boots are one place where you can't find "Good" and "Cheap" at the same time, so get "Good" - $122.98
  
  
• CYMA CM040c AK-74M Replica (Airsoft GI) - Ridiculously good value workhorse replica, doesn't feel cheap like the CM028 series. Can be found on sale for cheaper if you look at the right time. Comes with a hi-cap, but not always a battery - $182.91
  
  
• Chinese Surplus Sling (eBay) - Dirt cheap leather and canvas deal, plenty strong, a bitch to get on, which means it won't come undone unless you damn well want it to - $6.59
  
  
• Turnigy 7.4v 1200mAh LiPoly Battery (HobbyKing AR) - Can't beat HobbyKing when it comes to batteries - $7.85
  
  
• IMAX B6 Balance Charger (HobbyKing AR) - Still can't beat HobbyKing when it comes to battery accessories - $28.41
  
  
• 5,000 ct. bottle of Elite Force 0.28g BIO BBs (Just Airsoft Ammo) - Can't beat JAA when it comes to BBs - $23.49
  
  
• GRAND TOTAL: $400.22 plus shipping for HobbyKing purchase - all other shipping is free. Clothes? Wear civvie stuff - jeans, a long-sleeved shirt, and work gloves - who cares if they're dayglo yellow, they'll save your fingernails.
  
  The next $75 would be put towards the following (honestly, I'd skip a week and save my way to $500 to get these at the same time as all of the above):
  
  
• 5x G&P 30 Round 5.45x39mm Magazines, 150-Round MidCaps (Evike) - Mid-Caps are better - $56.25
  
  
• Surplus ChiCom Type 81 Chest Rig (eBay) - 4 mag pouches + two admin pouches (deadrag, stubby water bottle) - $15.99

Thank you for your reply. I have a very good pair of boots that allowed me to survive an entire day walk in cadets and were very comfortable during my last airsoft game day. These are the Magnum Men's Panther Lace Up Boot < http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B003BFX6AC/ >. If anybody wants to take a look, do make a note that Amazon has free returns in the UK and I highly recommend it.

Depending on your boot size, the Salomon Quest 4D 2 GTX is a great value, at least in my opinion:

Men's Quest 4D 2 GTX

It's definitely my favorite boot I've ever owned.

I just picked up some Salomon X Ultra Mid 2 GTX boots [link](Salomon Men's X Ultra Mid 2 GTX Multifunctional Hiking Boot, Black/Black/Aluminum, 9.5 M US https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KWKKJEK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_.iDIzbMDK3152) and I can confidently say these are probably BIFL haha. Literally just bought them but you can tell the make, quality, and comfort of these shoes is remarkable and built to last. Been wearing them nonstop for about a week.

I use the Danner Crag Rat as my winter boot, and also for working outside. It's an absolute tank, and very comfortable as well. Fully waterproof, and GoreTex lining. Love them (even though I bought them under the assumption that they are MiUSA, which was wrong).

I totally recommend Merrell boots. I have a pair similar to these that I've had for about five years now. They have been through two archaeology field schools, over a hand full of geology field schools, and countless hikes. I'm on the west coast as well and have worn them through different weather conditions. They are still in amazing shape.

Thanks for your input! I gather the general feel is to keep the two separate if at all possible. But what about these security boots:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/G-Force-Hi-Leg-Combat-Boots-Protection/dp/B00LZSRY1Y/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1410877113&sr=8-3&keywords=security+boot

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Magnum-Panther-54274-069-01/dp/B003BFX6AC/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1410877126&sr=8-2&keywords=security+boot

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Magnum-Panther-54296-069-01/dp/B003OW62SU/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1410877126&sr=8-6&keywords=security+boot

Would they be a good medium?

Get a pair of [Salomon Quests] (https://www.amazon.com/Salomon-Quest-4D-Asphalt-Titanium/dp/B00KWK2JSE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1465676047&sr=8-1&keywords=salomon+quest). They are GoreTex so they are waterproof but the water can get out. They are really comfortable. They work well in the snow and the heat. I got mine for a trip to New Zealand, ended up wearing them in Indonesia and Australia. I also used them for snowshoeing all winter. They were a little warm in the hot climates but never too cold. I'd suggest trying some on.

did you use that for hiking?

doesnt really look like a hardcore hiking boot to me...(edit.. looks more like a casual day boot like a timberlan)

i have a pair similiar to these https://www.amazon.com/Merrell-Moab-Ventilator-Mid-Hiking/dp/B00D7CHBFU

very summer hiking geared, but i've used them in cold and snow and almost every type of climant and terrain

had them since 2012 and they are just starting to fall apart and rip open, not water resistant at all, but are still comfortable

i am looking for some pretty heavy duty stuff. mountaineering boots usually do the trick, i was just looking at logging/firefighting boots because i wanted something that i could wear all year and were not so specialized looking like mountaineering boots. what i bought this year and im hoping they will make it through the season. this is what my blocks usually look like, boots dont last very long.

I got these Danner Mountain 600s for my birthday. After I got them I decided I would destroy the finish very quickly, they are sued instead of smooth leather and they are just a little too "sporty" for me.

 

I am used to being able to abuse my Charcoal Iron Rangers and then easily clean/oil them and they look brand new. That being said...I need some brown boots, a not another pair of IRs. I will be using the credit from the Danner Boots that I'm returning ($140) and I'm willing to spend another $60-100 to get something better.

 

I'm thinking either Danner Bull Run Moc Toes , Thorogood Moc Toes, or stretching the budget and getting some Red Wing Moc Toes.


Is there a substantial drop in quality going from the $250 Red wings to the $175 Danner to the $160 Thorogoods? I will probably still wear my IRs more, but these will get a lot of use.

 

Any other suggestions in that range (on amazon ~$150-250)??

Thanks!

I see Danners on Amazon for 225ish all the time. Special sizes usually, but EE included. http://www.amazon.com/Danner-Mountain-Light-II-Outdoor/dp/B002OSY04S

Danner Lights are higher and offer more ankle support, if you're into that

Danner Mountain Light II is pretty much the definition of a good hiking boot that could pass for casual depending on the environment. Also look at the Merrell Men's Wilderness boot. It's a bit less able technially than the danner, but also a bit more casual wearing.

I have these

Love them. Almost zero break-in time needed!

Very happy with my Danner boots

Take a look at the Salomon Ultra Mid 2 GTX. I bought a pair in the fall and used them mostly for winter hiking, but mixed in some light trail running in them without any issues. Super light and comfortable.

Definitely thought about those. Do you know anything about these Timberland's?

Danner Mountain Lite II

I want go trekking in Nepal in March 2017, do I need waterproof boots? I already have those Boots but they're not waterproof.
And I'm not sure if I should go with a guide or if I should find other people to trek with.