You’ll Get A Boot Out Of Hiking In These

Product: Salomon Adventure 9 Ultra-light Hiking Boots

Description: Lightweight, rugged hiking boots originally designed for paragliding. Coated Cordura and waterproofed split leather uppers cover a lugged sole. Uppers feature a zip-shut flap that covers the laces, much like many cross-country ski boots. There’s also a hinged plastic cuff that closes around the ankle with a Velcro closure, reminiscent of recent telemark ski boots.

Pro: Don’t be deceived by the light weight and lightweight appearance. These boots are plenty rugged for hiking with a big pack, including backpacking. There’s good foot support throughout, and the lugged sole is suitable for about any trail condition, including crossing snow fields - they’re not designed for crampons, however. The zippered flap over the laces, along with the Velcro closure up top, make a pretty effective scree collar and gaiter. The plastic hinged cuff provides good ankle support. They’re also quite dry and ready for gaiters. Nifty design and construction also make these extremely comfortable going downhill - no bunching of toes in a boxy forefoot.

Con: Like many modern boots that don’t feature the Norwegian welt, these boots probably won’t be rebuilt … and their very modern look may take a little getting used to as well.

Comments: I’m something of a traditionalist when it comes to boots, and don’t mind paying good money for quality leather boots that will last me a lifetime, and provide the support my feet demand, especially with a heavy load. These Salomons, however, are comfortable out of the box and I’ve never worn anything that features this weight-to-support ratio. We hiked these up and down Mount Lassen out of the box without a blister and barely a hot spot.

Price: $185

Company: Salomon North America, 400 E. Main St., Georgetown, MA 01833. (800-225-6850).