The Best New Balance Hiking Boots

The Best New Balance Hiking Boots
Though primarily known for its running shoes, New Balance offers a wide variety of footwear, including several models of hiking boots and trail shoes. New Balance has incorporated several advanced features in the hiking shoe line, such as Gore-Tex liners in some of them, and offers many of their boots in multiple widths, making it easy for hikers to find the perfect fit for their feet.

1500GT

The 1500GT ($169, 2010 prices) is available in both men's and women's versions, with four widths for men and three widths for women, and in lengths up to size 15 for men and size 13 for women. With so much variety, the 1500GT is ideal for people with unusually shaped feat. "Backpacker Magazine" gave the 1500GT its "Editor's Choice" award. Though the 1500GT has a full-leather upper, offering exceptional support, it is still relatively lightweight, at 2 pounds, 11 oz. (men's size 9). The Gore-Tex inner bootie keeps feet warm and dry. New Balance claims the fit of the 1500GT is somewhat narrow and suggests ordering the boot one size wider than normal.

977GT

The 977GT ($139, 2010 prices) is a step down from the top of the line 1500GT, sporting a three-quarter height leather upper, which is more than adequate for all but the most rugged mountain terrain, and a Gore-Tex inner bootie to keep your feet dry. The 977GT is available in men's and women's versions. The women's version goes up to size 13 and is offered in four widths, and the men's version is offered up to size 15 in three widths. The 977GT is fairly lightweight, at 18 oz. in a men's size 9.

955GT

The 955GT ($119, 2010 prices) is a low-cut hiking shoe ideally suited to trail running and approach hikes. The upper is a combination of leather for stability and nylon mesh for breathability in warmer climates. A Gore-Tex inner bootie keeps your feet dry when hiking in wet terrain. The 955GT is available in a men's and women's version. The men's version is offered in three widths up to size 15. The women's version is offered in two widths up to a size 12.

Article Written By Candace Horgan

Candace Horgan has worked as a freelance journalist for more than 12 years. Her work has appeared in various print and online publications, including the "Denver Post" and "Mix." Horgan holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and history.

Write for Trails.com
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