Keen's Targhee II Mid
Keen's Targhee II Mid ($125; all prices 2009) is a rugged boot designed to keep your feet dry from the inside as well as the outside. With the Keen Dry's breathable membrane, the Targhee II wicks away sweat from your feet while keeping outside moisture away from your feet. The deep-lugged outsole maintains integrity on the most unstable of terrain, and the rubber wraps up around the toe box to provide additional protection from trail protrusions.
Merrell's Chameleon3 Ventilator
Light and supportive, Merrell's Chameleon3 Ventilator ($130) helps you cover ground safely and comfortably at high speeds. Its low cut offers ankle flexibility while an injection molded heel and instep stability arm offer support. The Ventilator's sole rubber and a 4-millimeter lug depth provide traction on wet or dry land, and its reinforced sidewalls and toe box will keep your boot in commission for countless miles.
Lowa's Khumbu Mid GTX
By effectively combining cushioning and stability, Lowa's Khumbu Mid GTX ($235) allows you to haul a pack across terrain with comfort. The Gore-Tex liners repel water and wick away sweat, and the nylon and leather uppers are lightweight and abrasion resistant. Designed for hiking with packs weighing 30-50 lbs., the Khumbu Mid GTX features nylon stabilizer shanks that provide stability and support, while padded ankles and tongues provide cushioning while you lug your pack around.
Article Written By Billy Brown
Billy Brown is an outdoor sports writer living in Northern California.
An avid rock climber and trail runner, he's been writing about outdoor activities, fitness and gear since 2005. He regularly contributes to "The Record Searchlight," uncooped.com, and Trails.com, as well as other print and online publications. Brown holds a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Simpson University and is a NASM-certified personal trainer.