Certain popular boots such as the Vasque Skywalk are called “midweight backpacking boots.” What does this specification mean? If my proportions are fairly average (e.g., I’m not a very large person who should wear a heavy boot regardless), how big a pack can I wear with the Skywalk? – Arthur, New York

Broad definition: That specification means about whatever you want it to mean. Speaking broadly, a “midweight” backpacking boot is one designed to carry moderate overnight loads (30-35 pounds) on trails and rough trails. It’s not meant to be worn as a mountaineering boot or for extended off-trail use.

Personal preference: All of which is sort of meaningless from a practical standpoint. For some people, a midweight boot won’t be beefy enough; for others, it may be more boot than they want. It’s really a matter of how rugged your ankles are, and how light you like to travel. Myself, I prefer a little sturdier boot, both to accommodate off-trail jaunts, and to protect a right ankle that’s prone to roll on me.

Midweight choices: In any event, Vasque has discontinued the Skywalk. Probably the Wasatch ($160) would handle the same sorts of trails and loads. It’s an all-leather boot with a Vibram sole and Gore-Tex bootie. Similar boots from different makers would include the La Sportiva Trango Trek ($170) and Montrail Torre GTX ($160). I’d wear a boot like this when carrying loads like I mentioned on hikes where I don’t intend to do much bushwhacking when fully loaded, but might do some scrambles with a day pack.

In the Vasque line, a step up to a heavier boot would be the Sundowner Summit GTX ($200), which has heavier leather than the Wasatch, a taller design, thicker midsoles and a rubber toe rand to add some toe protection. I’d wear that if I was carrying 40 pounds or more and apt to be on the trail for several days. A lighter boot than the Wasatch is the Clarion ($140), a fabric-and-leather boot that draws from day-hiker technology to offer a light boot for fast traveling.

To ask a question of the Gear Guy, you can find Douglas Gantenbein at www.outsidemag.com.