The News Tribune (Lite)

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Section: Adventure

Gear Guy

Douglas Gantenbein
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.