Since 1932, Danner has been making boots for the trail, work, and life. In that time, the Portland, Oregon–based company has earned a reputation for quality, comfort, timeless style, and innovation. But unlike some storied brands, Danner is not resting on its past. As a master of boot design, Danner is committed to using the latest technology and studies to bring the best fits to market. That’s why the brand spent years researching, testing, and creating —a fit that perfectly matches women’s footwear needs. To learn more about Precision Fit and the diligence that went into its development, we heard from longtime Danner product line manager Pamela Lo.

şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř: Why was it important to create a boot fit for women?

Pamela Lo: Everyone deserves to feel comfortable and supported with footwear that fits right. °Â´Çłľ±đ˛Ô’s foot morphology isn’t the same as men’s. And Danner’s dedication to developing a true women’s fit is helping to fill the need for diversified options for use on the trail, at the jobsite, deep in the backcountry, or casually strolling through town. Compared to Danner’s standard fit boots, the new Precision Fit lasts—the foot-shaped mold used during footwear manufacturing—have a narrower heel, wider forefoot, and a lower height increase from toes to ankle to accommodate the biometrics of women’s foot shapes.

What boot styles are offered in Precision Fit?

Precision Fit is available in three styles: Inquire (mid and chukka), Jag II, and Sandy Ridge. Get to know each style by clicking on the feature below.

What kind of research went into bringing Precision Fit to life?

Danner spent three years working to bring Precision Fit to life. We conducted numerous fit clinics with women of various ages and backgrounds, worked with renowned last manufacturers in the footwear industry, and gathered significant research and data regarding women’s foot morphology. The information we collected helped us identify the root of women’s discomfort in standard boot fits, giving us direction for the new fit. Here’s some of what we learned:

The heel shape in women’s boots is often too wide, causing friction and blisters.

The toe box in women’s footwear is often too narrow, which can cause discomfort or injury.

Biometric foot data from more than 40,000 women found that women require a lower height increase from toes to ankle for optimal support.

How did Danner test the Precision Fit styles throughout the design process?

We focused on pressure points across the top-selling women’s boot styles, including our own, to distinguish the discomfort-causing features and fits across the industry. With our in-house AETREX foot-scanning machine, we were able to capture the accurate foot dimensions of our fit testers and precise pressure-point information. Equipped with detailed information on what women’s feet need and what was currently available on the market, we got to work. The Danner team went through several iterations of fit testing, utilizing both qualitative and quantitative data to adjust fit, before achieving the desired result: Precision Fit.

What are the benefits of having a better-fitting boot?

The obvious benefit is comfort, of course, but that’s not all. Precision Fit also improves stability and support.You’ll notice how your heel feels more secure and the width perfectly hugs your foot—no heel slipping or foot pinching. The fit accomplishes a locked-in feel while maintaining a spacious toe box. Whether you’re hiking backcountry trails in the Inquire, working on a jobsite in the Sandy Ridge, or walking to brunch in the Jag II, Precision Fit allows you to go about your day in a boot that feels like an extension of you.

Precision Fit will eventually reach all of Danner’s different footwear categories, including our hike, work, hunt, military, tactical, lifestyle, and outdoor lines. We are excited to offer women better-fitting boots for all their needs and adventures, giving them the opportunity to go anywhere in comfort.

For nearly a century, has crafted boots with purpose and integrity footwear to equip those who choose the unlikely path, those who cut fresh trails, those who pioneer. Whether you want to hike, work, or simply walk around town, Danner boots are meant to take you somewhere. Lace a pair up and Go There.

The post Crafting the Perfect Boots for Women appeared first on şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř Online.

This fall, we mountain-biked under golden leaves, cozied up next to fire pits for end-of-season barbecues, and fly-fished in clear, cold rivers. The below gear had us soaking up the last dregs of 2023’s warm days—and kept us prepared for the newfound cold ones.

Smartwool Women’s Merino Plant-Based Dye Short Sleeve Tee ($80)

About ten years ago, someone gifted me two Smartwool t-shirts. I probably wore one of these tee’s over a hundred times, and the other one at least three times a week since then. Unlike many wool baselayer items, this tee hung loose, and it was round-necked, so it looked nicer than other crew-neck options. I am super into clothing that can be worn climbing, hiking, and around town, including out to dinner—at least somewhere casual. This year I saw that the tee was finally, tragically, wearing thin. So I looked at Smartwool’s website and found the closest thing—the Women’s Merino Plant-Based Dye Short Sleeve Tee. Like my original, it is soft and, as I wanted, light. I did have to upsize from medium to large for a loose fit. I mourn the loss of the graceful round neck—though this one qualifies as a deep crew—and so, sadly, it’s not the unicorn I wore out. But this tee, too, is long, which is great, and comfortable for hiking; I could see backpacking in it day after day. Wool is spendy, but since it’s odor-resistant, needs less washing than other layers, which helps it last. I’ll be wearing this tee all year. —Alison Osius, senior editor

Hyperice Heated Head Attachment ($59)

If you ever wished your heating pad could also be a masseuse, look no further. The heated attachment from Hyperice does just that. The head fits into any Hyperice massage gun and provides immediate heat wherever the gun is applied. The attachment has three heat options so it’s customizable to the user’s preference, and one charge lasts hours. The head is also great if you just need heat sans massage on one part of your body.Ěý The attachment heats up on its own, and it’s almost instantaneous, so you don’t have to wait. With winter well on its way, I know the heated attachment will be joining me after every activity on my ski trips, winter hikes, and frigid runs. —Jamie Aranoff, digital editor, Ski

FitJoy Pretzels ($22 per 6-pack of 5 oz. bags)

Since cutting gluten out of my diet I’ve struggled to find snacks that I enjoy eating, and finding a solid pretzal option has been difficult. I stumbled upon the FitJoy pretzels on a recent trip to Wegmans, and I’ve been hooked ever since. They taste like regular pretzels and come in a variety of flavors. I love that there are no oils and preservatives and are also allergen-friendly. You can imagine my thrill when I was offered a mini bag on my most recent Delta flight—finally, a crunchy snack I could eat! FitJoy also makes entertainment-style crackers which I also found delicious, and I am on the hunt to try the rest of the flavors. —J.A.

Cannondale Moterra Neo Carbon LT 2 Electric Mountain Bike ($7,250)

I’ve been testing Cannondale’s Moterra Neo Carbon LT 2 electric mountain bike in a size small for the past three months in Bozeman, and to my surprise, I found myself reaching for it more than my regular downhill bike. Though it’s impossible for eMTBs to offer as lively of a downhill experience as regular trail or enduro bikes, the Moterra Neo Carbon LT 2 was so smooth and such a blast on the uphill, I didn’t mind the heavier ride on the way back down (although it was heavy, it ate up pretty much everything I put in its path). First of all, this bike comes with a mullet setup, a 76.5 degree seat angle, and a 64-degree head angle. Though it’s a heavy bike, I found this combination made it more maneuverable on tight uphill turns than I was expecting. Second, the Bosch Performance Line CX 20 W motor has four different modes to choose from, including Eco, Tour+, EMTB, and Turbo. On Turbo mode, I was literally catching air off berms on the way up one long ride, and couldn’t wipe the smile off of my face for a full hour of climbing. I also found the Bosch motor exceptionally smooth, with little jerking or unnatural movement from the bike while I transitioned from one mode to another. The bike I tested comes in at $7,250, with a 170mm RockShox Seb Select fork, a beefy RockShox Deluxe Select Coil shock, a Shimano SLX drivetrain with an XT derailleur, and Magura MT5 brakes. With the impressive 750Wh PowerTube battery, I never found myself in a situation where I was close to running low on battery (my typical ride was about 25 miles while switching between all four modes). Like I said, an eMTB isn’t going to replace the maneuverability and feel of a non-electric bike on the downhill, but if you want to go far, feel super stable on the downhill, and prioritize a smoother ride, look to this Moterra.

Solo Stove Bonfire Cast Iron Grill Cooking Bundle 2.0 ($560)

For me, September was filled with end-of-season barbecues as the summer travel frenzy waned and friends settled back into town. The Solo Stove, particularly with the Bonfire Cast Iron Grill Cooking Bundle 2.0 (which includes the firepit, the bonfire stand, the bonfire cast iron grill, the bonfire hub, and a carry case), was a key player. Set-up is incredibly easy—the fire pit on its own is 23.3 pounds, so I just carry it from my shed to my front yard, stack it on the bonfire stand, place the bonfire hub on top of the pit, and adjust the grill on top of that. I’ve made hamburgers, brats, and grilled veggies in fifteen minutes. The carrying case makes it easy to carry the grill, too—I brought the solo stove to a local lake and had no problem bringing it from my car to the shore. The wide grates on the bonfire hub make adjusting logs and the intensity of the fire easy, so we didn’t have to remove the grill every time we wanted to add logs. The stove and grill set will be an essential piece in my household for many years to come. —Kelly Klein, associate gear editor

Feetures Trail Max Cushion Mini Crew ($20)

These socks saved me about midway through the 30-mile Art Loeb trail in the Smokey Mountains of North Carolina. As all Editor’s Choice testing trips go, we tested some of the best new gear of the year, but we also inevitably tested gear that wasn’t the best. I tried a pair of new hikers, and on the first day received blisters about twice the size of a quarter on each of my heels. I slapped moleskine on them, pulled on the Trail Max Cushion Mini crew socks, and expected the worst for the 17-mile day we had ahead of us. But instead, I barely felt a thing on a very technical trail with about 5,000 feet of elevation gain. I tried another pair of socks the next day and immediately felt the blisters again. The polyester, nylon, and spandex blend with strategically placed compression hugged my feet without feeling constricted. Plus, reinforced nylon in the toe, ball of the foot, and heel provide extra durability—I’ve worn these on about five runs and countless walks around town since, and have yet to see any wear. —K.K.

Topo Athletic Traverse ($150)

In late September, I wore Topo Athletic’s first hiking shoe, the Traverse, on a three-day hike over the 35-mile Art Loeb Trail, and they delivered an ideal balance of comfort and protection. I found the height (30mm heel–25mm forefoot) and density of the Traverse’s elastic, TPU/EVA Zipfoam midsole to be spot-on while hiking a tough trail carrying a 28-pound pack. It provided smooth, bouncy cushioning when striding out on smooth ground, but was firm enough to keep me stable on the trail’s many tricky footplants over jagged rocks and gnarly roots. Those obstacles made the shoe’s forefoot rock plate essential: it blocked all sharp edges and seemed to help me float over the rough trail, yet never impeded my natural foot flex. The beaded TPU insole added another layer of shock-damping comfort and delivered a gentle sole massage that never failed to delight my feet after long hours on the trail. The shoe’s weight was also in the sweet spot: light enough to never feel I was lifting and lugging boots, but substantial enough that I didn’t worry about the shoes getting beat up.

The traction of the Vibram Megagrip sole was superb both on slippery rock faces and dirty or muddy sections. It made me more sure-footed than trail companions wearing hiking shoes from several mountaineering brands. The rugged upper felt a bit stiff for someone used to flexible mesh running shoes, and I had to adjust the lace tightness across my foot a few times every morning. But once dialed in, it held my foot securely (even on steep downhills) while not creating hot spots or squeezing my foot anywhere. The forefoot space from Topo’s signature anatomical last was luxurious and essential: I even wore on one foot (that has a small bunion) without feeling crowded. I found the tightly woven mesh fabric breathable without letting in a lot of dirt, and, most importantly, I didn’t get any blisters throughout the full hike and was well protected from rock scrapes and toe stubs.

Bottom line, I felt both rugged and agile in the Topo Traverse. For most of the hike, I never had to think about the shoes, the terrain or how I was landing. What more could you want from a hiking shoe?—Jonathan Beverly, senior running editor, gear

Nathan Sports Essential 9″ Shorts ($65)

For my daily runs, I normally wear lighter shorts with less than half the nine-inch inseam of these from Nathan, but I’ve found myself reaching for these more robust shorts on cool mornings or when I know I’m going to hang out in them after a run. That versatility made me choose them to wear for three days straight while hiking 35 mountainous miles of the Art Loeb trail in North Carolina in September. They proved to be an excellent choice, balancing lightweight, breathable mobility with rugged, dependable protection. I appreciated the longer coverage when scraping through thick brush and sitting on rocks and logs, and was glad for the thin, stretchy, quick-drying, polyester/spandex fabric that stayed out of the way when lifting my knees on high step-ups and moving quickly to beat sundown. The stretchier boxer-brief liner (with a seven-inch inseam), provided comfortable control all day and never felt stuffy, even when working hard up slopes in the humid East Coast air. Two handy side-seam pockets held snacks and my iPhone when I wanted quick access to them (although they weren’t secure enough to trust when scrambling or making time). My only complaint was that the liner didn’t dry completely each night after hanging from a tree near my tent, and was cold when I pulled them on the next morning. But to the shorts’ credit, they never felt clammy and I quickly forgot about them as soon as we started moving. —J.B.

Alpen Outdoors The Ridge Pant ($150)

My husband and I just got back from an epic vacation. We spentĚýtwo weeks cruising around the Irish countryside climbing west-coast mountains, then jetted up to Iceland where we camped in a rooftop tent to hit hot springs, hunt northern lights, and scramble up volcanos. Day after day, I lived in the by Alpen Outdoors. I’m a light packer as it is, but all of my other bottoms (save my rain pants) ended up being a waste of space. September weather in both Ireland and Iceland ranged from 30-65 degrees Fahrenheit with gusts topping out at 50-60 miles per hour and a mix of relentless sun and slashing rain. A wicking, water-resistant finish helps them dry fast, the two-way stretch fabric ensures a flexible range of motion, interior drawcords keep them put, and reinforced soft-shell material on the knees and butt forgives any missteps. Deep pockets on the front, side, and back are the perfect place to stash a headlamp or protein bar. The best part? They’re ridiculously lightweight, unlike others in their class. Hands down, these are the most versatile, no-compromise outdoor pants I’ve worn. —Patty Hodapp, contributing editor

Rux Essentials 70L ($393)

I’ve hauled my bug-out bin around for years. It lives permanently in the back of my mountain rig and has saved my ass in extreme conditions dozens of times. In it, I store essentials I’d need to escape a backcountry pinch: extra layers, sunglasses, tools, a stove, headlamps, freeze-dried food, power bars, matches and lighters, duct tape, H2O filtration, a hatchet and knife, paracord, med kit, sleeping bag, etc tera. That said, I used a dilapidated, disorganized Tupperware to house it all. (Rifling around for a puffy when you’re wet and freezing sucks.) Finally, I scored the instead. This roomy, waterproof gear-management system is and work with. It comes with an attachable 25L divider bag and a 3L grab-and-go pouch, so you can classify stuff in order of importance and use, then load it and forget it until you need it. The Rux’s durable compressed foam base and manipulable nylon webbing straps make it easy to toss around a campsite or cart short distances on your shoulder. Plus, snap bands in the corners allow it to collapse for storage—though, it doesn’t really matter because I’m always using it. —P.H.

Oboz Katabatic Mid Hiking Boots ($160)

I like the idea of a waterproof membrane in my hiking boots, but I rarely need one because I live in New Mexico and can barely remember the last time I hiked in the rain. In fact, a waterproof membrane can be problematic because it prevents the boots from properly venting sweat, and sweat leads to blisters. So I was excited to get my hands on the Katabatic Mid, a boot that is explicitly membrane-free, so it breathes like a dream. As soon as I got a pair, I took them on a 10-mile hike in temperatures that hovered around 95 degrees, and my feet had never been so dry and happy. The Katabatic is so light that it made me want to run sections of the trail. But don’t worry. Like all Oboz hikers, the Katabatic is designed to last. They’re covered in TPU overlays that protect high-abrasion areas, and even after 80 more miles over rocky, sharp terrain, they barely showed any wear. —Jakob Schiller, correspondent

Trswyop Small Portable Charger ($26)

I went to Japan two weeks ago in October and was out exploring most days from 8 A.M. until 8 P.M. I relied on my phone to refer to notes I’d made about places to visit, to check opening times and admission, and to navigate the streets with Google Maps. By early afternoon, my cell battery was nearly depleted but I still needed my device; fortunately, my brother was the smart one and brought along this portable charger, which juiced up our iPhones in no time. It has no cables, and its curved design fits nicely in the palm of my hand while I carried it around as it did its job. It’s also offered in more than a dozen colors. I’ve already bought one for my next international trip. —Tasha Zemke, associate managing editor

Smartwool Women’s Active Ultralite Hoodie ($80)

I’ve been living in the ultra-soft Ultralite Hoodie for the past three months and I can’t say enough about how comfortable and versatile this layer is. Part of Smartwool’s new Active line—which aims to introduce Merino wool to the masses as the ultimate temperature-regulating, sweat-wicking material (one that’s not just an insulator for cold temps)—the Ultralite Hoodie blends Merino with Tencel Lyocell fibers for an unbelievably light and silky feel next to skin. It’s so cozy that it has become my go-to layer to throw on in the morning for lounging around the house. But, as advertised, it shines as an active layer for hikes, runs, and bike rides. I was most impressed with it on a four-mile hike with 1,200 feet of elevation gain in early October. The Ultralite Hoodie kept me warm enough when I started with temps in the high 50s, yet cool enough when I started climbing and the sun came out to warm things up. When I reached the summit, I had sweat through the shirt on my back where I was carrying a pack, but it only took 15 minutes for it to dry out. From now on, I’m only wearing workout and hiking shirts with a Merino blend. —Jenny Wiegand, associate gear director

Yeti Hopper Flip 12 Soft Cooler ($250)

I know I’m probably preaching to the converted, but you just can’t beat a Yeti cooler when it comes to keeping drinks and food chilled. I’m a new mom and needed a reliable way to keep pumped breastmilk cold when I was on the go (attending work functions, or on 5-hour road trips to visit family). Any mom knows that breastmilk is liquid gold and you simply do not mess around when it comes to storing it properly to ensure not a drop goes to waste. The Yeti Hopper Flip 12 put me at ease. It reliably kept contents cool even when I left the cooler in a parked, hot car for six hours (the outside temperature was 70 degrees, but the all-black interior of my small Nissan Leaf warmed up to about 80 degrees in the Colorado sun). Advice to other moms: if you just need a soft cooler to store and schlep a few bottles of breastmilk, the Yeti Hopper Flip 12 is overkill. I’d size down to the Hopper Flip 8, which would be less bulky to tote around. But if you also want to store snacks or potentially even your breast pump and parts in the cooler, the Hopper Flip 12 is a good size. —J.W.

Lazarus Naturals’ CBD+THC gummies ($60)

These last couple of months have been very chill. I’m recovering from a long bout of COVID, so my days are filled with slower activities like fly-fishing and long walks. I also have more time for my social life, since I’m not waking up at the crack of dawn to get into the alpine. My perfect companion in this newfound slowness? . I’m a lightweight with weed—a former stoner who mostly gave it up because I couldn’t reliably achieve a nice, gentle high. I’d end up anxious, my mind racing, overwhelmed by any social situation. Then I found these low-dose gummies, with 25 milligrams of CBD and 2 milligrams of THC. My theory is that the CBD takes the edge off—quiets my nervous system enough that I can actually enjoy the THC. They’re a hit among my friends, too. They make everything feel just a little softer, a little funnier, and a little more interesting, whether that’s a hike or a dinner party. If you’re a lightweight like me, or just looking for a consistently gentle weed experience, I can’t recommend them enough. —Abigail Barronian, senior editor

CamelBak MultiBev water bottle ($52)

You likely have a few dozen water bottles, like me. When I travel, I often bring several—one for coffee, one for water, and a cup that I use on flights so I can say no to single-use plastic. This one replaces them all. It’s a 22-ounce insulated steel bottle (good for hot or cold bevies) with a very cool feature: the bottom screws off to become a cup that I use for a glass of wine on a flight or a cup of Sleepytime tea at night. For the latter, a nifty silicone sipper lid tucks away into the cap. I’ve even used the cup to keep a can of beer chilled while I watch the sunset over Lake Wanaka in New Zealand. All told, this one vessel replaces a boatload of single-use containers. On a recent business trip, it allowed me to refuse about 34 single-use containers in 72 hours: six coffee cups and lids, at least 20 plastic water bottles, and eight plastic airline cups. That’s a bottle with a serious impact. —Kristin Hostetter, head of sustainability and contributing editor

KOO Demo sunglasses ($200)

The unwritten rule of bike racing is to never, under any circumstances, try out new gear, apparel, or nutrition during a race. I’ve violated this law many times before, and this past July I did it again. I plucked my pair of KOO Demo sunglasses from their fancy case just a few minutes before starting the Silver Rush 50, a punishing mountain bike race in Leadville, Colorado. Alas, I paid the price for not allowing my eyes to adjust to the shades beforehand. The race sent me through dense tree cover, where the light alternated between eye-burning sunshine and darkened shadows. My eyes struggled to focus with the photochromatic lenses, which feature something called Zeiss Anti-Reflective Technology. I removed the shades during sections of trail in the trees. After the event, I put the Demos on the shelf and vowed never to wear them again. Of course, I violated said promise, and I’m glad I did. Over the past two months, I have worn these shades on many training rides, and they are now officially in my good graces. I appreciate the Demos’ wide face coverage—I have a larger-than-normal melon—and I never have wind flow into my eyes, even on long descents. The elastomer on the temple prevents the shades from slipping. After several months of wear, the temples have lost none of their hugging power—recently I noticed that my budget-friendly shades lose their grip over time. Long story short: the KOO Demos have absolutely redeemed themselves. —Fred Dreier, articles editor

The post The Gear Our Editors Loved This Fall appeared first on şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř Online.

Winter hiking is not our favorite term, to be totally honest. It puts too much emphasis on the winter part, making it feel like you should be building snow caves or crossing a glacier to qualify. For many, however, winter hiking is simply a cold, possibly wet day hike on your usual trail, or an afternoon tromp through some snowy woods. The best winter hiking boots of 2024 work for all of those scenarios, keeping you dry, warm, and planted wherever your cold weather adventures may take you.

Winners at a Glance

• Best All-Around: Merrell MTL Thermo Rogue 4
• Best for Easy Day Hikes: Oboz Andesite II Mid
• Best for Technical Terrain: Salewa Ortles Light Mid PTX
• Best for Bushwacking: Meindl Bergell MFS Hiker
• Best for Deep Snow: Columbia Expeditionist Shield

The Reviews: The Best Winter Hiking Boots of 2024

Best All-Around: Merrell MTL Thermo Rogue 4 ($260)

Pros: Great for longer miles in mixed terrain
Cons: The aesthetic isn’t for everyone
Sizes:Ěý˛Ń±đ˛Ô’s 7-15, °Â´Çłľ±đ˛Ô’s 5-11

The Thermo Rogue 4 is the unicorn of winter hikers; these boots strike the often elusive balance between a great hiker and a solid winter boot. They won us over as hikers thanks to a tall lightweight ballistic mesh and Gore-Tex membrane that provided plenty of ankle support but also snugged to our feet like a sock, creating a comfy, blister-free fit right out of the box. Their hiking chops are boosted by meaty, Vibram Arctic Grip outsole soles with five millimeter, terraced lugs lined with tiny teeth that bite into packed snow on otherwise sloppy terrain. During snowy treks in zero-degree weather, the boots provided just the right amount of warmth thanks to 200 grams of Primaloft Gold Eco Series synthetic insulation and Solarcore Aerogel for the insole and over the toe. Category manager Jakob Schiller wore these boots on a late winter hike in New Mexico’s Sangre de Cristo Mountains, where he tramped through 12 miles of rocky trail and post-hole snow. “When you’re hiking mixed terrain that has dirt and snow, nothing beats these boots,” he said.

Bottom Line: Burly winter boot protection without the bulk

Best for Easy Day Hikes: Oboz Andesite II Mid Insulated B-Dry ($210)

Pros: Versatile, springy, comfortable
Cons: Not enough support for long hikes
Sizes: ˛Ń±đ˛Ô’s 8-14

Our top pick for chill, short treks in winter, the Andesite II is an ultra-comfy daily hiker that will keep your feet happy in a variety of cold and wet conditions. Albuquerque, New Mexico-based tester Kip Malone loved the mid-high design and nubuck leather uppers, which created just enough support and protection for shorter hikes on dry, rocky terrain and enough structure to handle snowshoes and traction devices. A B-Dry waterproof/breathable membrane kept wet snow from seeping through, and 200 grams of recycled synthetic insulation was enough to keep the cold at bay without turning the boots into a hot box during strenuous uphill efforts. Malone praised the boot’s rebound, which comes primarily from a single-density EVA midsole that put “a noticeable spring in every step on packed or hard surfaces.” While there’s a TPU shank sandwiched in the sole for support, testers found that the boots were too flimsy to qualify as long-haul footwear or a solid backpacking choice. They fit well out of the box, however, and were roomy enough to allow for midweight winter socks without sizing up.

Bottom Line: A good all-arounder for weekend warriors.

Best for Technical Terrain: Salewa Ortles Light Mid PTX Boot ($300)

Pros: Rock-friendly outsole, rock plate, crampon compatibility
Cons: Expensive
Sizes: ˛Ń±đ˛Ô’s 7-13, °Â´Çłľ±đ˛Ô’s 7-11

Vanlifer Max Halbach is a German native who grew up scrambling over exposed terrain in places like Austria’s Wilder Kaiser and Scotland’s Black Cuillin Ridge. That made him especially appreciative of the Ortles Light Mid PTX boot, which is designed as a fully-waterproof light hiker that can handle mixed technical terrain, including rock, snow, and ice. Its dexterity on steep rock is owed to a grippy Pomoca Alpine Light outsole that smeared and held fast on smooth rock, but also provided solid protection in chundery, loose rock. The uppers are made from a PFC-free, Cordura-like fabric that was tough as nails, helped keep the weight down (only 20 ounces for a men’s size 9) and, in combination with extra padding around the ankle, provided Halbach with a snug fit. Burley bonuses like a midsole rock plate to prevent bruising and crampon-compatible heel welt vault this lightweight boot into light mountaineering territory. “These boots are overkill for the average hiker, but if you want to get after it, look here,” says Halbach.

Bottom Line: Perfect for steep, technical hikes on mixed terrain

Best for Bushwacking: Meindl Bergell MFS Hiker ($320)

Pros: Ultra durable, supportive
Cons: Heavy
Sizes: ˛Ń±đ˛Ô’s 7-12

In some winter scenarios, it’s better to not have insulation in your boot. That’s because insulated hikers can overheat when you’re really huffing up a trail, leaving your feet clammy and cold. When category manager Jakob Schiller chased elk through the mountains of New Mexico and hiked in Jackson Hole, Wyoming this winter, he reached for the Bergell MFS’s. With thick leather uppers lined with a Gore-Tex membrane and a fleece layer under the footbed, the boots kept all moisture at bay better than a typical insulated boot, and, when matched with a medium-thick wool sock, created plenty of warmth for cold days down to 10 degrees. The boots are heftier than others we tested, weighing in at three and a half pounds per pair, and took a minute to break in, owing to that thick leather build, but were also the most durable and reliable boots in test thanks to a meaty, multidirectional Vibram outsole and full rubber rand. “No matter where I put my foot—into a bog, on a rock in a scree field, on a grassy slope—I knew I would be safe. I wasn’t going to lose traction or roll my ankle,” says Schiller. Bonus: because the boots aren’t lined, they can also pull double-duty as summer backpacking boots in mild conditions.

Bottom Line: A burly boot for heavy loads and tough terrain in milder climates

Best for Deep Snow: Columbia Expeditionist Shield ($140)

Pros: Fully waterproof, light for the level of insulation
Cons: Not built for long miles
Sizes: ˛Ń±đ˛Ô’s 7 – 15

If you smashed together a duck boot, a deep-winter boot, and a regular hiker, you’d get the Expeditionist Shield. Columbia’s arrow-shaped treads and outsole held tight to packed snow, felt solid on icy patches, and was just stiff enough to not leave tester Kip Malone’s feet fatigued on dirt trails. Thanks to an entirely rubber bottom section, Malone found these boots were ideal for stomping through sloppy wet snow without fear of seepage. (There’s a waterproof membrane lining the full boot as well.) The deep-winter chops come from 200 grams of synthetic insulation and a reflective liner, which, when matched with a wool sock, was warm enough for snowshoeing on bitter days when temps dipped well below freezing. Malone stood around in the snow without moving for 30 minutes and was pleasantly surprised to find that his feet were still plenty warm. The Expeditionist Shields aren’t quite insulated enough for ice fishing in Minnesota, but they’re far more nimble—perfect for hikes in the three to five mile range.

Bottom line: Armor for all but the coldest conditions and unavoidable slush

How to Buy

The first question to ask about buying Winter Hikers: Where and how will I use them? Do you live in Colorado and love to snowshoe, or are you down in Georgia and just in need of something waterproof and warmer than a normal boot? Will you be running and fast-packing in the boots, or carrying a heavy pack over rough terrain and sitting around a campfire? Narrowing down your use-case is absolutely necessary because winter hikers are more specific in their design than normal hikers—you don’t want to get stuck with a boot that’s too warm, heavy, or stiff. To help you make the right choice, here are the factors you’ll want to consider.

Insulation

In our testing, most synthetic insulations are similar in terms of warmth. Pay less attention to the type of insulation and more to the amount. Hikers that will keep you warm in the snow but not overheat your foot often come with about 200 grams of insulation. Boots with more insulation are often designed for inactive use (apres, ice fishing, etc.) and not for hiking.

Traction

Just like winter tires that are designed to perform on snow and ice, some winter hikers come with winter soles designed to do the same. Vibram’s Artic Grip outsole has a proprietary compound (they’re very tight-lipped) that makes a noticeable difference in terms of traction on wet ice. And the lugs on Merrell’s Thermo Rouge 4 have tiny teeth that bite into packed snow and kept us from falling on our faces.

Waterproofing

If you’re serious about winter hiking, your boot should have a waterproof membrane. We’ve seen folks head out with leather boots treated with waterproofing spray or oil and they never perform as well as a tried-and-true Gore-Tex (or similar) membrane. We’re sticklers about moisture, because wet, cold feet will mean the end of your hike—or worse.

Fit

Like all boots, winter hikers will tear your feet to pieces if they don’t fit well. Even if you can’t try on your preferred boots at a local store, go ahead and order them, wear them around your house for a couple days, and make sure your foot isn’t screaming to get out. You’ll want to pay attention to things like heel slippage (which causes blisters), toe space, overall width (do you feel better in a narrow boot or wider boot?), ankle support, and how easy they are to pull on and off.

How We Test

• Number of testers: 8
• Number of products tested: 13
• Coldest temp experienced: -5
• Highest elevation reached: 12,500 feet

To qualify for our test, this year’s winter hikers needed to have the basics: strong hiking chops with added warmth for colder conditions. But that’s just the beginning. We field-tested and analyzed waterproofing, traction, comfort, and stability—four critical factors in winter climates—in conjunction with the level of warmth retention a boot offered.

To put these boots through their paces, we set out to the coldest, snowiest places we could find, including Jackson Hole, Wyoming and Alta, Utah, both of which set annual records for snowfall in 2023. Testers ran the gamut from carefree van dwellers who were criss-crossing the country to winter athletes to moms and dads with just a few hours to burn off steam. During the test we clomped through fresh snow, tried our best to slip in icy parking lots, post-holed on late-winter hikes, and stood around in snowbanks to see how long it took for our feet to go numb. But most importantly, we put in miles. If a boot wasn’t comfortable, supportive, and reliable, it didn’t make our list.

Meet Our Lead Testers

Kip Malone is a grumpy old man. At least when it comes to footwear. At 58 he’s moved past “giving things a shot” and straight to “it better work.” He doesn’t have time to deal with shoes that give him blisters, come with unnecessary features, or leave his feet cold when he’s out trying to get miles in on the trails around the Sandia Mountains outside of Albuquerque, New Mexico. In other words, he’s the perfect tester. Over the decade he’s been testing for şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř, Malone estimates he has worn 200-plus pairs of boots.

Jakob Schiller is a former gear editor at şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř and now a columnist. He also lives in Albuquerque, New Mexico, but traveled the country this winter in search of all manner of snowy, icy conditions. He tested various boots in places including Jackson Hole, Wyoming, the Rockies outside of Denver, Colorado, trails around Flagstaff, Arizona, and in the mountains near Taos, New Mexico. He’s not as grumpy as Malone, but does have four kids that help him to appreciate the little free time he does have.

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Your hiking boots are there with you on every adventure, big and small. Whether you’re just exploring around town or striking off deep into the wild, every step adds to the story. And as it does to everything, time takes its toll on your boots. After countless miles, outsoles start to wear down and leather needs some love. With the new from Danner, these signs of a well worn boot are just the beginning of your next adventure. This new future-focused hiker is eligible for Danner’s recrafting services, which can keep it on the trail for years to come. We spoke with Erin Weger, Danner’s marketing manager for earned media, to learn more about Danner recrafting and the Mountain 600 Leaf GTX.

şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř: What motivated Danner to start its recrafting program?

Erin Weger: Danner has been recrafting its classic U.S.A.-made boots for decades and was founded on the idea that products should be built to last. In the 1930s, Charles Danner built boots for the loggers—one of the most hazardous jobs in the world at the time—of the Pacific Northwest. The conditions were rough and rugged, and the workers needed the highest-quality, longest-lasting boots.

That commitment to quality gave way to the Danner Recrafting Center in Portland, Oregon, which offers everything from sole replacements to full rebuilds. Recrafting reduces the number of boots in landfills and protects the ecosystems we explore in. Danner is excited to extend recrafting to its modern hikers, including the new Mountain 600 Leaf GTX.Ěý

Who is the Mountain 600 designed for?

The Mountain 600 Leaf GTX is made for a variety of terrain and conditions. Everyone from seasoned hikers to folks who are hitting the trail for the first time will enjoy this boot. It has a classic style with hints of Danner’s iconic Mountain Light Cascade (featured in the movie Wild). The best part? They feel just as good as they look.Ěý

I live outside Glacier National Park, and I keep these boots in my car at all times. There’s a lot of variation in the trails here: I’ve used them for all kinds of trails from grueling 5,000-foot climbs to easy three-mile loops to exploring scenic alpine lakes. If you’re looking for a year-round, dependable adventure buddy, this is the perfect boot for you.

What sets the Mountain 600 apart from other hiking boots?

This boot is comfortable, totally reliable on the trails, looks great, and now it’s more sustainable, too. From the first time you put them on, they’re ready to hike in with very little if any break-in time. And that’s pretty uncommon for a durable hiking boot with all the bells and whistles. This boot really nails the performance side as well. It has a supportive midsole, a grippy Vibram® outsole, and a GORE-TEX waterproof liner made from 45 percent recycled materials. But what truly sets this boot apart is that it can be recrafted with new Vibram® soles and reconditioned leather.

When is it time to send your boots in for recrafting?

Everyone wears their boots differently, so it really depends. If you tend to hike on rough terrain—looking at you, volcanic rock—that’ll wear down your outsoles faster than the soft, loamy trails we have near our headquarters in the Pacific Northwest. It also depends how frequently you’re hitting the trails and how many miles you’re logging. Keeping your boots clean, dry, and well-conditioned goes a long way. All that being said, your boots are ready for recrafting when the outsole tread starts to look worn down or you’re starting to feel the trail through your boots too much.

How can you find out if your boots are eligible for recrafting?

The Danner team has developed a great to determine if your boots can be recrafted and which services they’re eligible for.

What does the recrafting process entail for boot owners?

There’s a full team in Portland dedicated to recrafting boots, and it makes the process simple. Using the online tool, boot owners find the right package for them, and then ship their boots to our Recrafting Center. Once received, the team gets to work recrafting your boots. All of our recrafters truly know Danner boots inside and out, and one person handles your boots through the entire process. If any questions come up along the way, we get in touch. Turnaround times vary, but it usually takes about a month from start to finish. When we’re done, your boots are ready for many more years of adventure.

For nearly a century, has crafted boots with purpose and integrity—footwear to equip those who choose the unlikely path, those who cut fresh trails, those who pioneer. In 1936, Charles Danner came West to build the best boots loggers had ever known, an effort that resulted in a long-standing heritage brand with a renegade spirit. A spirit that proudly lives on in each pair of Danner boots it makes to this day. Whether you want to hike, work or simply walk around town, Danner boots are meant to take you somewhere. Lace a pair up and Go There. Visit for more information.Ěý

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I spent my weekend staring at the ground—or, specifically, the shoes and feet of a few thousand Appalachian Trail thru-hikers in southern Virginia.

For the first time since my own 2019 trek of the country’s preeminent footpath, I returned to , a legendary gathering of current hikers, AT alumni, gearheads, vendors, and those merely looking for a smelly good time at the edge of the southern summer. I was hoping not only to get in the mood for my own upcoming attempt of the Continental Divide Trail but also to gather some evidence for a question I think about perhaps a bit too much: What’s the best thru-hiking shoe for walking a few thousand miles across rugged mountain wilderness?

Damascus, the perennial home of Trail Days, is a perfect place to take such a query. It is nearly 440 miles, or exactly 20 percent, into a northbound stretch of the AT. By the time they reach this point, some hikers have learned the hard way that the shoes in which they left Georgia don’t work for their feet. Others have hobbled into town on now-threadbare kicks, hoping to replace them at one of Damascus’ several outfitters. They’re worried about stress fractures and chronic blisters, trench foot and bunions—really, what the next 80 percent of the AT might do to their soles, toes, and souls. I wanted to know how they felt about their footwear choices so far and what they’d learned. So, yes, I stared at the ground all weekend, looking for and finding many shoes of interest.

What Are the Best Thru-Hiking Shoes? You May Be Surprised.

Before I introduce my finds, though, two general observations on thru-hiking shoe trends: First, it seems that the great trail-runner hegemony is slowly collapsing. Inspired in part by Ray Jardine’s foundational backpacking writing, hikers in recent decades have swapped clunky boots for sleek trail runners. They’re lighter and often cheaper, and they tend to dry faster. But at Trail Days this year, the typical glut of Altras and Hokas seemed to be in a downturn. There were more people in big boots or spindly sandals, both extremes on the continuum of thru-hiking foot protection. (And I was happy to see more of my beloved Topos, a lightweight but rugged compromise that hasn’t failed me yet.)

Second, you don’t need to hike with Crocs for camp shoes, as most every thru-hiker this year seemed to do. I did it on my first thru-hike, too, and I’ve regretted it ever since. They’re heavy and bulky, and you can get similar protection from a pair of tiny sandals or even tying shoelaces around a pair of insoles you no longer need. If you’re still out there with Crocs, mail that unnecessary pound home the next chance you get. Remember: thru-hiking lighter is usually better.

And now, without further ado, here are the six hikers whose shoes (or lack thereof) caught my downward gaze. Taken together, they affirm that you can hike the AT however you want, so long as you start.

Customized Old-School Altra Olympus

Elena Kennedy, a.k.a. Potato, 27

The weekend’s real what-are-those-things? moment came on a sidewalk outside one of the two Damascus coffee shops when I realized I could see a hiker’s socks and shoes at the same time. I chased her for a block (thru-hikers on off-days are easy to catch) and then asked her where her toe box had gone? The delightful Potato—a long-ass-section hiker, or Lasher, who started the AT in 2017 and might actually reach Maine this year—patiently explained.

When she decided to head back to the trail this year, there wasn’t an outfitter in her nearby Pennsylvania town. But for years, she’d kept a nearly decade-old pair of Altra Olympus 1.5s in her car as casual slip-ons for errands. Her mom had bought them, disliked them, and passed them to Potato, even though they were two sizes too small. In her pre-trail pickle, Potato read about ultramarathon runners who sometimes excise their toe box as their feet swell during a race. So she gave it a shot. Perhaps Potato should’ve been a surgeon, given how clean the cuts and beautiful the curves on her modified discards turned out. She doesn’t worry about toe blisters, and her shoes dry much faster than her previous kicks. Her Altras have already made it 200 miles, and Potato thinks she’ll amputate the toe box on whatever pair she gets next, even if they fit.

Mismatched Ubiquitous Altra Lone Peak 6

Eddie Thomas, a.k.a. Two Shoes, 43

Signature trail looks are a real thing. I’ve seen people hike from Georgia to Maine dressed like pale grapes, bold butterflies, Mortal Kombat characters, and championship-belt-wielding wrestlers. Two Shoes found his trademark without having to worry about wardrobe malfunctions or unnecessary weight. Given the trail name of the 43-year-old Florida man, you’ve probably guessed what it is: same shoe, different colors.

Two Shoes spent a year testing Altra’s popular before he struck north from Springer Mountain. When he decided he indeed loved them, he bought three pairs in different colorways during a holiday bonanza. Walking out the door for the AT, he decided to wear two colors at once because, of course, “it was a real conversation starter,” he says. Two Shoes made it an astounding 710 miles—almost twice what the average Altra gets—on his first pair by relearning how to walk during his first week, he says. “My knees and ankles were just ruined,” he confesses. “So now I hover my feet out here, just rolling with the ground.”

Big Ol’ German Hiking Boots

Christian Jobst, a.k.a. Sonic, 39

If you gathered together every current AT hiker sporting boots and put them in a (rather short) lineup, Sonic would still stand out. A leggy man from Munich in little purple shorts and a black cycling cap, Sonic sports big black leather boots rising well above his ankle, laces pulled tight a quarter up his shin. The German military issued Sonic two pairs of when he enlisted more than a decade ago, and he fell for their stability and protection. Drawn to the AT by a documentary, he brought the boots for his 2012 thru-hike. “I’ve had 10 pairs, not a single blister,” he tells me with a grin. “Never change a winning team.”

It’s true: waterproof shoes or boots trap in the moisture from sweaty feet, Sonic says. When it’s hot and he’s speeding uphill, he takes an hour break each afternoon to let his socks dry. But he doesn’t worry much about rain storms or crossing rivers. And after a recent full-day downpour, he was the only hiker in a crowded trail shelter without saturated socks or shoes, so he felt pretty content with the five extra pounds strapped to his legs. What’s more, he expects to go through just two pairs of the $200 boots on the trail, meaning he’ll spend about half of what his trail-runner-wearing peers will.

Barefoot or Ultralight Sandals

Stefan Von Aulock, a.k.a. Feet, 34

Almost as rare as the thru-hiker in military boots? The au naturel walker—that is, someone who opts to wear nothing and feel everything as they move through rugged, rocky, and rooty Appalachia. In fact, 34-year-old Chicago native Feet (get it?) says he’s heard of only two others attempting that feat (got it?) this year. In part, because it hurts and forces hikers to walk slowly. Though he normally moves at 2.5 miles per hour, Feet is now heading to Maine at about half that clip, a relative crawl as he navigates stones and sticks barefoot.

Still, slipping off his tiny sandals that he occasionally wore during the first 100 miles and now uses mostly in camp or town, Feet was quick to extol the philosophical virtues of his decision. “It’s about a connection with the Earth,” he says. “And it’s a freedom. Now people think they need shoes, and that bothers me.” As he showed me his feet, he said they felt good, no worse for wear than any other hiker’s. A few hours later, though, he’d forgotten about our interview and told me he was headed back to a hostel for a few days. Feet’s feet, he admitted, needed rest.

The New Lone Peaks, Already Beat to Hell

Rachel Frisco, a.k.a. Wreck-It Ralph, 26

Wreck-It Ralph was only a few hundred miles into the AT when she learned an important shoe lesson: feet only expand as you keep walking. The 26-year-old Florida native started from Georgia in burgundy . (If you’re keeping score, that’s the same color Two Shoes wore on his left foot, just one iteration later.) But by the time she hit Erwin, Tennessee, she had developed a serious blister as her swollen foot rubbed the toe box on her size 8.5s with every step. At an outfitter in that mountain town, she traded up, nabbing a size 9.

The blister is better, but after only 200 miles, Wreck-It Ralph’s Altras were perhaps the most damaged kicks I saw in Damascus. They were once pink, but beneath cloudy skies, they looked more like wan sandalwood. (“What do you mean, they were pink?” I ask her, worried I’d gone colorblind. She laughs.) The toe box and heel were already tattered, the laces beginning to fray. Suddenly, hiking in heavy boots—or teaching yourself how to walk anew—didn’t seem so hard.

Air Jordans to the Appalachian Trail

Bryce Bianchi, a.k.a. Turtle Hermit, 36

Let’s get straight to the ask: Michael Jordan, if you’re reading this, Turtle Hermit wants you to sponsor his thru-hike. Late Sunday morning, in the waning hours of Trail Days, I spotted a hiker wearing all black, a silver cross dangling from his neck. He was digging his hiking poles into the sidewalk and racing through town lugging a monstrous backpack. I was curious about him before I noted his tattered black canvas or the bulky Jordan slides strapped to his bag. But when I saw his footwear, I had to know his deal.

A 36-year-old landscaper from northeast Ohio, Turtle Hermit has been collecting Air Jordans for years. At one point, he even rocked the same pair for a decade. Why, he wondered, should he worry about buying Altras, Topos, Salomons, or Hokas when he had more than a half-dozen of the GOAT shoes on hand? Basketball and long-distance hiking—same thing, yeah? So he pulled on his least favorite pair and split. After 440 miles, he’s confident they’ve still got a few hundred left. And when he needs to swap, he hopes the replacements will be free, as he’s been sending Michael Jordan’s Facebook account repeated pleas. No response yet, but that never stopped . And no, Turtle Hermit hasn’t seen Air.

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There are few pieces of gear you rely on as intimately as hiking boots. A well-fitting pair can help the miles fly by, while the wrong boots make every step a pain. We tested over 30 women’s hiking boots in a variety of terrain to find the best options for every hiker, from day trips to mountain expeditions. These nine rose to the top of the pile after impressing our testers the most with their fit, comfort, weatherproofing, and durability.

The Winners at a Glance

Best for Wet Hikes: Astral Pisgah

Best Value: Mammut Sertig II Mid GTX

Shortest Break-In: Zamberlan 335 Circe Low GTX

Best for Beginner Hikers: Columbia Facet 75 Mid OutDry

Best All-Around: La Sportiva TX Hike Mid Leather GTX

Best Cushion: Hoka Kaha 2 GTX

Best Protection: Topo Athletic Trailventure 2 Waterproof

Best Trail-to-Town Shoe: On Cloudwander Waterproof

Best for Narrow Feet: Salomon Cross Hike 2 Mid Gore-Tex

How We Test

Number of Testers: 12

Number of Products Tested: 33

Number of Miles Hiked: 520

Highest Elevation: 11,305 feet

Number of Dogs Who Joined Us: 18

Test States: New Mexico, Wisconsin, Michigan, Rhode Island, Washington, Oregon, Kentucky, New York

Throughout summer and early fall of 2022, our twelve testers from across the United States tested dozens of hiking boots in a wide range of trail conditions, from the deserts of the southwest and the mountains of Washington’s Cascades to the forests of Michigan and New York. All testers are avid hikers, though they represent a spectrum of experience levels, from a former thru-hiker to a marathon trail-runner to a determined dog-walker. Our testers represent a wide age range, but together have amassed more than six decades of experience on the trail. Each boot was tested by at least two people over multiple day hikes and backpacking trips. Testers put boots through their paces in as many ways as possible, seeking out varied terrain and distances, and going out of their way to stand in streams and wade through mud. After their hikes were completed, testers filled out detailed surveys about their impressions of the boots, reporting on support, comfort, grip, cushion, durability, breathability, sizing, among other factors. At the end of the season, nine clear winners rose to the top.

Meet Our Lead Testers

Blair Braverman

Braverman (@blairbraverman) is an adventurer and writer who spends her winters mushing and her summers finding any other way to get out in the woods. She lives near the Nicolet National Forest of Wisconsin, and typically heads out for long day hikes or overnights. Her longest hiking trip was the 400-mile Oregon Coast Trail.

Chrissie Bodznick

A Montana-based wildland firefighter, environmental educator, and natural history filmmaker, Bodznick (@cbodznick ) spent the summer testing boots on the East Coast, where she hiked in the woods, rocky shores, and salt marshes of Cape Cod.

Rachael Drechsel (@r_drechsel) and Colleen Michelson are avid foragers and outdoors people in Madison, Wisconsin, who scour the forest for mushrooms and hike daily with their pit bull Reuben (@boi_meets_bea).

Jana Kay Slater

Sixty-six year-old Slater is our oldest boot tester, and has hiked roughly five miles a day for the past several decades in the rainforests of Oregon and Washington. She goes out rain, shine, or sleet, often off-trail.

The Reviews: The Best °Â´Çłľ±đ˛Ô’s Hiking Boots of 2023

Best for Wet Hikes: Astral Pisgah ($175)

Weight: 10.5 oz per shoe
Sizes: 6-11
Pros: Lightweight; waterproof; made with recycled materials
Cons: Runs small; not very supportive

Leave it to Astral, a brand obsessed with water sports, to design a boot as waterproof, lightweight, and breathable as the Pisgah. These hikers are made from 100-percent recycled polyester canvas, with a waterproof-breathable membrane that performs well in both rainy conditions and standing water. Montana-based tester, Chrissie Bodznick, found that they kept her feet dry while she traipsed through a salt marsh in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, during a day hike. Pacific Northwest-based tester Jana Kay Slater’s feet stayed similarly dry over a half-dozen 5- to 10-mile hikes in an Oregon rainforest; she called them “my new favorite all-purpose, light-as-air boots.” Testers loved the simple one-fabric design, based on mid-20th century French jungle boots, which were easy to clean with just a few swipes. Directional lugs made from the brand’s proprietary “high friction” rubber keep a firm grip on wet and slippery ground. An EVA midsole provides adequate cushion, although without a rock plate, the Pisgahs aren’t the most comfortable on sharp, uneven terrain. Another downside? While a higher cut does a great job keeping water out, the canvas upper offers little in the way of ankle support—pack accordingly. Note that the Pisgahs run quite small; size up a half to full size for normal fit.

Bottom Line: Astral’s Pisgahs are ideal for day hikers who regularly deal with wet, moderate trail conditions.

Best Value: Mammut Sertig II Mid GTX ($175)

Weight: 11.3 oz per shoe
Sizes: 5-10
Pros: Waterproof, grippy lugs; durable lacing system
Cons: Runs slightly narrow

Though it’s not exactly a budget pick, Mammut’s Sertig II Mid GTX offered the best support-to-price ratio in our test, quickly becoming a favorite amongst testers for multi-day trips with heavy packs. These versatile boots have a heavy-duty rubber and EVA outsole with multidirectional lugs for grip and flexibility. A Gore-Tex bootie lining kept testers’ feet dry in wet conditions. They fit true to size and were comfortable out of the box; one tester remarked that “after a day of break-in, I felt like I’d worn them for a year.” Testers also liked the boot’s bright colors, which feel fun and modern while retaining the style of a classic hiker. The high cut, well-cushioned ankle, and dual-density foam midsole was firm and supportive on a three-day backpacking trip through Wisconsin’s national forest with a 45-pound pack, and the lacing system was a highlight: one tie that stays snug all day.

Bottom Line: The Mammut Sertig II Mid GTX offers ample support for multi-day trips without breaking the bank.

Shortest Break-In: Zamberlan 335 Circe Low GTX ($250)

Weight: 13.4 oz per shoe
Sizes: 6-11
Pros: Warm; durable; waterproof; comfy out of the box
Cons: Too warm for hot climates

Despite the impressive level of support, these warm, low-cut hikers felt like slippers right out of the box. Testers reported that the Circes were extremely comfortable for long backpacking trips without a break-in period. The full 1.5-millimeter polypropylene lasting board was originally designed for hybrid trail-running and hiking shoes, which means the soles feel unusually flexible while still offering protection from sharp sticks and rocks, while a larger heel surface provides stability. The microfiber upper with Gore-Tex lining stayed waterproof throughout testing, and although the boots aren’t insulated, they are surprisingly warm in variable conditions. Associate gear editor Kelly Klein wore them to the summit of New Mexico’s Mt. Taylor, at 11,305 feet, on a three-day trip that involved trekking, at times, through up to four inches of snow. “I was impressed by how waterproof they are,” she reported. “My toes stayed cozy the whole time, which is saying something, because I have Raynaud’s and it’s easy for my extremities to be extremely cold.”

Bottom Line: The Zamberlan 335 Circe Low GTX is ideal for serious hikers who don’t want high-cut boots but need enough support and durability for multi-day trips in variable conditions.

Sponsor Content
W’s Katabatic Mid Waterproof from Oboz ($180)

The Oboz Katabatic Mid Waterproof is a lightweight hiking shoe with the comfort you need for long days on the trail. It has the hallmarks of a minimalist shoe with all the features of a true hiker: support, stability, protection, and performance. The highly breathable waterproof Katabatic Mid is engineered to move fast on the trail and keep your feet dry in wet weather.

Best for Beginner Hikers: Columbia Facet 75 Mid OutDry ($140)

Weight: 11.4 oz per shoe
Sizes: 5-12
Pros: Affordable; comfy midsole
Cons: Not supportive enough for loads over 20 pounds

Columbia’s Facet 75 Mid OutDry is an affordable option for hikers who want one step up from a sneaker for day hikes. The Techlite Plush midsole is soft and offers a cushioned ride, while the Adapt Trax outsole with 5-millimeter lugs provides excellent grip. A tester who hiked on Snowden Forest mountain bike trail in British Columbia, a rocky single track with large boulders, reported that walking on 45 degree-plus slabs was a cinch. The boots’ waterproof OutDry lining is bonded to the mesh upper, and kept one tester’s feet dry through a multi-hour hike in heavy Midwestern rain, though it leaked slightly in a stream crossing. Flat laces stay snugly in place all day. One note for sensitive hikers: eyelets sometimes hit the ankle bones when strongly pronating or supinating, but the incidence was rare enough that it didn’t feel like a significant downside.

Bottom Line: The Columbia Facet 75 Mid OutDry is a great option t for the casual hiker who wants the feel of a sneaker, but with slightly more support.

Best All-Around: La Sportiva TX Hike Mid Leather GTX ($199)

Weight: 14.2 oz per shoe
Sizes: 5.5-11
Pros: Versatile grip; supportive; breathable
Cons: Chilly in colder hiking conditions

The fabric version of this boot is one of La Sportiva’s most popular; this leather update offers even more support and durability, and was a clear favorite among several of our testers. They raved about lightweight stability thanks to reinforced leather layers at the heel and toe cap, and remarked that the compression EVA cushion felt like “having a little extra power in each step.” The recycled Gore-Tex lining stayed waterproof even after several minutes of standing in a stream, and the Vibram Ecostep EVO outsoles gripped well on granite, sandstone, mud, snow, and wet rocks. After several days in these boots, tester Jana Kay Slater announced that she’d be converting to La Sportiva after swearing a decade-long loyalty to a different brands’ boot for her daily hikes. Another tester reported that her favorite wear was on a hiking date with her partner near a waterfall in Kentucky. “I should have been telling my partner how much I love him,” she said, “but instead I kept telling him how much I love these boots.”

Bottom Line: The La Sportiva TX Hike Mid Leather GTX is for the hiker who wants a versatile high-cut boot that’s super-comfortable for day hikes and supportive enough for backpacking.

Best Cushion: Hoka Kaha 2 GTX ($240)

Weight: 15.6 oz per shoe
Sizes: 5-11
Pros: Supportive; very cushioned; good for wide feet
Cons: Clunky; pricy; laces come undone

By far the most cushioned hikers in this year’s batch, Hoka’s Kaha 2 boots are lightweight and striking, with unusually thick, dual-density compression-molded foam midsoles that feel—as Wisconsin-based tester Rachael Drechsel reported—“like you’re walking on firm clouds. TempurPedic clouds. Solid marshmallows.” The original Kahas were already comfortable and stable; this update features an extended heel and new outsole with better traction, plus a 45-percent recycled Gore-Tex upper. “I freaking love the monster soles,” reported fellow Wisconsinite Colleen Michelson. Of course, the monster soles aren’t just for looks and cushioning; they offer increased ground contact and traction, while a grooved rocker provides propulsion. The boots are clunky over scree and boulders, but performed well on smooth trail surfaces, including gravel, sand, and dirt, and stayed dry through shallow river crossings. They fit well for wide feet, with ample ankle support, a pull-on loop at the heel, and big hooks for easy lace adjustment—although the laces have a tendency to come untied mid-hike.

Bottom Line: The Hoka Kaha 2 GTX provides serious cushion and support for on-trail backpacking.

Best Protection: Topo Athletic Trailventure 2 Waterproof ($180)

Weight: 13.1 oz per shoe
Sizes: 6-12
Pros: Rugged; supportive; cushioned
Cons: Laces come untied; heaviest boots in test

Topo’s Trailventure 2 is a supportive, rugged boot for backpacking or off-trail hikes over uneven terrain. Testers appreciated its spacious toe box, which gives room to walk naturally without sacrificing precision, and higher ankle cushion that doesn’t chafe or rub. Lead tester Blair Braverman found that the full eVent waterproof inner bootie construction stayed dry on an eight-mile hike through Wisconsin’s Nicolet National Forest in heavy rain and several stream crossings (at one point, her feet were the only dry body part she had left). A full-length rock plate between the ZipFoam midsole and Vibram Megagrip outsole did a good job protecting Braverman’s feet from sharp surfaces. One shortcoming? These boots are on the heavier side, and feel like overkill for day hikes on smooth dirt and gravel trails; their rugged support is better suited for rough terrain or carrying moderate to heavy packs deep into the backcountry.

Bottom Line: The Topo Athletic Trailventure 2 Waterproof is a stiff, supportive boot that offers protection for backpacking and hiking off-trail.

Best Trail-to-Town Shoe: On Cloudwander Waterproof ($180)

Weight: 11.3 oz per shoe
Sizes: 5-11
Pros: Bouncy, versatile
Cons: Not grippy, run slightly small

The On Cloudwander Waterproof is an unassuming low-cut hiking shoe that’s versatile enough for travel and everyday use while still offering moderate support on-trail. Proprietary Cloudtec outsoles feature hollow pods for extra cushioning; they felt bouncy and comfortable, even on rock and pavement, while a slight flare—the soles are a touch wider than the shoes themselves—kept the shoes stable on shifting surfaces like gravel. (Those bouncy lugs aren’t super grippy on downhills, however). On’s Speedboard—a polypropylene plate in the midsole designed to help propel the wearer forward—give the boots a slight rolling motion when walking, and a water-resistant/breathable polyurethane membrane keeps them feeling dry and comfortable in rainy conditions. The Cloudwanders aren’t super supportive, so they’re best for day hikes, or to throw in your suitcase when you want to keep your options open on a trip.

Bottom Line: The On Cloudwander is a versatile shoe for day hikes that can pull double-duty for travel and everyday use.

Best for Narrow Feet: Salomon Cross Hike 2 Mid GTX ($190)

Weight: 12.7 oz per shoe
Sizes: 5-11
Pros: Waterproof; quick-lace system; cushioned ankle support
Cons: Too narrow for some; not much arch support

Salomon’s Cross Hike 2 Mid GTX, now in its second iteration, has worked out many of the kinks of its predecessor, with better durability and a more flexible lacing system. The Mud Contagrip outsole grips well on muddy and shifting terrain, with Y-shaped lugs that face different directions for stability, whether you’re walking uphill, downhill, or on a sideways slant. In addition to a Gore-Tex membrane, the welded upper is treated with a waterproof coating to keep the outer fabric from wetting out. A drawstring-like Quicklace system tightens with a single pull and stays secure all day—it’s “ridiculously quick and easy,” as one tester noted. Testers also appreciated serious ankle support: a mid-cut height with padding at the ankle bones offered structure for 14-miles through Michigan’s damp and densely-wooded Upper Peninsula, with lots of bushwhacking, rain squalls, and a 30-pound pack. Although the boots don’t have a rock plate, the EVA EnergyCell foam midsole provided enough cushioning (but not much arch support) for testers to feel comfortable on rough ground. One critical note: Regular and wide-footed testers couldn’t comfortably squeeze into the boots. For narrow-footed hikers, though, the Cross Hikes might just be a dream boot.

Bottom Line: The Salomon Cross Hike 2 Mid GTX are sleek mid-cut boots with the support you need for long trips and heavy packs—as long as your feet are narrow.

How to Buy

What Type of Hiking Boot Do You Need?

The first step in buying hiking boots is determining your primary use. Are you planning a thru-hike, or walking your dog in the woods after work? Will you be on wide dirt trails or scrambling over scree? Do you live in a desert or a rainforest? Answer these questions to determine whether you need a real, rugged hiker, more of a simple trail shoe, or something in between.

Consider the Level of Support You Want

In general, the rougher the terrain you’ll be crossing and the more weight you’ll be carrying, the more support you want in your boot. A higher cut will keep your ankles supported while you’re on slippery or uneven ground, but might be overkill for a gentle walk on a flat trail. Similarly, low-cut boots can be comfortable but leave you vulnerable to ankle-rolling when you have a heavy pack. Midsole cushioning, shanks, and stiffer, thicker uppers can also increase support. More support also typically results in a heavier boot, which will lead to increased effort and fatigue over the course of a long trip.

What Type of Traction and Outsole Do You Need?

For traction, particularly on wet or sloped surfaces, look for a deep and varied tread pattern. A rock plate—a protective plastic or carbon sheet between the midsole and outsole—can make the difference between happy and sore feet at the end of a day crossing rough terrain.

Do You Need Waterproof Hiking Boots?

Many boots today, including several on this list, are available in both waterproof (often Gore-Tex) and non-waterproof versions. The waterproof versions will keep your feet dryer during rainfalls or stream crossings, but can get clammy when your feet sweat. If you’re in a warm, dry climate, or know that you’ll only be doing day hikes, you’re probably better off without the waterproof version.

Above All, Consider Fit

Fit is key; a boot that works perfectly for one person might be miserable to someone with a different foot shape. For that reason, unless you know how a certain brand’s shoes fit your feet, it’s wise to try on boots in-person (or if you’re shopping online, be willing to return them if they’re not perfect). Your feet swell over the course of the day, and will swell even more while hiking, so try on boots in the afternoon or evening.

When it’s time to upgrade your gear, don’t let the old stuff go to waste–donate it for a good cause and divert it from the landfill. our partner, Gear Fix, will repair and resell your stuff for free! Just box up your retired items, , and send them off. We’ll donate 100 percent of the proceeds to .

The post The Best °Â´Çłľ±đ˛Ô’s Hiking Boots of 2023 appeared first on şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř Online.

If you don’t live in a part of the country where mud season is a thing, consider yourself blessed. In New England and some other snowy states, it typically occurs between March and May, when dirt and gravel roads begin to thaw out from the long, brutal winter, causing extended pandemonium on roads and trails alike. In Vermont, the mud can get so thick and deep that it’s generally considered more dangerous to drive during the thaw than it is during the iced-over winter season. For a few months, people stop hiking altogether to prevent trail erosion. But for the days when there’s no avoiding it, these are the kicks to get you through the muck.

For Walking: ($145)

One of the worst things about mud season is the variable temperatures. You might be walking in frozen slush one day and wallowing in warmed-over sludge the next. Muck’s Chore Classic Xpresscool is the sweet spot, temperature-wise, for this time of year. That “Xpresscool” tech is basically just a wicking liner, but it does the job well, keeping the inside of the boot dry (impressive for a neoprene and rubber construction) and providing some cooling action when you’re standing around in the sun. At 18 inches tall, that 5-millimeter-thick neoprene layer is pretty much impervious to mud and water, making it my bootĚýof choice during downpours and while navigating foot-deep ruts on the road. A steel shank adds much-appreciated stability while gathering firewood, but as a result, it’s not the most comfortable boot for longer dog walks.

For Hiking: ($240)

Burly waterproof boots that can keep out slush and wet mud are typically sweaty and overbuilt. Hoka’s Kaha 2 GTX, however, is one of the most comfortable-out-of-the-box above-ankle boots I’ve ever worn. It’s as cushy as a recovery shoe thanks to a dual-density compression molded midsole and generous padding around the ankle and heel. The Gore-Tex membrane, which stood up to full immersion in slush puddles, never chafed or felt clammy. Most critically, the five-millimeter lugs with serrated edges and—love it or hate it—oversized heel provided extra surface area, flotation, and traction in the mucky stuff.Ěý

For Running: ($150)

A variant of Saucony’s wildly popular Peregrine trail runner, the ST (soft terrain) excels in slop. Six-and-a-half millimeter wide-spaced lugs were a dream during long runs down country roads, where conditions ranged from wet sand to oozing concrete. Even in the nastiest conditions, I never lost traction—nor did the lugs ball up with dirt—thanks to the generous spacing. A speedy quick-pull lace system anchors the shoe snugly and tucks up into a mesh pocket on the tongue. During early season slush runs, a stretchy ankle gaiter and protective film above the outsole kept water from sneaking in. And while there’s more cushioning and a softer rubber compound than in the normal Peregrine, the ST still felt precise on technical trails.

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You’ve probably heard—or at least know in your gut—that spending time outside is good for mind, body, and spirit. In the past few years, researchers have proven the benefits with study after study showing that time in the outdoors can do everything from lowering blood pressure to reducing stress and anxiety to improving longevity. And you reap these rewards whether you favor strolling in your local park or thru-hiking a long trail. It’s like a miracle drug with no side effects (unless you don’t like getting a little dirty and sweaty).

More than 50 years ago, long before science weighed in, W.D. Sweasy understood the power of the outdoors. During a trip to Europe in 1964, Sweasy witnessed the hiking boom unfolding there and came back determined to help Americans hit the trails as well. His epiphany: the one thing everyone needs to hike is a pair of good shoes. As a member of the family-run Red Wing Shoe Company, making quality footwear was something he knew about. So Sweasy launched Vasque to make purpose-built trail boots and equip hikers with innovative, comfortable, and durable footwear.

Over the decades, Vasque has established itself as the hiker’s hiking boot brand. That’s because it operates at the highest level on two fronts: making great boots and inspiring hikers to use them. Here’s how.

Innovating for the Trail

Since its inception, Vasque has paid close attention to what hikers really need, which has led to the creation of two of the most iconic hiking boots in history.Ěý

In 1984, the streamlined, all-leather debuted and became the defining backpacking boot of that era. A generation later, in 2004, the came out and revolutionized boots again, with an athletic design that prioritized breathability, low weight, and all-conditions comfort. Proof of its success? The Breeze has sold more than one million pairs, in all its forms, in the past two decades. The newest version, redesigned just last year, is eco-friendly as well, with recycled content in the collar lining, upper mesh, webbing, heel counter, waterproof layer, and midsole.Ěý

In recent seasons, Vasque designers have continued to innovate with a range of models. The is a nimble, lightweight hiker with a leather-and-mesh upper that balances breathability and durability. The is slightly more technical, with a wraparound rubber rand for added protection in rough terrain and a grippy sole for no-slip traction. And for backpackers tackling bigger trips, the full-grain leather offers superior support in a long-haul boot that’s instantly comfortable. Ěý Ěý Ěý Ěý

Supporting Thru-Hikers

But Vasque’s commitment to hikers only starts with making high-performance boots. As a founding sponsor of the , Vasque has been supporting thru-hikers on America’s long trails for a decade. The partner-powered program gives critical resources to a diverse group of thru-hikers each year, helping to broaden participation and elevate the visibility of hikers with different backgrounds. In 2022, for example, the Thru-Hike Syndicate supported an ambassador with Type 1 diabetes. “We’re thrilled to be the founding partner and footwear provider for the Thru-Hike Syndicate,” says Joe Peters, Vasque’s marketing director. “This program embodies the heroic stories of people finding reprieve outside—on some of the most scenic trails in North America.Ěý For 2023, we expect many of the Thru-Hikers to be wearing the Breeze.” Ěý Ěý

Supporting All Hikers

Getting outside for any length of time—whether for a one-mile walk or a 2,000-mile trek—is what matters most. But even short outings can be a challenge in today’s always-connected culture. That’s why Vasque came up with the Log şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř Project, an event designed to give everyday hikers a little more incentive to disconnect and enjoy the outdoors. On March 18, Vasque showed up at Chautauqua Park in Boulder, Colorado, and made a simple offer: give us your phone while you enjoy an hour of outdoor time, and we’ll give you a pair of Breeze boots. The result: 300 participants collectively spent 300-plus hours disconnected outside in a single day.

The event kicked off a 360-degree initiative to spread the Log şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř message far and wide. Vasque will ask customers to simply put down their devices and go outside, across all the brand’s channels. It’s not anti-technology—it’s pro-disconnecting. That means giving social followers a refreshing reprieve: simply comment on Vasque’s regional Instagram posts for a chance to win state park passes. It means reminders that just an hour outside can change your whole day. And it’s a call to action: forget your phone on purpose and go enjoy a hike—on a trail or around your neighborhood.

was a pioneer by defining hiking as an activity back in the 1960s, and we’ve been quietly hiking along with folks who like to do the same ever since. Log şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř gives us the ability to be an advocate not only for hiking but also spending time outside, which is what we’ve always stood for.

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It’s your boots, not your socks, that provide insulation when you’re hiking. The reason for this is simple, but holds the ability to utterly transform your comfort when it’s cold out. Not only do your weight and movement compress socks as you wear them, but the outright level of insulation provided by even the thickest pair of socks falls far behind the layers you wear on other parts of your body. And given that your feet often lack much fat insulation and are at the extreme end of your body, as far away from your heart as body parts get, they need as much help as possible.

Go find your thickest pair of socks. I’ll wait. Now lay them down next to all the layers you plan to wear on your upper half today. If you’re anything like me, that’s going to be a thin base layer, a breathable synthetic mid-layer, a puffy jacket, and a windproof shell. I’m going to bet your socks might be as thick as your mid-layer alone. So, how are your feet going to be as warm as the rest of your body?

Not all boot insulations are created equally. It’s common to see winter boots designed for casual wear insulated by synthetic fleece, or even cotton flannel. Because both materials are also easily subject to compression, the outright warmth they provide will be limited. And, of course, cotton is capable of absorbing and holding onto up to in water, making it the worst possible material to wear outdoors.

A step up is felted wool, which you might be familiar with from pac-style boots. This dense mat of boiled wool fibers strongly resists compression and provides insulation across a versatile range of conditions, aided by wool’s naturally thermo-regulating, odor-fighting properties. But there are a few downsides. Felted wool is heavy and bulky, and the level of insulation it provides per weight and size isn’t great. Wool is also capable of absorbing up to 30 percent of its weight in water. Step into an unexpectedly deep puddle or stream, and wool-insulated boots will instantly absorb a bunch more weight, and take forever to dry out. That’s why most felted wool insulated are made in removable bootie form, so you can pull those out of the shell every night to dry them out by your fire.

Enter synthetic insulation. In quality boots, you’re typically going to see Thinsulate or Primaloft varieties. Both provide more insulation in a slimmer, lighter material than felted wool, and neither hangs on to water. Lighter, less bulky footwear will be easier to walk in, and warmer, dryer boots will keep your feet cozy as you put in those miles.

The warmth of lofted synthetic insulation is measured in density—grams per square meter. It’s worth noting that a pair of boots may not actually contain a full square meter of insulation material, so this number does not directly correspond with the outright weight of a boot.

A pair of hiking boots containing a 200-gram synthetic insulation will provide a versatile amount of insulation, equivalent warmth to, say, a hefty parka. I wear in conditions ranging from as warm as 40 degrees, all the way down to sub-zero conditions. As I’m active, my feet stay warm.

The next step up is 400 grams. These boots will be very warm, likely too warm to actively hike in at temperatures warmer than the teens.

From there, things get more specialized. When conditions are extremely cold, and my active time outside is limited (or in less frigid weather when I’m not active) I’ll reach for . Paired with a set of chemical toe warmers, my feet do not get cold. Skiing? . For an upcoming trip to Kodiak Island in May, my wife and I both grabbed . Temperatures will only be in the thirties and forties, but we’ll be in and out of the freezing water all day long, and water is far more thermally conductive than air.

Regardless of the season or temperature, I tend to wear the same type of thin, merino wool socks in my boots. Go back to that idea of layering for your feet just like you do the rest of your body. A thin merino sock is your base layer. The heavy insulation then provides warmth, while the boot’s shell keeps weather, or the Prince William Sound, away from your feet.

Any of the insulation approaches we’re describing here should wrap around your entire foot. But there are two main vectors by which the cold may seep in: convection and conduction. Just like your oven, convective heat loss is caused by exposure to cold air. Air is a poor conductor, so is easily defended against. Your boot’s leather or synthetic outer will stop wind from ripping warm air out of the insulation inside. Conductive heat loss is trickier, because contact with an extremely cold surface, like ice, may suck heat out through a boot’s sole. Fortunately, there is one more tool in your arsenal: insoles. I stick a pair of in any boot I plan to wear when it’s cold out, and never have to worry about what surface I’m standing on.

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This trek has it all: three countries, endless views of Western Europe’s highest peak—15,771-foot Mont Blanc—fresh-baked treats at high huts you stay in along the way, and views of climbers clinging to improbable spires. While downright decadent at times, thanks to the gourmet food and drink en route, the Tour du Mont-Blanc (TMB), 103 miles of hiking that circles Mont Blanc and passes through France, Italy, and Switzerland, is no pushover. It comprises more than 32,000 feet of uphill hiking and descending. It offers gorgeous stretches of warm, summer Alps weather, yet full-on big-mountain storms can still descend on trekkers.

The Beautiful Mount Blanc Region

The Mont Blanc region of the Alps is huge, encompassing 155 square miles, with 60 square miles of glaciers and eleven summits over 13,000 feet. Ten thousand years ago, nomadic tribes gathered here, living off deer and chamois on the land and fish from the rivers. In time, they began herding animals, moving them to higher pastures in the summer, creating the annual Alpine rhythm called transhumance that persists to this day. Those paths created an intertwined network of trails around the massif. In the last 60 years, local communities worked on the ancient routes, upgrading them for modern use by active travelers. In the 1960s, old huts were updated, inns sprang up in the valleys, and the TMB took on its present form.

Starting and finishing in the adventure-crazed alpine town of Chamonix, France, at the base of Mont Blanc, the TMB is perhaps the world’s most famous pedestrian loop and definitely one of its most entertaining, passing through three countries and the resulting variety of cultures. Along with the lively hut scene, Michelin-star dining options en route, and stop-dead-in-your-tracks views, you may also see the world’s best trail runners breezing past.

Getting to Know the Tour du Mont Blanc

I began hiking and trail running the Tour du Mont-Blanc 15 years ago in sections—a day here, two days there. It wasn’t until seven years ago that I did the full loop in one continuous push. It was September 1, 2017, and 2,200 fellow trail runners joined me in the 14th edition of the iconic Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc, or UTMB. Held each year at the end of August and easily the world’s most famous trail race, UTMB is one part of the reason the TMB (walking version) has become so popular.ĚýĚý

I’ve lived in Chamonix full-time for five years, spending five summers here before that, and founded and am part-owner of the trail-running tour company The UTMB race is intense. Far more typical is the leisurely eight-day TMB hike I took with my two brothers and a cousin last September. My relatives booked a total of 11 days for the trip, which included their arrival and departure days, a day in Chamonix to adjust to Central European Time, and a rest day in Courmayeur.

We meandered around the range, napping in alpine meadows, chatting with shepherds, and snarfing up lunches at huts and inns all along the way. We started around 8:30 each morning, right after the continental breakfasts, and dropped our bags with the hotel for the pre-arranged transport to the next destination. (Pro tip: Skipping the baggage transfer to save money is a dubious trade-off. You do not want to lug the extra weight over the high passes.) With an organized start time, we’d arrive at our next destination mid-afternoon, usually in time for a shower, a post-hike beer, and a nap before dinner. Our weather was perfect: blue skies, temperatures in the 60s, and a light breeze, day after day.

I’ve hiked or run the TMB a dozen times now, and here’s my advice for beginners on how to do it right.

Tour du Mont Blanc Guide – Quick Links

How to get to the TMB | How Hard is it to Hike the TMB? | How Long Does it Take to Hike the TMB? | The Best Time of the Year to Hike the TMB | How to Book Your TMB Trip | Is the Trail Easy to Follow? | Lodging Options Along the TMB | Should I Plan My Own Trip or Go With A Guide? | Do I Have to Hike the Whole TMB Trail? | What to Pack to Hike the TMB | TMB Etiquette | The Best Piece of Advice of All |Ěý Resources

1) How to Get to the TMB

Nearly all TMB travelers fly in and out of Geneva, Switzerland, which is just about 90 minutes from Chamonix, the traditional start and end point of the loop. There are multiple shared shuttle services, which typically cost about €35 (about $38 as of August 2024) and should be scheduled in advance. At Run the Alps, we use Mountain Dropoffs. They’re reliable, they track your flight, and their drivers are well trained and always courteous.

2) How Hard Is It to Hike the TMB?

Most fit hikers will find the TMB to be within their abilities, especially if they opt for a luggage transport service between huts and hotels, leaving them to hike with light daypacks. But the trail is a big undertaking and can be challenging.

The longest day is usually about 20 miles, with roughly 4,500 feet of climbing and descending. Most days total around 15 miles, with between 4,000 and 5,000 feet of climbing. The highest point you’ll reach is 8,323 feet, and you work naturally up to it, so altitude is generally a non-issue, though concern about it is a common misconception about the TMB.

A lot of hikers and trail runners will find the TMB to have a good bit of “vert” (vertical gain) along the route. There are almost no truly flat sections, and depending on how you plan your route, you can do up to or even more than 33,000 feet of climbing during the trip. To train beforehand, find a nearby hill, get the pack you intend to use, load it up, and head uphill. If your local terrain doesn’t lend itself to TMB training, sign up for a few months at a gym with treadmills that go up to a 20 percent incline, and start hiking, doing your best to ignore the looks of gym rats when they see your pack on your back.

Old-school hiking boots are fine but, increasingly, TMB hikers are switching to sturdy trail-running shoes, from brands like Hoka, Salomon, or Merrell. No matter what you bring, wear them in well in advance—which means a few weeks of daily use, then at least a half dozen hikes, to make sure they are broken in and fit comfortably.

3) How Long Does It Take to Hike the TMB?

Depending on your jet-lag coping skills and your interest in rest days, plan on anywhere from a week to 12 days. The TMB breaks down nicely into village-based stops, and the most common itinerary looks something like this: Chamonix, France (add a rest day in for the day after you arrive); Les Contamines, France; Les Chapieux, France; Courmayeur, Italy (add a rest day in here); La Fouly, Switzerland; Champex-Lac, Switzerland; Trient, Switzerland; back to Chamonix (add in a rest day or two here before flying out). Bingo, that’s the loop.

4) The Best Time of Year to Hike the TMB

Be forewarned: midsummer is busy. The trail is getting popular. Even before COVID, there was a notable uptick in TMB usage, and last summer saw by far the biggest visitor numbers yet. An estimated 200,000 hikers, mountain bikers, and trail runners travel some sections of the TMB each year.

As of now, no permit is required to hike it, but you do have to book huts and hotels. The regional government has been talking with several nature reserves through which the TMB passes about implementing a permit system. Initially, at least, these permits would be both free and unlimited. The goal is to use the registration process to educate guests and track user numbers better—and hopefully to mitigate crowds.

As a result of the surge in use, the gens du pays—the local people who live and work along the TMB—are scrambling 24/7 during July and August. If you must go then, you’ll need to plan well in advance to secure bookings and will pay top dollar. Many tour operators stop taking midsummer reservations for the TMB by mid-winter.

If you have a flexible schedule, I’d suggest booking during the second half of June, or after the UTMB race at the end of August, when things quiet down again.

In the shoulder seasons of June and September, bookings will be easier and refuge staff will have more time to visit with guests and perhaps even share a beer. On the front end of the shoulder season, the last two weeks of June, high passes might still be holding onto their snowfields, and you’ll need to use caution if the slopes are frozen solid. Bring hiking poles with carbide tips and microspikes for traction, and always check conditions locally with tourist offices before striking off.

The September shoulder season is arguably better, thanks to snow-free passes and good odds of blue skies. Most refuges and public transportation are open and running until about mid-September. This late season on the TMB is a wonderful time, with fewer crowds and a bit more wildness. Warmer gear is a must, though, as nighttime temperatures drop to the 50s and lower, and be aware that snowstorms might shut down travel for a day.

July and August are the high season. If that’s your vacation window, booking a year ahead will help you get the hotel you want. (Pro tip: Ask your hotel to pack a bag lunch for you the night before, so you can enjoy lunch from a quiet pasture, rather than waiting to place an order with overworked hut staff.) Huts usually don’t allow picnicking at their facilities, but if you pass by before or after the lunch rush, you can always enjoy a cafe au lait with the view.

Even if it’s busy, it’s still the TMB. If you don’t mind sharing vistas with fellow travelers, the fundamentals are pretty darned spectacular. You’ll need a thesaurus when texting home, because hackneyed travel adjectives like spectacular, stunning, amazing, and jaw-dropping will all sneak into your writing. For once, they won’t be overstatements.

5) How to Book Your TMB Trip

You can set up the whole circumnavigation yourself, go with a guide, or use a tour operator to book everything in advance for you. Whatever you choose, set things up as far ahead as possible. “You need to be planning 10 months in advance to secure space if you want to get into all the hard-to-book places,” says Troy Haines, owner of Alpinehikers, a guided and self-guided hiking tour operator that has been leading trips on the TMB for two decades.

There is good news, though, for those with an open approach. “Being flexible in your thinking really helps,” says Haines. “If you have a range of dates that work, or are happy with a dorm one night or a fourth-choice hotel, or even taking a taxi to a nearby village, then there is almost always something we can do to put together a trip.”

If you’re planning your own TMB hike and working on the logistics in late winter or spring for the coming summer, you may need to get creative in at least one overnight destination and possibly several. Look for hotels and inns in adjacent villages, and schedule Taxi Besson, a service that gives hikers rides to and from trails, to meet you at a specific location and time and return you to the trek the following morning. Places that traditionally get booked out along the trail include: Les Chapieux, France, and La Fouly and Trient, Switzerland. Instead, taxis can take you to the Savoie town of Bourg St. Maurice or quiet, atmospheric villages like Beaufort or Arêches. If La Fouly is full, take the Swiss Post bus to Orsieres and then Champex-Lac, skipping ahead a day. If Trient is full, look to Finhaut, Switzerland, or Vallorcine, France. Consider the switch-ups an adventure, and a chance to explore villages a bit farther afield.

6) Is the TMB Trail Easy to Follow?

Whenever you go, the TMB is one of the easiest trails in the world to follow. No matter whether you’re hiking in France, Italy, or Switzerland, the signage is clear, with distances marked. (Predictably, Switzerland wins for best and most accurate signs.) Many junctions are named, with elevations shown on the signposts. The TMB trail itself is well-worn, so even if visibility is poor, you should have no problem staying en route.

7) Lodging Options Along the TMB

There may be no multi-day trek in the world that offers such an array of overnight options. Some guests are rolling out sleeping bag liners in shared dorm space, while others are sipping pricey Burgundy wines amid the five-star, red-carpet treatment at high-end hotels in Chamonix, Courmayeur, and Champex-Lac. (See the Resources section below for my favorite hotel options along the route.)

For those looking for a sky filled with thousands of stars, camping is an option, but with the recent proliferation of tents popping up around the range, it’s increasingly frowned upon by many of the guides on the trail and staff at nearby huts. If you want to camp, follow good Leave No Trace practices and be as unobtrusive as possible. Regulations vary widely along the TMB. Camping is usually permitted outside of nature refuges after sunset and before sunrise. If you’re overnighting near a hut, drop in during the afternoon and ask permission of the hut caretaker or guardian. Commercial camping businesses exist in all of the key towns around the TMB. Because of the convenient alpine villages sprinkled around the route, however, the TMB is a great choice for anyone who wants to leave the tent and camp stove at home.

Because the TMB passes through three countries, camping regulations along the trail vary. Below is a quick overview of the regulations.

In France, camping is allowed under the following conditions:

• In the proximity of a refuge, with the permission of the guardian.
• şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř of the Contamines nature reserve, you can pitch a tent between sunset and sunrise (7 P.M. – 9 A.M.). In the Contamines nature reserve, you must pitch your tent in the designated area near the Refuge de la Balme.

In Italy:

• Camping is not allowed under 2500m of altitude.
• In the Val Veny and Val Ferret zones, camping is only allowed in a designated campsite.

In Switzerland:

• Camping is allowed above tree level, but not within nature reserves.

8) Should I Plan My Own Trip (DIY), Self-Guide, or Go With a Guide?

A) DIY

If you’re a planner, the TMB is made for you. You’ll get to cruise around on hotel websites in three countries, poring over photos of standard, superior, and deluxe rooms.

Stephanie Lefferts, the tour manager at my company, Run the Alps, who works with more than fifty hotels, has three tips for DIYers:

• Book directly through a hotel’s website, if possible. You’ll often get a better rate and terms, and more money goes to the hotels, which are often family run.
• When in doubt, go for the half-board option, which includes dinner. As Lefferts points out, “It’s really nice to walk downstairs for dinner after a long day on the trail and not have to wander the town searching for somewhere to eat.”
• You guessed it: “Book early!”

Over the years, a number of planning sites have emerged for the DIYer–see our suggestions below and grab a copy of the venerable TMB bible, by Kev Reynolds. The most recent edition was released in 2020. Be sure to get the IGN Tour du Mont-Blanc map as well.

B) Find an Outfitter Who Sets Up Self-Guided Trips

This means that a company will book everything for you in advance so that all you have to do is show up and hike. Most TMB outfitters know the better inns and hotels along the route. And if you need to spend a night off the trail, they’ll schedule taxi transport for you. You’ll also get route descriptions for each day along with supporting materials that can save hassle and confusion. Most companies will also arrange for transport to and from the airport and baggage transfer during your hiking days.

C) Go With a Guide

In the Alps, so-called “middle mountain” guides (meaning hiking rather than climbing guides) are a common sight, leading hikers and trail runners along paths throughout the region. The English designation is called IML, for International Mountain Leader. In French, it’s accompagnateur for a male guide and accompagnatrice for a woman. Guides in the Alps go through a rigorous training and testing process, and their knowledge runs deep on topics from mountain safety to flora and fauna to local customs and more. The additional cost of going on a guided trip can be well worth it, particularly if you’re busy and would like to just show up and follow a competent and friendly leader.

If you’re going on a guided trip, be sure to confirm that your company uses only licensed guides. Mountain police, Europe’s equivalent of a forest ranger toting a police badge, often check a guide’s paperwork, and more than one hapless group has had its TMB trip stalled by the presence of non-licensed guides.

If you use a commercial company for either a guided or self-guided tour, remember that not all companies offer the same tier of service. The cost difference can be thousands of dollars, and your overnight accommodations might range from a stuffy dorm room to a 600-thread-count king-sized bed with a mountain-view terrace. Read the fine print carefully to see what costs are covered, and if items like airport shuttles and in-country transport are included on your way back.

9) Do I Have to Hike the Whole TMB?

The TMB is well set up for hikers with limited time. Transportation around the region is relatively straightforward. There are multiple buses each day between Chamonix and Courmayeur through the Mont Blanc tunnel, and France’s SNCF passenger trains coordinate with Switzerland’s SBB rail system, which in turn dovetails with the country’s Postbus system. All of which means, getting around is easy. If you’re short on time, try some day hikes. These are my places to stay for dramatic day hikes around the region: Chamonix, Courmayeur, and Champex.

10) What to Pack For Your TMB Hike

Most summer days on the TMB are luxurious, with zephyrs rustling the pastures, blue skies, and great hiking temperatures. But any given day can be downright brutal. Hope for the best, but be ready for the worst. Here’s a typical packing list:Ěý

• Warm and waterproof clothing for cold days, including a waterproof jacket and pants, a thermal top, and hat and gloves.
• Dry bags or a waterproof cover for your pack.
• Hiking boots or sturdy trail running shoes. Go for at least a few long hikes beforehand to make sure they are a good fit.
• Hiking or trail-running poles are a common sight on the TMB, and for good reason. The slight shifting of weight from legs to arms will reduce fatigue later in the day, and the third point of contact will make steep terrain safer.
• Sunglasses and sunscreen.
• A large water bottle or hydration pack that can hold at least two liters.
• First-aid kit including a mix of bandages and blister aids.
• About 200 euros, even though many of the mountain stops and most mountain refuges accept cards.
• A cell phone with an international plan. It’s a good idea to store the emergency numbers in your contacts. In France and Italy, the number is 112. In Switzerland, it’s 114. Calls to emergency numbers are free. Rescue fees vary from free to pricey throughout the Alps. Here’s on the details. (TLDR? Get a membership in the Swiss nonprofit REGA, make sure your health insurance is up-to-date, and buy travel insurance from a reputable company, like IMG.)
• Bring your ATM card–there are ATMs at every stop except Les Chapieux and Trient. Just call your bank first to make sure the card is authorized for France, Italy, and Switzerland. Though Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc, euros are generally accepted around the loop.
• If you’re staying at mountain huts, most require a sleeping bag liner, which you’ll use in combination with wool hut blankets that won’t see a good washing until the close of the season. You can buy cotton, which has more bulk, or silk, which costs more but stuffs into about the size of a rolled washcloth.
• While most huts provide Crocs or flip-flops for indoor use, it’s not a bad idea to bring your own that are actually comfortably sized to you instead of whatever is in the hut shoe cubby.
• Ear plugs if you’re sharing overnight accommodations.

11) Learn the TMB Etiquette

As with many long-distance paths, there are rules to the road. On the TMB, they are well-established, thanks to the long history of the route.

At refuges:

• Shoes and poles in the boot room only.
• In shared rooms, try to be quiet at night, and don’t turn the light on if someone is sleeping. Turn cell phones off or to Airplane Mode.
• Use an indoor voice. (Yes, it really is true: Americans tend to be among the loudest.)
• A small tip is appreciated–perhaps a euro for a snack and cafe au lait, a few euros for a meal.

On the trail:

• Remember that there might be bikers, runners, or faster walkers who want to get past, so be ready to step aside.
• Share a “Bonjour” when passing fellow hikers.
• Please, don’t play music out loud. Grab the earbuds.
• Evidence is starting to mount that swimming in lakes has a negative impact on their ecosystems. Please minimize or avoid it, especially if you’re wearing sunscreen.

12) My Top TMB Advice: Treat Yourself!

The TMB has to be the hiking path with some of the tastiest aid stations en route. While you’ll burn over 4,000 calories a day, if you’re not adding it all back, well, you’re missing out.

This is ten years of in-depth culinary research in a handful of short paragraphs, but rest assured, the pleasure was all mine.

On one of my first TMBs, circling the Mont Blanc massif in four days as part of a trail-running mini-vacation, our group kept a literally running tally of the number of tartes aux myrtilles (blueberry tarts), pain au chocolates, and cafe au laits we had. We quickly lost track, though.

My brothers, cousin, and I repeated a version of this game last fall. In fact, counting tartes and other treats is a classic TMB tradition. Thanks to those baked mountain goodies and endless big views, the miles pass quickly. Before you know it you’ll be back on the steps of the centuries-old St. Michel Church in Chamonix, celebrating with beers from Big Mountain Brewery and looking forward to a fromage-filled celebratory dinner at La Caleche.

Here are some of my favorite stops en route.

• Refuge Plan de l’Aiguille: While not on the TMB, this high hut above Chamonix is well worth a visit. So, book a jet-lag recovery day in Chamonix, and head here for a TMB warm-up. Claude and his staff make what is widely considered the best tarts in the Chamonix valley, fresh each morning. The typical spread is wild blueberry, strawberry, lemon, and raspberry. (Take in the Midi tram, the world’s second-longest, on the same day.)
• Chalet Miage: Stop for lunch at this rustic mountain farm before the French village of Les Contamines and order anything on the menu. Really. It’s that simple.
• Alpage Ville de Glacier: If you’re not taking Col des Fours, look for this farm just outside the hamlet of Chapieux and stock up on local Beaufort and SĂ©rac cheese directly from the farmer.
• Refugio Elizabetta: Time your wanderings to stop in for their traditional Italian lunches like hearty bowls of polenta, and all for a good price.
• Courmayeur, Italy: This TMB stopover town has a wide array of great restaurants, so schedule a rest day here. Get a gelato or an ice cream at the Gelateria in the center of town, and sneak down a side alley for focaccia at Pan per Focaccia. Pro tip: ask your hotel to book a taxi to the QC Terme roman spas at PrĂ©-Saint-Didier. If you end up wanting more, the same company has a new facility waiting to ease the end-of-trip aches and pains in Chamonix.
• Alpage de Bovine: Switzerland is all about comfort food, and the grated potato and cheese RostĂŻ at this high Swiss farm stop will persuade you that all is well with the world. Save room for an apricot or blueberry tart.
• Refuge Col de Balme: Wrap your hands around a thick hot chocolate as you look down to Chamonix and eye the last ten miles of your loop around Mont Blanc.

Santé et à bientôt!

13) Important Resources for the Tour Du Mont Blanc

Helpful Sites for DIY Planners

is a one-stop online planning site, with links to key huts and other services along the way.

offers paid support for DIYers who want a hand building their own trips.

: Taxi Besson is the go-to company to shuttle your bags around the TMB. They work with most major hotels in the region. Drop your bag by in the morning after breakfast, and it will be waiting for you at your next hotel that evening. (In my outfit’s ten years of using them, they’ve never once failed us.) Pro tip: Follow the weight-limit guidelines, ask at the hotel desk exactly where to leave your bag, and don’t tie anything to the outside.

transfers between Geneva and the Chamonix valley.

: With nearly 37,000 members, this Facebook group is lively, filled with useful information. Ignore the know-it-alls, and you’ll find tons of good intel.

If you’re going on your own, Emily Geldard, a longtime resident and the Run the Alps assistant manager, has created a handy summary of options to shorten many of the days, in the event of inclement weather or injury. “” offers information on bail-out options, plus a list of ways to extend each day if yesterday’s pastries have you energized for bonus terrain.

Outfitter Recommendations for Guided and Self-Guided Hiking

, , and are highly regarded tour operators who offer both guided and self-guided trips on the TMB.

Outfitter Recommendations for Guided and Self-Guided Running

is an Alps-based company with U.S. roots. (The author is the founder and part owner.) Run the Wild and Tracks and Trails are two other good options.

If You Need a Doctor

If you have an emergency, use the emergency numbers or ask your accommodation host to call a local doctor. Les Contamines, Courmayeur, and ´ˇ°ů˛µ±đ˛ÔłŮľ±Ă¨°ů±đ have pharmacies.

Apps

A handful of apps make the TMB easier to navigate, including which also contains weather data. is often used for weather.

(Gaia is owned by şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř Inc., the company that owns şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř.)

Learn Some of the Local Language

French / Italian:

• Hello = Bonjour / Ciao
• Thank you = Merci / Grazie
• Breakfast = Petit Dejeuner / Colazione
• How much is it? = Ça coĂ»te combien? / Quanto costa?
• Do you speak English? = Est ce que vous parlez anglais? / Parla inglese?
• Where are the toilets? = OĂą sont les toilettes? / Dove e’ il bagno?
• This way? = Par ici? / Da questa parte?
• It hurts here = Ça me fait mal ici / Sono ferito qui
• Mountain hut = refuge de montagne / rifugio di montagna
• I need help = J’ai besoin d’aide / Ho bisogno di aiutoĚý

Great Side Trails to Explore

One of the best features of the TMB is that there are plenty of side trails to hike along the way. You can truly do your own hike, mixing the standard route with wilder variants, or hopping a local bus to skip sections. Hiking what we call a variant trail can be a great way to get away from crowds and find solitude. Here are a few of my favorites.

• France: Col de Fours: from Les Contamines to the must-see rustic lodge of Les Mottets, this is a direct variant that detours around Les Chapieux. It is a mere 350 feet of additional climbing–though much more technical than the norm–and a bit more than a mile shorter. It includes one of the highest points on the TMB (which should be avoided in bad weather). Best of all, there’s a high likelihood of seeing ibex.
• Italy: Val de Sapin: From Courmayeur to Bonatti Refugio, this adds an additional 1,300 feet of climbing and about a mile of distance. It is a wild and quiet valley, and you are likely to see ibex.
• Italy into Switzerland: Petit Col Ferret: Next to the Grand Col Ferret, this is an alternate route to La Fouly. It is the same distance and elevation, but the rocky descent is more technical. The trail is much quieter than the traditional route.
• Switzerland: FenĂŞtre d’Arpette: from Champex to Trient, this variant adds about 1,300 feet of elevation, and is a bit less distance, but it is a lot more technical and time-consuming. Because of the high altitude and slippery rock, it should be avoided in bad weather and certainly during the early season. The route’s steep and icy snowfields linger into early summer and have led to a fatal slide every few years. The scenery is wild and other-worldly, and the trail is usually quiet.
• Switzerland into France: Les Tseppes: From Trient to ´ˇ°ů˛µ±đ˛ÔłŮľ±Ă¨°ů±đ, France, this variant adds a few hundred feet of elevation and about a mile of distance. The start is steep and daunting, but worth the challenge. The trail is quiet, and you are treated to wide-ranging views of the Vallorcine valley and Mont Blanc.

The Author’s Lodging Recommendations Along the TMB

Chamonix

• High End: If you want modern and plenty of amenities, Heliopic is your go-to. Want authentic French? Head to the Hameau Albert 1er.
• Middle: Le Refuge des Aiglons is modern, with a nice spa, pool, and outdoor seating. For something more rustic, head down the street to Hotel Oustalet, which features a large yard that’s somehow quiet, despite its central location.
• Rustic: La Boerne is located out of town in the tiny collection of chalets known as TrĂ©-le-champ. It’s a ten-minute walk to the local train, which is 20 minutes from Chamonix. There’s also bus service from ´ˇ°ů˛µ±đ˛ÔłŮľ±Ă¨°ů±đ, a 15-minute walk away.

Les Contamines

• High End: HĂ´tel La Chemenaz. Spacious private rooms and suites, with an outdoor swimming pool and spa.
• Middle: Gai Soleil. Family-run by passionate staff, this converted farm has been hosting tourists since the 1920s. The private rooms have a cozy, alpine feel.
• Rustic: Chalet Refuge de Nant Borrants. Set on the TMB trail, a little outside of Les Contamines, this refuge is secluded and traditional. The dormitories are clean, with just six to nine people in each room.

Les Chapieux

• High End: Taxi to Bourg St-Maurice and stay at Hotel L’Autantic or Hotel Base Camp Lodge des Arcs.
• Middle: Chambres du Soleil. Family-run, with excellent food cooked by the husband. There are woodburners in the dining rooms, and blankets in the bedrooms made from local wool.
• Rustic: Refuge Les Mottets. The food is hearty mountain style using local cheeses, and the dining room is decorated with historic farming equipment. A refuge staffer often plays music at dinner time on the player piano in the dining room.

Courmayeur

• High End: Grand Hotel Courmayeur. Modern and stylish rooms, with an indoor pool and spa.
• Middle: Bouton D’Or. Traditional, alpine decor, and a fantastic breakfast buffet that is all homemade. The fruits in the breakfast tarts are grown in the kitchen garden.
• Rustic: Cabane du Combal. A secluded location in the mountains, on the TMB but outside of Courmayeur.

La Fouly:

• High End: Take a taxi to Verbier and stay at La CordĂ©e des Alpes. Modern rooms with alpine decoration.
• Middle: L’HĂ´tel Edelweiss. Clean, modern rooms that have been recently renovated.
• Rustic: GĂ®te Alpage de La Peule. This is an active dairy where you can buy the products, and see how different cheeses are made.

Champex:

• High End: HĂ´tel Alpina. A husband-and-wife partnership with Michelin-standard food cooked by the husband. The building is small and has a private, family feel.
• Middle: HĂ´tel Splendide. A historic and grand hotel built in the 1930s. Think high ceilings, stained-glass windows, and creaky wooden floorboards.
• Rustic: Relais d’Arpette. A traditional mountain auberge on a variant taking you a 20-minute walk off the TMB, on the FĂŞnetre d’Arpette, in a secluded valley outside of Champex. Fantastic views.

Trient

• High End: Take a taxi to ´ˇ°ů˛µ±đ˛ÔłŮľ±Ă¨°ů±đ and stay at the HĂ´tel Les Grands Montets. Access to a spa and indoor swimming pool. The rooms are cozy and comfortable with alpine deco.
• Middle: La Grande Ourse. Clean, modern rooms and friendly staff.
• Rustic: Refuge Le Peuty. Excellent food served in a yurt with homemade, artsy decorations.

´ˇ°ů˛µ±đ˛ÔłŮľ±Ă¨°ů±đ

• High End: HĂ´tel Les Grands Montets. Access to a spa and indoor swimming pool. The rooms are cozy and comfortable with alpine deco.
• Middle: With an old standby, the HĂ´tel de la Couronne, newly sold and under renovation until at least December 2023, middle-of-the-road accommodations are thin in ArgentiĂ©re. A good alternative is to take public transport or a train to Chamonix or Vallorine, and double up your nights in one of your last hotels.
• Rustic: La Boerne. Another traditional auberge that is right on the TMB trail. It is in a quiet, secluded spot with a beautiful terrace. The building is full of character, with wooden beams and bunkbeds.

If You Get Shut Out of the TMB This Year

Troy Haines of Alpinehikers likes to point clients toward other, quieter destinations in the Alps, such as the Haute Route between Chamonix, France, and Zermatt, Switzerland; Switzerland’s Bernese Oberland; or Italy’s Dolomites. “All of them, TMB included, are simply stunning,” Haines says. “You really can’t go wrong.”

How to Be a Conscientious Traveler

While the are not specifically called out along the TMB, they are excellent guidelines, particularly as the TMB or any other place becomes busier. Learning a few phrases of the local language is always a nice icebreaker and shows respect, and please be patient with busy hut and innkeepers. When passing through the huts, follow the simple protocol of removing and storing boots and poles. Protocols are often posted right inside the doors.

Doug Mayer is the founder of the trail-running tour company . He lives in Montroc, France, 100 yards from the TMB, where he often trail runs with his labradoodle, Izzy. His new book is The Race That Changed Running: The Inside Story of the UTMB.

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