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This article was taken from the September 2011 issue of Wired magazine. Be the first to read Wired's articles in print before they're posted online, and get your hands on loads of additional content by subscribing online.
Hiking footwear faces extreme testing from this month's team of tough-terrain experts.
How we tested
Ramblers Susie Parker and Adrian Justins hiked across the South Downs to test comfort. Mark Freedman of the Chingford Podiatry Centre (sorefeet.co.uk) checked protection and support. We also put the boots in water and noted the depth needed to breach each model.
Merrell Avian Light Mid Sport GTX (above)
This boot is designed for female hikers, is made of predominantly synthetic material and features a highly flexible sole. Freedman's podiatric opinion: "The fulcrum is good but I doubt if it will hold its shape. I would prefer a firmer sole." He praised the insole and the overall springiness of the shoe, but expressed concern about the thin heel. Our other tester, rambler Susie Parker, agreed, describing the boots as being "as comfy as a pair of slippers -- until your heel lands on a stone".
Water-repellency is also unimpressive.
Wired:Comfy for walks on even ground
Tired: Sole too flexible
5/10
£125
Berghaus Explorer Light
These boots may not be exciting to look at, but they perform well thanks to the flexible outer sole that pivots and bends on uneven ground. They provide decent ankle support, good water-repellency and are easy to get on and lace up in a hurry.
Podiatrist and tester Mark Freedman liked the padding but thought the insole to be "too soft and lacking arch support". The outer soles provide excellent grip in the wet but are the softest in our group test, and so are likely to wear out the soonest. The stitching of the nylon lace-loops looks to be the least durable, too.
Wired: <span class="s4">Comfy padding
Tired: Least durable
6/10
£110
Meindl Air Revolution Lite
This attractive design combines durable leather-and-suede uppers with rubberised heel, toe and side protection. The leather lace-loops look well stitched but the laces are hard to gather tightly. "The boot feels heavy with the least flexibility and flattest profile," says Freedman. Although not the comfiest boots, they still offer effective protection, temperature control and water repellency.
Wired: Stylish; tough
Tired: Stiff; pricey
7/10
£185
Scarpa ZG65 XCR
This elegant boot has decent toe and heel protection, impressive lack of weight and a strong, flexible sole. The leather lace-loops don't look durable, and the shortage of hooks means it's hard to get proper tightness. General comfort is good on all but very rugged terrain -- you should stay clear of deep puddles, though. Freedman's considered final assessment: "The XCR's soles have good flexibility but the soft insole is, frankly, rubbish."
Wired: Strong sole
Tired: Loose lacing
6/10
£135
Salomon Quest 4D GTX
Sturdy, with all the hallmarks of a good three-season boot, the Salomon has few obvious flaws -- until you put them on and find the laces are thin and hard to grip. The lace-hooks look strong and the tongue can be folded to tighten the fit. Freedman liked the shock absorption but thought the sole may be too rigid. A smart blend of protection and comfort, these keep feet dry and cool for a reasonable price.
Wired: Good value; comfy and supportive
Tired: Skinny laces
8/10
£155
This article was originally published by WIRED UK
