Also, I’ve got no love for a pack that can’t hang with me. I’ve had packs fall with me down cliffs, tumble out of the beds of pickup trucks. I’ve seen countless bags burst seams and lose straps from their loads. It’s a sad pack that can’t handle a simple catastrophic plunge.

This is why High Sierra Sport Company’s Sentinel 65L and Summit 45L are such a breath of fresh air-they’re great for multi-day trips into the wild. The bags are tough yet light, and their Duralight canvas gives the bags a tough skin while keeping them at a svelte 4.8 and 4.6 pounds.

Even full, the packs feel great on the trail.  The heavy padding on the shoulder straps, the adjustable sternum strap, and the wide waist belt made them sit comfortably on my back and hips, and the airflow system kept my back cool and sweat-free. I stuffed them to capacity with every piece of climbing gear that I own along with my tent, sleeping bag, snow shovel, and anything else I could find, and they held up like champs.

The webbing daisy chain on both sides and the myriad pockets make it possible to find smaller items without emptying the bags out, and the specific storage areas-the media pocket, lashing for ice axes and poles, and hydration pocket make plenty of space for the essentials. I’m also a huge fan of the tuck-away rain cover to keep the whole ensemble dry.

The Sentinel 65L is a great way to lug your whole life up and down a hill in comfort, and the Summit 45L is perfect for overnight trips.

The Sentinel 65 and Summit 45 retail at $109.99 and $79.99. Look for some deals at www.Rei.com and www.rockymountaintrail.com

For more info, visit www.highsierrasport.com

Product Description

Price: $110.00
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Patagonia made the Men’s Huckleberry Shoes with all-natural and recycled materials to give you technical footwear for hikes and approaches. Green construction started from the ground up with Vibram Ecostep soles that use 30% recycled rubber .The burly all-leather uppers help the Huckleberry Shoes hold up to long hikes and the occasional hand crack. Patagonia finished these impressive shoes with a 70%-recycled Poliyou foam and cork footbed that has an active carbon treatment for odor control. *Available for US shipment only.

Product Reviews

Very sturdy shoe
4
Great shoe so far. Very sturdy and durable. Also very comfortable. Only downside is the finger strap in the back which tends to hold up my pants.



Nice lightweight approach shoe
5
This shoe rocks for scrambling in the mtns of Colorado due to its super durable leather and sticky rubber outsole. The capilene lining helped keep my foot dry.



Nice lightweight approach shoe
5
This shoe has super durable leather, a plush capeline lining and good sticky rubber. It will work well for trail hiking.

Patagonia Footwear Huckleberry Approach Shoe - Men’s
Price: $110.00
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Product Description

Price: $249.95
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If you don’t prefer the techy space-boot look, you’ll appreciate the Merrell Men’s Wilderness Backpacking Boots’ sleek Italian style. Waterproof leather uppers and grippy Vibram Roccia soles protect your feet from the perils of planet Earth’s backcountry surface by keeping them dry in wet weather and stable on slick, steep trail. Merrell gave the sturdy Wilderness Boot a dual density, microporous midsole for shock absorption and breathability. When your trek leads you to a low-angled ice field, take your strap-on crampons from your pack the Wilderness boots are compatible. Merrell recommends wearing this boot with a midweight hiking sock or a liner/midweight sock combo.

Product Reviews

Merrell Wilderness backpacking boots
5
Fine boots. Fit is comfortable. Quite stiff at first, but to be expected from this high quality, full grain leather, Norwegian welt boot. After a couple weeks wearing around the office and home they are comfortable. After breaking in, probably not stiff enough for technical or very rough mountaineering, but to be expected for this surprisingly light boot. In all a good compromise between support and acceptable weight for long hikes. I highly recommend it. And it gets a lot of compliments for its strong, smooth, old fashioned looks.

Merrell Wilderness Backpacking Boot - Men’s
Price: $249.95
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Product Description

Price: $234.95
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The Lowa Banff Backpacking Boot for Men is the product of history and technology. Like its predecessors, the Banff uses 2.5mm thick seamless leather for unbeatable durability and long life. Coupled with a Vibram sole with a shock absorbing midsole, the Banff stabilizes and protects your foot. The full rubber shank lends stability in uneven terrain and protects from sharp rocks. The leather upper with the slightly raised inner cuff prevents ankle rolls. A carefully constructed insole with pronation and supination zones gives optimum stabilization no matter what your stride looks like. The Banff is a great deal on a top performer for intense backpacking with heavy loads. Traditionally, Lowa’s run large so select a size below your normal shoe size.

Product Reviews

They Just Don’t Fit!
2
The Lowa Banff certainly appears to be a quality made boot, but I can’t get them to properly fit. I wear a 12 medium and even the 12 wide is uncomfortable in the toe box. I tried the 11.5 medium, the 11.5 wide the 12 medium and they were all too small. I tried a 13 medium and my heel rose right out of the boot. I purchased the 12 wide figuring that must be the proper fit, it’s not. When I torque the boot down enough to keep my heels from rising the circulation in my foot becomes restricted and I get hot spots on my small toes. I changed to a heavier sock with a sock liner and thought I found a good combination until I used the Banff’s for an 8 mile mountain hike. My toes blistered and entire foot was one big Hot Spot. I made a very bad purchase. REI doesn’t even sell them online anymore, so I assume they had numerous returns. If they fit, you’re lucky. Mine Banff’s are headed for Goodwill.



Full Time Boots
5
I really like my boots from Lowa. I wear boots full time all seasons and have had trouble finding boots that are tough enough for the job. Many heavy boots are becoming so expensive and hard to find. I am extremely satisfied with my purchase online through here and hope when these boots wear out that I can find another with the same quality and price.



fat feet
1
I have very wide feet. Sadly the Lowa boots were too narrow. We Americans just do not fit into European shoes.

Lowa Banff Backpacking Boot - Men’s
Price: $234.95
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Product Description

Price: $224.95
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Your friend’s pack fits only 45 liters, and it looks like you’ll be carrying the heavy stuff. Outfit your feet with the Merrell Men’s Traverse Backpacking Boot and count on excellent traction, support, and shock-absorption even under a heavy load and across tough terrain. Slip-lasted construction and a Vibram Backpacker sole with Trek rubber keep you gripped to that sloping rock face, even when your pack tries to answer to the call of gravity. Merrell gave these leather boots compression-molded EVA midsoles for support and Air Cushion midsoles to take the sting out of downhill jaunts. A TPU rear stabilizer keeps your heel in place for precise footing and less blisters. Should your trek involve hardpack or ice, the Traverse Boots work with most styles of crampons.

Product Reviews

Very Versatile
4
These boots are solid and sound. They give you excellent support (note: very comfortable) and balance with the elongated heel structure and they also raise your height by at least one-inch and a half! It has reliable traction, and they are very comfortable around the ankles and toes once you settle upon on your custom lacing. If you wear half-sizes you may consider rounding it off for desired flexibilty with socks. I can’t wait to really put them to the test, therefore, I gave it a four star rating for it’s ergonomically structure and it’s visually rugged appeal.



Not for the wide of foot…or medium for that matter
2
I am a bit disappointed with the boots. It should be noted that I do not have large feet…normal width, size 10.5. First time on my foot out of the box, I noticed they pinched the ball of my foot. After trying to lace them up, it was clear that the laces weren’t long enough to strap down to the 3 levels of quick strap hooks and tie up tightly…I was dealing with nubs and aglets. After a severe strapping down of the laces, I walked around for a bit and my heel was free to move up and down in the boot. Not a comforting thought before heading out on a days trek. I can’t attest to their longevity or long term comfort because these are getting sent back.



good boots
4
these boots really perform at the standard I was expecting. I have used them for two outings so far, one in 60 degree weather the other in 40 to 50 degree weather. they have reasonable breathability. They are waterproof to my use. I have not forded any streams with them yet. They also offer great support for your anlke and footbed, which is great for backpacking.

Merrell Traverse Backpacking Boot - Men’s
Price: $224.95
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Product Description

Price: $218.95
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The Scarpa SL M3 Men’s Backpacking Boots’ silicone-impregnated leather uppers stand up against the most abusive trails while they give you water protection for wet-weather hikes. Scarpa added articulated cuffs to increase flexibility while still giving you the support you expect from leather boots. Vibram M3 outsoles increase the SL M3 Backpacking Boots’ traction on steep, rough, slippery trails, so you stay on your feet and continue your hike with ease.

Product Reviews

These boots
5
These boots are all i will ever buy. I,ve worn a pair every day ,nearly, since 1999. Please, don’t stop producing them.



Best non-membrane Boots!!!
5
It’s the masterpiece from Italy.non-membrane, old schooled, beautiful Full grain leather makes you satisfied whereever you go. There are few boots like this style in the market.



Still breaking them in.
5
These replace a 7-year old pair that fit like slippers. I trust these will do the same but, stiff and beefy as they are, I’m still breaking them in. Still, they are sturdy and solidly manufactured. I’m pleased.

Scarpa SL M3 Backpacking Boots - Men’s
Price: $218.95
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Product Description

Price: $179.95
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The La Sportiva Men’s Trango Trek GTX Hiking Boots use a 3D Flex ankle to provide the feel of a nimble boot with the support of a heavy boot. Though these La Sportiva boots weight only 3lb 6oz, their 7mm nylon shank and burly Vibram outsoles give you enough support for heavy loads on multi-day backpacking trips. The Trango Trek GTX Hiking Boots include waterproof breathable Gore-Tex inserts to keep your feet dry when the trail’s wet.

Product Reviews

Heavy and squishy
2
Heavy boots lacking support for their mass, average quality, crude construction. Only fits narrow feet correctly. Very hot, do not transpire moisture well, which makes them also very cold starting at forty degrees. Materials and design are old school, but the support is not. Can only be described as squishy, and they get squishier all the time. Complete breakdown in less than a year. Sportiva in general is experiencing some quality issues right now with many of their products.



great 3-season boot
4
These are very good boots. I didn’t buy them from BC because BC only recently started carrying them; I do recommend them though. They definitely require some decent breaking in before they are truly comfortable but once they are broken in they are very nice. Good stiffness and very waterproof. They excel with heavier loads. Not for really cold temps (great 3 season any-terrain boot) but otherwise they are wonderful.



A very durable boot
5
I have put many miles on these boots, and in many types of terrain. They are the most comfortable, waterproof, durable, all purpose boot that I use; and I have worn many. I am currently on my second pair of Sportiva TT boots and I love them, although I cannot expertly comment on their effectiveness in the snow, at least for long distance. They lace up well, fit snug, and feel comfortable in the width, and I don’t have narrow feet. My toes have adequate wiggle room, and don’t suffer fatigue at the end of heavy strenuous hike. Make sure you know your foot size, wear proper socks, and you shouldn’t have a problem, especially if you are a three season hiker.

La Sportiva Trango Trek GTX Hiking Boot - Men’s
Price: $179.95
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Product Description

Price: $174.95
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Say goodbye to imprecise lacing tension and stride-stopping re-ties with the new Zephyr Tech Boot from the trekking experts at Vasque. Boa Technology replaces traditional laces with a braided-steel cable and caveman-easy single-dial tightening system. The near-frictionless system cinches down with a quick twist and releases at the press of a button, eliminating broken laces, sore fingers, and blisters born from sloppy boot fit. The Zephyr Tech is built for serious hiking and backpacking performance, with a Vibram Summit sole, waterproof Gore-Tex insert, and an upper comprised of breathable softshell fabric and durable 2.4mm Nubuck leather.

Product Reviews

let er rip
5
Say goodbye to imprecise lacing tension and stride-stopping re-ties with the new Zephyr Tech Boot from the trekking experts at Vasque. Boa Technology replaces traditional laces with a braided-steel cable and caveman-easy single-dial tightening system. The near-frictionless system cinches down with a quick twist and releases at the press of a button, eliminating broken laces, sore fingers, and blisters born from sloppy boot fit. The Zephyr Tech is built for serious hiking and backpacking performance, with a Vibram Summit sole, waterproof Gore-Tex insert, and an upper comprised of breathable softshell fabric and durable 2.4mm Nubuck leather.Bottom Line: Leave your laces behind, and fall in love with the Zephyr Tech from Vasque.

Vasque Zephyr Tech Backpacking Boot - Men’s
Price: $174.95
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Product Description

Price: $169.95
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The Vasque Sundowner has gained a reputation as an excellent hiking boot for a variety of conditions. Vasque continues that tradition with the Sundowner GTX. This Gore-Tex lined boot is completely waterproof for the soggy conditions that so many of us hike in and retains all of the quality and comfort of an old school full leather boot. Do you wish the good old leather mid-weight boots would come back? Well, they never actually left.

Product Reviews

Timeless classic - if you can say that about a boot!
5
I used the Sundowner for years in Eastern Europe, slogging through everything from deep mud to wet, rutted city streets. The comfort is remarkable and the Gore-Tex performs as expected. It even looks decent, in a pinch! Classic bulletproof boot.



From classic to not-so-classic
2
My first pair of hiking boots ever was my dad’s pair, size 12, and they were 13 years old. They performed AMAZINGLY even with hardly any tread left on the sole. They had soul. I now work for the park service (2 years later) and got a pair of sundowners when I was hired. I’m wearing them right now. They suck! When Vasque moved to Chinese production, everything stayed the same except the QUALITY OF THE LEATHER. Whereas before it was typical, flat, non glossy genuine leather that skuffe up, it’s now (supposedly genuine) leather that looks and feels like plastic or suede. It squeaks and is thin and is so much like plastic that it doesn’t even absorb shoe polish/protectant. It’s the epitomy of a small local company selling out for more profit, less quality, and no intrinsic value. Sorry, but I’d go for some Asolo’s instead, they’re the new Vasque….



3 words: Made in China
2
I have owned four pairs of these in my life. The earliest two were made in Italy. The last two–China. There is a noticeable difference between the two that were made in Italy, and the two that were made in China. The ones made in Italy, I will re-sole and wear as long as I possibly can. The two from China will sit on my shoe-shelf and gather dust. What does this mean? Well, I will probably never buy another pair of Sundowners–too bad since they were my all-time favorite boot. I’ll stick with the brands that care more for quality, than cheaper mass-reproduction.

Vasque Sundowner GTX Backpacking Boot - Men’s
Price: $169.95
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Product Description

Price: $159.95
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When you expect the unexpected on your next excursion, rely on the Gore-Tex lined Danner Men’s Expedition GTX Hiking Boot to get you through. This heavy duty boot tackles the worst terrain without breaking a sweat. The tough Aggressive Vibram soles provides durable traction on hard rock, deep mud and light snow while the Gore-Tex insert keeps you foot dry and comfortable. Lace up with the quick and easy Roller Lace system, which runs all the way to your toes for a precise, comfortable fit. The Expedition GTX Hiking Boot’s scuff-proof toe cap protects the boot while you push through think brush and scramble through boulder fields.

Product Reviews

Super support coming your way
5
These are going to be your traditional stiff momma boot that is very burly and solid. the sole is your classic Vibram which is totally burly. They support very well on the trail and the lugs are great for gripping. I actually took them running with a pack on the other night to train for Rainier and it may sound weird but they were really great for that. Waterproof fabric, solid lacing, great boot. Danner may not be noticed like all the other brands, but it seriously is a killer company with solid boots. I would wear these over a The North Face, Merrel, Vasque, Asolo boot any day.



Danner GTX Expedition Boot
4
These boots are great for the field work that I do as a wildlife technician for state fish and game agencies, doing hiking, fencing, tree planting, stream survey work, etc.. My last pair lasted almost 2 years with much abuse in wet grass fields, muddy ditches, etc.. The rubber toe end helps prevent wear. The Obenaufs Leather Oil with two coats when bought new and additional coat during the year really saves the leather, works well!! The free shipping is nice, although I’d pay a little extra for some more tape on the box, than the one piece that was on it, the box was half open when I got it.. I may look into the Danner Talus GTX model 43511 for my future pair, they even have more rubber protection around the sides of the boot, Great price on the boots! The stitching is usually the first thing to go, then the inner Gore-tex will start to leak, I trashed the rubber soles from pushing in steel tee posts, so that’s a no-no. I have high hopes for these boots and they should last well!! Thank again!

Danner Expedition GTX Hiking Boot - Men’s
Price: $159.95
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