Non Waterproof Hiking Boots

[JDZ]

I'm looking for non-waterproof, non-GoreTex hiking boots. Is there such a thing? Give me some suggestions. I've searched through old threads with poor results or maybe poor searching skills.

If it matters, I'll give a little bit of what has worked for me.
I have been wearing the Salewa Mountain Trainer Mid Lites for several years now and they fit my feet well. But the waterproof membrane is hot, sweaty, and unnecessary. I do well with a soft to moderately stiff sole. I understand the pros of barefoot footwear, but I'm not fully there yet. I've got high arches, narrow heels, D-width forefeet, and have had bouts of plantar fasciitis that I can work hard to keep at bay. I've had luck with higher end Asics running shoes and Red Wing work boots. Other European (Italian) mountain footwear has worked for me in the past such as LaSportiva, Scarpa, Kenetrek (gasp!!) and Asolo.

 

[wapitibob]

For hikers Merrell moab might work but with no goretex they'll suck dust/dirt in thru the fabric pretty quick.

 

[isleofGough]

Hanwag tashi

 

[Moose Drool]

For hot weather non gortex boot the Garmont T8 bifida is solid. I’ve worn through at least half a dozen pairs.

 

[JDZ]

Thanks guys.
I didn’t previously know about the Tashi or T8 Bifida.

 

[JDZ]

Thanks guys.
I didn’t previously know about the Tashi or T8 Bifida.

 

[freezerfull]

If you appreciate a leather boot with good ankle support, not waterproof and stays relatively cool the leather lined Lowas might be worth a look. I’ve had a couple pairs of leather lined Lowa Tibets in the past and loved them till complete destruction. Throw some superfeet green high arch support insoles in them to combat the PF and you’d be good to go.

 

[Wapack]

La sportiva karakorum, Scarpa SL active, kennetrek desert guide. Those are all non goretex. The only water proofing would be leather treatments.

 

[ArrowForester]

If you do well with Asolo and don’t mind a heavier boot then look at the Asolo TPS 535. It’s an all full grain leather upper so it’s not as lightweight and breathable as a fabric boot. It’s not waterproof lined but it will breath some and shed some water if properly treated.

 

[Macintosh]

Lowa renegade leather lined sounds right up your alley.

 

[Weldor]

I'll third Lowa.

 

[LCguy]

Merrell Moabs. I use the low-top version for wet-wading. Extremely comfortable and very good traction. Keens are also very, very comfortable, but I was less than impressed with their proprietary outsoles.

 

[JDZ]

leather lined Lowas…. insoles in them to combat the PF

PF? What does that stand for?

Thanks, I always thought the Tibet looked too hot, but no first hand knowledge.

 

[JDZ]

Asolo TPS 535.

I’ve had these in the past and they were good. Thanks.

 

[JDZ]

I’ve tried on Lowa Renegade and Merrell Moab many years ago and I remember them being too sloppy wide in the forefoot. Maybe I need to try them on again.

I’ll check out the other suggestions. Thanks.

 

[freezerfull]

PF? What does that stand for?

Thanks, I always thought the Tibet looked too hot, but no first hand knowledge.

Plantar fasciitis

The uninsulated leather lined version are quite nice in the summer heat considering how tough of a boot they are. Run much cooler than the GTX version.

Yes lowas D is slightly wider than most other tier 1 brands. They are perfect for me. If you can squeeze into La Soortivas then you’ll probably find them a bit roomy on width. Good insoles with a bit of volume will help with that.

Footwear is so individualized that I’d recommend trying some before buying if you can. Not as easy as it once was though. Seems like almost no one stocks anything in brick and mortar anymore.

 

[yfarm]

Chippewa 2080, unlined, all leather, 6”, yellow label vibram lug.