Best Lightweight Hiking Boot

Altra has set a new standard for lightweight hiking boots with the Lone Peak 4 Mid RSM. These $160 lightweight/day hiker boots work more like high-ankle trail runners and are jam-packed with proprietary technology for extra comfort. They’re comfortable right out of the box as well as both waterproof and breathable, but their durability and stability are less than ideal. If you’re looking for a light and well-cushioned boot but don’t need it to last for more than a few seasons, this might just be a top contender. At less than 2 pounds per pair, they easily earned the title of Best Lightweight Hiking Boot.

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Altra has set a new standard for lightweight hiking boots with the Lone Peak 4 Mid RSM. The RSM designation means they can seal out rain, snow, and mud. These $160 lightweight/day hiker boots work more like high-ankle trail runners and are jam-packed with proprietary technology for extra comfort. At less than 2 pounds per pair, they easily earned the title of Best Lightweight Hiking Boot.

Comfort & Weight

Altra has taken a unique approach to comfort that starts with the ZeroDrop sole. By keeping the heel and toe at the same height, ZeroDrop is intended to naturally align the feet, back, and body posture as well as reduce impact—a design that is supported by podiatrists. It certainly has a unique feel compared to typical hiking boots and will take some adjustment time. Moving up, the FootShape toe box is incredibly roomy, while the dual-layer EVA midsole provides excellent cushioning. Also included is the removable rock-plate insert known as the StoneGuard, a 1.5mm protective TPU piece with grippers intended to protect feet from rock or stone bruising. We were slightly disappointed by the effectiveness of this feature, which seemed inadequate at performing its advertised purpose.

Altra uses what’s called a ghillie lacing system for the Lone Peak 4 Mid RSMs, consisting of three reinforced eyelets that run on top of the shoe as well as a static webbing cinch strap at the midfoot. Near the ankle are two sets of metal eyelets. Because these are closed eyelets rather than hooks, the boots take slightly longer to take on and off.

These boots are practically featherweight, with a pair of men’s size 11s coming in at only 1.77 lbs (0.8 kg). The only other boots to even come close are the La Sportiva Pyramid GTXs, which are still about 5 ounces heavier. Practically a high-top trail runner, you may forget you’re even wearing them.

Traction & Stability

The forefoot width for this boot is substantial, and our feet felt relatively stable on flat terrain, with a 6-inch ankle cuff height in the front and 4.5-inch height in the back. The upper’s lightweight eVent material is not nearly as stiff as suede or leather, so torsional rigidity is practically nonexistent. Those who are nervous about the prospect of rolling their ankles will almost certainly want to look elsewhere for a hiking boot.

Water Resistance & Durability

The waterproof lining on the Altra Lone Peak 4 Mid RSMs is a standout feature. Altra elected to use eVent fabric, one of the only membranes we’ve come across that can compete with Gore-Tex. It excels at keeping out water, and it’s also an incredibly breathable material. As a result, these boots should be able to tackle both wet and warm climates with equal ease. Also, by solely utilizing this material for the upper rather than integrating a separate membrane, they keep down the weight.

The durability of the Lone Peaks was where we came across the most issues. This starts with the toe cap, which can start to separate from the boot quite early on. We also noticed chipping on the lugs after less than extended use. It can be difficult to balance a lightweight design with ruggedness, as illustrated by the uppers showing signs of wear early on.

Styles & Sizes

Altra offers two color options for these boots: a low-key Black and the slightly more vibrant Deep Forest. Sizes run from 7-15 US with only regular width options available. As opposed to a time-based warranty, Altra lists the warranty for the Lone Peak 4 Mid RSMs as 300-500 miles of use.

One interesting feature worth mentioning is the GaiterTrap hook-and-loop tab on the back of the boot, which enables hikers to attach a strapless gaiter to the top of the shoe, adding protection against rocks and debris. The Altra Trail Gaiter can be purchased for an additional $20.

WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including hexavalent chromium, formaldehyde, and perfluorinated compounds, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information, go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.

The Bottom Line

Low in weight and low in price, the Altra Lone Peak 4 Mid RSM is an economical trail runner trapped in the body of a hiking boot. It’s comfortable right out of the box as well as both waterproof and breathable, but its durability and stability are less than ideal. If you’re looking for a light and well-cushioned boot but don’t expect it to last for more than a few seasons, this might just be a top contender.

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