Most Comfortable Hiking Boot

HOKA embraces the “maximalist” approach to footwear with the Kaha GTX (also called the Sky Kaha GTX), named for the Māori word for strength and support. This midweight hiker/backpacking boot packs in a plethora of comfort without going overboard on weight. For hikers with knee or hip problems, choosing the Kaha GTX is a no-brainer, and it’s an excellent choice for anyone who appreciates a comfy foot, whether you’re going on a short hike or a long one. For $220, they are a decent investment, but it’s a worthwhile one for those who will benefit from its unique design. There was simply no competition when it came to our choice for winner of Most Comfortable Hiking Boot.

Compare to Similar Products

See Our Best Hiking Boot Review HERE!

HOKA ONE ONE, often simply referred to as HOKA, was founded in 2009 in France by Nicolas Mermoud and Jean-Luc Diard. The pair previously worked with outdoor brand Salomon, a serious name in the hiking-shoe and trail-running biz. The original target of their brand was ultramarathon runners. Over the past decade, HOKA has established a foothold in the market by embracing what is known as the “maximalist” approach to shoes. Sometimes called “fat” shoes, maximalist shoes and boots go above and beyond when it comes to cushioning to prioritize comfort, which is highly appreciated by those with chronic knee or hip issues.

HOKA epitomizes this concept with the Kaha GTX (also called the Sky Kaha GTX), named for the Māori word for strength and support. This midweight hiker/backpacking boot, which comes in at around $220, packs in a plethora of comfort without going overboard on weight. There was simply no competition when it came to our choice for winner of Most Comfortable Hiking Boot.

Comfort & Weight

As previously mentioned, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a hiking boot that optimizes comfort as much as the HOKA ONE ONE Kaha GTX. They utilize proprietary EVA foams for the midsole that make it feel like you’re walking on a cloud. After a long day on the trail, you’ll be pleased to find your feet are not as fatigued as they might with similar boots.

A pair of size 11 Kaha GTXs weighs in at 2.45 lbs (1.11 kg), which, although heavier than some of our other featured boots, is still surprisingly light for a pair that packs in this much comfort. It’s an impressive balance and comfort-to-weight ratio that hikers will come to appreciate several miles into a long trek.

Traction & Stability

The Kaha GTX’s Vibram® Megagrip high-traction outsoles feature 5mm multidirectional lugs that will provide excellent traction on wet or uneven terrain. Although the lugs are relatively shallow, the tread pattern is very effective at gripping terrain, however it may fall a bit short on loose sand.

This traction is reinforced by the incredible stability of these boots, including a 4.75-inch forefoot width that makes it feel like you’re riding a fat-tire bike. Collar height is 6.2 inches, so it should be no problem to lace these well above the ankle. Despite lacking a shank, the Kaha GTXs boast a decent amount of torsional rigidity by using a more sturdy material around the ankles.

Water Resistance & Durability

As implied in the name (GTX), the Kaha GTX features a Gore-Tex membrane that is both waterproof and breathable, although not quite as breathable as other waterproof membranes like eVent, which was utilized for earlier versions of this boot. Flood height is 5.5 inches, so you should feel comfortable splashing through creeks without too much risk of water sloshing over the top.

The Kaha GTX has beefed this up with a full-grain waterproof leather upper that should stand up to regular usage in terms of durability. At the same time, the sole is reinforced with a rubberized foam to extend its longevity without skimping on cushioning. There’s also a toe bumper on the front that should save your feet from taking a beating if you happen upon any hidden rocks.

Styles & Sizes

If you’re a fan of the comfort of the Kaha GTX, you’ll be happy to know that there’s no shortage of style either. There are 7 different color schemes to choose from, which include:

• • Charcoal Gray / Green Sheen
  • Dune / Oxford Tan
  • Black Olive / Green
  • Charcoal Grey / Blue
  • Patriot Blue / Mandarin Red
  • Black/Phantom
  • Black/Grey

For a more understated look, the Black/Phantom or Dune / Oxford Tan are sure to fit the bill. However, if you really want to stand out, Patriot Blue / Mandarin Red will definitely turn some heads. Available sizes run from 7-14 US, but there are no narrow- or wide-width options. Additionally, the Kaha GTX comes with a 45-day warranty, a tad short-lived compared to some of the other boots in our review.

The Bottom Line

If cozy feet is your top priority, you really need to look no further than the Kaha GTX. HOKA has built their brand around the concept of comfort, and you won’t find a better example than these boots. For hikers with knee or hip problems, choosing the Kaha GTX is a no-brainer, and it’s an excellent choice for anyone who appreciates a comfy foot, whether you’re going on a short hike or a long one. For $220, they are a decent investment, but it’s a definitely worthwhile one for those who will benefit from its unique design.

^ Back to Top ^