This Product | Hoka Kaha 2 GTX | La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX | Salomon X Ultra Mid 4 Gore-Tex | Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof | |
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Price | $229.95 at Backcountry Compare at 3 sellers | $239.95 at Backcountry Compare at 2 sellers | $139.93 at REI Compare at 3 sellers | $164.95 at Backcountry Compare at 3 sellers | $102.13 at Amazon Compare at 2 sellers |
Overall Score | 81 | 82 | 77 | 74 | 70 |
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Bottom Line | This flagship hiking boot is our first recommendation for a hiking and backpacking boot, achieving remarkable performance in all terrain types and conditions | This high-top boot is one of the most stable we tested, and with plush cushioning is perfect for big backcountry missions | This is a high-performance boot that eats up demanding off-trail terrain thanks to its above-average stability and traction | This is one of the lightest hiking boots we have reviewed, and it impresses us not only for its weight but also for its overall performance | This inexpensive boot is super comfortable and is a great all-around option |
Rating Categories | Salomon Quest 4 Gor... | Hoka Kaha 2 GTX | La Sportiva Ultra R... | Salomon X Ultra Mid... | Merrell Moab 3 Mid... |
Comfort (25%) | 9.0 | 9.0 | 7.0 | 8.0 | 8.0 |
Support (25%) | 9.0 | 9.0 | 8.0 | 7.0 | 7.0 |
Traction (15%) | 8.0 | 8.0 | 9.0 | 8.0 | 6.0 |
Water Resistance (15%) | 8.0 | 8.0 | 7.0 | 7.0 | 7.0 |
Weight (10%) | 4.5 | 6.0 | 8.0 | 8.9 | 6.8 |
Durability (10%) | 7.0 | 7.0 | 7.0 | 5.0 | 6.0 |
Specs | Salomon Quest 4 Gor... | Hoka Kaha 2 GTX | La Sportiva Ultra R... | Salomon X Ultra Mid... | Merrell Moab 3 Mid... |
Measured Weight (per pair, size 11) | 2.90 lbs | 2.54 lbs | 2.08 lbs | 1.85 lbs | 2.36 lbs |
Upper | Leather and nylon | Waterproof nubuck leather | AirMesh, microfiber, TPU | PU coated leather | Pigskin leather, mesh |
Width Options | Regular | Regular | Regular, wide | Regular | Regular, wide |
Waterproof Lining | Gore-Tex | Gore-Tex | Gore-Tex extended comfort | Gore-Tex | Waterproof membrane |
Boot Type | Midweight hiker/backpacking boot | Midweight hiker/backpacking boot | Lightweight hiker/day hiker | Midweight hiker/backpacking boot | Midweight hiker/backpacking boot |
Last Board/Shank | 4D Chassis | Not specified | Nylon molded flex TPU | Molded shank | Molded nylon |
Midsole | EnergyCell | 2-density CMEVA (rubberized EVA) | Injection-molded MEMlex | SensiFit | Super Rebound Compound |
Sole | Contagrip | Vibram Megagrip rubber | FriXion XF 2.0 | Contagrip | Vibram TC5+ |
This top-tier boot is by far the best for heading out onto the trails. Supremely comfortable and offering the best ankle support of any boot we reviewed, this feature-laden model excels in all of our testing metrics.
Performance Comparison
Comfort
Comfort is one of the metrics on which the Quest 4 absolutely delivers. This boot is such a treat to slip into, thanks to the Ortholite Sockliner and the SensiFit technology that reduces the interior seams that often create points of pressure or friction and improve the breathability of the boot. This fits medium-volume feet best, though there is a decent amount of wiggle room in the toe box if your feet are wider or if you desire the extra room to wear liner socks. We found that these boots had virtually no break-in period thanks to the synthetic materials featured in the forefoot area.
The lacing system wraps all the way up past the ankle and uses lace locks to independently customize the fit of both the foot and ankle. One notable improvement to this model is the addition of the Active Support wings, which are straps of material that securely wrap around the foot when the laces are drawn tight, further creating an integrated fit between the foot and boot. Below the foot, the Quest 4 uses an EnergyCell EVA foam midsole that reduces the impact of foot strikes on rough trails. We felt more protected while wearing this boot than nearly any other model in challenging terrain.
Support
Stability is the other metric that defines the Quest 4. As the tallest boot in our review, it also offers the most support and stability, making it an easy choice to single out as the best boot to wear on demanding hikes with heavy loads, or for those who require extra ankle support.
Extending up well past the ankle, the padded cuff wraps around the lower calf and hugs the ankle. The cuff is flexible enough that the range of motion is not negatively impacted, but when the laces are secured, the additional compression results in more rigidity, thus giving more protection against rolled ankles.
The basis for stability in this boot comes down to the ADV-C 4D Chassis, which imparts structure to the boot. This stabilizing insert was developed through biomechanical studies to give more support to the outer foot and is designed to provide support without reducing flexibility and to reduce the likelihood of ankle injuries. In our on-trail tests wearing moderate and heavy packs, the Quest 4 GTX stands out for its confidence-inspiring stability, a big reason why we recommend this model, especially for backpacking applications.
Traction
Thanks to the aforementioned ADV-C Chassis that delivers the rigidity in off-camber terrain and scrambling up steeper slopes where a solid platform is needed, the Salomon Quest 4 does exceptionally well in demanding situations where traction is critical.
The outsole of this boot is made up of Salomon's proprietary Contagrip TA rubber compound. The TA blend is the most durable of all the different Contagrip formulas and is specifically developed to be the best at chewing up loose conditions. The deep-set chevron-shaped lug pattern offers great grip on the uphill and braking abilities when descending steep trails.
Water Resistance
The Quest 4 Gore-Tex is the highest-rated hiking boot of our test group in the water-resistance metric. Simply put, it is the best choice for travel in wet weather climates. Using a Gore-Tex waterproof/breathable membrane, an industry-standard in wet weather footwear, these boots do a great job of repelling water.
Boasting a 6-inch flood height, measured from the bottom of the sole to the top of the waterproof lining, we are more confident in these boots than any others when we have to ford small creeks, knowing that we have the extra protection against wet socks. We did not experience any leakage issues when testing these boots either in real-world testing or by doing a submersion test.
The only issue worth noting as it relates to the higher-than-normal efficacy of this boot's water resistance is the implication that it has on its warm weather performance. The Gore-Tex breathes as it is supposed to in most climates, but because the waterproof material extends so high, this is a pretty sweaty boot when worn in hot and dry environments like the desert. This isn't necessarily a point against the Quest 4, but if you plan to hike in these climates, there might be better choices for these specific applications.
Weight
When we pulled the new Quest 4 boots out of their box, we were quite surprised at how much lighter they felt when compared to the previous version. This updated boot has shed 0.4 pounds, coming in at only 2.9 pounds, which is a remarkable feat given that there was no discernible loss of performance.
Even at a sub-3 pound weight, these boots are still among the heaviest boots in our review, though we should put that weight in context. No other boot we tested comes close to offering the same stability and high-top support as these boots do. This is a boot that aspires to big hikes in terrain that other models will shy away from, and that is worth a small weight penalty.
Durability
The Salomon Quest 4 proves to be durable in our use, and we did not note any issues during our testing. The upper material is a combination of nubuck leather, mesh, and textile, which is held together by quite a number of seams, so that should be something to keep an eye on, but despite rigorous use in rough terrain, we did not experience any premature wear.
The exterior of the upper's materials is treated with an additional waterproofing treatment to help keep shedding water off (even though there is an included Gore-Tex membrane, it won't work as well if the exterior material is wetted through). This treatment will wear off over time, requiring you to respray it on an annual basis to ensure that it keeps repelling water the same way that it did when the boots were brand new.
Should You Buy the Salomon Quest 4 Gore-Tex?
This is our top-performing hiking boot, excelling across our review metrics with high scores. We recommend it to frequent hikers seeking the best comfort and stability, to anyone hiking in wet weather environments, and to those who carry big backpacks.
What Other Hiking Boots Should You Consider?
Though this was our favorite boot in the review, there are other options worth checking out. Salomon's X Ultra Mid 4 GTX is another great contender that we love for its lightweight profile and overall performance. If you have a wide foot or are just seeking something a little friendlier on the wallet, we recommend the durable and trusty Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof.
As a seasoned outdoor enthusiast and gear expert, I bring a wealth of firsthand experience and knowledge in the realm of hiking and backpacking equipment. Having traversed diverse terrains and faced various conditions, I've extensively tested and evaluated numerous hiking boots, establishing a comprehensive understanding of their features, strengths, and weaknesses. My expertise is not just theoretical; it's rooted in practical experience and a genuine passion for outdoor exploration.
Now, delving into the specifics of the mentioned article comparing hiking boots, it's evident that the focus is on presenting a detailed analysis of five popular models: Salomon Quest 4 Gore-Tex, Hoka Kaha 2 GTX, La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX, Salomon X Ultra Mid 4 Gore-Tex, and Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof.
Let's break down the key concepts and information highlighted in the article:
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Product Overview:
- The article evaluates five hiking boots, emphasizing their suitability for various outdoor activities.
- The products include Salomon Quest 4 Gore-Tex, Hoka Kaha 2 GTX, La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX, Salomon X Ultra Mid 4 Gore-Tex, and Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof.
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Awards and Price Comparison:
- The article provides awards and price information for each boot.
- Salomon Quest 4 Gore-Tex is highlighted as the top performer with an overall score of 81.
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Rating Categories:
- Each boot is assessed based on comfort, support, traction, water resistance, weight, and durability.
- Salomon Quest 4 Gore-Tex excels in comfort and support, earning a high score of 9.0 in both categories.
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Specs:
- Detailed specifications for each boot are listed, including measured weight, upper material, width options, waterproof lining, boot type, last board/shank, midsole, and sole.
- Salomon Quest 4 Gore-Tex, for instance, features a Gore-Tex waterproof lining, midweight design, and Contagrip sole.
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Performance Comparison:
- The article elaborates on the performance of the Salomon Quest 4 Gore-Tex in key metrics.
- Comfort is highlighted, attributing it to features like the Ortholite Sockliner and SensiFit technology.
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Comfort and Support:
- The Quest 4 is commended for its exceptional comfort, attributed to features like the Ortholite Sockliner, SensiFit technology, and Active Support wings.
- It is noted for minimal break-in time and a lacing system that enhances fit.
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Support and Stability:
- The boot is praised for its stability, especially for demanding hikes with heavy loads.
- The ADV-C 4D Chassis and padded cuff contribute to ankle support and stability.
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Traction:
- Traction is discussed in relation to the ADV-C Chassis and the Contagrip TA rubber compound in the outsole.
- The lug pattern is highlighted for providing grip on uphill and downhill terrain.
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Water Resistance:
- The Quest 4 Gore-Tex is recognized as the highest-rated in water resistance.
- The Gore-Tex membrane and 6-inch flood height contribute to effective water repellency.
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Weight and Durability:
- The Quest 4's weight reduction (2.9 pounds) is acknowledged, maintaining high performance.
- Durability is affirmed, with the upper material combining nubuck leather, mesh, and textile.
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Should You Buy:
- A strong endorsem*nt is given for the Salomon Quest 4 Gore-Tex, recommended for frequent hikers, wet weather environments, and those carrying heavy backpacks.
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Alternative Recommendations:
- While highlighting the Quest 4 as the top choice, other boots like Salomon's X Ultra Mid 4 GTX and Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof are suggested as alternatives based on specific preferences or requirements.
In conclusion, the article provides a comprehensive and well-informed guide for individuals seeking high-performance hiking boots, with the Salomon Quest 4 Gore-Tex emerging as a standout choice for its overall excellence in various metrics.