Supports heavy loads of approximately 40+ pounds (could vary with hiking boot). If you hike for more than three days on or off-trail with a moderate to heavy pack on demanding terrain get an extended (heavy weight) backpacking boot. If you need to attach crampons for glaciers check to make sure the boots are compatible before you buy. For cold-weather hiking it’s critical to get waterproof insulated boots that breathe to keep you dry.
Full-grain leather and Nubuck suede take water repellant products well but keep in mind that they won’t waterproof a hiking boot NOT designed to be waterproof in the first place. The repellant will help shed water but if you’re walking through streams or deep puddles you’re going to get wet.
Waterproofing
You may or may not need waterproof hiking boots. Consider the environment you usually hike in and how long your trips are. If you do a lot of short desert hiking trips you probably don’t need waterproof boots. Actually in a dry environment they’ll only make it harder for your feet to breathe (more numerous or heavy layers mean less breathability).
david nevogt