Take the collective experience of a century of Italian bootmakers, add Gore-Tex, and subtract most of the leather and you get this Old World/New World mash-up. It’s a hiking boot with the support to carry a heavy load, and it feels much lighter than its weight suggests. Our feet stayed dry and comfortable even as we hiked from Connecticut all the way to Canada via the Berkshires and the Green Mountains. www.zamberlan.com
Bonus: The speed-lacing system is quick and efficient.
Bummer: In the hottest weather, you’ll want a more breathable shoe.