The line between performance and lifestyle continues to blur in the outdoors as stylish boots are packed with tech details and core performers flash a fashionable aesthetic. Versatility — in style and performance — is often the No. 1 trait consumers are seeking in outdoor boots. “We’re seeing incredibly strong success with hiking shoes that appeal to the consumer who’s immersing in the outdoors as a lifestyle,” says Becky Marcelliano, outdoor marketing manager at Salomon. “Maybe they’re climbing peaks, or riding their bike to the bar, or planning a raft trip, or chasing the sunrise. The trend is in shoes and boots that can offer an everyday aesthetic with the fundamental technicality to allow them to adventure at the next rad opportunity.”  

On the technical side, core performance boots are getting lighter, faster and more nimble, too. “More and more, people are continuing to trend towards lighter-weight, more athletic-feeling products for a range of outdoor activities,” notes Mark Mathews, VP of sales, Scarpa North America. “There is a lot of influence from running shoes and athletic footwear coming into the outdoor segment in shoes built for all-around trail use.” Whether they are being worn on the trail or the city sidewalk, these Fall 2020 boots are ready to rock.

Scarpa / Rush Mid GTX

With trail-running inspired design and light, waterproof hiker tech, the Rush features Scarpa’s Interactive Kinetic System (IKS), which means the sole has impact zones that compress and absorb energy as they contact the ground. MSRP $179.

Merrell / Zion FST Mid Waterproof

Packing in trail run features like a shock absorbing air cushion into the heel of its 5mm lugs, the waterproof Zion FST Mid offers protection and stability on all kinds of terrain. MSRP $130.

Salomon / Cross Hike Mid GTX

The completely new Cross Hike is ready for any conditions with multi-directional lugs, a seamless, closed mesh construction and a waterproof Gore-Tex membrane. The mid-height style has a 20mm stack height and 10mm drop. MSRP $170.

Hi-Tec /V-Lite V-Lite Shift I +

The brand makes its entrance into the lightweight speed hiking market with a value-priced style. It has Hi-Tec’s MD Traction Outsole and Comfort Insole and features i-Shield water and stain resistance. MSRP $79.99.

Vasque / Alechemist XT UD  

The Alchemist Extended-Terrain UltraDry is a modern hiker that delivers durability and protection with less bulk. It is designed to keep feet comfortable and ready for any adventure. MSRP $140.

Twisted X / MHKW006

Designed to be the “perfect outdoor shoe,” the MHKW006 hiker is waterproof and slip resistant. Its upper material is composed of full grain leather, hybridized with polyurethane for added durability.

Mammut / Nordwand 6000 High GTX

This high-end, next-gen expedition boot means business with a 2-in-1 gaiter construction, removable inner boot, 4-layer insulation on the bottom and a Vibram Litebase sole. Gore-Tex Infinium Thermium keeps feet warm and dry. MSRP $725.

Staheekum / Ankle Rain Shoe

Slip this style on for a sleek and chic look on rainy days or even in dry weather. This men’s waterproof rain boot features a neoprene lining to keep feet warm. MSRP $75.

Khombu / Swift

Inspired by the U.S. Ski. Team, this key Khombu style for Fall 2020 combines fashion and function in a sneaker boot silhouette. It features the brand’s K-Guard weather protection, a K-Grip bottom and a Comfort Flex Insole. MSRP $69.99.

Danner / Logger 917  

Performance and comfort combine in this boot with a style inspired by the brand’s original caulked logging boots. The Logger 917 features a Gore-Tex waterproof liner with a Vibram SPE rubberized EVA midsole. MSRP $230.

Thorogood / Infinity FD Series 9” Drakar

This waterproof, insulated outdoor boot features patent pending FLEX-DRIVE 51 percent welt construction for maximum flex in the toe and enhanced heel stability. An anti-fatigue energy return system absorbs shock. MSRP $210.

Forsake / Sophia Lace

The Sophia boot for women blends all-weather protection with urban style. Premium full-grain leathers and a waterproof/breathable membrane offer performance; the internal wedge adds comfort and style. MSRP $174.95.

Ecco / Solice High

This stylish women’s offering from Ecco features the first footwear application of Primaloft Bio, a 100 percent recycled, biodegradable synthetic fiber insulation that adds warmth, and when combined with Hydromax, guards against winter’s tough elements. This style is at home on the slopes or in the city. MSRP $200.

Twisted X / MHKBW02  

This 11” waterproof boot features both Mossy Oak Bottomland Camo and Twisted X’s eco-conscious ecoTWX material, made with recycled plastic water bottles. The brand’s CellSole tech in the footbeds offers comfort and the outsole is oil- and slip-resistant.

Oboz / Bozeman Mid

‍The men’s Bozeman Mid combines technical trail performance with mountain-town style. It has 3.5mm rubber lugs and a supportive TPU heel cup. Bozeman Collection styles also feature a new O-Fit Insole made with Bloom Algae Foam. MSRP $135.