The number one key feature that backpackers commented on was the amount each foot ended up weighing overall. Everyone knows that a product made for traveling and exploring is going to be heavier than a running shoe or sandal, but does the weight between different options make that much of a difference?

Well, the answer is, absolutely yes. A couple of ounces here and a couple of ounces there really will make a significant difference over time, and your feet are going to thank you if you purchase a pair of lightweight backpacking boots. Many manufacturers will claim their products to be lightweight, but it's essential that you take the time to check what the actual weight is. While a 15oz shoe is entirely in the lightweight category, a 33oz option may also be listed as such, and that's a significant difference between the two.

Backpackers come in all different forms, and not every adventurer is going to be planning for the same type of trip; traveling through London is going to be extraordinarily different than exploring the Himalayas. Weight will play an important role depending on where you are going, so it is important to make that distinction.

As we discussed when looking at weight, different backpackers are going to have vastly different requirements when it comes to what they need depending on the location, as well as the weather they will encounter. If you're somewhere hot and dry, this section won't be as relevant, but for anyone who thinks they may encounter rain, streams, puddles, rivers or damp forest floors, then you will undoubtedly want to continue to read on.

Every option on our list was looked at for their waterproof or water-resistant qualities. The majority of the backpacking boots featured claim to be waterproof, but like with all things in life, some are better than others at fulfilling that promise. Light rain isn't going to require anything fully waterproof. You can easily get away with water resistance or a simple hydrophobic lining.

For anything more than light rain, however, a fully waterproof boot is going to be your best bet, as there is nothing worse than having wet, soggy feet all day long. Blisters, bacteria, fungus, and other unpleasant things can occur in moist, damp, dark environments; keeping your feet completely dry is a very important aspect.

Gore-Tex wrapped backpacking boots are a very common choice, and this has a lot to do with their ability to be fully waterproof while also allowing heat and moisture to escape through their lining. Heat and sweat building up inside your footwear are no more enjoyable than rain soaking in, so having an upper that can do both is the sweet spot that you want to aim for.

Another thing to consider that often gets overlooked is how quickly a shoe will dry after it gets wet. If you are submerging your feet in rivers and streams while you trek, your backpacking boots are going to get wet and the dry time is going to be vitally important. Giving a check to see if a shoe is quick-drying may save you some hassle on your trip and is a small thing to keep in mind that could end up making a big difference down the road.

This is one of those factors that will be important regardless of the weather and location, so it's essential for every backpacker to take it into consideration. While the amount may be different for each person, traction and grip are required to keep your feet moving safely over whatever terrain you're on. From city streets to uncharted mountain trails, the last thing you want is to be slipping and sliding while carrying heavy backpacks on your shoulders.

For people who want more traction and grip, you should look for backpacking boots that have lugs on the outsoles, as these will do a better job of catching on to more uneven terrain and slippery slopes. Wider set lugs are going to give you the most grip on uneven surfaces, whereas close-knit lugs tend to do better on wet and slippery surfaces.

For slick streets and well-paved roads, a good tread pattern is going to be your ideal, and this means that the tread should be multidirectional and grippy enough that it makes a difference. Reviews are always going to give you a good idea of how good the grip and traction is, so utilize those resources when you can. Some outsoles have what is referred to as a sticky grip on the bottom, and while some people find this extremely useful, others say it isn't as effective. The best thing to opt for is a sturdy rubber sole with a good tread pattern that has positive reviews to match.

Slipping, sliding, and falling can lead to serious injury, especially for those who are in more remote locations. The last thing you want is to slip down the side of a ravine or down into a bush where you have little cell reception or support. One of the best things you can do in regards to backpacking boots to help keep you safe is to opt for a pair that is genuinely going to give you support. Being so back heavy due to what you are carrying, traction and grip are a major factor in selecting the right pair for you.

To evaluate the performance or effectiveness of your backpacking boots, it is essential to define what terrain you will be covering, and in which weather conditions.

For city-centered trips in warm/hot locations:
This is the group who are going to want the lightest weight possible. If you are walking for hours in a city that's hot, the number one thing that is going to kill your feet is the sweat and the heat. Once moisture starts building up and your feet overheat, you are going to need to stop, take those sweaty shoes off, and put your feet up. This may give you a chance to relax and take in your scenery, but you won't want to do this every 20 minutes. Generally, the lighter the shoe, the lighter the upper, and this is going to be your ideal choice every time. City streets require far less durability and ruggedness from your backpacking boots, so you can focus on light and airy.

For city-centered trips in cold/rainy locations:
If you fall into this category, you have a bit of freedom to play with weight. As long as your backpacking boots of choice are giving you enough warmth, protection, and dryness, you can still go for a more lightweight option. Any kind of insulation will add weight, but unless you're in freezing conditions, you should be fine with a warm pair of socks and some light insulation. A full mesh upper may not be your best bet, but you can still opt for one of the lighter pairs on the market. City slickin' is more about duration over durability, and you want your feet to be free from the aches, pains, and fatigue that heavier backpacking boots often cause.

For rough terrain in warm/hot conditions:
The simple rule of thumb is that the more rugged your trek, the more rugged the shoe needs to be. Hiking mountain trails, exploring off the beaten path, and tackling dense and uneven terrain means you need backpacking boots that can take a beating and still keep going. Rugged options weigh more, but an important distinction is, if you are heading to a warm/hot location, you can forego any insulation, shaving a bit of weight off. Here you want a shoe that's going to protect your foot but also allow heat and moisture to escape. Synthetic and Gore-Tex uppers are great choices.

For rough terrain in cold/rainy conditions:
Out of all backpackers, you are the one who wants the heaviest shoe, something that can walk through mud, over fallen trees, and up the side of a mountain with ease. Insulation is going to be an important factor, as is an option that is genuinely waterproof. Leather uppers, while heavier, are going to be the most common one seen for this style of travel. Heavier backpacking boots may cause your feet to become sore and tired, but they will also protect your feet and ankles from sprains, injuries, slipping, and falling.

While your needs might be different than the next reader, we assessed the overall effectiveness of the backpacking boot for all terrains and needs.

From backpacking through Europe to trekking through the desert, a pair of backpacking boots that fit well and are comfortable is the number one priority. However, as we assume you would want to use most of your footwear during the trip, you should also take into account the durability of the design.

For maximum longevity, look for genuine leather backpacking boots. Especially when layered thickly, leather is extremely hardwearing and can take quite a beating in the long run. This can be reinforced with rubber inserts, or even some durable textiles, such as nylon or polyester. All of these are designed to endure repeated wear in unfavorable conditions.

The materials you want to avoid are mesh and canvas. These are breathable and provide a sock-like fit, but if you are backpacking on rough terrain, these lightweight fabrics definitely won't hold up well over time.

In terms of construction, it would be ideal if you could find a design that is constructed using a Goodyear welt technique. Backpacking boots built with this are virtually indestructible. The benefits of this technique include the fact that it is easy to resole the shoe without damaging the upper, so you get many years of use out of it.

All of the backpacking boots on our list are sturdy and durable, meant to withstand whatever you throw at them. However, some are better at that than others, and if you're curious which ones come at the top, don't hesitate to sort our list by that criterion.