Best Hiking Boots in Australia: Dave's Picks
The best hiking boots are the ones that suit your trip, your pack and your feet, and no single boot does all three for everyone. That's why we've done this guide by use. Our CEO Dave has picked the best hiking boots we stock for five common situations: day hikes, multi-day treks with a heavy pack, wide feet, women's hiking and alpine trips. Every pick is a LOWA, a brand we trust for tough, comfortable boots, and every pick comes with honest pros and cons.
If you're also comparing other brands, see our hiking boots comparison guide and browse the full hiking boots collection.
Dave's picks at a glance
- Best hiking boots for multi-day treks and heavy loads: LOWA Ranger Evo GTX Wide
- Best trekking boots for alpine and four-season trips: LOWA Tibet Evo GTX Wide
- Best traditional leather boot for heavy packs: LOWA Ranger III GTX Wide
- Best hiking boots for men on day hikes and weekend walks: LOWA Renegade GTX Mid Wide
- Best hiking boots for women: LOWA Renegade GTX Mid Women's
- Best hiking boots for wide feet: all four men's picks are built on LOWA's wide last, so choose by trip type
Best hiking boots compared
| Boot | Best for | Fit | Upper and lining | Weight per pair | Pack weight it suits | Price (AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LOWA Ranger Evo GTX Wide | Multi-day treks, heavy loads, off-track | Wide | Nubuck leather, Gore-Tex lining | 1,640 g | 25 kg+ (per product page) | $648.90 |
| LOWA Tibet Evo GTX Wide | Alpine, 3 to 4 seasons, crampons | Wide | Nubuck leather, Gore-Tex lining | 1,760 g | 25 kg+ over long distances (per product page) | $748.90 |
| LOWA Ranger III GTX Wide | Heavy packs, rocky trails, hunting and trekking | Wide | Leather, Gore-Tex | Not listed | 25 kg+ (per product page) | $552.41 |
| LOWA Renegade GTX Mid Wide (men's) | Day hikes, weekend walks, everyday | Wide | Nubuck leather, Gore-Tex | Not listed | 5 to 10 kg (per product page) | $424.15 |
| LOWA Renegade GTX Mid (women's) | Day hikes, weekend walks, everyday | Women's-specific last | Nubuck leather, Gore-Tex | Not listed | 5 to 10 kg (per product page) | $424.15 |
Specs and prices are from our product pages (checked 22 October 2026). Where a weight isn't listed, we haven't guessed it.
How we chose these hiking boots
We asked a simple question: which boot would we put on for each kind of trip? We looked at how each boot is built (the upper, the midsole and the outsole), how much weight it's designed to carry and how it fits. We stock the LOWA range in our Helensburgh store and online, so we know these boots well.
Two things to know up front. First, we've kept this list to boots we stock, so it's not a list of every boot on the market. Second, the weight guidance below comes from our product pages. It describes who each boot is for, not a tested load limit.
Best hiking boots for multi-day treks: LOWA Ranger Evo GTX Wide
If you carry a heavy pack over rough country, the LOWA Ranger Evo GTX Wide is one of the best backpacking boots we stock. It's the latest version of the LOWA Ranger, built for steep, rocky ground and long days under load, from the Australian high country to New Zealand. Our product page describes it as ideal for experienced users carrying packs of 25 kg and over.
What stands out
- Nubuck leather upper that's robust and durable, open-pored for breathability and fully waterproof
- Gore-Tex lining that lets sweat escape while keeping water out
- Polyurethane midsole that doesn't deform under heavy pack loads, plus a Medium Flex Stabiliser for sturdy underfoot support with some forefoot flex
- Vibram AppTrail Divo outsole for grip on varied terrain, and the sole is resolable
- C4 tongue and X-lacing stud to reduce instep pressure and tongue movement
- 1,640 g per pair, wide fit only, in US 8 to 16
The good
- A proper wide fit, so it suits broad feet without squeezing
- Built for loads that would overwhelm a lighter boot
- Resolable sole, so a worn outsole doesn't mean a new boot
Worth knowing
- It's a serious boot, so it's more than most easy day walks need
- Wide fit only. If your feet are narrow, ask us about other options
- At $648.90, it's an investment
Best trekking boots for alpine trips: LOWA Tibet Evo GTX Wide
When the terrain turns alpine, the LOWA Tibet Evo GTX Wide is the boot we reach for. It's a stiffer, more mountain-ready trekking boot, rated for three to four seasons and built for experienced hikers tackling harsh alpine terrain with loads of 25 kg and over across long distances.
What stands out
- Nubuck leather upper with a Gore-Tex lining, the same waterproof, breathable build as the Ranger Evo
- Vibram AppTrail Divo outsole, a self-cleaning mountaineering tread, and combination crampon compatible
- Nylon stabilisers for underfoot support on rough terrain, plus Flexfit to let your foot roll forward on uphills
- I-Lock System, a clamp hook that lets you set lacing tension separately in the lower and upper zones
- Updated rand and outsole for durability, grip and protection in extreme weather
- 1,760 g per pair, wide fit only, in US 8 to 16
The good
- The most technical boot on this list, with crampon compatibility if your trips go that high
- Lacing system you can fine-tune for a long descent
- One customer review on our site says it lived up to the hype on a New Zealand hike
Worth knowing
- It's the heaviest and most expensive boot here ($748.90), so it's overkill for casual walks
- Stiff by design. If you mostly walk well-formed tracks, the Ranger Evo or Renegade will feel better
- Wide fit only
Best leather boot for heavy packs: LOWA Ranger III GTX Wide
Prefer a classic look and a proven design? The LOWA Ranger III GTX Wide is a reliable, sturdy boot with a heritage look, made for backcountry trekking and hunting in steep, rocky terrain. Our product page describes it as ideal for experienced hunters and trekkers carrying a 25 kg+ pack over long distances, on and off trail in moderate to difficult conditions.
What stands out
- Rugged leather construction with a Gore-Tex membrane for waterproof protection
- A stiff midsole and rock-shielding sole for craggy, hilly ground
- Wide fit, in sizes US 8 to 16
- $552.41, which makes it the lower-priced of our two heavy-load boots
The good
- A heritage look for walkers who like a traditional boot
- A good choice if the Ranger Evo is beyond your budget
Worth knowing
- The Ranger Evo is the latest iteration of the Ranger, so compare the two before you decide
- Sizes sell through, so check availability and ask our team about ordering your size
- Not listed: weight per pair, so ask us if you're counting grams
Best hiking boots for men on day hikes and weekends: LOWA Renegade GTX Mid Wide
Most of us don't carry 25 kg most weekends. For day hikes and overnight walks, the LOWA Renegade GTX Mid Wide is one of the most comfortable hiking boots for men we know. It's a lightweight, multifunctional boot that's been handcrafted for the past 25 years, and our product page calls it a top seller with award-winning comfort.
What stands out
- Needs no break-in period, so it's comfortable right out of the box
- Mid-cut Gore-Tex boot for day hikes and overnight walks, including New Zealand and Australian Great Walks
- Suits weekend hikes with a 5 to 10 kg pack on trail
- Versatile enough for everyday wear and wet days around town
- Wide fit, in Dark Grey and Deep Black
The good
- Comfortable immediately, which makes it a great first proper hiking boot
- Lighter than the heavy-duty boots above
- At $424.15, it's our most affordable pick
Worth knowing
- It's designed for lighter loads. For 25 kg packs, step up to the Ranger Evo
- Weight per pair isn't listed on our page
- Popular sizes sell through, so check stock or ask us. A newer Renegade Evo GTX Mid Wide is also available online
Shop the Renegade GTX Mid Wide
Best hiking boots for women: LOWA Renegade GTX Mid Women's
The best hiking boots for women start with a fit made for women's feet. The LOWA Renegade GTX Mid Women's is built on a women's-specific last for added comfort, and it brings the same easy comfort as the men's boot: lightweight, multifunctional and ready to go with no break-in period. It's a great pick for day hikes and overnight trips, and it handles weekend walks with a 5 to 10 kg pack.
What stands out
- Women's-specific last for added comfort
- Gore-Tex mid-cut boot suited to day or overnight hikes and Great Walks
- No break-in period needed
- $424.15, in Stone, in US sizes 5.5 to 10
The good
- Comfortable out of the box, so no weeks of wearing in before a trip
- A versatile boot for hiking and everyday wear
Worth knowing
- Built for lighter loads, so not a heavy-pack trekking boot
- Our men's heavy-load picks above are men's boots. For other women's options, see our guides below
- Check stock for your size or ask our team
Shop the Renegade GTX Mid Women's
Looking for more women's options? Read our guides to the best waterproof women's hiking boots in Australia and our favourite women's hiking boots.
Best hiking boots for wide feet
Wide feet shouldn't mean squeezing into a standard boot. All four men's boots in this guide are built on LOWA's wide last, so the Ranger Evo, Tibet Evo, Ranger III and Renegade all give broader feet more room. That means the choice comes down to your trip: Renegade for day hikes, Ranger Evo or Ranger III for heavy loads, and Tibet Evo for alpine terrain.
Not sure if you need a wide fit? Download the LOWA size chart to measure your foot, then come in and try a pair on. Our team can check the fit with you.
How to choose hiking boots
Match the boot to your pack weight
This is the biggest factor. A boot designed for heavy loads has a stiffer midsole and more support. Our product pages guide you to 25 kg and over for the Ranger Evo, Tibet Evo and Ranger III, and to 5 to 10 kg for the Renegade. A stiff boot feels harsh on an easy track, and a soft boot struggles under a big pack.
Pick the right cut
Low-cut shoes are lightest, mid-cut boots add ankle support for most trails, and higher boots give more support on rough ground with a heavy pack. If you're not sure, our guide to hiking sandals versus hiking shoes explains when lighter footwear is the better call. Dedicated trekking boots like the Tibet Evo suit the most demanding terrain.
Think about waterproofing
All five boots here have a Gore-Tex lining, which keeps water out while letting moisture escape. Waterproof boots are a great choice for creek crossings, wet tracks and cold mornings. In hot, dry weather a breathable shoe may be more comfortable. Also consider gaiters to keep water, mud and debris from getting in over the top (our guide to gaiters explains how).
Get the fit right
Fit matters more than any feature. Try boots on in the afternoon, when feet are at their largest, and wear the hiking socks you'll actually walk in. You want your heel to stay put, your toes to have room to move and no pressure points. If a boot rubs in the shop, it will rub on the trail. Our team can help you with sizing in store, or you can use the LOWA size chart above.
Breaking in and looking after your hiking boots
The Renegade needs no break-in period. For heavier boots like the Ranger and Tibet, we recommend wearing them around the house and on short walks before a big trip, so you find any hot spots while you can still fix them.
Looking after your boots keeps them performing. Our full guide to caring for LOWA hiking boots covers it in detail, but the basics are:
- Brush off loose dirt after each hike, paying attention to seams and treads, then clean with lukewarm water and a mild sponge
- Avoid strong soaps or detergents, which can strip leather and damage waterproof membranes
- Dry slowly at room temperature, stuffed with newspaper or cloths, and away from heaters and direct sun
- Once dry, re-proof with a waterproofing product suited to your boot type
- Check soles and laces before each trip, and store boots somewhere cool and dry
Our footwear care range includes the LOWA Water Stop Eco ($45.00) and LOWA Shoe Clean Spray ($34.90). Check the product page for which materials each one suits before you use it.
When to replace your hiking boots
Even the best hiking boots wear out. Smooth soles, failing waterproofing, collapsed midsoles, split uppers and persistent discomfort are the main signs it's time. Our guide to the 5 signs it's time to replace your hiking boots explains each one.
Keep learning
- Hiking boots comparison guide, with Dave's video
- Top 5 men's hiking boots you need in 2026
- Best waterproof women's hiking boots in Australia
- How to care for your LOWA hiking boots
- 5 signs it's time to replace your hiking boots
- Hiking for beginners: your guide to getting started
- LOWA waterproof hiking boots at PAST Outdoors
Want more choice? Browse our full range of hiking boots, our LOWA collection, hiking and approach shoes, footwear and the Mammut range.
Hiking bootsLOWAHiking and approach shoesAll footwear
Why shop with us at PAST Outdoors
We’re a family-owned and operated Australian outdoor retailer based in Helensburgh, NSW, with a carefully curated range of hiking and camping gear. We only stock gear we trust, and we’re trusted suppliers for emergency services, government, military and outdoor education groups.
Boots are a personal fit, so there’s no substitute for trying a pair on. Come in and see us, and our team will take you through sizing, talk through where you’re headed and how much you’ll be carrying, and help you find the right boot for your next trip. You can also shop online at pastoutdoors.com, and our team is always happy to give expert advice on the rest of your kit.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best hiking boots in Australia?
It depends on your trip. For multi-day treks with a heavy pack, we pick the LOWA Ranger Evo GTX Wide. For alpine terrain, it's the LOWA Tibet Evo GTX Wide. For day hikes and weekend walks, it's the LOWA Renegade GTX Mid. See our hiking boots collection for the full range.
What are the best hiking boots for men?
For heavy loads, the Ranger Evo GTX Wide and Ranger III GTX Wide are built for packs of 25 kg and over. For alpine trips, the Tibet Evo GTX Wide. For day hikes, the Renegade GTX Mid Wide.
What are the best hiking boots for women?
The LOWA Renegade GTX Mid Women's is our pick. It's built on a women's-specific last, needs no break-in and suits day hikes and weekend walks. See also our guides to the best waterproof women's hiking boots.
What are the best backpacking boots and trekking boots for heavy loads?
The Ranger Evo GTX Wide, Ranger III GTX Wide and Tibet Evo GTX Wide are all designed for experienced hikers carrying 25 kg or more. The Tibet is the stiffest and the most suited to alpine terrain.
Do I need waterproof hiking boots in Australia?
Not always, but they're worth having for wet tracks, creek crossings and cold mornings. All the boots in this guide have a Gore-Tex lining that keeps water out while letting sweat escape. In hot, dry conditions a lighter, more breathable shoe can be more comfortable.
Do hiking boots need to be broken in?
The LOWA Renegade needs no break-in period. For heavier boots like the Ranger and Tibet, we recommend wearing them around the house and on short walks before a big trip, so you can find any hot spots early.
What are the best hiking boots for wide feet?
The Ranger Evo, Tibet Evo, Ranger III and Renegade Mid Wide men's boots are all built on LOWA's wide last. Choose by trip type, and use the LOWA size chart or visit our store to check the fit.
How do I choose the right size?
Measure your foot with the LOWA size chart, try boots on in the afternoon and wear the socks you'll hike in. Your heel should stay put and your toes should have room to move. Our team can help in store at Helensburgh.
Should I buy hiking boots or hiking shoes?
Boots give more ankle support and protection on rough ground and under heavy packs. Shoes are lighter and cooler for easy tracks and warm weather. Our hiking sandals versus hiking shoes guide and hiking boots comparison guide can help you decide.
When should I replace my hiking boots?
Replace them when the soles are worn smooth, the waterproofing fails, the midsoles collapse, the uppers split or the fit becomes uncomfortable. Our guide to the 5 signs it's time to replace your hiking boots explains each one.
Find your best hiking boots
The right boot makes every kilometre easier. Come in and try a pair on at our Helensburgh store, or shop online.
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