When hiking in dry, desert areas, regular boots might not be enough. The tough desert landscape needs special boots that can handle high temperatures, rough surfaces, and sudden changes in weather.
In this detailed review, we’ll look at six types of boots that stand out for their comfort, support, breathability, ability to keep out sand, and positive customer feedback.
Whether you’re hiking trails in the Grand Canyon or exploring the sandy dunes of the Sahara, having the right boots can really improve your adventure.
Keep reading for our in-depth reviews and guide to choosing the best boots for desert hikes.
Guide to Buying Desert Hiking Boots
Choosing the right boots for desert hiking takes more than just picking a brand or a cool design. You’ll want to think about several things that can affect how well the boots perform, how long they last, and how comfortable they are. Our guide will help you understand:
- Material: What kind of material is used for different parts of the boot, and how it helps with durability and airflow?
- Waterproofing: Why waterproof layers are important in deserts, where sudden rain or flash floods can happen.
- Support and Cushioning: How the different layers in the boots help protect and support your feet.
- Breathability: Important for hot weather—features like mesh and small air holes that keep your feet cool.
- Weight: Why lighter boots are better for long hikes, helping you save energy.
- Sustainability: Using recycled materials or boots that can be fixed up, which is better for the planet.
- Customer Feedback: Real reviews from other hikers about how each pair holds up in desert conditions.
By thinking about each of these, you’ll be ready to choose the best boots for desert hiking. Keep reading for a deeper look at each feature to help you make the right choice!
What Makes a Good Desert Shoe
In desert conditions, shoes should meet these important requirements:
- Breathable: In hot, dry areas, shoes that allow air to flow are better than waterproof ones. Breathable shoes keep your feet from staying too hot or wet for long periods, and they dry faster, helping you stay more comfortable.
- Durable: Deserts are tough on shoes. Shoes will brush against rough plants, sharp rocks, and dry out often, so they need to be strong. There isn’t a single material that’s always best, but sticking with reliable brands can make a difference.
For certain locations and activities, shoes may also need to be:
- Sand-Resistant: Shoes that let in sand can cause blisters and make you stop often to clean them out. To check if shoes are sand-resistant, field-test them or look for features like a gusseted tongue (a tongue attached to the shoe on both sides). You can also use the “flashlight test” on the upper part of the shoe:
- If direct light passes through, they’re not sand-resistant.
- If some light comes through, sand protection will be moderate.
- If no light passes through, the shoes should be good at keeping out sand.
Breathable and sand-resistant qualities can conflict a bit, so it’s often best to find a balance. However, if you’re hiking in very sandy places, prioritize sand resistance.
- Sticky Rubber: Shoes with high-grip rubber are ideal for hiking, scrambling, or climbing on rocky surfaces. Sticky rubber helps you feel more secure on slick rock, which is smooth but lacks ledges or knobs for gripping. However, stickier rubber may wear out faster. Brands like La Sportiva and Vibram Megagrip often use high-quality rubber that performs well.
- Stiffness and Stability: Hiking on angled slopes or steep trails can put pressure on shoes. Shoes that are too soft, too loose, or too tall may not handle these conditions well. To check for stability, try twisting the shoe (holding the toe in one hand and the heel in the other) and look for models with a lower stack height to keep you steady.
Top Desert Hiking Boots:
La Sportiva Mutant
I’m putting the La Sportiva Mutant (for men and women) at the top of this list because they meet all my criteria and are my favorite choice for backpacking. They are breathable, sand-resistant, durable, sticky for great traction, and stable.
They fit average-sized feet well, but you can tighten them for a snugger fit if needed. While there are other models that offer more lateral stiffness and durability for technical canyoneering trips, the Mutants still perform admirably and are considered “good enough” for these adventures by our guides.
Altra Lone Peak (4 and up)
If your feet are wide like paddles or if you’re hiking on well-maintained trails, the Altra Lone Peak 4, 5, 6, 7, or 8 could be a good choice for you. Starting with the fourth version, Altra made improvements by using a more durable upper similar to the sand-resistant Salomon Speedcross to address durability issues they previously had. They also upgraded the outsole to a decent MaxTrac for better grip.
However, for people with regular-sized feet and on tougher terrains, the Lone Peak might not be the best option. The fit can feel loose, and the midsole is too soft for challenging hikes.
Astral Loop
The Astral Loop is a standout choice for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a versatile shoe for sandy and wet conditions. With its zero-drop design and wide toe box, it provides excellent comfort and allows for natural foot movement, making it ideal for long hikes.
The shoe’s breathability and quick-drying capabilities shine during river crossings or unexpected rain, while its grippy outsole ensures reliable traction on rocky surfaces.
Users appreciate its sand resistance, which keeps debris out during desert adventures. While it may lack the stiffness of some other models, the Loop offers adequate lateral stability for off-trail excursions. Overall, the Astral Loop combines durability, comfort, and functionality, making it a top pick for anyone looking to tackle diverse terrains with confidence.
La Sportiva TX3 and TX4
The La Sportiva TX3 and TX4 are exceptional approach shoes designed for technical canyon travel and rugged terrains. Both models excel in durability and stability, making them ideal for those who demand performance from their footwear in challenging environments.
The TX3 features a heavy-duty mesh upper, offering excellent breathability and drainage, which is particularly advantageous in wet conditions. In contrast, the TX4 is crafted from real leather, providing superior abrasion resistance and sand protection, making it a better option for drier, more abrasive environments.
Both shoes come equipped with a protective toe cap and smear plate, enhancing their overall stability during climbs and scrambles. However, they may be overkill for pure backpacking trips due to their robust construction.
While neither model includes a gusseted tongue, they still provide good sand resistance. Overall, the La Sportiva TX3 and TX4 are versatile choices for adventurers looking for reliable performance, whether you’re navigating wet canyons or tackling sandy trails.
La Sportiva Wildcat
The La Sportiva Wildcat has established itself as a reliable choice in the lineup for over a decade. One of its standout features is the large-holed mesh upper, which provides excellent breathability while still being surprisingly sand-resistant.
According to Randy, a longtime user who wore them for two consecutive years in Escalante, the Wildcat appears to have an interior mesh layer that offers better sand resistance than the outer layer.
However, it’s essential to note that the Wildcats may not hold up well against extensive abrasion. Users have reported experiencing significant wear and tear after just a week in rugged environments like Alaska’s Brooks Range. Therefore, these shoes are best suited for sandy trails and open cross-country terrain rather than rough, abrasive conditions.
If you plan to hike primarily in desert or sandy environments, the La Sportiva Wildcat could be a viable option, offering a good balance of breathability and comfort.
Scarpa Ribbell Run XT
The Scarpa Ribbell Run XT stands out as a top choice for those seeking comfort and stability on rugged terrains. This shoe is particularly favored for its superb stiffness, making it an excellent option for scrambling and off-trail adventures. Users have reported a noticeable reduction in foot pain when switching to the Ribbell Run XT, highlighting its comfort over long distances.
Featuring a mesh upper, the Ribbell Run XT surprisingly blocks fine sand, making it suitable for sandy environments like the Grand Canyon. Despite its non-gusseted tongue, the inner padding effectively seals out most sand and debris, enhancing its usability in challenging conditions.
The shoe’s 360-degree and offers exceptional durability, protecting against rough surfaces and preventing damage from cactus spines, a common hazard in desert terrains. While it lacks significant drainage features, it dries quickly in the sun after wading through water.
With a grip comparable to other popular models, the Scarpa Ribbell Run XT provides remarkable stability, even with a higher stack height. This shoe is a fantastic option for those who prioritize comfort and durability on demanding trails.
Topo Ultraventure Pro
The Topo Ultraventure Pro is a standout choice for desert backpacking, combining breathability, durability, and excellent grip. Although it has been discontinued, select sizes may still be available at clearance prices, making it a great find for enthusiasts looking for reliable footwear.
With a design that emphasizes sand resistance, the Ultraventure Pro effectively keeps out fine particles, ensuring comfort on long treks across sandy terrains. Its sticky outsole provides ample traction on various surfaces, making it suitable for both rocky and smooth trails.
While the Ultraventure Pro offers a stiffer build compared to some of its competitors, it balances flexibility and support well, allowing for a natural stride without sacrificing stability. Although not as high-performing as some premium models like the La Sportiva Mutant, it still offers great value for those seeking a versatile shoe for diverse hiking conditions.
