la sportiva nucleo high gtx hiking boots

I also didn’t slide around on climbs or descents thanks to La Sportiva’s Impact Brake System, which is built into the sole and designed to maximize contact with the ground on steep slopes. You get a Vibram Nano XS-Trek outsole-marketed for its flexibility and wet traction-with a fairly aggressive lug pattern, which I found to be grippy over a variety of terrain including established trails, sand, mud, slick roots, and even a late-season dusting of snow. Given La Sportiva’s climbing roots, it comes as little surprise that the Nucleo High II GTX scores high marks in the traction department. All told, I think the Nucleo hits a great middle ground: It feels light and nimble underfoot-even after full days of hiking with a pack-and can hold its own on everything from easy day hikes to lightweight backpacking trips. The next step down in weight consists of trail running-inspired designs from brands like Hoka and Altra, but those shoes compromise big time in terms of stability and durability to shave weight. 2.6 oz.) and Salewa Mtn Trainer Lite Mid GTX (2 lb. Most comparable boots are heavier, including the Asolo Falcon GV (2 lb.

For reference, the ultra-popular Salomon X Ultra Mid 4 GTX weighs less at 1 pound 14 ounces, but that design has more of a hiking shoe build along with a lower cut. Of note: My pair in a men’s size 11 clocked in considerably heavier at 2 pounds 7.8 ounces, but that may have been an anomaly. With a listed weight of 2 pounds 1.6 ounces per pair for the men’s version, the Nucleo High II GTX is one of the lighter boots on the market, especially when stacked up against other high-cut models. Combined with its low weight (more on this below), this makes the Nucleo more sprightly and less obtrusive than most other hiking boots I've tested, while still providing ample cushioning.

Finally, the 3D Flex ankle hinge allows for a natural gait and restriction-free stride when climbing and descending steep slopes. The collar and tongue are also connected, providing a sock-like fit that eliminates pressure points and helps keep debris from entering over the top. It’s a similar story with the EVA midsole and Ortholite insole: Both are well padded and offered ample support on long days clambering over fallen trees and balancing on wet rocks along Vancouver Island's Juan de Fuca Trail.

The leather upper is soft but still able to snug down tight via the lacing system with grommets running high up the boot, and the padded mesh that wraps around the ankle is both nicely cushioned and close fitting. To see how it stacks up to the competition, see our article on the best hiking boots.ĭespite running narrow, which is a common theme among La Sportiva footwear, the Nucleo High II GTX is a very comfortable and modern-feeling boot. Below we outline our experiences with the Nucleo High II GTX. It’s also built with the keen attention to detail we’ve come to expect from the Italian brand.

It’s undeniably pricey at around $240, has a decidedly narrow fit, and is a little lacking in stability and protection for covering technical terrain with a full pack, but overall performance is very competitive for the weight. Among their growing line, the Nucleo High II GTX is one of the more capable and well-rounded lightweight boots we’ve tested. La Sportiva is a climbing company first, but that expertise has transferred over nicely to the hiking footwear market.

La sportiva nucleo high gtx hiking boots