Best Summit Hikes in Colorado. James Dziezynski

are the perfect all-around boot: light enough to keep your feet from getting fatigued, tough enough to stand up to burly mountain conditions. A good light hiking boot starts with a solid outsole (such as Vibram or similar rubber blends) and is flexible yet supportive. Some brands use a Gore-Tex lining to make the boot waterproof without adding excess weight. Cons: Many light hiking boots compromise on outsoles; imitation or cheap outsoles wear out quickly and slip on rocks. Look for good outsoles and you’ll be in good shape. Light hikers lack support when you’re carrying a heavy backpack, and like trail runners, they may not be adequately protective on rocky scree slopes or in snowy conditions.

      Backpacking Boots Pros: Backpacking boots are obviously great when you’re lugging heavy loads; their sturdy design is intended to offer superb durability and excellent support. Traditional backpacking boots are made of hard-wearing leather, though newer models have cut off a few ounces by using ultraresilient synthetics such as Kevlar. Backpacking boots have great ankle support and are perfect for off-trail terrain as well as loose rock slopes and talus fields. Cons: Backpacking boots can be heavy, slow to dry, and tough to break in. Some hikers feel clumsy when trying to scramble or climb in bulkier boots, though climbing rock in boots is a skill that comes with practice. Ventilation is compromised, and hikers with hot feet may feel uncomfortable as their little piggies roast on long trails.

      Mountaineering Boots Pros: These specialized boots are made for the harshest conditions. Most models are leather, leather blends, or plastic. They are extremely stiff and protective, thanks to sturdy shanks that reinforce the foot bed. Nearly all models have notches to accept crampons. Their rigidity is essential when climbing ice or technical snow with crampons. Plastic boots include insulated liners, and many leather boots have built-in insulation to keep feet warm. Cons: Mountaineering boots are made for snow, ice, prolonged mixed routes, and cold weather. As a result, they are very bulky, heavy, and require extended break-in periods. They are also quite expensive. These specialized boots are only required if you plan to attempt winter or early-spring ascents. Note that many backpacking boots and even some light hiking boots will accept certain crampons for basic snow travel. Ask at your local outdoors store if you’d like to try a lighter solution for simple snowfield travel.