What To Look For
Gore-Tex is a synthetic material that is waterproof but allows air and water vapor to pass through. This creates a waterproof hiking boot that still allows the water vapor created by the sweating of the foot to dissipate as air circulates. The intent is to keep the foot dry and comfortable, according to the Gore-Tex website.
Hiking boots featuring Gore-Tex material also need other features to provide comfort and safety for the wearer. These features include a good fit with adequate toe room and heal support, deep lugs for traction and a light weight. The Gore-Tex material is commonly used as an inner liner of the hiking boot and is covered with a variety of outer materials. The registered trade name Gore-Tex commonly is displayed prominently on the shoe or its packaging. The company produces two products; Gore-Tex XCR is considered more effective than standard Gore-Tex.
Common Pitfalls
Hikers choosing a Gore-Tex-lined boot face the same pitfalls as any hiking boot purchaser. Avoid boots that are heavy, lack support or fit poorly. Avoid Gore-Tex hiking boots with poor quality outer materials. These materials may wear through and expose the Gore-Tex inner lining. Avoid boots that have an exposed seam between the sole and the upper. This is a common failure point for water entering the boot. If the lugs, the raised portion of the sole that comes in contact with the ground, are too close together they accumulate mud, making the boot heavier and more tiring to the wearer.
Where To Buy
Gore-Tex hiking boots are available in the sporting good departments of discount and department stores, sporting good stores, shoe stores, outdoor outfitters and online. Outdoor outfitters may have knowledgeable staff to help you understand the features of each boot and offer the ability to try the hiking boot on and at least take a few steps within the store. Outlet malls may have hiking boots from previously marketed lines at discount prices.
Cost
Costs for Gore-Tex hiking boots ranged from about $80 to $160, according to the website Hiking Boots as of August 2010. Higher-end boots offer better outer materials, such as leather.
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