La Sportiva TX Hike Mid GTX Hiking Boots Review
An In-Depth Review Of Our Favorite Boots For Day Hiking And Lightweight Backpacking Trips.
We tested waterproofing on the La Sportiva TX Hike hiking boots in Washington and British Columbia, Canada.
October 7th, 2025
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Our Verdict
With extreme comfort, moderate ankle support, and a grippy Vibram outsole, the La Sportiva TX Hike hiking boots may be our favorite boot for day hikers and lightweight backpackers alike.
We tested the women’s version of this boot over the course of three months, tackling about 250 miles on single track hikes, paved walkways, boulders, and muddy creeks. We even submerged them in the bathtub, creeks, puddles, and lakes to test the GORE-TEX waterproofing system, and we weren’t disappointed.
La Sportiva is a legendary brand among climbers because its footwear is designed for the sharp, unforgiving conditions of the Dolomites in mountainous Italy. Aptly demonstrating this quality, the TX Hike tackles the most extreme conditions by providing reliable traction while navigating sharp and uneven terrain, steep grades, wet conditions, and slippery rocks. While the ankle support isn’t as aggressive as some hikers might prefer, the weight savings and agility of this boot makes it among our favorite hiking boots for long backcountry days and lightweight overnight trips.
This review delves into how the La Sportiva TX Hike Mid GTX Hiking Boots performs across a variety of trails and terrain types. You can also find more of our favorite hiking boots in our Best Lightweight Hiking Boots guide.
La Sportiva TX Hike Mid GTX Hiking Boots
La Sportiva TX Hike Mid GTX Hiking Boots
men's
Women's
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La Sportiva TX Hike Mid GTX Hiking Boot Specifications
Price: $209
Weight (per pair, men's and women's): 1 lb 13 oz (women’s), 2 lbs 1.5oz (men’s)
Cushion level (Light/Medium/Maximum): Light
Stability (Neutral/Stable): Stable
Heel-to-toe drop (mm): 10mm
Stack height (heel/toe mm):
Upper materials: Recycled AirMesh & No-Sew Upper / Recycled Laces & Nylon® Webbing / Welded TPU Overlays / Microfiber Heel Stabilizer / 3D Flex Ankle System (also available in leather, men's and women's)
Midsole material: Compression EVA with Co-Molded Stabilizing insert
Outsole material and lugs: Vibram® Ecostep EVO with Impact Brake System™ / 5mm lugs
Waterproof technology (if applicable): ePE GORE-TEX (PFAS-free in 2025 version)
Available sizes and widths: Women’s 36-43 (5.5-11), Men’s 38-49.5 (6-15.5) standard widths
Suitable for vegans: Yes (synthetic option)
Best for
The La Sportiva TX Hike hiking boots provided lots of ankle support on uneven terrain.
Long day hikes, and lightweight backpacking trips where ankle support is key
Hikers with a standard or narrow foot width
Rocky and uneven trails, wet conditions, and gravel
Comparison table
| TRAIL RUNNING SHOE | MSRP* | MEN'S WEIGHT (PAIR) | WOMEN'S WEIGHT (PAIR) | OUTSOLE | MIDSOLE | UPPER | WATERPROOFING |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| La Sportiva TX Hike Mids Men's Women's |
$209 | 2 lbs 2.6 oz | 1 lb, 12.6 oz | Vibram Ecostep EVO | Compression EVA | Recycled air mesh | bluesign-certified ePE GORE-TEX Extended Comfort |
| La Sportiva TX Hike Leather Mids Men's Women's |
$219 | 1 lbs. 15 oz | 1 lb. 12.6 oz. | Vibram Ecostep EVO rubber | Compression EVA with co-molded stabilizing insert | Nubuck leather | bluesign-certified ePE GORE-TEX Extended Comfort waterproof/breathable membrane |
| Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX Mid Men's Women's |
$185 | 1 lb. 15 oz. | 1 lb. 11.6 oz. | All Terrain Contagrip rubber | EnergyCell | Kevlar® and technical yarn Matryx technology | GORE-TEX® |
| Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Men's Women's |
$180 | 2 lbs, 4 oz | 1 lbs 13 oz | Vibram TC5+ | Merrell Air Cushion | Pigskin leather/mesh | M Select Dry |
| Merrell Moab 3 Mid GTX Men's Women's |
$190 | 1 lb, 15.7 oz | 1 lb, 13 oz | Vibram TC5+ | Merrell Air Cushion | Leather, 100% recycled laces, webbing, and mesh | GORE-TEX® |
What we liked
The La Sportiva TX Hike hiking boots have a heel cup that really holds you in, creating stability, agility, and control.
The lightweight design allows hikers to stay nimble and fast without compromising comfort.
The heel cup and impact break system provide added stability, agility, and control on technical terrain.
These boots come in a huge size range, ranging from a EU36 to 43 (US 5.5 to 11) in women’s, and a EU 38 to 49.5 (US 6 to 15.5) in men’s.
The upper, laces, midsole, and outsole utilize recycled materials to prioritize an eco-friendly design with a lower manufacturing impact.
What could be better
The interior height of these shoes makes it nearly impossible to use custom insoles or alternative footbeds.
These boots are about $30 more expensive than the average pair of hiking boots.
How we tested
We tested the La Sportiva TX Hike hiking boots in the Cascade Mountains and the Rocky Mountains of the U.S. and Canada to determine how it performs on hikes in wet and dry climates.
We traveled to northeastern British Columbia, the Cascade Mountains, and the Rocky Mountains to put these boots to the test. After three months and 250+ miles of experimentation we assessed the performance of these boots based on their ability to handle gravels, boulders, slickrock, dirt, mud, and well-groomed trails. We wore these boots in weather conditions ranging from dry conditions to consistent rain, and even a few thunderstorms.
We also tested the La Sportiva TX Hike Mid GTX hiking boots alongside other popular and similar hiking boots, like the Lowa Renegade EVO GTX and the Scarpa Rush Trek GTX, to directly compare features and performance.
Performance in the field
We tested the La Sportiva TX Hike hiking boots on over 250 miles of hiking to get a sense of how they perform in the field.
Fit and sizing
Most La Sportiva footwear runs narrow. However, the TX Hike is made with a “wide” fit. But we found that this really just means that it’s a normal fit. The toe box still runs narrow in these boots (albeit slightly larger than some Sportiva toe boxes). Overall, they run true to size and have a minimal break-in period due to the soft upper materials.
Comfort and support
The La Sportiva TX Hike hiking boots were so comfortable due to their flexibility, allowing us to crouch, bend, and hike in comfort.
One reason that a hiker might opt for a boot like the TX Hike is for added ankle support. From the base of the outsole to the top of the ankle shaft, the TX Hike provides 6 inches of protection and stabilization, which is just enough to reduce the likelihood of sprains and other mishaps without overdoing the boot construction.
Unlike some boots, the TX Hike has a single metal eyelet at the top of the boot, which helps provide the foot with the ability to maintain dynamic movement, which we like. But it’s important to note that some hikers find this reduces the overall protection of the boot’s ankle support.
One of our writers and testers occasionally deals with arthritic foot pain, which makes a rigid outsole a preferred contribution to our hiking setup. The outsole of the TX Hike is rigid enough to reduce hingeing at the toe joints while maintaining agility across the rest of the foot, which created the ideal balance between protection and nimbleness. We’re also a big fan of this boot’s compression EVA midsole since the added cushioning helps to reduce the amount of shock that the foot experiences.
The TX Hike is minimally cushioned, which would normally give us pause. Yet despite its minimalistic design, it maintains comfortable conditions for the feet for many hours at a time. Its 2-inch EVA midsole and Ortholite insole, and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) heel stabilizers provide rebound to reduce foot fatigue while also allowing the foot to stay secure and comfortable.
Traction and grip
We tested the La Sportiva TX Hike hiking boots on rock, roots, mud, loose gravel, and wet surfaces to get an idea of how well the traction and grip works.
An aggressive lug generally provides superior traction and greater adaptability on slick surfaces like rock, dirt, mud, and rain. The TX Hike comes with 5mm lugs, and Vibram ecostep outsole grip, which keeps them stable and sticky in even the most treacherous conditions. These features also work together to create a stable base, which is ideal on uneven terrain.
This boot also comes with the Impact Brake System, which is a lug pattern that slants at opposing angles to increase traction, allowing the feet to stay fixed to the ground. We found that this was an essential feature while rock hopping across creeks, since it helped to keep our boots fixed to slippery surfaces.
Waterproofing
On a recent trip to Washington, we weren’t expecting to test the TX Hike’s waterproofing. But after slipping into an ankle-deep creek crossing, we found that the complete saturation of this boot did not result in permeation. Instead, we were able to go about our day as if nothing had ever happened. We attribute this reality to this boot’s bluesign-certified ePE GORE-TEX lining (without PFAS forever chemicals for the 2025 version), which creates a waterproof environment while maintaining breathability. It also comes with a high (roughly 5 inch) flood height, allowing hikers to tackle snowfields and creeks with little risk of saturation.
Warmth and insulation
The La Sportiva TX Hike is designed to be a 3-season boot, which means that it prioritizes breathability over insulation. We might take these boots into slightly snowy conditions by adding a thicker sock, but it wouldn’t be our first pick for a winter boot. See our guide to Best Winter Hiking Boots or Best Men's Winter Boots and Women's Winter Boots for more insulated options.
Breathability
To test breathability of the La Sportiva TX Hike hiking boots, we wore these boots in warm, humid climates as well as hot, drier climates.
The TX Hike comes with a GORE-TEX membrane to prevent moisture from seeping into the boot from the exterior. At the same time, the upper is made out of a recycled AirMesh to increase breathability. We’re usually skeptical about boots that claim to be both waterproof and breathable, but in the TX Hike’s case, we weren’t disappointed.
While recreating in the Rocky Mountains in July, we found that the recycled AirMesh upper created better airflow than leather alternatives, keeping our feet dry late into the day. While we suspect they’d eventually become wet and soggy during torrential downpours, they performed well during moderately wet conditions.
Drying Time
One of the perks of opting for a boot with a synthetic construction is that drying times are quick. After becoming moderately wet while navigating a Canadian bog, these boots took just a few hours to return to their normal conditions.
Durability and construction
Close-up on the La Sportiva TX Hike's upper material, lacing, and supportive heel cup.
The synthetic construction of the TX Hike makes it more prone to early deterioration than some boots, but it’s also reinforced with TPU to add durability. The midsole is usually the first component of a boot that dies. In the TX Hike’s case, it uses a compression-molded EVA midsole, which means that it’s extra lightweight but it may lose rebound faster than heavier midsoles (that are often made out of polyurethane (PU).
We haven’t reached the point of break-down in this boot yet, but we’d expect that it’ll likely last the typical lifespan of a boot – somewhere between 700 and 1,000 miles, depending on factors like carrying load and terrain, with the weakest points existing in the parts of the boot that flex.
Weight and packability
A standard pair of hiking boots weighs about two to three pounds, depending on factors like material usage, height, and overall design. The La Sportiva TX Hike boots weigh about one pound and 12.8 ounces total, or 14.4 ounces each, which is extremely lightweight for boots that perform as well as these. It also feels light underfoot, preventing you from feeling like you’re lugging clown shoes around the woods. The result is a set of boots that accommodates long days in the woods without significantly contributing to the body’s overall fatigue.
Features
Close-up on the lacing system on the La Sportiva TX Hike hiking boots.
Lacing system
The TX Hike’s lacing harness was inspired by the La Sportiva Trango Tech GTX mountaineering boot, which is made for technical environments, and manages to keep the foot fixed in place even when tackling step ascents and descents.
Heel cup and ankle collar
The TX Hike comes with a microfiber heel stabilizer, to keep the foot fixed in place. This is particularly handy when it comes to torsional movements. The ankle collar comes up to the lower calf, and is lightly padded to prevent bruising and discomfort around the leg.
Outsole
Close-up on the deep lugs and Vibram outsole on the La Sportiva TX Hike hiking boots.
An aggressive lug generally provides superior traction and greater adaptability on slick surfaces like rock, dirt, mud, and rain. The TX Hike comes with 5mm lugs, and Vibram ecostep outsole grip, which keeps them stable and sticky in even the most treacherous conditions. These features also work together to create a stable base, which is ideal on uneven terrain.
This boot also comes with the Impact Brake System, which is a lug pattern that slants at opposing angles to increase traction, allowing the feet to stay fixed to the ground. We found that this was an essential feature while rock hopping across creeks, since it helped to keep our boots fixed to slippery surfaces.
The toe cap on the La Sportiva TX Hike hiking boots protects your toes from bumps while you're on downhills.
Toe cap protection
The toe cap is reinforced on this boot to help prevent injuries from toe stubbing. The protection is great for a lightweight boot but not designed as aggressively as some boots, like the Salomon Quest 4 GTX Boot.
Reflective elements
The pull strap comes with a reflective coating for added visibility. If nighttime visibility is a concern, check out our Best Headlamps, Best Running Lights, and Best Reflective Gear for Running in the Dark guides.
Style and colorways
This boot is available in both synthetic and leather options. Strangely, the leather version of this boot is a hair lighter, weighing 14.2 oz per shoe compared to 14.14oz. The synthetic boot is more breathable and vegan friendly, while the leather option is likely a touch more durable. New versions of the standard TX Hike boot come in a juniper/zest combination for women and a black/lime combination for men.
Men's Leather:
Women's Leather:
Sustainability notes
The TX Hike is built with a variety of sustainably-conscious materials, including recycled upper, recycled rubber outsoles, recycled laces, webbing, and a recycled GORE-TEX Liner. In fact, 65% of the boot’s weight is made out of eco-friendly materials.
Similar products
Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX
Price: $185
Weight (per pair, men's and women's): 1lb 11.52oz (women’s), 1lb 15.04oz (men’s)
Cushion level (Light/Medium/Maximum): Moderate
Stability (Neutral/Stable): Neutral
Heel-to-toe drop (mm): 12.7 mm
Stack height (heel/toe mm): 32.5 mm
Upper materials: Synthetic/textile
Midsole material: EnergyCell
Outsole material and lugs: All Terrain Contagrip rubber and 3.5mm
Waterproof technology (if applicable): Gor-Tex
Available sizes and widths: Women’s 5-11 , Men’s 7-14, standard and wide widths
Suitable for vegans: Yes
If you’re looking for a fast, agile, dynamic boot similar to the La Sportiva TX Hike Mid GTX, the Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX boots offer one of the closest matches. These boots come with a moderate amount of cushioning, with flexible materials that break in quickly and last longer than a trail runner. While the ankle protection on these boots is slightly less aggressive than the La Sportiva TX Hike, it does offer some added stability. Learn more in our in-depth review of the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX Hiking Boots.
Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX
men's
Women's
Merrell Moab 3
Price: $140
Weight (per pair, men's and women's): 1lb 8.68oz (women’s), 1lb 13.62oz (men’s)
Cushion level (Light/Medium/Maximum): Maximum
Stability (Neutral/Stable): Stable
Heel-to-toe drop (mm): 11.5 mm
Stack height (heel/toe mm): 31.7 mm
Upper materials: Mesh upper
Midsole material: EVA foam
Outsole material and lugs: Vibram TC5+, 5mm lugs
Waterproof technology (if applicable): Merrell DRY waterproof membrane (also available in GORE-TEX, men's and women's)
Available sizes and widths: Women’s 7-15 , Men’s 5-12, medium and wide widths
Suitable for vegans: Yes
The Merrell Moab 3 is a quality pick for hikers who want protection for the bottom of their feet but can forgo the extra ankle protection. These shoes come with aggressive tread, deep lugs, and durable materials to equip the hiker with great traction and reliability. They’re the winners of Best Affordable in our Best Lightweight Hiking Boots guide, and you can learn more in our in-depth review of the Merrell Moab 3 Hiking Boots.While the La Sportiva TX Hike runs narrow, the Merrell Moab 3 offers a more forgiving fit.
Merrell Moab 3
men's
Women's
Oboz Sawtooth X Mid Hiking Boots
Price: $180
Weight (per pair, men's and women's): 2lbs 0.6oz (women’s), 2lbs 6.8oz (men’s)
Cushion level (Light/Medium/Maximum): Medium
Stability (Neutral/Stable): Stable
Heel-to-toe drop (mm): 8 mm
Stack height (heel/toe mm): NA
Upper materials: Oiled nubuck leather/CORDURA fabric mesh
Midsole material: Heel puck/rubber-blended adaptive foam
Outsole material and lugs: True Tread Rubber, NA
Waterproof technology (if applicable): B-DRY waterproof/breathable membrane
Available sizes and widths: Women’s 5-12 , Men’s 7-15, Standard and wide widths
Suitable for vegans: No
The Oboz Sawtooth X Mid Hiking Boots offer another great alternative to the La Sportiva TX Hike as a stable boot with ankle support, and aggressive tread. Like the TX Hike, these boots are waterproof, sturdy, and designed to accommodate varying types of terrain. The Sawtooth offers heightened ankle protection compared to the TX Hike, although both provide some stabilization.
Oboz Sawtooth X Mid Hiking Boots
men's
Women's
Who should buy this
The author enjoyed hiking in the La Sportiva TX Hike hiking boots.
Buy if you are a hiker or backpacker looking for ankle support and foot protection without the added weight of a conventional boot. These allow hikers to maintain agility and stay fast on their feet to cover more ground.
Skip if you prefer maximum ankle support, a rigid boot construction, and thousands of miles of usage.
Where to buy
The La Sportiva TX Hike Mid GTX hiking boots are popular footwear, so you have options when it comes to retailers. Here are some of the pros of the retailers.
REI
Pros: 100% satisfaction policy for 1 year; up to 10% dividend for members.
Amazon
Pros: Free 2-day shipping with Amazon Prime membership
Zappos
Pros: 365-day free shipping on returns, fast delivery with free VIP program
Backcountry
Pros: Frequent sales for Expedition Perks members (free to join), fast shipping, Gearhead chat customer service is excellent
La Sportiva
You can sometimes find more options for color and sizing when purchasing directly from the retailer. Sometimes, purchasing directly from the retailer can make it easier if you need to make a warranty return, such as if there is a defect.
Advice on where to buy
In general for shoes, we recommend purchasing from a place with easy or free returns like REI or Zappos. Trying on shoes is an important way to get the sizing right. With both those retailers, if your funds allow, you can buy two sizes and easily return one. Additionally, check reviews to see whether other users recommend sizing up or down.
Why you should trust us / About the Author
The author Mary Beth Skylis has tested dozens of hiking boots in locations across the world.
Over the past decade, Mary Beth Skylis has hiked and backpacked thousands of miles including all 2,200 miles of the Appalachian Trail, 500 miles of the Colorado Trail, and large sections of trails like the Annapurna Circuit. Skylis wore a hefty pair of Vasque hiking boots for the first 800 miles of the Appalachian Trail, where she learned all about proper sizing, foot swelling, the boot break-in process, and shoe durability. Today, Skylis lives in Colorado where she spends all of her free time recreating in the mountains. You can read all her stories on her author page.
