Oboz Katabatic LT Low GTX Hiking Shoe Review
An in-depth review of the Oboz Katabatic LT Low GTX: A lightweight, waterproof hiking shoe with boot-like stability
September 29th, 2025
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Our verdict
Don’t let the sleek trail-runner look fool you, the Oboz Katabatic LT Low GTX has the backbone of a true hiking shoe, leaving you planted and steady. It’s for hikers who want the lightweight feel of a shoe with the support and protection of something closer to a boot. After about a month of testing both the men’s and women’s versions on west coast trails around British Columbia, we found they strike a nice balance between sturdiness and just enough agility to not feel slowed down.
The Katabatic has a stiff midsole, reinforced mesh upper, and solid toe and underfoot protection that make it more capable than most synthetic low hikers. It’s light enough to move fast in, but built tough enough for mixed terrain, wet conditions, and off-trail detours. For us, the standout feature was the stability—we kept upright on rocky, uneven ground where you can often lose your footing with softer, cushier shoes.
The tradeoff is that the stiffness won’t work for everyone. On long days, especially over smoother ground, we sometimes found ourselves wishing for more cushioning underfoot. And while Oboz offers wide sizing, the standard women’s version felt narrower than expected, so some foot shapes may struggle with comfort.
Bottom line: if you want a dependable, low-cut hiker that leans boot in its stability and protection, the Katabatic LT Low GTX is worth a serious look. If plush, all-day comfort is your top priority, you may want to consider a softer, more cushioned alternative.
Oboz Katabatic LT Low GTX
Men's
Women's
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Oboz Katabatic LT Low GTX Specifications
MSRP: $170
Weight (per pair): Women’s: 1 lb 4.6 oz (584 g); Men’s: 1 lb 7.6 oz (670 g)
Cushion level: Medium
Stability: Neutral
Heel-to-toe drop (mm): 8 mm
Stack height (heel/toe mm): Not specified
Upper materials: 100% Recycled Polyester Mesh with TPU Hotmelt Overlays, TPU Reinforced Toe Cap
Midsole material: ACTEnergy cushioning system (compression molded EVA)
Outsole material and lugs: Trail Tread Outsole Rubber
Insole: O FIT Insole featuring Ortholite
Waterproof technology: GORE-TEX Invisible Fit (waterproof and breathable)
Available sizes and widths: Women’s US 5-11 in regular and wide; Men’s US 7-14 in regular and wide
Suitable for vegans: Yes. Oboz doesn’t explicitly state but synthetic materials are listed
Comparison table
| TRAIL RUNNING SHOE | MSRP* | WEIGHT (PAIR) | UPPER MATERIAL | WATERPROOFING? | MIDSOLE | OUTSOLE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oboz Katabatic LT Low GTX Men's Women's |
$170 | 1 lb 7.6 oz. (men's), 1 lb 4.6 oz. (women's) | Recycled polyester | GORE-TEX Invisible Fit | EVA | Trail Tread Eco rubber |
| Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX Low Men's Women's |
$170 | 1 lb 10.8 oz (men's), 1 lb 6.6 oz (women's) | GORE-TEX | EnergyCell | All Terrain Contragrip rubber | |
| Oboz Sawtooth II Low Waterproof Men's Women's |
$145 | 2 lb 2.8 oz (men's), 1 lb 11.4 oz (women's) | Nubuck leathre, textile | B-DRY | EVA | Rubber |
| Danner Trail 2650 Men's Women's |
$170 | 1 lb 11 oz (men's), 1 lb 5 oz (women's) | Suede, textile | N/A (mesh) | EVA | Vibram 460 |
| HOKA Anacapa 2 Low GTX Men's Women's |
$180 | 1 lb 14.7 oz (men's), 1 lb 8.8 oz (women's) | Waterproof Nubuck leather/recycled mesh | GORE-TEX Invisible Fit waterproof/breathable laminate | Compression-molded EVA (30% sugarcane) | Vibram Megagrip rubber |
Best for
Most foot shapes, with a true wide option for folks with wide or high-volume feet
Day hikes or weekend backpacking trips when you want support without the weight of a boot
Wet, muddy, or slick trails where waterproofing and grip really matter
Everyone from new hikers to seasoned trekkers looking for a dependable all-arounder
A modern hiker designed for speed, comfort, and protection. Photo by Ebony Roberts
What we liked
Women’s and men’s versions made on gender-specific lasts for a better fit and come in regular and wide options
Solid, structured feel that keeps you stable and protected
Durable build with a reinforced toe cap and rock plate protection
Lightweight for the amount of support and protection you get; feels closer to a boot without the bulk
What could be better
The toe box feels more narrow than other hiking shoes (if you’re wide footed, have a high volume foot, or are on the cusp, you’ll need to opt for the wide version)
The rigidity underfoot can feel taxing on long days
How we tested
Both our men’s and women’s testers have been hiking in the Oboz Katabatic LT Low GTX for about a month, logging roughly 60 combined miles. Most of our testing took place on the trails around Squamish, B.C., including those around Brohm Lake and Alice Lake, through the Squamish Estuary and up into the Smoke Bluffs. Conditions ranged from late summer heat (close to 100°F) to early fall rain, giving us a mix of dry, wet, and variable terrain.
For comparison, we also wore previous Katabatic models—the men’s LT and the women’s Low GTX—and made side-by-side notes on how the new iteration stacks up. As with all our footwear reviews, we focused on fit, stability, cushioning, traction, waterproofing, and durability, with special attention paid to the big update in this shoe, its new Invisible Fit GORE-TEX waterproofing.
Performance in the field
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One of the great things about Oboz is that they build their shoes on gender-specific lasts to account for anatomical differences between women’s and men’s feet. They’re also one of the few brands that make fit really clear on their website. For the Katabatic, Oboz describes the shape as a “form-hugging heel cup, sculpted midfoot, and a generous forefoot and toe box,” although we’re not sure we’d agree on that characterization of the toe box, as we found it to feel narrow.
They publish detailed sizing info using the Brannock Device (that old metal tool you find at shoe stores). Both women’s and men’s models come in regular and wide widths: women’s standard fits are B in the heel and C in the forefoot (D for wide), while men’s are C in the heel and D in the forefoot (EE for wide). There are also volume differences: standard works for medium-volume feet, while wide accommodates higher-volume feet or feet with high arches or bunions.
In our testing, the length ran true to size and Oboz’s width advice was spot on. Our men’s tester, with average-width, medium-volume feet, found the Katabatic LT Low GTX comfortable right out of the box and ready to hike in. I have a higher-volume, wide foot (a D on the Brannock) and regret not going with the women’s wide. I had worn the regular width on the previous Katabatic model without issue, but the new model feels more narrow through the forefoot. On our first hike—a five-mile rocky and rooty loop around Brohm Lake—my outer toes were tingling by the end, a clear indication that the standard width wasn’t roomy enough.
The takeaway: trust the Oboz size chart, and if you’re at all on the edge, opt for the wide version.
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The Katabatic LT Low GTX’s sleek and sporty look is a bit deceiving because it feels much sturdier and more supportive than its lightweight build suggests. When we first put them on, we were surprised by how rigid they felt underfoot. Even the synthetic upper is more structured than it appears. That stiffness kept us stable over loose rock and uneven ground, giving us more control than super-cushioned shoes like the HOKA Anacapa 2 Low GTX or the On Cloudhorizon Waterproof (men’s and women’s). Although we did experience a couple of minor ankle rolls on one section of loose rocks.
The tradeoff is that while the Katabatic feels stable, it’s not the most forgiving over long days or hard, smooth ground. Hikers who prefer a softer, more cushioned ride may find the firmness leaves their feet feeling more worn out by the end. If stability is your priority, though, it’s a lightweight alternative to bulkier boots.
The Katabatic has an ACTEnergy midsole, which Oboz describes as a lightweight, cushioned EVA designed for agility and resilience. In our testing, we found it more firm than cushioned. The O-Fit insole, made by Ortholite specifically for the Oboz fit, delivered dependable arch support and a locked-in feel. A built-in rock plate underfoot added extra protection from sharp stones.
Our men’s tester had no issues, but I found the standard width toe box too narrow on the women’s model, and my outer toes went numb after just a couple of miles. In hindsight, I should have gone with the wide, so we really recommend paying attention to Oboz’s fit notes (although I wore the regular version in the previous model).
The tongue design is excellent: soft, padded micro-suede on top, moisture-wicking fabric on the bottom, and gusseted partway up to keep debris out. It hugs the foot nicely, and the extra lace eyelet lets you lock the heel down super securely (though we didn’t notice any heel slip to begin with).
Overall, they don’t feel as out-of-the-box comfy as they look. If you’re after a cushy, sneaker-style ride, these aren’t that. But if you want a low hiker that leans toward the structure and rigidity of a boot, the Katabatic LT Low GTX might be exactly what you’re looking for.
We tested the older Katabatic in our Best Men’s Hiking Shoes and Best Women’s Hiking Shoes guides, and that version felt more universally accommodating with a slightly less stiff sole. This new model feels like it has a narrower, more specific fit, but for the right feet, it’ll feel like your own Cinderella slipper.
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The Katabatic LT Low GTX utilizes Oboz’s Trail Tread eco rubber compound, which we found does an adequate job of keeping you secure and upright on slippery trail sections. We felt surefooted across most of the terrain we tested—steady and predictable on rain-covered grass and slick rocks, with only the occasional slip on truly tricky surfaces (like an algae-coated bridge). It doesn’t have the frog-like stickiness you get with Vibram Megagrip (like on the Danner Trail 2650 GTX), but the grip feels consistent and reliable.
The outsole has plenty of bite, with lugs that dig in on dirt and mud but don’t feel clunky on rock. After several outings, the outsole also showed almost no signs of wear, which makes us think these will stay grippy for many miles to come.
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The big update with the new waterproof Katabatic LT Low GTX is Oboz’s switch from their in-house B-Dry system to GORE-TEX Invisible Fit. With the Invisible Fit, the GORE-TEX membrane is directly bonded to the upper, removing layers to cut weight and improve breathability. The result is a waterproof shoe that stays comfortable in real heat while still sealing out water on wet, muddy, or rainy days.
In our “two-minute test”—standing in rushing river water up to the lowest point of the collar for two minutes—water beaded right off the shoes with no leaks or saturation. The microfiber on the upper showed a touch of surface dampness, but it dried quickly once we were back on the trail. In our testing, the waterproofing on the Katabatic performed just as well as the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX (also uses GORE-TEX).
Breathability was better than we expected for a waterproof shoe. The synthetic mesh upper let enough air move through that even on August hikes with temps hovering near 100°F, our feet didn’t feel sweaty.
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The Oboz Katabatic LT Low GTX is obviously not as burly as a leather boot, but it’s far more tough and protective than your average trail runner. The mesh upper is reinforced with TPU overlays (a thin layer of thermoplastic polyurethane that’s bonded onto the shoe’s upper mesh fabric) that act as a tough “skin” to reinforce high-wear areas. It also adds structure so the shoe holds its shape. The TPU provides abrasion resistance against rocks and brush, and since it’s bonded and not stitched on, there are fewer spots for dirt and grime to sneak in. After plenty of rocky and thorny scrapes, we saw no nicks in the overlays.
A solid rubber toe cap and extra rubber wrapping the front and heel offer even more protection and durability to the shoe. The midsole is starting to show the faintest bit of compression after just a handful of hikes, but that’s par for the course with lightweight EVA. They’re also easy to wipe clean.
Overall, it’s one of the most protective synthetic hikers we’ve tested, and despite its streamlined look, this shoe feels ready to handle multiple seasons of heavy trail use.
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Oboz lists the Katabatic LT Low GTX at 1 lb 4.6 oz per pair for women and 1 lb 7.6 oz per pair for men. Our women’s size 7.5 came in at 1 lb 6 oz, and our men’s size 11.5 predictably came in slightly heavier than the listed weight at 1 lb 10 oz. That puts them right in the same ballpark as other lightweight hikers like the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX—somewhat heavier than stripped-down trail runners, but still way lighter than traditional hiking boots.
On the trail, that extra weight translates to more protection and stability, which we found well worth it when scrambling over roots and rocks, but not as worth it if you really value a cushy ride. They’re light enough to toss in a pack, and sturdy enough that we’d trust them on most trail conditions. Compared to the competition, the Katabatic LT strikes a nice middle ground: not ultralight, but balanced for the stability they provide underfoot (although I’d still reach for my X Ultra 5s if given the choice).
Features
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The Katabatic LT Low GTX uses a pretty standard lace setup, with an extra eyelet at the top if you want to really lock down your heel. The laces themselves are thin and flat, which makes them easy to cinch tightly and they stay tied. Another tiny detail we appreciate: there’s a mini elastic loop at the bottom of the laces for hooking on gaiters or rain pants.
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Both our testers praised how well they could lock their heels down in the Katabatic, and neither experienced any heel slippage.The shape of the heel cup coupled with the O-Fit insole contours around the foot and gives your heel something to press back against. The ankle collar’s light padding keeps everything feeling snug without tightening too much or digging in. That secure heel-lock really makes a difference when you're ascending a steep climb, because it cuts down on slippage and rubbing.
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The Katabatic has a solid rubber toe cap, and Oboz has also built up the sides with a bit of textured rubber, adding extra abrasion resistance where the upper would normally take a beating. We like that they’re built up where they need it, but not overbuilt for the job.
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The Katabatic LT Low GTX looks every bit the part of a hiking shoe: sporty and functional, but not trying to be trendy. Most colors are muted and understated (with a couple leaning towards drab), with one or two bolder colors. They don’t have the street-style cred of a Salomon or Danner, but they deliver a classic, trail-ready look that’s squarely in the hiking shoe camp.
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The Katabatic LT Low GTX is one of the stronger sustainability picks in the hiking shoe space. It uses a 100% recycled polyester mesh upper, a 15% recycled rubber outsole, and PFAS-free waterproofing—yet still feels durable.
On the brand side, Oboz is now a certified B Corp and is making better packaging choices. It’s not perfect (no resale or recycling program yet), but compared to most hiking shoes, this one lands in the greener camp. To find out how Oboz is meeting its goals, read their 2024 Sustainability Report.
Similar products
Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX
MSRP: $170
Weight (pair): 1 lb 10.8 oz (men's), 1 lb 6.6 oz (women's)
Upper: Synthetic/textile
Midsole: EnergyCell
Outsole: All Terrain Contragrip rubber
Waterproofing: GORE-TEX
The Katabatic LT Low GTX and the X Ultra 5 GTX sit in the same category: dependable low hiking shoes built for everything from day trips to light backpacking on mixed terrain. They’ve both been among our top favorite hiking shoes for years. Among the several strengths they share is that they both offer solid protection, stability on rocky terrain, have reliable waterproofing, and handle most hiking conditions well.
That said, if you want something that edges ahead in comfort, the Salomon X Ultra 5 may be the better pick. We found the fit more accommodating, it offered more forgiving cushioning underfoot, and the styling transitions really well from trail to town. If you're prioritizing all-day comfort, we think the Salomon edges out, but if you like a more sculpted fit with a firmer feel underfoot, opt for the Katabatic.
Learn more in our in-depth review of the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX hiking shoes.
Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX
Men's
Women's
Oboz Sawtooth II Low Waterproof
MSRP: $145
Weight (pair): 2 lb 2.8 oz (men's), 1 lb 11.4 oz (women's)
Upper: Nubuck leathre, textile
Midsole: EVA
Outsole: Rubber
Waterproofing: B-DRY
If you like the Oboz fit and the idea of a hiker that can flex between harder day hikes and backpacking, but want something burlier, the Oboz Sawtooth II Waterproof is a classic. The leather upper is rugged yet still fairly nimble for a leather shoe. If you tend to put hard miles on your hiking shoes, it’s a real workhorse—heavier than the Katabatic, but built to last for many years.
Oboz Sawtooth II Low Waterproof
men's
Women's
Who should buy the Oboz Katabatic LT Low GTX Hiking Shoes
Buy if you want a lightweight shoe that still leans toward the support and protection of a boot. It’s a good fit for day hikers and weekend backpackers tackling mixed terrain and who value stability and durability over a plush ride. With GORE-TEX waterproofing, a sturdy midsole, and a protective upper reinforced with rubber and TPU, it’s also a solid pick for anyone hiking in climates where dry feet and dependable traction matter.
Wide and standard widths mean most foot shapes can find a match, and we think people with average or narrow feet will likely appreciate the precise fit. Though hikers with wide or high-volume feet should pay close attention to Oboz’s fit notes, and will probably want to opt for the wide version.
Skip if you want max-cushion comfort, or if you mostly hike in hot, dry climates where a non-waterproof shoe will feel cooler (there is a men’s Katabatic non-waterproof version as well as the women’s Katabatic non-waterproof version). Ultralight backpackers looking for a true trail runner feel may also find it too structured and firm.
Where to buy
The Oboz Katabatic LT Low GTX hiking shoes 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; 10% dividend for members.
Amazon
Pros: Free 2-day shipping with Amazon Prime membership.
Why you should trust us / About the Author
I’ve spent nearly a decade testing and reviewing outdoor gear for leading publications including Treeline Review, The New York Times’ Wirecutter, Outside Magazine, The Wall Street Journal Buy Side, REI Co-op, and Forbes Vetted. I’ve interviewed dozens of industry experts over the years, and hiked in 50+ pairs of hiking shoes and boots, logging plenty of trail miles in the Pacific Northwest and beyond. I understand that there’s no one best pair of hiking shoes for everybody, but there is the best pair for you, and I’m here to help you find it.
