The North Face Ultra Fastpack II Mid GTX Hiking Boot - Women's

Field Notes: These boots were tested on scorching desert days and chilly nights deep in the canyon. The Fast Pack saw mud, snow, dirt and rock as testers wore it in both backpacking and hiking scenarios. 

Pros: This North Face boot is properly named as it’s sleek, light and ready for speed-oriented days on the trail. As with the Hokas, it feels like a running shoe modified to succeed as a hiker. Climbing the steepest trail in Canyonlands National Park, the tester noted the lightness on her feet. The GORE-TEX liner and synthetic mesh uppers meant excellent breathability, making it the preferred model on hot days.

Cons: Comfort wasn’t the strength of the Fast Pack GTX boots with extra-hard fabric connecting the tongue to the boot, resulting in an awkward, pinching sensation. When compared to the Keen or Hoka models, support and grip were lacking.

Favorite Feature: The mesh uppers were a breath of fresh air when testing these boots in the desert. Hot days and tough trails turn a boot into a swampy greenhouse, but these breathable uppers cycled out moisture better than any other women’s boot tested. 

Tester Quote: “They’re great for warm weather hiking on mellower trails, but I wish they had better grip and a more comfortable tongue.

Bottom line: If they fit properly, these lightweight boots are well suited for fast packing.