Name: La Sportiva TX Hike Mid Leather GTX
Brand: La Sportiva

When I first laid eyes on the TX Hike Mid Leather GTX, I thought they were going to feel stiff and clunky, but I was completely off. These are some of the most comfortable hiking boots I have ever worn. On my first outing with the TX Hike, I hiked 12 miles of gradually ascending trail to Navajo Lake in Colorado and experienced no break-in period—the boot felt light and cushioned from the get-go. Ever since this has been my go-to footwear for everything from longer days in the high country to short hikes in town. I just wish I had the TX Hike when I backpacked the 486-mile Colorado Trail!

The TX Hike’s roomy fit is another secret to its comfort. The boot is a spinoff of La Sportiva’s already-roomy TX approach shoe series but adds 15 millimeters of circumference at the midfoot and 10 millimeters of height at the forefoot. This was all joy to my feet, which I consider to be fairly average-sized. The extra space is ideal for accommodating swollen feet, and in my experience was not so much room that my feet felt like they were swimming (the secure lock at the midfoot and heel helped). I found that this comfort level and solid fit lent itself to developing a trusting relationship with the boots—I knew they would hold my feet tight and offer a just-right balance of stability and flexibility, even on challenging terrain.

Hiking through green meadow in the La Sportiva TX Hike Leather Hiking Boot

My priorities in a hiking boot include ankle support and a stiff but pliable sole, and the TX Hike Leather Mid GTX delivers on both of these fronts. In my opinion, they have the perfect amount of stability: Underfoot, they’re considerably stiffer than a trail runner but not as stiff as what you’d get with a traditional leather hiking boot. What’s more, the midsole and upper are supple enough to allow for a natural stride. And while the collar does not extend as high as other boots I’ve worn, it certainly offers a step up in ankle support compared to a low-top hiking shoe.

I wore the TX Hike on a five-day, 40-mile trip in Utah’s Dark Canyon Wilderness with a 45-pound pack. The boots offered confidence-inspiring stability for the varying terrain, which included a mix of sandstone, packed dirt, sand, and rocky river beds. Another one of our testers loves the TX Hike for alpine terrain ranging from smooth granite boulders to loose scree to snow crossings. For her, it’s the perfect balance of stability and agility: The boot offers enough structure for steady foot placements and kicking steps in snow while still being nimble and responsive enough for boulder hopping and the odd section of scrambling.

While Better Trail’s testing team has a lot of praise for the TX Hike’s stability, it’s important to note that some hikers might want a stiffer boot. This ultimately comes down to a matter of personal preference. Some folks feel more confident on loose, challenging terrain with a solid platform and stiff midsole and upper, while others prefer more flexibility and agility. If you’re looking for a sturdier boot, check out the La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX or the Lowa Renegade Evo GTX (read our Renegade review).

One of the TX Hike Mid Leather’s strengths is its traction, which is no surprise given La Sportiva’s roots in the climbing world. The boot features Vibram Ecostep Evo rubber with 5-millimeter lugs and an Impact Brake System—fancy terminology for a tread pattern on the heel that bites into the ground and absorbs impact while descending. In practice, the outsole performed swimmingly on everything I threw at it, from steep gravel sections to stream crossings, mud, packed dirt, and talus. I felt secure through the range of terrain and didn’t slip even when my hiking mates were faltering. And the TX Hike offers best-in-class traction on rock, thanks to the combination of its sticky outsole, smooth forefoot lugs, and some sensitivity (due to the boot not being particularly stiff).

La Sportiva TX Hike Mid Leather GTX outsole traction

The TX Hike Mid Leather is built with weight savings in mind, which doesn’t always translate to impressive durability. However, it’s still well-made and features a leather upper, which is generally more durable than synthetic materials. After 100 miles of hiking both on and off trail, my boots are in great condition and have barely any noticeable signs of wear. All told, I expect them to last me multiple seasons. I would anticipate that a thicker leather model would last even longer, but the TX Hike offers above-average durability for hiking boots in its weight range.

Another one of our testers has used the TX Hike Mid Leather extensively with aluminum strap-on crampons and has been impressed with how well the roughout leather has handled the extra wear. Whereas other footwear (especially synthetic boots and shoes) can thin and abrade when worn with crampons, the TX Hike has handled the additional abuse with aplomb.

The TX Hike Mid offers fairly middling foot protection when compared to other hiking boots—more than trail-runner-inspired designs, but less than what you might get with a burlier boot like the Keen Targhee IV or La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX. Rather than a rubber rand or burly toe cap, the TX Hike Mid features leather reinforcements at the toe and heel, which is right in line with its minimalist vibe. These don’t offer the same level of confidence against toe stubs, but they were certainly enough for my uses. There’s also ample padding at the ankle to guard against sharp rocks and other trail obstacles and a sturdy cup at the heel that offers just enough protection for plunge-stepping down snow and scree. Finally, the outsole is firm enough to protect the foot from feeling the sharp points of most rocks and roots, but without totally eliminating the ability to feel the ground underfoot.

La Sportiva TX Hike Mid Leather GTX upper protection

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Longevity

Choosing durable outdoor gear is perhaps the most effective way to reduce environmental impact—the longer it lasts, the less it needs to be produced. Our proprietary longevity rating evaluates overall build quality based on factors such as materials, fabric denier, component durability (including zippers and toggles), real-world performance as reported by our field testers, and our experiences with the brand.

Read Sustainability Report

At just 1 pound 12.4 ounces for the women’s boot, the TX Hike Mid Leather GTX is lighter than your average hiking boot. For comparison’s sake, the popular Lowa Renegade Evo GTX and Hoka Kaha 3 GTX check in at 2 pounds 2.2 ounces and 2 pounds 1.6 ounces, respectively. On the other end of the spectrum are uber-lightweight designs like the Altra Lone Peak Hiker 3 (1 lb. 8 oz.) and Merrell Moab Speed 2 Mid GTX (1 lb. 8.7 oz.; reviewed here). In my opinion, the TX Hike Mid’s weight lands in a nice zone: The boots feel lightweight and nimble underfoot, but are still very capable in technical terrain.

Leaping across the stream in the Sportiva TX Hike Leather Hiking Boot

Waterproof Liner
The TX Hike Mid Leather GTX features a Gore-Tex membrane for protection against moisture, whether it be mud, water, or snow. Not only did this membrane provide foolproof waterproofing throughout my testing, but it also proved very breathable. Hiking to Navajo Lake, the trails were wet from a recent summer rain shower, and I hiked confidently through streams and puddles. The boots were wet and caked in mud, but the insides were warm and dry. What’s more, I was working hard on the climbs and wearing thicker socks, and my feet didn’t grow damp or sweaty.

With a leather hiking boot like the TX Hike Mid Leather, you’ll want to maintain the upper to keep it from absorbing water. A soaked-through upper does not mean that your feet will get wet—the Gore-Tex membrane still blocks your feet from moisture—but it does mean the boot will feel heavy and overly pliable. Simple maintenance with applications of a leather conditioner like Granger’s Waterproof Wax will help the leather bead up moisture and sluff it off, rather than it soaking through.

Hiking through the stream in the La Sportiva TX Hike Leather Hiking Boot

walking through mud in the La Sportiva TX Hike Leather Hiking Boot

Lacing System
The TX Hike Mid Leather borrows its lacing from La Sportiva’s Trango Tech GTX mountaineering boot, with laces that extend further toward the forefoot than you see in most hiking boots. This means you get more adjustability throughout the length of the foot, which is great news for narrow-footed hikers who need to cinch down the circumference of the forefoot. The laces offer a secure lock, are easy to tighten, and don’t come undone like many round laces. The placement of the top lacing hooks was also clutch for me: My gait is such that a lot of boots will catch on the lace hook of my other foot, which usually results in an abrupt halt to my forward progress (and the odd faceplant). La Sportiva’s thoughtful placement of the TX Hike’s lace hooks mitigates this problem.

Tightening the laces on the La Sportiva TX Hike Leather Hiking Boot

Tester size: Between a women’s 7.5 and 8
Size tested: EU 39 (US women’s 7.5)

I generally am in between a women’s 7.5 and 8, and I sized the TX Hike Mid Leather on the smaller side of that range given its wide toe box. The boot fit remarkably well: The heel and midfoot felt snug, while my toes could still splay in the wide tox box. I had about a thumbnail’s worth of space between the tip of my toe and the tip of the boot, but even so, my foot did not move around thanks to the solid midfoot lock. The fit of these boots is slightly reminiscent of an Altra shoe, which is known for its roomy toe box. Narrow-footed hikers or those with low-volume feet might want to try on the TX Hike before they buy, as there’s a good chance it will be too spacious.

Sitting in the tent with the La Sportiva TX Hike Leather Hiking Boot

La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX ($239): A Level Up
Before the TX Hike there was the Nucleo (now the Nucleo II GTX). We like both boots for what each has to offer, but there are marked differences. The Nucleo has a high cut for more stability and is noticeably more protective thanks to thicker Nubuck leather and rubber rands. On the flipside, the TX Hike Leather feels noticeably more nimble and light on the feet, which we appreciate for long or quick days of travel. If you are hiking off-trail into rough terrain and/or want the extra security—or if the TX Hike is too wide in the toebox—the Nucleo is another nice option from this esteemed European footwear brand. For more, read our Nucleo High II GTX review.

Hoka Anacapa 2 Mid GTX ($195): A Different Take on Comfy
The TX Hike is one of the most comfortable boots that we’ve tested, but the Anacapa 2 Mid gives it a real run for its money. With Hoka’s trademark plush midsole foam, the Anacapa is noticeably more cushioned than the TX Hike. It keeps up in other departments too, with a sticky Vibram Megagrip outsole, Gore-Tex waterproofing, durable leather upper, and a surprisingly stiff feel given its trail-runner-like appearance. The TX Hike has a more grounded, planted feel that’s more stable and capable in truly rugged terrain; but on easy to moderate trails, the Anacapa offers unbeatable comfort. For more, read our review of the Hoka Anacapa 2 Mid GTX.

La Sportiva TX Hike Mid Leather GTX ($199)

La Sportiva TX Hike Mid Leather GTX hiking boot close up standing in stream.jpg

4.7/5

A spin-off of La Sportiva’s popular TX approach shoes, this minimalist leather boot is surprisingly capable in most terrain and conditions. You can find more protective or rugged models, but we appreciate the balance of comfort and performance of the TX Hike Mid.

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Terrain

Moderate

Weight

1 lb. 12.4 oz.

Waterproof

Yes

Upper

Leather

Comfort

4.5/5

Support and Stability

3/5

Traction

5/5

Durability

4/5

Foot Protection

3/5

Sustainability

4.3/5

La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX ($239)

Close up of La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX Hiking Boot

4.2/5

The Nucleo High II is La Sportiva’s modern take on the traditional leather hiking boot, with an emphasis on breathability and comfort. Their nimble, sticky, and protective personality makes them a great companion for above-treeline terrain, but the supple leather does compromise structure and support.

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Terrain

Moderate

Weight

1 lb. 10.8 oz.

Waterproof

Yes

Upper

Leather

Comfort

3.5/5

Support and Stability

4/5

Traction

4.5/5

Durability

4/5

Foot Protection

4/5

Sustainability

4.1/5

Hoka Anacapa 2 Mid GTX ($195)

Standing on a rock in the Hoka Anacapa 2 Mid hiking boot

4.7/5

For those who prioritize comfort, the Anacapa is a plush, breathable hiking boot from Hoka with a lot to like. Throw in a lower price tag than the Kaha line and a lighter weight, and we’re officially intrigued.

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Terrain

Easy/moderate

Weight

1 lb. 13.4 oz.

Waterproof

Yes (non-WP available)

Upper

Leather/synthetic

Comfort

5/5

Support and Stability

3/5

Traction

4/5

Durability

3.5/5

Foot Protection

3.5/5

Sustainability

4.6/5

Is the TX Hike Mid for You?

The La Sportiva TX Hike Mid Leather GTX is one of our favorite hiking boots to recommend, given that it’s ideal for a wide range of hikers. Those who stick to well-established trails will appreciate its approachable, comfort-focused design and deft balance of stability and flexibility. If you’re the type that frequents technical, rocky terrain, it can handle that too, thanks to its sticky Vibram outsole, durable leather upper, and close fit. Of course, you can go lighter or more nimble with boots like the Hoka Anacapa 2 Mid GTX and Merrell Moab Speed 2 Mid GTX; on the other hand, the Lowa Renegade Evo GTX is a stiffer ride that might offer more confidence in loose terrain. But for everything in between, the TX Hike is a wildly comfortable, capable, and versatile boot—and it's also available in a synthetic version.