A stability shank might not be stiff enough for higher-level adventures, but it’s enough for casual rambles in comfort – a featherweight 332 grams per shoe certainly won’t tire you unnecessarily. Keen’s signature wide toe box is also present and correct, ensuring that the wide forefoot doesn’t get cramps or hotspots. Breathability is decent thanks to the mesh upper, and there’s an environmental nod in the PFC-free water repellent to boot.

The two key things to prioritise when hunting for the best hiking boot for you: findingthe right boot style for the activity and getting a really good fit for your individual foot shape. The fit will vary by brand and style of boot, with some coming up much narrower (or broader) in the midfoot than others. The insole is particularly comfortable and seems to hug the sole of the foot, whilst also offering excellent underfoot comfort. The Keen NXIS is a fairly stiff shoe, with a solid outsole. The upper is also pretty stiff, too, with a robust and durable layered mesh, plus plenty of protection thanks to an oversized toe cap and a rand at the forefoot and the heel. The tread is sufficient for trails and paths but it has only 4mm lugs, so these shoes do not offer the best traction in mud or on steep and wet slopes. The waterproof membrane certainly does its job. We particularly like that the tongue is gusseted from top to bottom and the membrane extends right throughout it meaning you can pretty much submerse these boots right up to the top of the ankle cuff before water starts seeping in. On the flip side, breathability was quite good thanks to the NXIS EVO’s mesh-heavy upper. Temperatures in Patagonia were quite mild, hovering in the low 50s to 60s Fahrenheit, and the boots predictably kept my feet comfortable. It hasn’t been warm enough to truly test their limits yet, but I expect them to be plenty breathable for most shoulder-season and summertime hiking (although I’d still opt for a non-waterproof shoe in truly hot temps).They are lightweight, nimble, 100% waterproof and a super comfy cushioned sole. What I don’t love so much about the Keen NXIS EVO Waterproof Boots

Fit is on the smaller end (especially lengthwise), and the connected tongue makes it difficult to get the boots on. The first and perhaps most obvious thing to say is that they are ridiculously comfortable. I don’t think I’ve written a review of KEEN footwear without using the phrase ’slipper-like comfort’ to describe how unusually un- hiking-boot-like their shoes feel on your feet. So it was reassuring, if not surprising, to discover that the NXIS EVOs continue that heritage. It’s not always easy to balance this level of comfort with the kind of protection you need from a versatile hiking boot, and while KEEN have certainly managed to do just that hugely successfully in the past, this new boot takes it to a new level. The Keen NXIS EVO Waterproof Boots are best for 3 season trail walking and come in all sizes, for men and women. I am hugely impressed by these boots. I love their low weight, excellent grip, high levels of comfort and waterproofing. I also think that they are very reasonably priced, given their quality and comfort and especially being waterproof. KEEN boots are consistently high on quality, and the NXIS EVO is no exception. Despite their lightweight build, the boots feel relatively uncompromised: The front of the foot is protected by a burly toe cap that guards against direct hits, while the upper is made of tightly woven mesh that’s highly abrasion-resistant and protected by generous TPU overlays. All of the smaller components are equally well sorted, including high-quality laces and metal eyelets that are holding up well thus far. I’ll follow up here as I continue testing, but all signs are positive that they’ll have a long and healthy lifespan—which isn’t always the case with hiking boots this light. The Salomon Predict Hike Mid is a boot with plenty of bounce. In the manner of a Hoka One One model (although without the head-turning looks), these really do bounce you onwards with each stride, especially on harder surfaces. The sole unit is fairly still but flexes enough to contribute to the bouncy ride. The build quality is solid, with the mid-height cut delivering ankle support, and the Gore-Tex keeps rain at bay effectively.

Despite being inspired by a traditional leather boot, the NXIS EVO has a very sleek and modern design. Looking at competitors, we’d be remiss not to include KEEN’s Targhee III WP Mid, which served as the inspiration for the NXIS EVO. However, it’s important to note that the two have very different intentions: While the NXIS EVO prioritizes weight above all else, the Targhee is a slightly lighter take on a traditional hiking boot. The leather upper and sturdy outsole aren’t particularly streamlined, but advantages include better stability over rough terrain, great long-term durability, and impressive all-around protection. The Targhee also boasts good out-of-the-box comfort thanks to its wide toe box (similar to the NXIS EVO) and softer materials underfoot. For just a few ounces more, we think most hikers will still prefer the Targhee.

With generous space for toes to spread out, the toe box also offers high levels of protection around and under the front of the foot. The split toe design is a bit of a curve-ball on the classic Keen bumper design. Cushioning

Keen NXIS EVO Waterproof Boots: The stats

The Acrux LT GTX is a modern climbing and mountaineering boot with excellent heel-to-toe rigidity, which can take a crampon. Primarily designed for three-season alpine conditions – balancing protection, technical capability and durability with remarkably low weight – the boot has a precise feel and delivers superb climbing performance, with or without a crampon fitted.