Oboz Sawtooth

The Oboz Sawtooth hiking shoe isn't for everybody, but four out of eight testers in an expert review of these trail shoes declared them "the most comfortable low-topped hiking shoe they'd ever worn." A few users say the ankle was a little stiff at first, but it loosened up after a bit of wear. Experts report that the torsion-resistant sole feels "impenetrable" against rocks, and that unlike other light hikers, it doesn't get sloppy with extended wear.

One user reviewer logged an impressive 800 miles on the Appalachian Trail in a pair of Oboz Sawtooths before the rocks started to get to him. However, we did find a few complaints that the heel was too stiff or that a seam in the heel cup caused blisters. Although the grippy outsole is a high point for one expert reviewer, providing great grip in both wet and dry conditions on all types of terrain, several users point out that the sole wears quickly.

For a hiking shoe that gets a more unanimous positive recommendation, check out the Lowa Renegade II GTX Lo (*Est. $170) waterproof hiking shoe, which is also available in a Mid boot (*Est. $220) if you want more support. If waterproof isn't important to you, the Merrell Moab Ventilator (*Est. $90) is in the same price range as the Oboz Sawtooth and gets excellent reviews for summer use.

The most authoritative review of the Oboz Sawtooth comes from Backpacker magazine. The Seattle Times and The Gear Caster also provide useful expert reviews, and a couple dozen reviewers weigh in on REI.com.