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• 2> NIKE AIR TRIGO These were easily the most comfortable boot we tried for one main reason: they were less hiking boot-like than anything on our list. Rubberized heel and toe caps afford protection from roots and rocks, and an outsized lug pattern on the sole provides outstanding grip. The internal injected shank offers more stability than a standard runner making it great for day hikes, but it is not an ideal option if you are carrying a heavy pack. The Trigo does- n't offer the fortification of other boots, and would be as good as lost during a solid rain- storm (although a waterproof leather split version is planned for late 2001). As long as the conditions are appropriate, however, you would be hard-pressed to find something to make your feet love you more. Nike, www.nike.com. 31.8 oz, $70 The Storm GTX provides the ideal mix of mountain toughness and city smarts. The medi- um-low boot offers sleek lines and understated colors, while its traction and durability present plenty for the serious hiker. The worst rain Kalalau had to offer proved no match for the 2.2 millimeter waterproof Nubucklnylon outer layer and the three-ply Gore-Tex inner bootie. The midsole's full-length nylon protection plate keeps every step stable with decent flexibility, and the foot and arch supports help control friction and slippage. The deep-lugged outsole gives a lot of leeway to being flattened by city wear, and provides excellent traction on rain-slicked hills. Montrail, www.montraii.com. 36 oz, $125 4> TEVA VECTOR Some hearty locals traverse the Na Pali Coast in flip-flops and have more confidence with their footing than visitors adorned in the latest boot technology. Oh, what these people could do in Vectors. Once you put on this sandal, you may never find a reason to take it off. The soft rubber topsole and exceptional heel support make for an able summer hiker. You can tromp through river and stream knowing that your feet will be thoroughly dry after just a few minutes in the sun. And the Z-flex closed cell foot bed helps protect against bacteria growth. The Vector's upper straps are secured with a custom-molded cam lock closure that tightens easily in all the right places without a hint of constriction, and the double Velcro heel straps make for easy access and outstanding stability once they're tightened. All the materials are extremely durable and the sticky, proprietary Spider Rubber sole makes for great traction on Slippery surfaces. Teva, www.teva.com. 34 oz, $99.95 l'l 5> THE NORTH FACE SIERRA LOW The nearly all-leather surface area of this boot makes for a remarkable.Gomeina---- tion of protection in the wild and low-key coolon the style front. There are few seams and the stitching that does appear is sealed for water protection. Wicking linings keep feet dry. The full-length polyurethane midsole with a mid-foot shank offers cushioning and stability, and the deep-lugged outsole helped considerably in scrambles across loosely-graveled mountain ridges. The North Face, www.thenorthface.com. 40 oz, $85 6> LOWA TIOGA The Tioga is closer to a stra ight hiker than the other footwear in the test, but it's light enough for around-town wearing. The Tioga offers mid-top ankle support, 2 millimeter water-repellent Nubuk leather, toe and heel caps and a plastic stiff- ened midsole, all of which add up to an outstanding combination of stability and protection. The boot's comfort level diminished over long distances-the lack of cushioning was dearly missed at the end of several days of hiking- but the fit and stability was good enough to counteract much of that. And despite its lack of ounces, bring on the rocky, muddy trai l: the Tioga offers a tough exterior that's well-equipped to handle rugged terrain. Lowa, www.lowaboots.com. 33 OZ, $150