For fast paced hikers who want extra support from a lightweight boot, the Salomon Quest 4D GTX may be a perfect fit.

Just because you’re into paced hiking and backpacking doesn’t mean you should use a shoe that sacrafices support to save weight. Boot  designs have change drastically to meet the needs of high adrenaline hikers, and Solomon’s Quest 4D GTX is at the top of the list. The Quest 4D GTX is based off Salomon’s trail running shoe, so it is light but has internal 4D chassis mid-sole that offers a rigid structural support to prevent twisting and provide stability.

The Quest’s uppers are made from a durable suede leather, making it firmer in areas where extra support is needed. Other areas like the toe and heel, feature a rubber toe bumper that prevents scuffing on rocks but also helps cushion blows. The combination provides good water resistance, making the Quest 4D GTX function as a three-season boot.

We liked the fact that the boot has a Gore-Tex® liner and a gusseted tongue, both kept our feet dry while crossing deep streams. The boot’s Contagrip® outsole provided sturdy support with plenty of traction, giving us plenty of confidence in steep rocky terrain.

While we punished the Quest 4D GTX across a variety of snow, rock and sandy trails over the past fall and winter, the boots remained comfortable and true to women’s sizes with an appropriate light-hiker or medium-hiker padded sock. This is partly due to the boot’s heel foam and Ortholite® insole that has an antimicrobial and moisture wicking capabilities. We also liked that the boot’s Sensifit ankle support, that uses memory foam to gently cradle the ankle and provide enough support without causing any hot-spots that could turn into blisters.

At first glance the Quest 4D GTX looks like a typical hiking boot, but it actually weights a little over 20 ounces. We also liked the added arch support which can also help prevent foot fatigue over long hikes. After several days of  long hikes the Quest 4D GTX didn’t feel heavy or clunky and our feet were always dry and fresh the following morning.

We thought the plastic lace loops on the top of the shoe might not be rugged enough, but they held up to some abuse over plenty of rocks and dragging. The lace loops on the ankle portion of the boot are metal and we liked the fact that the laces never came loose and would tighten easily when we pulled on them. The Salomon Quest 4D GTX  price around $220 and are indeed one of the best fast-paced hiking boots we’ve tried. These boots are great for simple day hikes, to moderately and fast-paced hikes with a day-pack. They can also be used on fast-paced, overnight backpacking adventures with a light pack as they provide plenty of support and won’t hold you back. For more information, visit www.salomon.com.