Designed with a lower-slung profile than most conventional hiking boots the Merrell Switchback Gore-Tex® boot offers the support and waterproof protection essential for long day hikes and extended backpacking trips. Beneath the top grain leather upper is a waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex® fabric bootie that keeps the wet stuff out--even if you're spending a cloudy week beneath the canopy of the Hoh Rainforest in Olympic National Park. Merrell Switchback Gore-Tex® boots are nearly two pounds lighter than Merrell's mountaineering footwear but this design doesn't cut out the incredible support of the In-Board™ compression molded EVA footframe. One of the best features for long hauls is Merrell's Air Cushion® midsole a soft and resilient pocket of air that returns a portion of the energy you use in every stride. A molded backstay along your Achilles helps support foot placement while rubber toe bumpers repel unseen obstructions that rise up to meet you. The Switchback Gore-Tex® boot features Merrell's traditional hiking boot last so it fits best with midweight socks or your favorite combination of midweight socks and wicking liners.