Innovatively designed with a lower-slung profile than most conventional hiking boots the Merrell Switchback boot gives you superb support wrapped up in a one-piece waterproof leather upper. It's an exceptional boot for summertime day hikes and all but the wettest backpacking trips. Merrell Switchback 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 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. If you're looking for a similar design with waterproof and breathable protection for weathering protracted storms consider Merrell's Switchback Gore-Tex® hiking boot.