Rated a "Best Buy" by Backpacker Magazine The North Face Men's Fortress Peak GTX Hiking Boot refines the classic one-piece full leather hiking boot design with plenty of comfort features. The structural integrity of one-piece leather hiking boots has never been disputed but some designs take seasons to break in properly. The North Face Men's Fortress Peak GTX Hiking Boot gives you a head start with ergonomic Heel X-2™ cushioning multi-density footbeds and an articulated TPU shank plate. That means that you'll probably spend more time admiring the natural scenery and less time hassling with the fit. Most one-piece leather hiking boots are waterproof but the Men's Fortress Peak GTX Hiking Boot is backed with a waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX® membrane for extra weather protection. Keep in mind that this boot is all leather--no mesh panels--so you probably won't notice much vapor transfer through the membrane compared to lighter hiking boots but you'll appreciate the extra durability if you plan on navigating serrated talus fields. Like other quality hiking boots from The North Face the Fortress Peak GTX Hiking Boot has a supportive Vibram® outsole with trail tread for optimal traction. It's a great balance of a classic idea infused with plenty of technical innovations.