Feet, meet tank. For hikers heading into areas with notoriously rocky trails, the Arete Mid is our choice for keeping your toes from harm. A dense forefoot EVA plate prevents bruising, and a welded TPU toecap guarantees stone-kicking security. Plus, the upper has TPU overlays that shield your feet from knocks and prevent any abrasion—making the Arete Mid perfect for folks who like to take big trips off the beaten path. “On a three-day, 30-mile trip through the Ansel Adams Wilderness my feet never hurt in any way, and I was able to enjoy some of the most beautiful scenery in the country,” said one tester after tackling miles of sharp Sierra granite.

Read the complete review in the Backpacker Gear Guide 2020.

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