Boots seem to range from tennis shoe knock offs or some super-beefy boots that feel like your walking on 2x4s. Well, there are reasons for both boots and just because they are both classified as hiking boots they are far from being the same. When looking at hiking boots the first thing a consumer should do is to decide on what kind of hiker they are. Some people would like to have a single boot for all uses, not possible. The upper is usually made of leather or a combination of fabric and leather.
Leather is the most durable, form fitting, and waterproof material available.
Full-grain is the outside layer from the cow's hide. This grain is most durable against abrasion and water penetration. Any layer that is not from the outside layer of the hide is considered to be a split-grain. Split-grain layers are softer, breathe better, and stretch easily. The insole comes in direct contact with the foot and can be inserted or taken out of the boot.