Berghaus Hillmaster II Gore-Tex Boots

Want to look like Indiana Jones but discover the Holy Grail in superior comfort? Well, Berghaus might just have the answer. The Hillmaster IIs offer a classic design that seamlessly integrates the modern features of a technical hiking boot.

The timeless exterior conceals a Gore-Tex membrane for superior waterproofing (whilst still allowing your feet to breathe) and a memory foam inner that ensures a tailored fit. Additionally, if you flip them over, you’ll recognise industry-leading Vibram rubber outer soles (and a shock-absorbing mid-sole), which are a benchmark for support and durability in the mountains. A full-grain leather upper is quintessential to the boot’s overall ascetic whilst offering protection against impact and abrasion.

The Hillmaster made its debut in 1994, and I appreciate the way Berghaus has managed to retain an ageless design, continually incorporating the latest in hiking innovations. I’ve worn these boots for the best part of two years in both extreme cold/hot climates and have to say I’m impressed. In -24 degrees, my feet were kept warm and dry (especially when coupled with quality hiking socks). During hot multi-day summer hiking trips, I found the boots extremely comfortable, supportive, and surprisingly breathable.

If I were to offer some criticism, I’d argue that the ‘comfortable straight out of the box’ claims are true over short distances but took several weeks of regular hiking before I had zero discomfort. Moreover, these boots are quite heavy compared to many summer ‘fast hike’ boots and would probably feel cumbersome for more technical scrambling.

 

The Berghaus Hillmasters harmoniously incorporate the latest innovations in outdoor footwear into a classic design that’s ready for adventures big and small. I’m yet to find the Holy Grail, but I have certainly found one of my favourite hiking boots to date.

$225 | www.berghaus.com (International Shipping )

 

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No money in the bank, but gas in the tank. Our resident Bikepacking Editor Jack Mac is an exploration photographer and writer living full-time in his 1986 Vanagon Syncro but spends most days at the garage pondering why he didn’t buy a Land Cruiser Troopy. If he’s not watching the Lord of the Rings Trilogy, he can be found mountaineering for Berghaus, sea kayaking for Prijon, or bikepacking for Surly Bikes. Jack most recently spent two years on various assignments in the Arctic Circle but is now back in the UK preparing for his upcoming expeditions—looking at Land Cruisers. Find him on his website, Instagram, or on Facebook under Bicycle Touring Apocalypse.