Hi-Tec Altitude V Review

The Hi-tec Altitude V is an inexpensive all leather hiking boot. It scored higher across our metrics than the similar Timberland White Ledge, and is the most durable of the cheapest products.

Performance Comparison

Comfort

This product is comfy and well-padded around the ankle (throughout actually), but we found our test model a bit roomy for narrow feet. The best fit is likely for folks with average to wide feet wearing a thick sock. Four lower and two upper eyelets let you snug this boot up on the foot; however, none of these eyelets has a positive lock, which limits your ability to adjust the fit. We also found the the leather upper quite stiff at first, making it difficult to snug this model up until it breaks in a little. The Altitude's breathability is not as good as the lighter and less bulky Timberland White Ledge.

Stability

Stability is where the Altitude really shines relative to its weight. The midsole is fairly stiff, and the thick outsole adds to the under foot stiffness. While this boot is of average width at the forefoot, the heel is wider than than most. Ankle stability is pretty good in this model, despite the fact that the ankle collar is cut lower than other midweight boots. Hi-Tec uses a lot of leather on this upper at the ankle, providing good lateral support, while the allowing easy flexion.

Traction

Our tests suggest that the Altitude's soles are not quite up to Vibram par. We had a few instances of slipping on wet granite where Vibram soles performed well days before. This model's sole performed well on dry terrain, and OK in the mud.

Weight

Our size 12 test pair weighed in at 2.89 lbs, making it the lightest of the midweight hikers.

Water Resistance

The full leather upper of this product, with a minimal number of seams, contributes to good water resistance. After a few months of testing, the leather was still beading water in spots, but soaking it up in high scuff areas. The Altitude V is one of only two products we tested that uses a proprietary waterproof membrane rather than Gore-Tex. This certainly helps Hi-Tec make a more affordable boot, but we found it leaked a little around the base of the tongue if we stood in the water for more than a few minutes.

Durability

We consider the Altitude V to deliver good durability relative to its price; it certainly is built with longer lasting features than the similarly priced White Ledge and Moab Ventilator. The leather upper can handle abrasion against rocky terrain and the lack of seams at the forefoot flex point means no seams to fail at this common wear area. Our impression from a few months testing is that this sole will wear down faster than average.

Best Applications

The Altitude V is a good choice for cool-weather hiking, but really stands out as an affordable and durable light work boot. It is a bit on the heavy side relative to its hiking performance, but the Altitude's thick upper and full boot padding are warmer than similar products. We would not recommend this boot for full winter conditions, however.

Value

At $100 full retail, this is a great product for the price. While we prefer other products for most of our hiking and backpacking adventures, this boot is durable and supportive relative to the affordable price.

Conclusion

The affordable Hi-Tec Altitude V Waterproof is a great everyday, lightweight boot for folks that work outside, and can handle day hiking and short backpacking trips. The full leather upper is more durable for rough use than similarly light products.

Other Versions

• Low cut version of this boot

• waterproof

• Great lightweight hiking shoe

• $95

• Suede and synthetic uppers

• Same underfoot components as the Altitude

• Waterproof

• $90