Salomon Quest 4 GTX Review: A Backpacking Boot That Does It All

Some boots are for fast day hikes; the Salomon Quest 4 GTX is for the days when your pack weighs 40 pounds and the trail keeps climbing. Over 300 miles carrying real loads, it delivered the support and stability that make long trips bearable.

Our verdict

Salomon Quest 4 GTX

Salomon

A do-it-all backpacking boot with the support for big loads and the comfort for long miles. Our top boot for multi-day trips.

$230

Check price at REI· $230

Also at Backcountry ($230)

What worked

• Excellent support under heavy loads
• Grippy Contagrip outsole
• Comfortable out of the box
• Reliable GORE-TEX waterproofing

What didn't

• Warm in summer heat
• Chunky for lighter trips

Weight

2 lb 14 oz (pair, M9)

Waterproof

GORE-TEX

Support

High-cut, stiff midsole

Outsole

Contagrip

Support and stability

A stiff midsole and high cuff lock your ankle in place under load without feeling like a ski boot. On off-camber, rocky terrain, that support pays dividends.

Comfort and fit

Unusually comfortable straight out of the box — I did a 12-mile day on the first outing with no hot spots. Salomon's lacing lets you cinch the ankle independently of the forefoot.

The trade-off

All that GORE-TEX and structure runs warm and heavy. For fast summer trips with a light pack, a trail shoe is the better call. But for hauling, this is our top pick.