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Three Things To Know:
- Surprisingly light for leather boots - making long hikes more comfortable without sacrificing support
- Solid waterproofing - they’ll keep your feet dry in very wet conditions
- Breathable - for leather hiking boots these are surprisingly breathable and good for both summer and winter walks
Our Rating:
Comfort and Fit
Waterproofing and Weather Resistance
Durability and Materials
Weight and Flexibility
I’ve been a loyal Hi-Tec user for over a decade, and my first pair took me through the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal without a single blister and zero break-in time. They’re pretty battered now, but I still wear them to festivals and they’re somehow still comfortable. So when I saw the lighter version, the Hi-Tec Women’s Ravine Lite Boots, I had to give them a try. Here’s how they performed over multiple walks in a range of conditions.
Comfort and Fit
Right out of the box, the Ravine Lite boots felt familiar in the best way, no stiff leather, no awkward pressure points. The padded collar and tongue add to the comfort, and I didn’t get any rubbing, even on longer hikes, and the Direct attach dual density PU midsole / outsole ensures long term cushioning with added flexibility when walking.
The fit is true to size for me, with enough room in the toe box to avoid any squashing on downhill sections. They’re snug around the ankle without being restrictive, which gave me confidence on uneven ground. I wore them on multiple day hikes and didn’t need to break them in, and they were comfortable from the first walk.
Waterproofing and Weather Resistance
I’ve worn the Ravine Lite boots through wet grass, muddy trails, and a few steady downpours, and so far, they’ve kept my feet completely dry. The Dri-Tec waterproof membrane does a solid job of sealing out moisture without making the boots feel sweaty or heavy.
After splashing through shallow streams and walking in persistent drizzle, I didn’t feel any dampness seeping through. They’ve also held up well in colder weather, keeping my feet warm and insulated without needing thick socks.
One thing I would say is that if like me, you use one boot to take off the other one, be aware that the scuff box on the toe box will come loose and the waterproofing at the front will be compromised.
Durability and Materials
The build quality of the Ravine Lite boots feels solid, lightweight, but not flimsy. The stitching is neat and secure, and I’m always a fan of a single piece leather design, as there is a lesser chance of wear and tear, and the full-grain leather upper has held up well against scuffs and scrapes from rocky paths and brush.
After several hikes in mixed terrain, the soles show minimal wear and the lacing hardware still feels sturdy. They’re clearly built to last, and while they don’t have the heft of a heavy-duty boot, they’ve handled everything I’ve thrown at them so far. I’d trust them for regular weekend hikes and multi-day treks without hesitation, and as I mentioned their non-lightweight relatives held up incredibly well on a two week trek in the Himalayas, and on many other occasions.
Weight and Flexibility
One of the first things I noticed about the Ravine Lite boots was how much lighter they felt compared to my older, heavier hiking boots. They strike a nice balance – light enough that I don’t feel dragged down on long walks, but still solid enough to offer proper support. The sole has just the right amount of flex, which makes walking feel more natural, especially on uneven ground. I never felt stiff or clunky, even on uphill climbs or longer days out.
For boots made of soft, oiled full grain leather, these boots are remarkably lightweight, weighing in at roughly 400 grams per boot.
Grip and Traction
On recent hikes through mixed terrain, muddy paths, rocky ridges and damp grass they performed really well. I felt steady, even when the ground got uneven or slippery. While they don’t have Vibram soles (as seen on some Ravine models), the rubber compound on the Lite version held well, never clogged, and gave consistent grip. It’s not top-of-the-range, but for a lightweight waterproof boot, the traction exceeded expectations.
Value For Money
At £120.00 these are mid–range, but the durability on these lightweight boots combined with the immediate comfort, is definitely worth the money
Sustainability
These boots are not marketed as "eco‑made," but they’re clearly built to last, which aligns with a practical form of sustainability. If you’re looking for models with certified recycled content or a full circular design, Hi‑Tec has other lines that may fit the bill.
Should You Buy It?
If you want straightforward, well‑made hiking boots that you can rely on season after season, the Ravine Lite holds its ground.
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Find more in our guide to the best walking boots.
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