Are Bean Boots good for backpacking?

Answer 1

No. Not the traditional LL Bean rubber bottom/leather top boot. They are good for walking in the snow and slush and mud...and that's about it.

A good backpacking boot is made of leather. Suede or Full-Grain Leather are the most common types. Nubuck leather is also popular.

The sole on Bean Boots is not designed to take the abuse of the trail. It is designed to keep water from getting to your feet...and they also are lousy on ice. You want a boot with a Vibram Rubber sole. The traditional LL Bean Hunting Boot lacks this.

I own Limmer Standard full-grain backpacking boots. These have a stitched sole which can be replaced when I wear it out. They do not have a Gore-Tex liner but are waterproof due to the waterproofing wax I use. I don't suggest you buy these boots as they are rather expensive and you shouldn't drop a boatload of bling for boots if you are not serious. I get paid to hike so it's a different ball of wax for me.

You should be looking for something from any of the following companies:

Asolo, Danner, LaSportiva or Vasque for all-leather boots. If you are looking for lighter-weight hiking boots that will hold up on short backpacking trips try Garmont, Merrell, Asolo, or The North Face. Eastern Mountain Sports and REI have excellent boot selections. If you have one of those stores near you I advise you to check out the boots and speak to one of their bootfitters.

It is my professional assesment that companies who cater more to hunters, fishermen, and the casual outdoorsman rarely put out good hiking and backpacking shoes. LL Bean makes a lot of great products (and I own a lot of Bean clothes!) but I've been always less than impressed by their footwear in general.

Answer 2

Ll Bean Hiking Boots