Men’s LOWA Renegade GTX Review

Bottom Line

If you’re after rock-solid stability and all-terrain performance, the LOWA Renegade GTX is tough to beat. Of all the boots on our Best Men’s Hiking Boots guide, these are Senior Gear Analyst Ian Krammer’s favorites. He’s dragged them through 300+ miles of truly brutal terrain – from deep winter snow and whiteout conditions above 12,000 feet to sketchy, technical ridge scrambles. Their burly nubuck leather uppers make for seriously durable and comfy boots, and the tall ankles are protective but flexible. The Renegade’s lacing system is one of our favorites: they are highly adjustable to get a precise fit. The GORE-TEX liner keeps feet dry in wet and slushy conditions, and the outsoles earn top marks for dependable traction in most conditions. This combination of materials and performance doesn’t compromise weight, though – these boots are hefty but still lighter than some all-leather boots – and won’t weigh you down on long days.

However, this model has a few drawbacks. Like most leather boots, the Renegades can get uncomfortably hot above 75°F, so we don’t recommend them for summer temperatures at lower elevations and higher humidity. We also find the tight lug pattern, while sticky and dependable, tends to collect debris, making them a bit less effective on muddy trails. They also have a medium break-in period, so it takes around 10 to 15 miles before they begin to loosen around your foot. Finally, these boots are spendy – at $250, they aren’t the most accessible if you’re on a budget. But if you’re looking for boots that last season after season for carrying heavy loads and tackling any route – on or off trail – these are an investment that pay off in dividends.

Comfort

The LOWA Renegade GTXs earn top scores for comfort, especially on challenging terrain. The combination of thick nubuck leather uppers with soft nylon interiors offers a flexible but sturdy feel from the toe box through the ankle. The mid-cut ankle provides superb protection and stability, preventing fatigue during long, rough hikes. A plush tongue and excellent lacing system distributes pressure evenly, caters to different lacing patterns, and adjusts to dial in a perfect fit. The midsoles are firm, but have a bit of give that nails an exquisite balance between support and flexibility that makes these boots versatile and comfy in both rocky climbs and flat trails. The outsoles offer excellent traction with a slightly rockered toe that makes for a stable, comfortable stride on everything from sidehills and scrambles to steep routes and long, flat trails. No matter the distance, these boots will keep you comfy on rugged, technical trails.

But, all-leather boots like the Renegades require a bit of work. The leather uppers are durable, but they have a 10 to 15 mile break-in period before they begin to soften around your feet. Once they warm up to your foot shape, they fit exceptionally well. Our lead tester loves the Renegade’s build, but it can feel bulky and excessive on strictly flat and groomed trails, which could lead to discomfort after extended use. Not everyone needs a rigid boot –  the Renegades have excellent ankle support and protection, but they are burly compared to more flexible options made from synthetic materials. Finally, they have a dinky heel loop for helping you pull the boots on – it’s just big enough to fit a single finger through but tough to grab onto with gloves. However, none of these issues are deal breakers. They are comfy boots for most feet, and with sizes 7.5 to 15, these boots will fit just about everyone. 

Ankle Support

Few boots deliver the level of ankle support of the LOWA Renegade GTXs. Thanks to a tall ankle height, leather uppers, and a slim PU frame, the boot wraps securely around the ankle for a secure but flexible feel. The angled collar design adds flexibility, letting your ankle move naturally while still preventing ankle rolls. Four sturdy metal grommets at the top allow for precise lacing, so you can adjust the fit for heavier loads,  unpredictable conditions, and technical routes. Inside, a layer of cushioned foam hugs your ankle, reducing pressure points during long treks. LOWA’s Monowrap® Frame Technology blends TPU and polyurethane to make soles that stay stable and resist twisting, giving your ankles extra protection and solid footing on rough trails. If your routes involve thick bushwacks, technical ascents or off-camber trails, these boots will keep you feeling secure.

On the flip side, the same features providing exceptional support make the Renegades feel overly stiff on lighter, less technical hikes. The leather uppers are protective, but they take a while to break in. We appreciate the more rigid structure, and their mid-cut is taller than most other boots on our guide – but if you prefer a more agile, trail runner feel for casual day hikes, or if you spend most of your time on well-groomed paths, these might feel overly supportive.

Weight

The LOWA Renegades start around 2 pounds, 7 ounces per pair. That’s not as light as many hybrid and synthetic models, but we think this is the sweet spot for hiking boots. The Renegade offers excellent protection, stability, and durability but remains flexible, comfortable, and versatile once broken in. The combination of a thick Nubuck leather upper, flexible but burly PU midsole, and Vibram outsoles drive the weight of these boots. Elements like a reinforced ankle and GORE-TEX lining – as well as strong nylon laces, all-metal grommets, and double-stitched panels – also add to the heft.

However, if you’re used to lighter footwear, over a pound per foot might be a downer depending on your route or hiking style. This design is great for tough, messy weather conditions and stability with heavier loads, but it isn’t the best choice for lighter, day-long excursions where their weight will lead to increased fatigue.

Traction

If you’re looking for a boot that grips in almost any terrain, the LOWA Renegades won’t disappoint. Using a mix of geometric, rounded, and ribbed multidirectional lugs, these boots offer a stellar performance on most surfaces including wet rocks, loose gravel, snow, and slick, muddy trails. The tread extends about an inch up the side of the boots, offering excellent stability, and the slightly rockered design of the outsole slopes upwards at the toe, making these feel more ergonomic and natural to walk in than similar boots.

The deep ribbed heel section is a game-changer for downhill braking, with the same design at the toe for tackling steep ascents. The midsole’s balanced stiffness keeps this LOWA model feeling stable without sacrificing too much flexibility. Plus, the Vibram rubber compound is incredibly durable, making these boots reliable on the rockiest, sharpest routes.

However, the closely spaced lugs are also one of our only issues. The tight design of the lugs can be a bit of a headache on muddy and gravelly routes  – where they tend to collect debris like rocks, sticks, and muck that can be slow to shake off. The stiff sole adds stability, but it can feel too rigid on smooth, hard-packed trails. These are minor issues, though – we highly recommend these boots for most surfaces and most routes.

Weather Resistance

When it comes to braving the elements, the LOWA Renegade GTX boots are a leader. The combination of a waterproof GORE-TEX lining paired with a high-quality Nubuck leather upper means they shrug off downpours, shallow river crossings, deep puddles, and icy slush with ease. The extended ankle coverage prevents rain and snow from seeping in, making them perfect for shoulder-season mud and nasty winter treks. Whether you’re trudging through damp spring trails or navigating icy boulder fields, these boots will keep your feet dry and warm. Their tightly sealed seams, gusseted tongue, and sturdy leather exterior is impressively resistant to water saturation and maintains its integrity even after repeated exposure to soaking wet conditions. For hikers needing reliable footwear in unpredictable conditions, these boots deliver mile after mile of protection. 

There’s a price to pay for all that weatherproofing. The leather construction, though great for cold, wet environments, turns sweltering in hotter temperatures. On summer hikes above 70°F breathability is limited, and your feet can get uncomfortably hot, leading to serious sweat buildup. If your main adventures include lightweight backpacking in mild conditions, it’s worth considering a lighter, more breathable option. Also, leather boots do require maintenance a couple of times a year to keep the waterproof, supple properties of the leather working for future hikes. Our guide How to Clean Hiking Boots and Shoes is a great place to start – with just a bit of leather cleaner and conditioner, these boots will stay water resistant for a long time.

Durability

The LOWA Renegade GTXs earn a nearly perfect score when it comes to withstanding brutal conditions. Nearly bombproof full-grain nubuck leather with double-stitched seams ensures they stand up to the relentless scrapes and abrasion of the trail. Thanks to the GORE-TEX lining, water never seeps through, keeping your feet dry through serious mud and rain. Metal grommets and fast-drying nylon laces mean these boots won’t give out when you’re deep into the backcountry. The thick, lugged outsole is engineered for lasting traction on rocky and uneven terrain, and it barely shows wear after hundreds of miles. We’ve put these through everything from wet snow to jagged scree fields, and they’ve kept up without a hitch.  These are the boots you want if you need something to last season after season, no matter how rough you are on your gear.

But durability comes at a cost, both literally and practically. The heavy-duty leather and thick soles makes these boots a bit clunky compared to lighter synthetic options like the Salomon X Ultra 4s or the HOKA Anacapa 2 Mid GTX, especially on long, hot summer hikes. These are not for casual day hikers who prioritize lightweight comfort over rugged longevity. However, if you’re looking for boots that can go the distance and  last for years of rough use, the Renegades set the bar high.

Should You Buy the LOWA Renegade GTX?

The LOWA Renegade GTX is for hikers who want a top-performing hiking boot when it comes to durability, stability, and weather resistance for rugged trails. The boot’s thick, supportive soles, taller ankle collars, and sturdy leather construction make them ideal for carrying heavy loads and adventuring in unpredictable terrain and occasional off-trail adventures. If you’re someone who hikes in challenging conditions like snow, mud, or rocky landscapes, these boots will keep your feet protected, dry, and stable. The comfortable interior and reliable traction makes them a great choice for multi-day treks where comfort and support are essential.

However, these boots aren’t for everyone. If you’re a warm-weather hiker or someone who prefers even lighter footwear, the Renegade’s heavier build and leather uppers might not be a good fit. The boots can run hot in summer temperatures and have a longer break-in period than many competitive synthetic options. The traction is excellent, but the tightly-spaced lugs can trap debris like gravel and mud and don’t shed it as quickly as other designs. With a price tag over $250, they’re not the best pick for hikers on a budget or those who only hit mild and moderate trails occasionally. But if you want hiking boots that will last for years and carry heavy loads, these boots are a long-term win for serious hikers.

What Other hiking boots Should You Consider?

For more options, please see our full guide to men’s hiking boots.

Salomon X Ultra Mid GTX Review: The Salomon X Ultra Mid GTX is a better option if you’re looking for a lighter hiking boot that doesn’t compromise on protection, traction, or sturdiness. They aren’t as weather resistant or comfortable as Renegades, but we prefer the X Ultra Mids for faster movement on long-distance hikes with moderate to technical terrain. 

Merrell Moab 3 WP Review: The Merrell Moab 3 WPs don’t provide the same level of ankle support or durability, but their’ mix of leather panels and mesh on the uppers lend the boots superior breathability and flexibility. They’re a great choice for beginners and those on a budget.

KEEN Targhee 4 WP Review: These are a close competitor to the Renegades for comfort and stability. The KEEN Targhee 4 WP also offers similar weather resistance, traction, and weight to the LOWA Renegade GTX. They aren’t as durable due to the mesh paneling in the uppers, nor is the ankle support as robust, but we highly recommend these boots for most trail conditions. These are a great pick if you need a wider fit, minimal break-in time, and a budget-friendly price.