Women’s La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX Review

Bottom Line

The La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX are lightweight, durable hiking boots built for backpacking and day hiking in challenging terrain. The GTX SURROUND membrane makes the boots waterproof and allows breathability, while the nubuck leather upper provides additional durability. 

The boots have stellar ankle support, and while they are stiff the first few times you wear them, they provide ample flex and a more comfortable feel after the break-in period. They’re still not as flexible as other options, but these boots truly shine when used in wet, rugged environments that require additional support and protection. They’re best suited for hikers carrying light to moderate loads (under 35 lbs) and are a good fit for those prioritizing lightweight yet highly protective hiking boots. 

Check out our best women’s hiking boots guide to compare this model with other top performers.

Comfort

The La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX offers a comfortable yet supportive design. They’re equipped with EVA midsoles and 4mm Ortholite insoles for an extra soft landing with each step, even during long days on the trail. The stiff ankle support can be somewhat uncomfortable until you’re past the break-in period (about 10-12 miles), but after that, the 3D flex ankle hinge has a good balance of mobility and stability.

The boot’s design is slightly heavier than ultralight or trail-running hybrids, but the tradeoff is a higher level of comfort and support, ideal for extended backpacking treks. We were impressed with how comfortable these boots remained on strenuous trails and with a loaded backpack.

Durability

These boots are built to last – They are made with high-quality materials, including a nubuck leather upper, Vibram rubber rand, and a substantial toe cap for added protection. They have impressive longevity and abrasion resistance. Even with a slightly lighter weight than heavy-duty hiking shoes, they don’t sacrifice much durability.

We were impressed with the overall construction, especially the double stitching around the upper, lacing system, and toe cap. These little construction details go a long way in protecting the integrity of the boot over time and wear. Additionally, the Gore-Tex Surround technology maintains waterproofing performance even with continued exposure to moisture. However, waterproofing is often the first part of the boot that degrades, so treating your boot with an external solution like Nikwax each season is recommended.

Ankle Support

The Nucleo High II GTX has solid ankle support. It is so solid that it may feel too stiff initially, but it breaks in and softens with time. The ankle support is made up of a paddled ankle cuff and polypropylene stiffener. These work together to create a secure, stabilizing fit around the ankle with minimal movement interference. Once broken in, they have a good combination of flexibility and support that lends to a more natural foot motion and flex.

During testing, we found these boots perform well on steep inclines and provide much-needed support with sudden lateral movements (quick side-to-side actions) which can occur when navigating around roots and rocks or even on steep inclines or switchbacks.

Traction

The Vibram Nano XS-Trek sole and impact brake system provide highly dependable grip and traction for the Nucleo High II GTX. The sole material offers exceptional grip on various terrains such as wet, dry, or even loose rocky surfaces. We made sure to test the traction on a variety of surfaces, including rock scrambling, steep trails, and slippery riverbanks. Compared to many other boots within this category, they offered more than adequate grip and stability. The level of grip provided by these boots can benefit hikers who tend to cross varied terrain, including a mix of wet and dry climates.

Weather Resistance

The Nucleo High II GTX is a fully waterproof boot made with the GORE-TEX Surround Membrane. We submerged these boots on river crossings, and even with continued exposure, they kept our feet dry. They continue to be comfortable in different temperatures but do better in cooler and snowy conditions versus hot, humid ones.

The membrane, which is somewhat breathable, does hold onto moisture some and isn’t the best at preventing internal moisture build-up on sweltering days. We find these a better option for wetter, colder climates like New England, the Midwest, or the Pacific Northwest versus dry, arid climates where breathability is more desired.

Weight

For a boot of this caliber, they’re incredibly lightweight. That said, they’re not a lightweight or hybrid trail shoe. They are hiking boots through and through. That means they will be heavier and bulkier than hiking shoes or trail runners. The Nucleo High II GTX boots weigh around 1 lb. 10.8 oz. per pair, depending on the size. Much of the bulk of the shoe comes from the durability of the materials and added stability in the cushioning and ankle support.

While some testers didn’t find them very cumbersome in weight, hikers who are more used to zero drop and trail running shoes found them clunky. If you’re used to lighter shoes, they will feel heavier and more robust, but they are a bit lighter compared to hiking boots with similar features. Because of that, we find them to be a good balance of weight without sacrificing any features.

Should You Buy the La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX?

The La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX is an excellent choice for hikers and lightweight backpackers who need a boot that balances comfort and support. If you’re a regular at tackling moderate to challenging terrain and need a pair of boots that won’t weigh you down and can handle wet, unpredictable conditions, these are worth a look. They’re incredibly well-suited for hikers who like the feel of traditional hiking boots but want something more modern and responsive. 

However, if you prioritize ultralight weight above all else or stick to well-maintained trails, there may be options that offer a little less bulk. While the Nucleo High II GTX provides excellent durability, those seeking a minimalist hiking boot or who prefer to hike in dry, warm conditions may find it overbuilt for their needs.

This boot offers solid value for hikers who want reliable performance, comfort, and protection on more rugged, wet trails.

What Other Hiking Boots Should You Consider?

If the La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX Hiking Boots are a little to rugged for you, check out our Women’s Hiking Boot Guide for more suggestions.

Lowa Renegade Evo GTX Mid Review: These boots are for hikers who prioritize a durable and supportive hiking boot built for long, arduous treks. The Lowa Renegade Evo GTX Mid is slightly heavier than the Nucleo High II GTX, but they provide better stability and traction, especially when carrying a pack over 35 lbs. They are ideal for rugged terrain and multi-day hikes and have a shorter break-in period than the Nucleos.

Merrell Moab 3 WP Review: If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Merrell Moab 3 WP is a fantastic choice. These may lack some of the technical features the Nucleo High II GTX offers, but they are comfortable and durable boots at a much lower price. These are perfect for day hikers or those who don’t need as much support.

Women’s Salomon Quest 4 GTX Review: If you want even more ankle support and stability on the trail, look no further than the Salomon Quest 4 GTX. These are heavier and more robust than the Nucleo High II GTX and should be a top pick for hikers chasing more technical miles or carrying a heavy load. They’re built for extreme conditions and are perfect for multi-day backpacking trips that traverse rough terrain, but they’re likely overbuilt for most day trips.