1. King of Slop - Aigle Parcours Iso, $235, www.aigleboots.com
Puddles, mud, and snow beg for tromping when you're wearing the Aigle Parcours Iso. The knee-high French imports are built from waterproof rubber and lined with two layers of ultrawarm insulating neoprene. More than just a muckproof shell, the Iso's thick tread promises near-hiking-boot comfort.
2. The Iceman - Icebug MR4 Dry, $140, www.garmontusa.com
With 32 carbide spikes protruding from its lugs, the Icebug MR4 Dry grants absolutely unbeatable traction on ice, snow, and slippery trails. More than that, the shoe is built to be comfortable and supportive, like any good trail runner. Just stay off wooden floors. And carpeting. And linoleum, while you're at it.
3. The Hydrophobe - Timberland Endurion with Gore-Tex XCR, $110, www.timberland.com
The women's Timberland Endurion with Gore-Tex XCR is the prototypical sleek, light, and speedy trail runner, but it's built on a female last for better fit. With a slim profile, a plastic exoskeleton to stabilize your heel, and a layer of Gore's top-shelf waterproof membrane, it's like an extension of your foot—just drier.
4. Mud Hog - Asolo Fugitive GTX, $170, www.asolo.com
Lined with the original Gore-Tex membrane, the extra-sturdy Asolo Fugitive GTX is a bombproof weather machine, made for backpacking through the sodden likes of Olympic National Park. Though not insulated, it has plenty of room in the forefoot to accommodate wool socks as well as wide feet.
5. Early Adopter - Hi-Tec V-Lite Hurricane, $110, www.hi-tecstore.com
The Hi-Tec V-Lite Hurricane is one of the few waterproof and breathable shoes that incorporate an eVent membrane, which rivals Gore-Tex in keeping feet cool and dry. The adventure racer's molded EVA midsole is vastly more supportive than most, and its notch for your Achilles tendon is comfortable too.
Adventure's September 2006 issue features 31 amazing adventure towns; chaos at the top of Mount Everest; an inside look at surfing California's Lost Coast; 11 fall weekend getaways near you; the best high-tech footwear, world class adventure travel; hiking the Alps, and more!
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