>>1207325I’d go with military boots, something like the Osprey Lightweight.
Gore tex is a meme for anything but winter and dayhikes, so once you throw that out the window, your options open up. Lighter is always always better in boots, and if it’s just a day hike you don’t need anywhere near the ankle support you think you do.
Nike SFBs are okay, one edition has terrible durability and lugs though, read reviews. Danner Tachyon are pretty good and comfy as fuck.
Get boots in coyote, grey or black. Desert tan is too military, you’d struggle to pull it off without looking larpy and they get filthy in mud.
Just be aware desert combat boots don’t offer much warmth, and some boots are made for flat concrete for being back at the military base, but if you wear warm socks or wrap your feet in breadbags/Sealskinz for wet days that’s no worries.
Again, avoid gore tex for any long walks. That shit is heavy, and once it’s wet it stays wet.
