Bottom Line
The Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid 2 is a lightweight, waterproof boot that combines the flexibility of a trail runner with the protection of a traditional hiking boot. Thanks to its roomy toe box and Fit4Her design, it excels in comfort, making it ideal for women with wider feet or those tackling high-mileage days.
The eVent membrane offers excellent breathability and keeps water out, though it may not be as durable as GORE-TEX alternatives. Duratread rubber soles with aggressive 5mm lugs provide outstanding traction, and the stable, responsive design ensures confidence on technical terrain. We tested these boots on trails throughout central Washington in varying weather conditions, including snow and mud, showcasing their versatility and reliability.
While the Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid 2 lacks the stiffness and heavy-duty support of bulkier hiking boots, it’s perfect for fast-and-light adventures. Check out our guide to the best hiking boots for more top-performing options.
How We Tested
We tested the Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid 2 on overnight backpacking trips in Central Washington and several day hikes. To assess weather resistance, we trekked through snow, muddy trails, and water crossings, evaluating the boots’ performance in real-world conditions, including comfort, traction, and waterproofing over varied terrains.
Quick Specs
Women’s Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR 2
Ultralight Hiking Boots with a Wide Toe Box
CleverHiker Rating:
3.9/5.0
Price:
$180
Weight (Pair):
1 lb. 6.8 oz.
Upper Material:
Synthetic waterproof bootie
Pros
- Ultralight
- Wide toe box
- Very breathable for a waterproof boot
- No break-in required
- Good for lightweight backpacking
Cons
- Less durable than many others
- Not very supportive
Comfort
The Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid 2 is comfortable in the toe box, providing extra room for toe spread and a natural foot position. Right out of the box, the boot’s FootShape design allows the toes to spread naturally, reducing discomfort often caused by constricting toe boxes, and these boots do not require any break-in period.
The boot’s 5mm cushioned footbed and the 25mm stack height provided a balanced, moderate cushioning ideal for long-distance hiking. The midsole’s Altra EGO foam is responsive, though not as springy as other models. The 0mm drop design takes some time to get used to, potentially causing discomfort in the calves and Achilles if hikers don’t build up their mileage gradually. It’s important to note that those new to zero-drop footwear may experience fatigue until they adjust to this style.
The spacious toe box and moderate cushioning contribute to all-day comfort. The FootShape design allows the toes to spread out, preventing blisters and hotspots, even after hiking all day.
Ankle Support
For ankle support, the Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid 2 delivers a solid balance of stability without the bulk of traditional boots. The mid-cut ankle cuff rises 5 inches above the sole, providing enough coverage to prevent sprains during lateral movements while offering freedom of movement.
While we like the dual lacing system, which doesn’t limit flexibility too much, the ankle support is uncomfortable. Whether it is the lacing itself or something else within the boot construction, the ankle support digs into the back of your ankle, and there is slight pinching from the lace hooks when moving laterally or bending the ankle.
While the support is good enough for moderate hikes and semi-technical trails, it may not offer the rigid ankle stability needed for heavy backpacks or extreme terrains.
Traction
The Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid 2 uses a MaxTrac outsole and TrailClaw lugs. During field tests on rocky, slippery surfaces, the boots provided enough grip to feel stable in wet conditions. The lugs’ placement under the metatarsals and forefoot enhanced traction during uphill climbs and quick directional changes.
Whether traversing muddy trails or polished granite, we felt confident in our footing. The boots maintained a solid connection with the ground, and the only time we slipped or felt uneasy in the boots was on muddy trails or steep climbs with loose gravel. While it excels on semi-technical trails, the traction may not be as aggressive as some boots with more extensive lugs or Vibram outsoles, limiting performance on rugged or loose terrain.
Weather Resistance
Designed with Altra’s eVent bootie construction, the Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid 2 is designed to keep feet dry in wet conditions. We subjected the boots to water crossings, stood in standing water, trekked through mud and puddles, took a few hikes in the snow, and encountered no water penetration unless the moisture went above the laces and tongue.
The waterproof upper offers reliable protection when crossing streams or traversing snowy patches, but the boot’s waterproofing does not allow for much breathability, and sweat buildup does occur during hot weather conditions.
Weight
At just 12 ounces, the Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid 2 stands out for its ultralight design. The boot’s lightweight construction didn’t compromise support (minus the uncomfortable ankle support situation), and we like it for long-distance hikes or light trail running. They also offer a lower cut of these shoes, which would be better for trail running.
The boot allowed for increased speed and agility on the trail without contributing to foot fatigue, as long as you are accustomed to a zero drop. The lightweight construction sacrifices some durability and protection, particularly in cross-country or rugged terrains where more substantial protection may be necessary.
Durability
Despite its lightweight and flexible construction, the Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid 2 is decently durable. We’ve only tested these for a couple of months, so we can’t speak to the long-standing durability of these boots. However, we did use them on relatively rough trail conditions, including rocky paths and bushwhacking. The Duratread rubber outsole showed minimal wear, and the synthetic upper held up well without tears or damage.
However, while ideal for performance, the boot’s flexible materials could snag on sharp rocks or branches in more aggressive hiking environments. Boots made with materials like leather will likely be more durable than these, but if you’re more concerned about weight, these are a good choice.
Should You Buy the Altra Lone Peak All-Wthr Mid 2?
The Altra Lone Peak All-Wthr Mid 2 is an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts who need a versatile, lightweight hiking boot. It’s great for hikers and backpackers who prioritize a lightweight show and want something with a zero drop and a more natural foot feel due to the wide toe box.
For the price, the Lone Peak All-Wthr Mid 2 offers solid value, particularly for hikers who require a reliable, all-season boot. Its construction, waterproofing, and traction are well-suited to various outdoor adventures, making it a smart investment for regular hikers or those who trek in wet and muddy conditions.
What Other Hiking Boots Should You Consider?
If you’re considering the Women’s Altra Lone Peak All-Wthr Mid 2, here are some of our other favorite hiking boots:
Merrell Moab 3 WP Review: The Merrell Moab 3 WP is an excellent choice for budget-conscious hikers, offering a durable and comfortable midweight design that’s easy to break in. Compared to the Altra Lone Peak All-Wthr Mid 2, the Moab 3 WP offers traditional cushioning and a bulkier feel, giving it more support for moderate terrain. It’s a great option for those who prefer a more stable, cushioned shoe for shorter hikes. However, it’s not as lightweight or agile as the Altra Lone Peak. For those looking for stability and durability on day hikes, the Moab 3 WP could be the right choice.
Topo Trailventure 2 WP Review: The Topo Trailventure 2 WP is a great option for hikers who need extra toe room or have wider feet, offering one of the most comfortable fits we’ve tested. Compared to the Altra Lone Peak, the Trailventure offers more slightly more cushioning and a less minimalist feel. However, the Altra Lone Peak might still be preferable for those seeking a truly minimalist, zero-drop design tailored for natural movement and trail runners.
Salomon Quest 4 GTX Review: The Salomon Quest 4 GTX is a top choice for those seeking maximum ankle support and durability on rugged terrains. These boots excel in providing stability and comfort, especially on challenging off-trail hikes or when carrying a heavy pack. Though heavier than the Altra Lone Peak, they offer more aggressive traction and overall structure, making them ideal for tough, extended adventures. In contrast, the Altra Lone Peak is lighter and features a zero-drop platform that promotes a more natural stride, making it a better option for long-distance hikers seeking agility and flexibility. If you’re after rugged performance with superior stability for heavy loads or rugged terrain, the Quest 4 GTX is a solid pick.
