For decades, Scarpa has been at the forefront of hiking boot innovation, earning numerous accolades for its commitment to practical design and performance. Traditionally known for high-performance mountain boots and durable trekking footwear, the Italian brand has expanded its offerings to meet the growing demand for lightweight hiking and trail running footwear.
The Rush 2 Mid GTX stands out as the lightest walking boot in Scarpa’s lineup, a mid-cut adaptation of the Rush 2 GTX hiking shoe, weighing just over 400g per boot. Like many lightweight walking boots, it builds upon its low-cut sibling, featuring a flexible, highly padded ankle collar for support without bulk.
One key difference among lightweight boots is the level of abrasion protection, and Scarpa has struck a smart balance here. While some brands rely on minimal PU coatings and light toe bumpers, the Rush 2 Mid GTX adds a bit of weight in exchange for real protection. It features a stiffened toe cap and robust PU overlays around the base of the upper, effectively guarding against scuffs and wear.
Another unique feature is Scarpa’s in-house approach to outsole design. While the boot employs GORE-TEX for waterproofing, the Presa HIK-03 outsole replaces the industry-standard Vibram. Our past experiences with Scarpa’s Presa soles—both on hiking boots and trail runners—have been overwhelmingly positive, so we had high expectations.
The Rush 2 Mid GTX does not disappoint. It’s easily one of the best-performing lightweight walking boots available today. While it carries a few extra grams compared to some ultralight rivals, the added protection is noticeable—and appreciated.
Underfoot, the Presa sole delivers. It performs exceptionally well over rocky terrain and offers surprising grip on steep, boggy, and muddy trails, where lightweight boots often struggle. The lug pattern and subtle heel brake provide extra stability and control, features that many boots in this category tend to forgo.
For those seeking a lightweight, protective, and high-performing hiking boot, the Scarpa Rush 2 Mid GTX is a top contender.