Breezing into the space between hiking and trail-running shoes, the Obōz Katabatic LT Low GTX is ultralight and impressively stable.

Traction and stability in a range of conditions are desirable traits in a hiking and fastpacking shoe, as are all-day comfort, foot protection and durability. Weight, ventilation and drying speed are also valued highly. 

Traditional hiking shoes score well in the first four. Trail-running shoes typically favour the latter qualities while excelling in comfort, but have varied performance otherwise. The Katabatic LT Low GTX from Obōz places a trail-ready foot in both camps: it’s responsive, comfortable and light yet still hardwearing.  

The sleek shoe has a trail-running style that is designed specifically for hiking, yet its weight is competitive with the lightest waterproof hiking shoes. Inside, weight is shaved with Gore-Tex Invisible Fit for a smooth, sock-like fit and faster drying. The upper is burly polyester mesh, reinforced with TPU overlays and heel and toe caps. The sole assembly is optimised for a hiking gait with its 8mm drop, but there’s a balance between a cushioned feel with firm underfoot stability and 5mm outsole lugs for bite. 

I tested these shoes on hikes up to a full day on a wide range of surfaces. I’m used to the precise ‘grounded’ feel of approach shoes and prefer trail shoes with similar attributes. The Katabatic LT’s well-tuned midsole profile combined with a close-fitting, supportive upper provides excellent trail feedback and a tactile, agile feel. Like any ultralight shoe, they’re not immune to trail damage, but aside from some nicks from rocks in the soft midsole and cosmetic scratches on the toe cap, they seem reliably durable. 

Trail Specs

Obōz Katabatic LT Low GTX

Price $299

Weight 337g (m), 281g (w)

Heel to toe drop 8mm

Upper Recycled polyester mesh with TPU overlays and Gore-Tex Invisible Fit

Midsole EVA

Sole Trail Tread HD

Variants Also available in wide fit, mid-height and non Gore-Tex

Key features we like

Reinforced uppers

The recycled polyester mesh is tough with no vulnerable seams, and ventilates well. Importantly, it’s reinforced at conventional wear points with TPU overlays that extend along the side of the shoe for abrasion and strike protection. The uppers are stiffened with generous toe and heel caps. 

Gore-Tex Invisible Fit

Invisible Fit is a weight-saving Gore-Tex laminate bonded directly to the upper fabric to double as a shoe lining for a close, sock-like fit through the front two thirds of the shoe (there is some regular lining in the heel). Bonded uppers dry faster because water is not trapped between layers. With lining fabric minimised, there’s increased ventilation and no bunching.

Streamlined for speed 

The upper is notably low volume through the centre of the forefoot, which helps anchor it for control, but I had to use a thinner inner sole to tune the fit. Otherwise, the toe box is reasonably rounded for toe-spread and the heel has a positive hold. 

Ground control

The biggest point of difference with this shoe is its grounded, agile feel. This comes from a combination of the close fit and firm support of the bonded upper, the stiff rockplate and a midsole that’s tuned for a close connection with the ground. This makes the shoe precise and responsive when changing direction rapidly, sidling on steep ground and in any terrain where more padded hiking shoes can feel clunky or squishy. Aggressive 5mm lugs give the outsole plenty of bite in damp ground. 

Gaiter-compatible 

The dedicated gaiter loop keeps trail-running gaiters centred and doesn’t affect lace tension. There’s a small allowance for a strap through the sole arch too. 

Wilderness verdict

The Katabatic LT Low GTX offers impressive stability and responsiveness for its weight along with a high level of comfort. It should prove a durable choice for everything from day hikes to long-distance outings.