Few hikers would argue against carrying less weight on the trail. But when ‘going light’ means sacrificing the protection and stability your feet require on technical terrain, the trade-off isn’t worth it. That’s the problem Oboz has solved with the Katabatic RT, the newest addition to its light and fast Katabatic Collection.

“This shoe proves you don’t have to carry extra grams to keep your feet protected, stable and dry when the trail gets tough,” says Oboz Footwear’s marketing and ESG manager Abigail Cook.

The RT sits alongside the Katabatic LT in the collection, sharing the same DNA but bringing a more rugged personality built for demanding trails, unpredictable weather and multi-day trips. 

Wilderness spoke with Cook about what makes the Katabatic RT different – and why it might be the shoe you’ve been looking for.

What makes the Katabatic RT different from the rest of the collection?

The RT is designed for the hiker who needs more from their footwear – more protection, more traction, more durability – without sacrificing the lightweight agility that makes the Katabatic collection so popular. Whereas the Katabatic LT excels on fast-and-light day hikes, the RT is built for technical terrain and longer trips where conditions are less predictable and the trail less forgiving.

How does the Katabatic RT handle tough terrain?

Traction starts with the Vibram MEGAGRIP outsole, which resists wear far better than standard rubber and maintains grip on wet rocks, muddy trails and slick roots – exactly the conditions where footwear tends to let you down. The RT’s Traction Lug design increases surface contact area for even better traction on steep, technical ground. Add medial and lateral TPU overlays, a reinforced toe cap and an underfoot rock plate, and you have a shoe that protects feet from stone bruising and impact from all angles while maintaining the flexibility needed for natural movement.

How does the RT keep feet dry?

Like the Katabatic LT, the RT features Gore-Tex Invisible Fit technology. Rather than adding a separate waterproof bootie inside the shoe, the membrane is bonded directly to the upper, eliminating extra layers. The result is guaranteed waterproof protection through creek crossings, unexpected storms and dew-soaked morning trails – without sacrificing breathability for all-day comfort.

How does the RT stay comfortable over long days on the trail?

Comfort over distance comes down to cushioning and support. The RT uses Oboz’s proprietary KINERTIA energy cushioning system, which provides responsive comfort that reduces fatigue. The dual-density O FIT Insole offers targeted support to keep feet feeling fresh well into the miles. All of that in a shoe that weighs just 430g for the men’s low – proof that serious trail protection doesn’t have to come with added weight.

The Katabatic RT is available in men’s and women’s waterproof low and mid versions at Oboz retailers and online.

Discover the full Katabatic range at www.kathmandu.co.nz