Bottom Line
The Lowa Renegade Evo GTX Mid Women’s Hiking Boots build on the trusted comfort and durability of the original Renegade, with smart updates that make an already excellent boot even better. They keep the classic nubuck leather upper and GORE-TEX waterproofing but now feature a redesigned sole with improved cushioning, torsional stability, and a more refined fit. The most noticeable update is that the upper now has fewer seams, which enhances durability and reduces potential pressure points.
These boots still focus on all-day comfort and foot security, available in narrow, medium, and wide sizes. While we enjoy hiking in the original, we found the Evo slightly softer underfoot but stable when carrying heavy loads. Although it remains a heavier midweight boot, that weight adds to its stability, traction, and long-lasting durability.
With a higher price tag, the Renegade Evo GTX Mid isn’t a budget buy. It’s an investment for serious hikers and backpackers who need waterproof protection and an all-terrain boot. The upgrades make it more comfortable right out of the box, but it still offers the same longevity that made the original a bestseller. If you want a boot that can handle everything from muddy day hikes to multi-day trips, the Renegade Evo provides the same proven performance with a few refinements.
Check out our guide to the best women’s hiking boots for more options.
Quick Specs
Women’s Lowa Renegade EVO GTX Mid
Best Hiking Boots Overall
CleverHiker Rating: 4.6/5.0
Price: $280
Weight (Pair): 2 lb. 2.2 oz.
Upper Material: Nubuck leather/GTX membrane
Pros
- Slightly lighter than the original Renegade
- Women-specific design
- Improved durability
- More comfortable than the original Renegade
- Wide & narrow sizes available
Cons
- Price
- Heavier than some
Comfort
During recent testing, we found the Lowa Renegade Evo GTX Mid exceptionally comfortable once broken in, and it may offer an even more forgiving underfoot feel than the original Renegade.
The redesigned dual-density DuraPU/DynaPU midsole improves the cushioning and shock absorption. It’s women’s-specific and provides a form-fitting feel that hugs the foot securely without feeling restrictive. The updated insole and Vibram Rene Trac outsole work together to balance comfort and stability across varied terrain.
The lacing system is one of the best we’ve seen in midweight boots. Lowa retained the three-hook design for better ankle lockdown and added slightly more robust hardware for secure tensioning. We didn’t experience the top hooks popping loose while hiking, which was an issue we had with the previous version. Overall, the Renegade Evo retains the supportive structure of its predecessor while introducing noticeable comfort underfoot and a refined, dialed-in fit.
Durability
We tested the Lowa Renegade Evo GTX Mid on a mix of rocky, muddy, and desert terrain, and it performed impressively. The Heinen Terracare nubuck leather upper feels dense and durable.
As mentioned, the new upper construction features fewer seams than the original Renegade, reducing potential weak points and enhancing long-term durability. The Vibram Rene Trac outsole is rugged and resistant to abrasion, showing little wear after extended mileage on sharp rocks and gravel.
Like the previous model, this boot benefits from regular leather care to maintain its waterproofing and flexibility. Consistent cleaning, conditioning, and waterproof treatments will help the leather stay supple and prolong the boot’s lifespan. With its updated construction and reinforced overlays, the Evo version feels even more durable than before.
Ankle Support
The Renegade Evo continues to excel in ankle support and arguably has one of the most stable and structured fits in our testing lineup. Its high ankle cuff and full-length stabilizing frame deliver excellent torsional rigidity without limiting natural movement or feeling restrictive. During our testing, the Evo kept ankles secure and reduced fatigue on long, steep descents.
Although the boot feels more flexible than the original Renegade, it still provides the stability needed for those who require more support or have a history of ankle issues. The redesigned midsole also enhances balance underfoot, lowering the chance of rolling or twisting on uneven surfaces.
Traction
t a letdown, delivering traction on nearly all surfaces. The upgraded Vibram Rene Trac outsole features an aggressive, multi-directional lug pattern that grips on ascents and descents. On wet trails, the outsole sheds mud well and provides stable footing even on slippery, uneven ground.
The forefoot rocker adds a smoother stride and helps maintain grip when pushing off on steep terrain. While the Evo isn’t a technical scrambling boot, it gets the job done on mixed terrain and moderate climbs or scrambles.
Weather Resistance
The Lowa Renegade Evo GTX Mid is fully waterproof thanks to its GORE-TEX membrane and nubuck leather upper. We tested these boots through snow and muddy trails, and they kept our feet consistently dry and warm.
One of the biggest updates, which we’ve mentioned a few times, is the. minimized seam lines. These areas are among the most common failure points for waterproof boots, and with this update, they offer even better moisture protection than the original version.
That waterproofing comes with the same trade-off as before: breathability. The Evo’s leather construction and GORE-TEX liner make it better suited for cooler or variable climates than hot desert environments. In warm conditions, we noticed a buildup of heat and sweat, but in cold, wet conditions, the boots are more comfortable.
Regular care with a leather conditioner or waterproofing agent will help maintain the membrane’s performance over time.
Weight
The Lowa Renegade Evo GTX Mid is a midweight hiking boot. It weighs about 2 lbs. 2 oz. per pair for women. It is not ultralight, but support, durability, and cushioning justify its weight. The upgraded midsole and lighter seam design help offset perceived weight, and the boot feels more balanced than before.
For hikers transitioning from trail runners or lightweight boots, the Evo may feel heavy (even bulky), and it’s better suited for those seeking a more traditional hiking boot experience. Compared to other midweight backpacking boots, the Evo feels slightly more streamlined without sacrificing support.
If you prioritize ankle stability, waterproofing, and long-term durability over weight savings, the Lowa Renegade Evo GTX Mid offers a good balance of traditional support and modern features comfort.
Should You Buy the Lowa Renegade EVO GTX Mid?
The Lowa Renegade Evo GTX Mid is designed for hikers who need durability and support on tough terrain. Building on the legacy of the original Renegade, the Evo improves underfoot cushioning with a more refined fit.
The high-cut ankle collar and GORE-TEX waterproofing work together to provide excellent weather protection. Although it remains on the heavier side, that weight is justified by its durability and overall trail performance.
If you prefer lightweight, flexible footwear for casual day hikes or high-mileage fastpacking, the Renegade Evo might feel more structured than necessary. But for those who prioritize lasting durability and exceptional support, it’s one of the best-built boots on the market.
The thoughtful updates make it more comfortable right out of the box while maintaining the reliability that made the Renegade a classic.
What Other Hiking Boots Should You Consider?
If the Lowa Renegade Evo GTX Mid Hiking Boots are a little too rugged for you, check out our Women’s Hiking Boot Guide for more suggestions.
Women’s Merrell Moab 3 WP Review: If the Lowa Renegade Evo GTX Mid is outside your budget but you value comfort and durability, consider the Merrell Moab 3 WP. These are an excellent alternative to the Renegades, and although they don’t provide quite the same level of support, they are lighter and more breathable. They require no break-in period and appeal most to casual hikers who want waterproofing and good performance on maintained trails. If you’re not going to tackle technical terrain or carry a heavy pack, the Moab 3 is a comfortable, durable boot at a much lower cost price.
Women’s La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX Review: If you want a boot with a similar level of durability and support but lighter than the Lowa Renegade Evo, the La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX is a strong option. These boots are lighter and more breathable, making them a good choice for lightweight backpackers or day hikers seeking extra support. They remain very comfortable for long miles and provide excellent traction on moderate terrain. If you plan to carry a heavy pack or traverse rough, uneven trails, you might prefer the Lowa Renegade’s ankle support. However, the Nucleo High II GTX offers a good balance of weight and performance and is ideal for hikers looking for a lighter, more flexible hiking boot option.
Women’s Salomon Quest 4 GTX Review: If the Renegade Evo isn’t a sturdy enough boot for you, check out the Salomon Quest 4 GTX. These boots provide excellent stability and durability and are built for tougher conditions. They are heavier than the Renegades but can handle more demanding, technical terrain. Both boots are highly durable, but if you want something that surpasses the performance of the classic Renegade design, consider the Salomon Quest 4 GTX women’s hiking boots.
