Protection is the name of the game with Vasque's St. Elias Hiking Boot. That starts with the boot's full-grain leather uppers, which help support our ankles and fend of rocks, vegetation, and critters on the trail. The St. Elias also features a TPU shank underfoot for added foot and ankle support and a protective toe cap that's there to prevent jammed toes and busted toe nails. Finally, the GORE-TEX waterproofing and Vibram outsoles give us all-weather protection and all-trail traction, taking care of our feet, so we can enjoy our day hikes and backpacking trips.