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Meet the Oboz Katabatic Waterproof Mid

By: Clare Healy + Save to a List

This story is presented by Oboz.

If there’s one ever-growing gear debate among trail explorers - hiking boots versus trail runners? Add the desire for either of those shoes to be suitable off-trail; you can pretty much forget about finding an option that satisfies your needs. Well, at least until Oboz’s recent trailblazer, the Katabatic Mid Waterproof, made a splash.

A person walking on a wooden boardwalk. They're wearing an insulated jacket, black pangs, and hiking boots.
Wearing the Katabatic Mid Waterproof on a hike


The Katabatic Mid Waterproof marks Oboz’s foray into settling the debate once and for all. The shoe is lightweight while maintaining signature hiking boot-style stability and protection. As someone who likes to be prepared for every occasion - whether that be a post-work trail run with the crew, a pre-work sunrise hike, or a last-minute backpacking trip to squeeze every ounce of Maine's good summer weather - keeping the car trunk stacked with hoards of muddy shoes is not my favorite.

I quickly pared down my on-hand shoe collection while getting a big upgrade with the Katabatic.

The O FIT Insole™ totally blew me away. It contours to your foot's shape, offering unparalleled support and cushioning where you need it most. As an ultra-runner and an avid fastpacker, I’m no stranger to dishing out an extra $50 per pair of shoes, thanks to my need for upgraded insoles. But the Katabatics weren’t looking to play that game. Right out of the box, my feet felt right at home and ready to get some mileage.

With the Northeast’s shoulder season depriving us of some true mountain mileage in the Katabatics (thus far), we were able to test waters - or rather, muds - in true springtime fashion. One of my favorite features is the B-DRY lining, promising peak waterproofness and breathability for every season. While I’m used to choosing between waterproof boots that guarantee sweaty feet or breathable trail runners that get wet within initial miles, I can already tell these were built to solve both issues.

Better yet, the Katabatic Mid Waterproof shoes aren’t just built to crush miles; they were made to look pretty darn good doing it. The sleek design is perfect for on and off the trail. You can rock them all day from trailhead to town right after. If you’re someone like me who has given up on style for comfort, get ready for the incoming compliments on these.

Lastly and potentially most importantly, Oboz is pushing boundaries and minimizing the impact of its products and existence. It’s 2023, and as an avid outdoor-loving consumer, it’s hard to ignore the impact every one of our decisions has on the mountains, forests, and trails we love most. As a certified B Corp, every aspect of Oboz’s business keeps people and the planet in mind. Every pair of footwear sold plants a tree, and their commitment to circularity is admirable at a time when many brands still have a long way to go.

I'm impressed with Oboz's thoughtful operation and stoked about the Oboz Katabatic Mid Waterproofs. I will be touting them to every trail buddy within earshot.

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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