Gear Review: Puez 2 Mid Powertex Boot by Salewa
The Salewa Puez 2 Mid Powertex Boot blends lightweight agility with waterproof protection and reliable traction, making it a great choice for hikers who want support without bulky boots.
If you’re looking for a lightweight hiking boot that bridges the gap between nimble trail shoes and bulky backpacking boots, the Puez 2 Mid Powertex Boot by Salewa is built exactly for that middle ground. Designed for fast-moving hikers, variable terrain, and long days on your feet, this boot is all about balance: weather protection without feeling clunky, structure without stiffness, and traction that holds up when trails get loose, rocky, or unpredictable.
Salewa has a long reputation for alpine-focused footwear, and the Puez 2 Mid Powertex feels like a modern expression of that heritage; streamlined, technical, and purpose-built for hikers who want to move efficiently without sacrificing support.
Standout Features
Powertex® Waterproof Protection
The Puez 2 Mid uses Salewa’s proprietary Powertex® membrane, which is designed to keep feet dry while remaining breathable. In real-world use, this means solid protection during creek crossings, wet spring trails, and sudden weather shifts, without that swampy, overheated feeling that some waterproof boots are known for.
Lightweight Mid-Cut Support
One of the strongest selling points of this boot is how light and agile it feels for a mid-height hiker. The ankle collar provides noticeable stability on uneven terrain, but it doesn’t restrict movement or feel overly stiff. This makes it especially appealing for hikers who typically prefer trail runners but want more protection for longer or rockier days.
POMOCA® Outsole Traction
Salewa partners with POMOCA® for the outsole, and it shows. The grip is confident on dry rock, loose gravel, and mixed terrain, with a tread pattern that feels predictable rather than aggressive. It’s a great outsole for desert hiking, alpine trails, and shoulder-season conditions where footing can change quickly.
Secure, Technical Fit
Salewa boots are known for their precise fit, and the Puez 2 Mid is no exception. The climbing-inspired lacing system allows for excellent lockdown through the midfoot, helping prevent slippage on steep ascents and descents. This makes the boot feel responsive and stable, even when carrying a light pack.
Comfort & Fit on the Trail
Out of the box, the Puez 2 Mid Powertex feels notably comfortable with minimal break-in time. The cushioning strikes a nice balance. Protective enough for rocky terrain without feeling overly padded or disconnected from the ground. The heel feels secure, the toe box offers enough room for natural foot splay, and the boot overall encourages a smooth walking stride.
This is a boot that shines on long day hikes, fast-and-light backpacking trips, and rugged desert or alpine terrain where you want protection but still value speed and efficiency.
Durability & Build Quality
The upper combines synthetic materials with reinforced overlays in high-wear zones, helping the boot stand up to abrasive terrain like sandstone, talus, and volcanic rock. While this isn’t a heavy-duty expedition boot, it’s clearly built for repeated, demanding use rather than casual trail walking.
For hikers who put huge miles on their footwear, the construction feels thoughtfully designed and purpose-driven.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lightweight for a mid-cut hiking boot | Fit may feel narrow for wide feet |
| Waterproof yet breathable Powertex® membrane | Not intended for heavy load backpacking |
| Excellent traction from POMOCA® outsole | More technical fit than casual hikers may expect |
| Minimal break-in required | Premium price point |
| Great balance of support and agility |
Who This Boot Is Best For
The Salewa Puez 2 Mid Powertex Boot is ideal for:
- Hikers who want more support than trail runners but less bulk than traditional boots
- Desert, alpine, and mixed-terrain hiking
- Fast-and-light backpackers with lighter pack weights
- Shoulder-season hiking where weather protection matters
- Hikers who appreciate a precise, technical fit
If you prefer wide, soft, or heavily cushioned boots, this may not be your perfect match, but if you value responsiveness, stability, and efficient movement, it’s an excellent option.
Packing It Out
The Puez 2 Mid Powertex Boot by Salewa is a strong contender for hikers who want a modern, lightweight boot that still feels capable in rugged terrain. It excels at what it’s designed for: moving confidently and efficiently through variable landscapes without unnecessary bulk.
For hikers who split their time between desert trails, alpine environments, and long, technical day hikes, this boot delivers reliable performance, thoughtful design, and the kind of trail feel that makes you want to keep moving.
My review is independent of the supplier and reflects my own opinions. Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission if purchases are made through those links at no additional cost to you.
