La Sportiva FC Eco 3.0 GTX Review

La Sportiva’s Eco 3.0 the slightly lower cut version of the the Eco 4.0 men's boot about which we did a full review. The appearance and specs for the two are virtually the same aside from modest differences in weight, color and price. The 3.0…

• Weighs 18.6 ounces rather than 21.
• Comes in a Brown/Grey color rather than Grey/Orange.
• Costs about $5 more.
• Does not have quite as much ankle support
• Different lacing system

The Eco 4.0 is a great lightweight value alternative for serious full support hiking boots. The 3.0 still has full ankle coverage but leans more in the light hiker and mid category like the Keen and Merrel boots. However, it differs from the truly lightweight hikers like the Merrell Moab Ventilator in that, it is more supportive, more waterproof, less breathable and more expensive.

The GTX part of the name stands for Gore-Tex which is in the lining. This helps keep the boot dry when hiking through we terrain. The Eco part of the name refers to the recycled mesh and partially recycled nylon used in the boot (the sole and leather upper are not recycled).

To get a better sense of how the 3.0 boot stacks up, look at a more complete review of the La Sportiva Eco 4.0 as well as our Hiking Boots Review.

This boot also comes in a women's model: the La Sportiva FC ECO 3.0 GTX - Women's. This boot won our Top Pick award in the women's hiking boot category.