Interesting to hear different insights on this. I would agree that Goretex boots are good for winter treks and serious climbing. I also have a pair of lighter, more hi-tech Goretex boots that are almost perfect for summer hikes. Very light (weight about half as much as the GI leather boots), water resistant and sturdy enough for rough terrain, even if I'm carrying a fairly heavy pack. My feet tend to sweat a lot but that hasn't been a problem with those boots so far. But that's also because I've started using foot powder regularly.