Outdoor boots seem like such a generalized style, when in reality, its about as complex as you can get when talking about boots. Depending on what you want to use the boot for, where you want to use it and what you are going to use it for, outdoor boots will have everything you want and need, but first you need to figure out those three factors out. If you want to use an outdoor boot for something like hunting or fishing on a cool wintry day, you might want to consider a boot that has a Thinsulate or Insulated material as well as some water wicking or water proofing materials. These outdoor boots are meant to keep you warm, safe and keep your feet from getting wet - great if you plan on going outdoors where there may be water, streams, lakes, etc. On the other hand, maybe you want something for warm weather to keep your feet cool and dry from hot weather, you would want to consider an outdoor boot that has breathable light materials as well as insole heat barrier, drainage vents that also allow air movement and water drainage. If you plan on going through tough terrain you could consider something with a tough outsole such as Thermoplastic or Durashocks. Durashocks are one of the most popular materials for tough terrain - think of it as shocks for your car. DuraShocks compression pads in the heel and forefoot of the outsole contract into the outsole, so as to break up forces before they reach the feet and legs - thus providing excellent comfort!