Hiking is a great way to get in touch with nature, get some exercise, and enjoy outdoor activities. But, it’s important to have the right footwear when you go hiking; otherwise, you might have blisters or worse. You should want to be comfortable while you hike, so dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes. Wear boots that wick away moisture to keep your feet protective. They protect the hiker’s feet and provide traction and stability while walking on different terrain. With the right footwear, you’ll be able to hike comfortably and enjoy the scenery. So, before heading out on your next hike, ensure you have the right footwear. Picking the best hiking shoes, make sure they are comfortable and great fitted to your feet. It’s a fast and aggressive feeling on your feet if you need to stay warm in cold weather.

The hiking boots will give you excellent traction with every step in mud and snow while keeping your feet warm and dry from the elements. They provide excellent arch support while keeping your feet comfortable. The superb trail runners are lightweight hikers for all-day comfort. A trail runner’s weight savings and feathery feel are significant for the long haul. If you’re going to invest in one pair, spend wisely and consider all of your options before buying a single pair. The right shoes will keep your feet dry from the elements while giving you enough support to handle challenging terrain.

Our top picks

01

Best overall hiking shoes

Salomon X Ultra 3 Gore-Tex

Salomon X Ultra 3 Gore-Tex

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02

Best waterproof hiking shoes

Danner Trail 2650 Gore-Tex

Danner Trail 2650 Gore-Tex

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03

Best lightweight and breathable hiking shoes

KEEN Targhee Vent

KEEN Targhee Vent

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Quick Shopping Tips:

Here are some quick shopping tips to help you find the right shoes.

Waterproof: Make sure you pick the best hunting boots that are waterproof to keep your feet dry from the wet elements. If you’re going to invest in a pair, it’s stunning to get a good pair with water-resistant and fully waterproof. Most hiking shoes are made with waterproof materials, but if yours aren’t, you can still make them usable with spray-on waterproofing.

Stability and Support: Your shoes should provide you with peace and support to keep your ankles stabilized while cutting through rugged terrain. Some shoes have a stiff sole with quite a bit of grip to provide you with the optimum backing for miles on the trails. You should wear your hiking boots through test runs in the local hills or park to ensure they are supportive enough for your feet.

Weight: You don’t want to carry too much weight on your feet when hiking, so you should try to find lightweight and durable shoes. If you’re spending the day on the trails, your feet will take a beating; that is why you need a lightweight shoe. You want to look for a weight-to-support ratio, something with a low profile and a midsole that offers stability. The excellent trail runners are great for weight savings and a feathery feel for the long haul.

Traction: Make sure that your shoe for hiking has enough traction to handle rugged terrain. The best walking shoes will give you the grip that you need for hikes on steep trails. Some hikers prefer a shoe with more padding to increase comfort, making for poor traction. You need to try out your prospective shoes before going on a hike to see how they grip hills and slick surfaces.

Durability and Materials: The excellent trail runners are made from the sturdiest materials that last long. You can find shoes with leather and mesh, which are great for breathability. Leather is more durable than mesh, but it’s also heavier to carry around. Mesh is lighter to wear but not quite as durable. You should try to find a pair made with strong yet lightweight materials.

The Best Hiking Shoes : First look

Salomon X Ultra 3 Gore-Tex

Salomon X Ultra 3 Gore-Tex

Best overall hiking shoes

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Danner Trail 2650 Gore-Tex

Danner Trail 2650 Gore-Tex

Best waterproof hiking shoes

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KEEN Targhee Vent

KEEN Targhee Vent

Best lightweight and breathable hiking shoes

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La Sportiva Spire GTX

La Sportiva Spire GTX

Best rugged & durable hiking shoes

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Merrell Men's Moab 2

Merrell Men's Moab 2

Best budget hiking shoes

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Vasque Men's Breeze Lt Low GTX

Vasque Men's Breeze Lt Low GTX

Best lightweight & breathable hiking shoes

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North Face Men's Ultra 111

North Face Men's Ultra 111

Best waterproof long-term durability hiking shoes

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Adidas Terrex Swift R3 Gore-TEX

Adidas Terrex Swift R3 Gore-TEX

Best support hiking shoes

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The Best Hiking Shoes: In-depth Review

01

Best overall hiking shoes

Salomon X Ultra 3 Gore-Tex

Brand

Salomon

Men/Women

Men's

Sole

Rubber

Sizes

All Size

Material

Synthetic

Waterproof

true

Weight

13.4 oz

Warranty

1 Year

PROS

+100% synthetic

+Padded shoe collar

+Quicklace lacing system

CONS

-No support for extra wide feet

-Slightly sweaty in warmer weather

Salomon X Ultra 3 Gore-Tex is an excellent pair of shoes made for hiking and running. It’s a good companion on the trails, providing a comfortable experience. It can be used for trail running or road running, which is excellent for people that are into trail racing. It is perfect for light trails and can be used on all surfaces. It’s a fantastic shoe with a superior grip, ideal for wet and slippery conditions. It’s made from 100% Synthetic materials and has an excellent tread pattern, which gives people a good grip on surfaces. It’s a lightweight shoe that can be used for hikes or gym workouts. It has superior traction that works well on wet surfaces, great for trail runners. The midsole of this shoe offers arch support to keep your feet comfortable even after hours of wearing it.

The boots are waterproof, which means you can use them for adventures without worrying about rain or slushy conditions. They have a gusseted tongue that helps keep debris out and supports the collar. The shoes have a breathable mesh, which keeps your feet from feeling too sweaty inside. They also have a lacing system that doesn’t slip while running or hiking on uneven terrain. These shoes have a high ankle collar that protects your ankles from being hurt by rocks and objects on the trail. Thanks to sturdy construction and good traction, you can use them for water-based activities or heavy backpacking trips. It is the best overall hiking shoe due to its multifunctional use and good overall performance.

02

Best waterproof hiking shoes

Danner Trail 2650 Gore-Tex

Brand

Danner

Men/Women

Men's

Sole

Vibram

Sizes

All Size

Material

Suede and Textile

Waterproof

true

Weight

27 oz

Warranty

1 year

PROS

+Light suede and textile upper

+Shock-absorbing EVA midsole

+Superior grip on wet and dry surfaces

CONS

-Restrictive toe box

-Insufficient arch support

Danner Trail 2650 Gore-Tex has everything you need to look for to pick the best waterproof hiking shoes. The shoe sole is constructed with full-grain leather, which provides comfort, support, durability, and breathability. The perforated toe box lets air flow freely inside the shoes, so your feet stay cool. There are two layers of waterproof protection in this hiking shoe that keeps your feet dry all day long. Gore-Tex membrane lining provides waterproof protection whether you are hiking, camping, or taking on challenging terrain. This shoe has a triple-density PU midsole which offers cushioning and shock absorption for your feet. And it is also the lightest pair of top-quality hiking boots that provides all-day comfort with a breathable mesh lining.

These shoes are 100% waterproof and durable. So your feet remain fresh, dry, and healthy even in harsh weather conditions. Stability is the main feature that makes these shoes a top pick for hikers. It also helps the foot breathe, so your feet don’t get damp or sweaty inside the shoe, even on warm days. The unique combination of polyurethane, EVA, and TPU rubber offers the tread for superb grip on any kind of terrain. The lacing system provides you with a custom fit to keep your feet in place with enough space. It also keeps the foot firmly locked down, so it stays comfortable even after long hours of hiking. And its weight of just 1 pound makes it the perfect choice for heavy-duty work.

03

Best lightweight and breathable hiking shoes

KEEN Targhee Vent

Brand

KEEN

Men/Women

Men's

Sole

Rubber

Sizes

All Size

Material

Mesh, Nubuck, Rubber

Waterproof

true

Weight

16 oz

Warranty

1 Year

PROS

+Injected TPU heel

+Oiled Nubuck leather

+Lightweight & resilient ESS shank

CONS

-Thin outsole

-Non-marking & lugged rubber outsole

KEEN Targhee Vent shoes are great for hikes in warm weather. They provide plenty of ventilation to keep your feet cool on the trails, which are just what you need for all-day comfort. The shoes have excellent arch support while being lightweight and comfortable to wear. They encompass a light mesh upper with breathable panels to keep your feet cool while taking on rugged terrain. They provide fantastic ventilation, have excellent arch support, and are resistant to water. If you are exploring the best lightweight and breathable hiking shoes, you should consider this model because it has all the functions that you might need.

It has a rubber sole that provides a good grip, even on slippery surfaces. This model is also lightweight because of the synthetic leather material. It has a comfortable textile lining that keeps your feet dry and allows them to breathe. These shoes provide plenty of toe and heel protection to keep your feet safe from bumps and bruises, while the upper is oiled for water resistance. The boots also have a speed hook lacing system to help you get in and out of them fast, while the injection-molded TPU heel capture system helps with stability, with Nubuck leather to give you a solid structure while being breathable.

04

Best rugged & durable hiking shoes

La Sportiva Spire GTX

Brand

La Sportiva

Men/Women

Men's

Sole

Vibram

Sizes

All Size

Material

Synthetic

Waterproof

true

Weight

15.1 oz

Warranty

1 Year

PROS

+Nano Cell 2.0 Technology

+Gore-Tex Surround Technology

+Waterproof & breathable material

CONS

-Non-Insulated

-Not budget-friendly

The La Sportiva Spire GTX is one of the best hiking shoes, which can be used for any type of hiker, whether you’re traversing the backcountry or taking a stroll around the park. It is made with abrasion-resistant mesh and lightweight materials to provide you with optimum support at minimal weight. These are water-resistant Nubuck leather upper for excellent stability while also maintaining breathability. It also has a TPU heel capture system for extra strength. This shoe is quite expensive, but it’s worth every penny because it offers excellent protection on rugged terrain and has excellent waterproofing. The upper offers excellent breathability and waterproofing, and the outsole provides excellent stability and grip in wet conditions.

It is the best rugged & durable hiking shoes that will exceed your expectations. These shoes are fantastic at protecting your feet while also promoting your movement. They’re one of the stunning shoes because the Vibram sole provides excellent grip on all types of terrain. The shoe also has a quick-dry insole, which is anti-microbial and breathable. The Gore-Tex technology offers extreme protection on wet surfaces, whether you’re hiking or walking through puddles or wet grass. TPU heel capture system provides stability on uneven terrain.

05

Best budget hiking shoes

Merrell Men's Moab 2

Brand

Merrel

Men/Women

Men's

Sole

Vibram TC5+ Synthetic

Sizes

All Size

Material

Synthetic, textile, Leather

Waterproof

true

Weight

32 oz

Warranty

1 Year

PROS

+Vibram TC5+ sole

+Protective rubber toe cap

+Good grip even slick & wet surfaces

CONS

-Average traction in mud

-A little bit sweaty in summer

When we talk about the best budget hiking shoes, the top of the list name is Merrell Men’s Moab 2; you can never go wrong with it, according to our experience and evaluation. It is a great hiking shoe with great moisture-wicking mesh and Dri-lex lining. The boots also have protection from water, M Select DRY waterproof membrane. The traction is also excellent with the Traxion outsole. Besides, the M-Select Grip rubber sole ensures slip resistance in wet and dry conditions. The boots also have compression-molded EVA midsole and M Select Fresh for odor control. The shoe is durable and light in weight, excellent for hiking. Besides, it comes at a very affordable price, given all the features included in the design.

The arch support is also great, according to most buyers. Experience out-of-the-box comfort in this waterproof shoe designed to fit like a glove out of the box. A compression-molded midsole offers cushioned comfort in every step, while an aggressive lug pattern delivers superior traction in mud and snow. The rubber sole ensures excellent traction in all conditions, whether wet or dry. Besides, the midsole is not too rigid but just flexible enough to hug your arches comfortably. The toe bumper has a durable toe guard for added protection from trail obstacles. The shoe is built with a sleek, lightweight design to keep you moving fast and strong on any trail.

06

Best lightweight & breathable hiking shoes

Vasque Men's Breeze Lt Low GTX

Brand

Vasque

Men/Women

Men's

Sole

Rubber

Sizes

All Size

Material

Suede leather, mesh, EVA, foam, Nylon

Waterproof

true

Weight

32.5 oz

Warranty

1 Year

PROS

+Nimble & supportive

+Synthetic microfiber upper

+GORE-TEX waterproof membrane

CONS

-Just an average breathability

-Run a little bit sweaty in warm weather

Vasque Men’s Breeze Lt Low GTX is exceptionally lightweight, weighing only one pound. It’s still waterproof, and it keeps your feet dry throughout each day of hiking. Let’s explore the pros that qualify it for the best lightweight & breathable hiking shoes. It has a low profile which helps you grip the terrain, making it suitable for most hikes. It’s lightweight, it’s comfortable for all-day wear, and it’s also easy to clean if it gets dirty on your walk. It is a rugged outsole that provides you with a grip in all types of conditions. It has an upper which fits more narrow, so be sure to order at least half size bigger than usual.

They’re waterproof and lightweight, making them effective on all types of hikes, including rocky terrains. They are made with durable leather, waterproof materials, and they provide incredible grip to keep your balance throughout the trek. It has a rugged outsole that prevents slippage on the trail, so it’s safe and steady for terrains like mud and rocks. It has a streamlined athletic design, making it great for casual hikes and those that involve obstacles. It is synthetic materials that still provide you with the durability you need on rugged trails. They don’t slip, and they give you balance even on the most challenging terrains.

07

Best waterproof long-term durability hiking shoes

North Face Men's Ultra 111

Brand

The North Face

Men/Women

Men's

Sole

Rubber, EVA

Sizes

All Size

Material

Mesh and synthetic

Waterproof

true

Weight

16 oz

Warranty

1 Year

PROS

+UtrATAC rubber outsole

+ESS midfoot shanks offer support

+Eco-friendly OrthoLite Hybrid footbed

CONS

-No Rock Plate

-Just an average life-span

North Face Men’s Ultra 111 waterproof hiking shoes. It is high-quality that will keep your feet dry and comfortable while you hike. It is not too heavy and is easy to clean up if they get dirty during your hike. The shoes feature OrthoLite technology and a PU-coated leather mudguard for additional comfort and support. The boots also feature a rubber sole that is durable and grippy. It is comfortable to wear all day long. If you want more support or heel protection during your hike, you should pick a pair with a higher back, even if it means extra weight for you to carry around. These shoes help you get through muddy areas and wet trails in waterproof protection, so your socks and feet stay dry.

The boots also feature a rubber sole that is durable and grippy. It is comfortable to wear all day long. It is made with a DryVent membrane, and these shoes help you get through muddy areas and wet trails in waterproof protection, so your socks and feet stay dry. We are here with something special for those looking for the best waterproof long-term durability hiking shoes. They provide an outstanding grip to keep you safe when walking on loose sediment or wet surfaces while keeping your feet dry throughout the whole hike.

08

Best support hiking shoes

Adidas Terrex Swift R3 Gore-TEX

Brand

Adidas Outdoor

Men/Women

Men's

Sole

Rubber

Sizes

All Size

Material

Textile, EVA

Waterproof

true

Weight

31 oz

Warranty

1 year

PROS

+Climbing zone Technology

+Gore-Tex Fabric Technology

+Textile lining & molded sock liner

CONS

-Not for smaller feets

-Not for a wide size feet

Adidas Terrex Swift R3 Gore-TEX is the proud product made by Adidas, and we recommend it as the best hiking shoes designed for outdoor activities and is waterproof. It features mesh, textile, and leather upper that ensures comfort, support, and durability. The Gore-Tex technology is the main feature of this shoe because it keeps your feet dry even in wet conditions. This rubber sole provides a good grip on different surfaces, including wet rocks. These shoes are suitable for mountain climbing, hiking, trail running, and rock climbing purposes. The electrical hazard protection on the boots guarantees user safety so that you can feel confident. They are incredibly comfortable and breathable shoes that keep your feet fresh, dry, and warm.

They provide good arch support, enough room in the toe box area, superb traction on any surface, including wet rocks or mud. If you want the best support hiking shoes, I will go for these because they provide excellent stability, and you can feel safe while wearing them. These boots are perfect for rugged trails because of their excellent stability. They are lightweight shoes, which makes them ideal for running. These boots feature a thick outsole that absorbs shocks well and provides top-notch grip on all surfaces, including rocks and mud. It’s a comfortable shoe you can wear for a more extended period. They provide good arch support, stability, and traction on multiple surfaces, including wet rocks.

Final Words

The most crucial part of getting the best hiking shoes is finding one with all the features you need in footwear, like waterproofing and stability; even the boots should be strong enough to hold ankles. Hiking shoes are a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast. You need to be sure that your hiking shoes have the best features: comfort and cushioning, arch support, lightweight construction, waterproof abilities, stability, and support to help you stay safe on your adventures in nature.

In this review, we’ve highlighted our top picks of the year so far from brands like Salomon X Ultra 3 Gore-Tex and Keen Targhee Vent, which will provide all these great benefits while still being breathable and comfortable underfoot. They all have great features, including waterproof abilities, stability, and support to help you stay safe on your adventures in nature. We hope that this review will help you find the best one for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What shoes should I wear for hiking?

Look for shoes with good traction on all surfaces, especially when hiking on wet rocks. Look for shoes that are comfortable to wear and provide good arch support. Some hikers prefer high tops because they offer more ankle support than other models. Adidas Terrex Swift R3 Gore-TEX is a great hiking shoe that will keep your feet safe and dry during hikes. It’s made with mesh, textile, and leather upper to ensure durability and comfort.

Are you keen on hiking shoes any good?

Keen Targhee Vent is considered a good pair of shoes for outdoor activities. They have a thick outsole that absorbs shocks well and provides top-notch grip on all surfaces, including rocks and mud, so they are perfect for hiking or running purposes. They provide good arch support, stability, and traction on multiple surfaces, including wet rocks.

Is it worth getting hiking shoes?

Hiking shoes offer better ankle support compared to trail running shoes. They provide a better grip on rough surfaces and protect feet from injuries. Suppose you want a more comfortable hiking experience. In that case, it’s worth buying a pair of good hiking shoes that will keep your feet warm and dry even in wet conditions, have excellent arch support, stability, and traction on different types of terrains, including rocks. The Danner Trail 2650 Gore-Tex hiking boots are the best pair for hiking, which feature an oil-resistant Danner dry outsole.

What Are the best shoes for hiking?

The hiking shoes are lightweight, comfortable, breathable, durable, and snug fit. The boots have the best lateral grip. They are waterproof shoes with a stiff toe to protect your feet from rocks, thorns, and other sharp objects. The Merrell Men’s Moab 2 is a mid-waterproof hiking shoe perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.