If you’re looking for the best hiking shoes for your time outdoors, we’ve put everything to the test from trail runners, to waterproof hiking shoes and general purpose hiking shoes to bring you our top picks to make your decision easier.
All the hiking shoes we’ve recommended in this line up have been tested in real world scenarios outdoors. We test in all weather, all terrains and push them to their limits to be able to make true and considered recommendations when it comes to durability and versatility.
Quite simply, your hiking shoes are important – they can make or break your experience. If they’re not right, all you’ll remember is hurting feet and nobody wants that. So, whether you need a waterproof pair, a fast and light pair or something with a little more support, read on to find the perfect shoe for your needs.
You might also see that we’ve categorized around men’s and women’s hiking shoes. But generally most manufacturers make a gender specific shoe, so if you click through to the supplier we’ve highlighted, you’ll find the gender specific version very easily alongside it.
Editor’s note: This review was updated on September 25th, 2024 to add further buying options for a number of products. We’ve also included further real world insights from recent testing trips to places like Norway, Lassen Volcanic, Sedona, Montenegro and the Lake District. We’ve also included updates where newer versions to older products have been released.
This article is part of our guide to the best hiking shoes, be sure to check out the rest of this guide for our top buying tips:
Product Comparison Table:
Salomon Men's X Ultra 4 GTX Hiking | Columbia Facet 75 Outdry | Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2 GTX | KEEN Targhee 3 Waterproof | Hoka Men's Anacapa Aero Low | La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX Hiking Boots | Nike Pegasus Trail 3 | Danner Panorama Mid | Black Diamond Mens Mission Leather Low Waterproof Approach Shoes | Lowa Renegade GTX LO | Regatta Vendeavour Pro | Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof Hiking Shoe | La Sportiva Mens TX Hike GTX Hiking Shoes | The North Face Men's Vectiv Fastpack Futurelight Track Shoe | Vasque Men's Juxt Hiking Shoe | |
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Our Ratings | Best Overall Men's | Best Budget | Most Versatile | Most Comfortable | Best for Summer | Best for Technical Trails | Best Appearance | ||||||||
Pros | Robust whilst feeling light and aerodynamic, excellent traction | Great value. Breathable and water resistant | Striking Design. Makes use of recycled material | Comfortable. Very durable | Light weight. Extremely comfortable and quick to bed in | Relatively lightweight. Good support | Very lightweight. Very comfortable | Rugged build. Clean, minimal sytling | Very low weight. They look great! | short break in, comofrtable, tread grip is substantial | Bargain price. Well made | Reputaton for comfort. Resaonably priced | Relatively light weight. They Look Good | Very comfortable. Low weight | Durable build. Extremely comfortable |
Cons | Fast lacing system won't be for everyone | Not the lightest. They might look a little plain for some | Pricey. Sole material can look tatty with time | Dated design. Pricey | Not as water resistant as some competitors. Divisive Styling | Styling may not be to eveyone's taste. Pricey | Not as durable as some competitors. Not suitable for very cold or wet conditions | Took a little while to break in. We wish there was a little more ankle support | Pricey. Soft rubber sole may wear quickly | Limited range of colors. Long term durability concerns | Limited Color choices. Not the Lightest | No the lightest design and color choices may seem dated to some | Slightly vague sustainability credentials. Sizing guidance is confusing | Limited choice of colors. Potential long-term durability issues | No waterproofing. Limited color choice |
Traction | Very good | Good | Continental outsole with medium/deep thread pattern | Full rubber outsole with deep thread pattern | Very Good | Full rubber outsole with medium/deep thread pattern | Very Good | Full rubber sole with medium/deep thread pattern | Rubber outsole with deep thread pattern. Uses 'Black Label' Sticky rubber for better grip. | Vibram outsole with medium/deep thread pattern. | Full rubber outsole with medium/deep thread pattern | Vibram outsole with medium/deep thread pattern. | Very Good | Very Good | Very Good |
Breathability | Very good | Good | Fine mesh upper with Gore-Tex membrane | Mesh sections on upper backed with waterproof membrane | Very Good | Breathable mesh upper with Gore-Tex | Very good | Minimal use of mesh, and unvented leather in main body of shoe but there is a Gore-tex membrane the boot is not insulated. | Breathable 'BD.dry' waterproof lining with some mesh sections. However unperforated leather will limit breathability. | Mesh lining backed with Gore Tex membrande | Breathable mesh upper with 'Isotex' waterproof membrane. | Breathable mesh upper with waterproof membrane | Good | Good | Very Good |
Ankle Support | Minimal but feels supported | Minimal | Medium - Mid height boot. Support can be adjusted via lacing | Minimal - Low top shoe with minimal ankle support | Minimal | Good - Mid height design with adjustable tensioning via laces | Minimal | Medium - Mid height boot. Support can be adjusted via lacing | Minimal - Low top shoe with minimal ankle support | Minimal - Low top shoe with minimal ankle support | Good - Mid-height design with ankle collar adjustment via laces. | Minimal - Low top shoe with minimal ankle support | Minimal | Minimal | Minimal |
Arch support | Regular | Regular | Gently moulded arch support in insoles | Subtle arch support | Very good | Subtle arch support | Regular | Subtly shaped inner section offers gentle arch support | Subtle arch support | Subtle arch support | Moulded nylon arch shank | Regular | Regular, but rocker-style sole may help comfort for some wearers | Regular | |
Fit | Fits true to size - regular | Regular - can run slightly large | Available in sizes from US 6/UK 5.5/ EU 38.6 up to US 15/UK 14.5/EU 50.6. Suitable for normal to wide feet. Runs small, so recommended to buy a slightly larger than normal size. | Meant to be very comfortable for a slighhtly wider foot - with lots of toe room. Available in sizes from US 7/uk 6/EU 39.5 up to US 16/UK 16/EU 49 | Regular | Availalble in standard and wide versions. Available in sizes from US 5.5/UK 5 /EU 38 up to US 14/UK 13.5/ EU 49.5 | Regular | Available in standard and wide fit. Standard is good for narrow/normal width feet. Available in sizes from US 7/ UK 6.5/EU 40 up to US 15/UK 14.5/ EU 50.6 | Typically suitable for normal width feet. Some reports indicate it's wise to size up a little. Availalble in sizes from US 6/UK 5/EU 38 to US 14/ UK 13/ EU 48.5 | Santadard - nothing to note, can be good for wide feet and standard feet may be a bit wide for narrow feet. Available in sizes from US7.5/UK 6.5/EU40 to US 16/UK 15/ EU 51 | Suitable for normal to wide feet. Available in sizes from US6.5/UK 6/EU 39.3 to US 12.5/UK 12/EU 48 | Suitable for normal width feet - have a reputation for out-of-the-box comfort. Also available in a wide version. Available in sizes from US 7/UK 6.5/ EU 40 up to US 16/ UK 15/EU 51 | Regular - can run a little small | Regular to narrow fit | Regular and Wide versions available |
Materials | Synthetic | Fully synthetic | Fully synthetic with Gore-Tex membrane. Minimum of 50% recycled material used in upper. High density foam sole can degrade with time. | Nubuck Leather and synthetic upper with Waterproof Membrane | Synthetic and nubuck leather | Fully synthetic with Gore-Tex membrane | Fully synthetic | Suede and synthetic with Gore-Tex membrane | Nubuck leather and synthetic | Nubuck Leather and synthetic upper with Gore-Tex Membrane | Fully synthetic with waterproof Isotex membrane | Pig suede and synthetic. Mesh lining, laces and webbing are made from 100% recycled materials. | Fully synthetic | Fully Synthetic | Suede leather and synthetic |
Appearance | Modern, grippy hiking shoe | Modern hiking shoe | Ultra-contemporary style with a wide range of colour ways - many are quite vivid | Slightly dated styling compared some newer designs | Modern hiking shoe with oversized sole | Contemporary styling. Available in a number of colour ways ranging from neutral to very striking. | Modern running shoe | The sytling is reminiscent of a hi-top basketball boot, but with with a clear modern interpretation. | Contemporary styling referencing classic sports shoe. Available in two colour ways | Design inspired by traditional hiking shoes. Limited color choices | Unintrusive styling. Available in a range of colours - some with vivid colour accents. | Unintrusive styling. Available in a range of colour options - mostly muted, 'earthy' colours. | Modern hiking shoe | Modern hiking shoe with oversized sole | Modern hiking shoe in earthy colors |
Durability | Very good | Good | Medium to high | High | Good | Medium to high | Good | High | High | Medium to high | Medium to high | Medium to high | Very good | Good | Excellent |
Weight (pair) | 800g/1lb 11.2oz (pair) | 833g/1lb 14oz (pair) | 910g/2lb | 861g/1lb.14.8oz | 706g/1lb 9oz (pair) | 940g/2lb 1oz | 642.8g/1lb 7oz (pair) | 1048g/2lb 5oz | 666g/1lb 7oz | 950g/2lb 1.5oz | 1080g/2lb 6oz | 900g/2lb | 790g/1lb 12oz (pair) | 646g/1lb 7oz | 822g/1lb 13oz (pair) |
Insoles | Padded removable insole | Padded removable insole | Removable insoles | Removable, dual-density EVA footbeds cushion your stride | Padded removable insole | Removable insoles | Padded removable insole | Removable three-layer cushioned insoles | Removable insoles | Removable insoles | Removable foam insoles | Removable insoles | Padded removable insole | Padded removable insole | Padded removable insole |
Break-in Period | Minimal | Minimal | Minimal | Straight away | Minimal | Minimal | Minimal | Medium | Minimal | Meant to be able to wear straight out the box | Minimal to medium | Minimal | Minimal | Minimal | Minimal |
Lacing system | Quick lacing system | Regular laces | Standard laces | Standard laces | Regular laces | Multizone lacing system allows control over fit | Regular laces | Standard laces | Standard laces | Standard laces | Multizone lacing system allows for precise fit control | Standard Laces | Regular laces | Regular laces | Regular laces |
Toe Protection | Reinforced rubber rand on toe | Reinforced rubber cap on toe | Hardened rubber toe cap and thin but full boot rand. | Hardened rubber toe cap | Reinforced rubber cap on toe | Hardened rubber toe cap | Reinforced rubber cap on toe | Hardened rubber toe cap and full boot rand. | Hardened rubber toe cap | Hardened rubber toe cap | Hardened rubber toe cap and rand on front section | Hardened rubber toe cap and rand on front section | Reinforced rubber rand at front | Reinforced rubber cap on toe | Reinforced rubber rand and toe cap |
Product | Danner Womens Trail 2650 | Columbia Women's Trailstorm | Hoka Speedgoat 5 | Adidas Terrex Swift R3 Gore-Tex | Keen Zionic Speed | Altra Lone Peak 7 | Adidas Terrex AX4 Gore-Tex Hiking Shoes | Keen NXIS EVO Low Height Waterproof Hiking Shoe | La Sportiva Spire GTX | Merrell Moab Speed | Oboz Sawtooth X Low Waterproof | On Cloudwander Waterproof | Merrell Siren Edge 3 |
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Our Ratings | Best Overall Women's | Best Budget | Best Lightweight | Best for Winter | Best for Long Distances | Best for Trail Running | |||||||
Pros | Durable build. Extremely comfortable | Exceptionally good hiking shoe for the price point. Clever traction design in the lugs | Extremely well cushioned and comfortable fit. Deep lugs offer good traction on slippery surfaces | Well protected and durable. Great traction and feels very grippy | A great fast and light shoe. Roomy toe box, and comfortable for wider feet | Roomy toe box. Excellent traction. | Striking design. Makes use of recycled material | Light weight. Good environmental credentials | Light Weight. Ultra breathable | Lightweight. Iconic Moab fit and comfort | Durable build. Good water resistance | Excellent balance of weight and waterproofing. Stiffer design gives a more technical feel | Very light. Often very reasonably priced |
Cons | Not the cheapest. We found they didn't keep our feet warm in wet conditions | Breathability concerns in warmer temperatures | Colorways are divisive. lacking in stiffness between outsole and midsole | Pretty rigid - not the most fast and light shoe on the market, can feel a little big | Not waterproof. Durability concerns on the sole | Less durable. Pricey | Looks may be too much for some. Slightly narrow fit may be unsuitalbe for wider feet. | May not be best fit for narrower feet. A bit pricey | Pricey. Some may prefer a more rigid shoe | Not most supportive. More expensive than the regular Moab | Heavy. Longer break-in period | Some may find them too stiff. Can be pricey. | Not Waterproof. Some durability concerns |
Traction | Vibram outsole with medium/deep thread pattern | Extremely good | Very good | Extremely good | Average | Full rubber outsole with medium/deep thread pattern | Continental outsole with medium deep thread depth | Full rubber outsole with medium thread depth | Vibram outsole with deep thread pattern | Vibram outsole with medium/deep thread pattern. | Very good | Very good | Good |
Breathability | Perforated suede outer with breathable mesh inner | Not so great | Good | Good, but Gore-Tex membrane does play in here | Excellent | Full mesh upper | Breathable mesh upper with Core-Tex membrane | Breathable mesh upper and lining with anti-odor treatment | Breathable mesh upper with Gore-Tex | Full mesh upper | Average | Good | Very good |
Ankle Support | Minimal - Low top shoe with minimal ankle support | Minimal | Minimal | Minimal | Minimal | Minimal - Low top shoe with minimal ankle support | Minimal - Low top shoe with minimal ankle support | Minimal - Low top shoe with minimal ankle support | Minimal - Low top shoe with minimal ankle support | Minimal - Low top shoe with minimal ankle support | Minimal | Minimal | Minimal |
Arch support | Gentle arch support | Regular | Regular | Regular | Minimal | Gentle | Subtle arch support | Gentle arch support | Gentle arch support | Gentle | Good | Regular | Regular |
Fit | Available in medium width and in sizes from US 5/ UK 3.5/ EU 36 up to US 11/ UK 9.5/ EU 44 | Regular | Standard/slightly wide | Regular/wide | Standard/slightly wide | Roomy and good for wider feet with natural movement. Available in sizes from US 5.5/UK 3.5/EU 36 to US 12/UK 10/EU 44.5 | Available in sizes from US 5/ UK 3.5 /EU 36 up to US 12/ UK 10.5/ EU 45.3 | Iconic Keen fit' - Wider fit with extra space at forefoot. Available in sizes from US 5/ UK 3.5/ EU 36 up to US 12/ UK 9/ EU 43 | Fits true. Typically suitable for normal to narrow feet. Available in sizes from US 5/ UK 3/EU 36 up to US 11/ UK 9/ EU 42 | Similar to the Moab 3 - but a little more narrow but still suitable for most hikers. Available in sizes from US 5/UK 2.5/EU 35 to US 11.5/UK 9/EU 43 | Normal and wide verisons available | Standard/slightly narrow | Normal and wide versions available |
Materials | Suede and synthetic | Synthetic | Synthetic | Synthetic with 50% recycled upper | Synthetic | Fully synthetic | Fully synthetic with Gore-Tex membrane. Adidas claims upper contains a minimum of 50% recycled material | Fully synthetic with waterproof 'KEEN.DRY' membrane | Fully synthetic with Gore-Tex membrane | Fully synthetic. Merrell claim these sheos are vegan. | Synthetic and leather | Synthetic | Synthetic |
Appearance | Modern design with classic elements and materials. Available in a wide range of colour ways. | Modern cross between hiking shoe and trail runner | Trail running shoe | Modern hiking shoe | Trail running shoe | A really nice looking shoe that could work well for multiple purposes such as hiking and trail running - with a variety of striking color designs | Striking angluar design available in a wide rang eof colour ways | Distinctive good looks available in multiple colour ways | Available in multiple colour ways with striking styling, typical of La Sportiva. | Does something inbetween a hiking shoe and trail runner and comes in a variety of striking colourways | Modern hiking shoe | Modern hiking shoe | Modern hiking shoe |
Durability | Very high | Considering the price point, seems durable | Average | Rip resistant synethetic finish with durable Continental sole | Longer term durability concerns | Medium to high | Medium to high | Medium to high | Medium to high | Medium to high | Excellent | Good | Some durability concerns |
Weight (pair) | 680g/1lb 08oz | 500g/1lb 3oz | 460g/1lb | 700g/1lb 7oz | 544g/1lb 2oz | 635g/1lb 4.5oz | 758g/1lb 11oz | 644g/1lb 6oz | 740g/1lb 10oz | 640g/1lb5oz | 800g/1lb 12oz | 640g/1lb 7oz | 560g/1lb 4oz |
Insoles | Removable three-layer cushioned insoles | Standard insole | Standard insole | Standard insole | Standard insole | Removable padded insole | Removable insoles | Removable padded insole | Removable padded insole | Removable padded insole | Paded, shaped 'O FIT' insole | Standard insole | Standard insole |
Break-in Period | Minimal | Minimal break in | Minimal | Minimal break in | Minimal break in | Very minimal | Minimal | Minimal | Minimal | Very minimal | Short break in period | Short break in period | Very minimal |
Lacing system | Standard laces | Ghillie lacing | Standard lacing system | Traditional laces | Traditional laces | Standard laces | Standard laces | Standard laces | Standard laces | Standard laces | Standard laces | Standard laces | Standard laces |
Toe Protection | Rubeerized, semi-rigid toe cap with rubber rand around front section of shoe | Rubber toe rand | Rubber toe rand | Rubber toe rand | Minimal rubber toe rand | Hard but not solid | Rubberized, reinforced, but non-rigid toe and front section | Hard, but not solid, rubber toe cap. | Non-rigid PU 'TechLite' toe cap | Hardened rubber toe cap | Reinforced toe | Rubber toe rand and small toe cap | Reinforced toe |
The 15 Best Hiking Shoes for Men
Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX Hiking
Best Overall Men’s
Great news: This shoe is also available in a women’s fit.
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- A really robust hiking shoe that is extremely well made
- Extremely grippy outsole is perfect for alpine adventures and tough ascents/descents
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- Fast lacing system isn’t to everyone’s taste
- They don’t offer much flexibility at all
See the Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX Hiking in more detail:
Throughout our tests, we were impressed time and time again by the Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX Hiking shoes. Their performance was well rounded and that’s why we’ve awarded them our top pick.
Salomon are well known for producing high end running and outdoor gear, so we had high expectations and they didn’t disappoint. Where they came into their own was in terms of durability and how they handled wet, rugged, and less than ideal alpine conditions. Similarly, they were the perfect comfortable shoe on more well-groomed trails.
They make use of a Contragrip MA outsole, and their Gore-Tex membrane gives them a bullet proof attack against even the heaviest of downpours or stream crossings. They’re rigid, but they are also incredibly comfortable, which we feel offers the best of both worlds.
Salomon offer these hiking shoes in a standard and wider fit which is great for a range of hikers. Another area we loved was how the quick lacing system makes adjusting on the trail much easier. We found ourselves reaching for these hiking shoes time and time again – we feel they are one of the best out there right now. Read our in-depth review of the Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX Hiking.
Columbia Facet 75 Outdry
Best Budget
Great news: This shoe is also available in a women’s fit.
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- Great budget friendly option, especially if you’re a new hiker
- Great breathability and water resistance
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- Heavier than some in our reviews
- They can look a little ‘dull’ in comparison to other hiking shoes out there
See the Columbia Facet 75 Outdry in more detail:
These hiking shoes have great appeal, and you’re getting a great shoe for the money. They certainly don’t feel like an entry level shoe, and if you look after them, they should last you for a good while. Plus, you’re buying from a brand who are well respected in the outdoors scene you know you can trust.
The Facet 75’s make use of Columbia’s own rubber sole which has a medium to deep thread pattern, which gives a really good grip on the majority of surfaces you’ll come across whilst outdoors. They’re also very breathable too, which makes them a great choice for hotter conditions, and whilst they’re not as ventilated as some others in our reviews, for the price point, they do a great job.
In recent testing, on some trips to areas like the Lake District and Norway, we actually developed even more of a soft spot for this well priced pair of hiking shoes. They handle really well on slightly easier going trails and they continue to be more and more comfortable.
Columbia offers this shoe in a wider range of sizes, from US 7/UK 6/EU 40 all the way up to US15/UK 14/EU 48 for the men’s and US 5/UK 3/EU 36 upwards for women’s. If you have a slightly wider foot, you may find these a perfect fit. Either way, if these are within your budget, you won’t be disappointed. Read our in-depth review of the Columbia Facet 75 Outdry.
Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2
Most Versatile
Great news: This shoe is also available in a women’s fit.
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- The design makes the best of stylish looks and comfort
- Recycled materials are used extensively in this shoe
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- They are more of an investment compared to some other models in our reviews
- They can look ‘worn in’ relatively quickly, especially on the sole
See the Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2 in more detail:
Adidas are a tried and tested brand in the sports and fashion scene that we’re all familiar with – they’ve been around for a very long time and have a great reputation for dependable footwear to boot. The Terrex brand is a relatively new addition to their range, launching in 2011 when it’s first range of more climbing focused products came onto the market.
Since Terrex came to market, their range has expanded very quickly and now they have some of the most well-respected hiking shoes out there. They’ve really made a name for themselves in the outdoors world and some of their designs easily stand up against some of the most popular shoes.
The thing we love about the Terrex Free Hiker 2 is that it looks just as good worn whilst tackling a trail as it does later in the evening, wandering around town. They’re extremely versatile in this regard, but that isn’t where it stops. They’re also waterproof (Gore-Tex), which insulates them extremely well for 2-3 season (at a push) hiking and have great durability.
They offer these hiking shoes in a good range of sizes as well, from US 6/UK 5.5/EU 38.6 to US 15/UK 14.5/EU 50.6 which works perfectly if you have either a normal or slightly wide foot as they’re pretty roomy. These shoes are also comfortable pretty much straight out of the box, and within a couple of short training hikes you will be happy to take them out on a longer journey.
At this point, we’ve been testing this hiking shoe offering from Adidas Terrex for close to two years and can honestly say they are some of the most comfortable shoes out there. They are still handling exceptionally well and only have a few scuffs on them, even after getting some pretty heavy usage on a number of very sandy trails in Lassen Volcanic.
They’re a great shoe that looks stylish and feels built to last – you won’t have any regrets if you decide to buy these! Read our in-depth review of the Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2.
KEEN Targhee 3 Waterproof
Most Comfortable
Great news: This shoe is also available in a women’s fit.
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- A well-known and loved favorite for its comfort
- They’re a very durable hiking shoe and can be put through their paces
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- They can lose traction on wet or slick surfaces
- Whilst they’re a dependable favorite, visually, they are not the most exciting walking shoe out there
An old faithful favorite and one that is well loved by the outdoors community, the KEEN Targhee 3 Waterproof hiking shoe has a very loyal following. In fact, some people would argue it is one of the best hiking shoes for men. Personally, we love the KEEN Targhee 3 because it is a great, no nonsense hiking shoe – you know what you’re getting, and they’re durably made so they will last you a long time.
Made of oiled, nubuck leather, they also have a waterproof membrane which will keep your feet dry even in bad weather. They weigh 861g/1lb 14oz, so they’re not the lightest in our reviews, but they’re certainly not the heaviest either.
Another thing we love about these walking shoes is that they are pretty much comfortable straight out of the box, and within a few short ‘testing’ walks, you’ll be good to get out on the trail with no worries. They wear with you over time and will become a very reliable and dependable addition to your gear. Read our in-depth review of the KEEN Targhee 3 Waterproof shoe.
Hoka Men’s Anacapa Breeze Low
Best for Summer
Great news: This shoe is also available in a women’s fit.
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- Pretty lightweight
- Quick break in period and comfortable right away
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- Lacking in water resistance compared to some other models
- Not to everyone’s taste looks wise
This is a great lightweight hiking shoe option from well-known brand Hoka. They weigh in at 706g/1lb 9oz per pair which puts them at the lighter end of the scale, and they are ideal for fast packers and ultralight backpackers.
Straight out of the box, these hiking shoes are really comfortable and need a minimal break in period before you’ll feel ready to get out on the trail. Their hardened, rubber toe cap is a great addition for that extra bit of support against any bumps and knocks on the trail too.
You will likely know the distinctive sole that Hoka are well known for – well, these shoes are no different. The larger Vibram outsole gives a really solid level of grip on the trail and the particularly aggressive grip pattern that these shoes make use of are brilliant for wetter conditions and light alpine treks. If you are hiking or trail running in warmer conditions quite frequently, then Anacapa Breeze Low will be a solid addition to your kit. Read our in-depth review of the Hoka Men’s Anacapa Breeze Low.
La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX Hiking Shoe
Best for Technical Trails
Great news: This shoe is also available in a women’s fit.
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- Has a fairly robust feel that helps with arch and ankle support
- Feels light on the foot
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- Higher price point, so more of an investment
- Their looks might not be for everyone
If you like the idea of a high-top style hiking shoe, then the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX may just be your perfect match. They’re extremely durable and pretty lightweight – coming in at 940g/2lb 10oz, which is on the lighter side of our reviews.
The waterproofing offered is best for rockier and alpine environments than a deep bog, but then we likely wouldn’t take a pair of hikers like that into that kind of environment anyway! Even though these hiking shoes use Gore-Tex, they do maintain a really good level of breathability, which is helped massively by the synthetic materials used. They’re a good all-rounder and keep you feeling comfortable all day. In fact, they’re pretty much comfortable straight out of the box.
They have a good level of grip which feels sticky on slippery surfaces and slick rock. The deep thread pattern helps here and adds to your sense of confident foot placement.
They’re one of the most cutting-edge pairs of hikers out there right now in terms of technology and materials and we think you’ll be impressed if you decide to buy them. Read our in-depth review of the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX Hiking shoes.
Nike Pegasus Trail 3
Best Appearance
Great news: This shoe is also available in a women’s fit.
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- Lightweight option for more well-maintained trails and fair-weather hiking
- Comfortable and well cushioned
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- Not suitable for cold and wet weather
- Might not be as durable in the longer term
See the Nike Pegasus Trail 3 in more detail:
The Nike Pegasus Trail 3 are a pair of hiking shoes that we were surprised by, and in a good way. Of course, Nike has a very long and iconic history in sportswear, but they don’t have much of a presence when it comes to hiking gear.
These hikers really stood out to us as they’re lightweight but not flimsy feeling and give a solid level of comfort. If you’re looking for a shoe that will be good in cold weather, then these may not be for you, but they’re really breathable which makes them an asset in warmer conditions. The Pegasus Trail 3 has a grippy sole which is surprisingly versatile on steep ascents and slippery surfaces all the way through to trail running.
What’s more, they’re offered in a good range of sizes, which is good to see. If you’re in the market for a lightweight shoe that’s stylish and gets a nice balance between comfort and speed, we think these are a great option for more well maintained and trodden trails. Read our in-depth review of the Nike Pegasus Trail 3.
Danner Panorama Mid
Great news: This shoe is also available in a women’s fit.
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- Great level of softness and comfort
- Low profile design that feels timeless
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- Break in period is slightly longer than some other hiking shoes in our reviews
- Ankle support is lower profile, so not as sturdy as some others
See the Danner Panorma Mid in more detail:
From the first moment our testers put the Danner Panorama Mid’s on, we loved them and became one of our favorite hiking shoes out of all of our picks.
Not only are they comfortable, they’re also very versatile and can be worn in a variety of situations. They’ll suit you just as well for general hiking and walking as they will for more demanding terrain and even make a great approach shoe.
If you like the Danner Mountain Light 2, you’ll like these. They’re fairly light coming in at 1048g/2lb 5oz a pair, and when you consider how durable and well-made they are, this is barely noticeable once hiking. The Danner Panorama Mid use an in house produced sole which is rubberized and works great on slippery surfaces or rocks, allowing you to get a sense of where you are placing your feet.
We like the slightly hybrid feel between a boot and a shoe, which does give a level of ankle support whilst also not being too restrictive. Overall, you cannot go wrong with a pair of these!
At this point, this offering from Danner has seen some pretty hard trail usage from us and has been put through its paces repeatedly. They are still going strong, with no real obvious signs of wear and tear at all. Of course they’re more covered in dirt now, but with proper cleaning these shoes really do stand the test of time and become more comfortable through wear.
Black Diamond Men’s Mission Low Approach Shoes
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- Perfect style for the trail and town afterwards
- Lightweight, ‘airy’ feel when wearing
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- They are on the pricier side than some shoes in our reviews
- They have a rubber sole which could wear down over time quicker for some people depending on your foot positioning
If you’re looking for one of the best hiking shoes out there that works as an all-rounder, you may have found it with the Black Diamond Men’s Mission Low Approach Shoes – they’re hard wearing, waterproof and versatile.
Black Diamond are well known in the climbing scene, and this gives these shoes a great advantage – their grip is well formed for crag as well as more technical terrain. If you’re looking for a walking shoe that is also lightweight (666g/1lb 70z per pair), they feel ‘airy’ on the foot, and to us, they bridge the gap (even though not specifically intended) between a fastpacking shoe and an approach shoe. In fact, these make an exceptional backpacking shoe.
The soft cushioning on the inner sole works a treat when it comes to shock absorption which helps with confidence of foot placement on the trail. The only downside is, they are very much more suited if you have a normal or slightly narrower foot – and one of our reviewers with a wider foot remarked on this.
However, they are offered in a good size range from US 6/UK 5/EU 38 to US 14/UK 13/EU 48.5. Read our in-depth review of the Black Diamond Men’s Mission Low Approach Shoe.
Lowa Renegade GTX LO
Great news: This shoe is also available in a women’s fit.
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- Chunky thread (Evo-Trac) and durable Vibram sole means for great traction even on slippery surfaces
- Comfortable quickly with a shorter break in period than many
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- Limited colors
- Longer term durability isn’t the greatest
There have been a number of comments when you look at the Lowa Renegade GTX Lo shoes online about their potential durability over time. That said, we haven’t found this, but it is obviously important to keep in mind that a pair of shoes isn’t going to last you forever and it really depends how you use them and the kind of life they see.
That aside, we think you’ll love these hiking shoes – there’s a good chance you’ve heard of them before and they’re a good compliment to Lowa’s existing Renegade Mid boots. In fact, if you’re looking for a great waterproof hiking shoe, these might be some of the best out there.
The fact that these walking shoes come with just about as short a break in period as you could hope for give them a massive advantage, but of course, they can look a little tired due to the lack of exciting designs where other brands bridge the gap. That said, if you’re looking for something very dependable, then you should seriously consider them. Read our in-depth review of the Lowa Renegade GTX Lo.
Merrell Moab 3
Great news: This shoe is also available in a women’s fit.
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- Very comfortable with a short break in period
- On the more budget end so great for beginners and enthusiasts alike
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- Their classic design does mean they are not as lightweight as some other shoes in our reviews
- This also means that they do look a bit dated in comparison to some other models out there
See the Merrell Moab 3 in more detail:
These trail shoes are a great addition to anybody’s kit – they’re dependable, well made, durable and to boot, waterproof too. The Merrell Moab line has an almost cult like following and these are some of the most popular hiking shoes out there. Be sure to check out our reviews of the mid in our best hiking boots guide.
We found the Merrell Moab 3 comfortable straight away and only needed a couple of short walks before we were ready to tackle more full-on trails in them. The shoes breathable membrane was great too – and they keep your feet feeling nice and cool on hot summer days and protected when it rains, the perfect combination.
What is also fantastic about these walking shoes is that they are available in a flexible range of sizes from US 7/UK 6.5/EU 40 to US 16/UK 15, EU 51 and can even be bought as a standard or wider fit, which makes them the perfect option for any hiker. Read our in-depth review of the Merrell Moab 3.
Regatta Vendeavour Pro
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- We love the bargain price for what you get – they stand up well to some of the more expensive designs
- Strong, durable and built to last
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- Heavier than some other hiking shoes in our reviews
- The color range offered by Regatta for this model is limited
See the Regatta Vendeavour Pro in more detail:
If you’re looking for a more budget friendly pair of waterproof hiking shoes then this offering from Regatta will set you up well for your adventures. In fact, they are actually one of the most affordable in our guide.
Where they really come into their own is that they punch well above their weight, and they feel anything but entry level on the trail. What we feel helps here is that they make use of their own ‘Isotex’ waterproof membrane which likely keeps the price down.
Not only are they fantastic for a variety of different terrains and conditions, they also feel extremely durable and comfortable to wear. They have just the right amount of flexibility to feel comfortable right away with a robust and durable finish that protects you from all you might encounter whilst outdoors.
Worn in the warmer months, the mesh sides on the Regatta Vedeavour Pro’s help with breathability and do a great job in wetter conditions too. The mid height gives flexible ankle support which lets you be both flexible and well protected. If you put some love, care, and attention into these boots, you could find yourself reaching for them for a long time.
It’s now a good few seasons down the line since we first got our hands on the Regatta Vendeavour and we can’t rate them highly enough – especially considering the price. They’ve literally been everywhere with us and seen sandy beach hikes in Fuerteventura, deep canyons in Sedona and burly mountain ascents in the Shasta Cascade. These boots feel like they command much more highly than their price point indicates! Read our in-depth review of the Regatta Vendevour Pro.
La Sportiva TX Hike GTX
Great news: A similar shoe is also available in a women’s fit.
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- Lightweight feel
- Elegant looks
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- Sizing guidance isn’t the best
- Not the best for wider feet – and you may need to order a bigger size if you do
The La Sportiva TX Hike GTX shoes offer a really nice balance between lightweight design, a durable finish and water resistance which made them stand out to us. The use of cutting-edge design technologies in these hiking shoes are what allow them to get such a strong balance between looking stylish and being ultimately functional.
They’re very comfortable from the start and we think they’re a really solid investment in your outdoor gear. Overall, we think that the La Sportiva TX Hike GTX is a reliable option and one you’ll be reaching for time and time again. Read our in-depth review of the La Sportiva TX Hike GTX.
The North Face Vectiv Fastpack Futurelight
Great news: This shoe is also available in a women’s fit.
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- Comfortable with relatively minimal break-in period
- Lightweight and affordable
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- Limited range of color options
- Longer term durability concerns
The North Face Vectiv Fastpack Futurelight shoes are impressively lightweight, they’re also comfortable and water resistant, which makes them suitable for pretty much all hiking scenarios and trail running. We loved the fact that they made use of mesh in the upper as this helps the breathability of the shoes, something the Futurelight membrane does take away.
The North Face have also added their distinctive Vectiv rocker soles which are extremely comfortable, particularly so if you find yourself needing a bit more in terms of arch support. They are only available as a standard, single width and they are true to size but if you have wider feet, you may find them a bit of a pinch.
They’re also not available in many color variants, so this can feel a little bit limited. However, they are extremely grippy and the deep lugs combined with the soft rubber sole works wonders in a whole variety of terrain.
At 656g per pair, if you are looking for something to help you go further with fastpacking or fast and light scenarios, these should be top of your list, especially as they are comfortable to wear extended time periods. They’re also extremely affordable and all in all, they’re a well-rounded, great option. Read our in-depth review of The North Face Vectiv Fastpack Futurelight.
Vasque Men's Juxt Hiking Shoe
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- Durable for fair weather hiking
- Very comfortable
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- Not waterproof
- Limited color range
The Vasque Juxt Men’s hiking shoe stood out for us for a few reasons – the durability and comfort offered are great, and they’re a great contender for warmer and drier environments. Their comfort was one of the most impressive areas – they just feel so good straight out of the box.
However, they offer no waterproofing and are therefore really only suited to warmer and drier locations and conditions. That said, this impacts their breathability in a very positive way. They also have great traction and make use of a Vibram outsole.
They are made from suede leather, so are very durable and are actually surprisingly light considering this – coming in at 822g. These shoes really are a great option for more fair weather hikes. Read our in-depth review of the Vasque Men’s Juxt Hiking Shoe.
The 13 Best Hiking Shoes for Women
Danner Trail 2650
Best Overall Women’s
Great news: This shoe is also available in a men’s fit.
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- Great durability and longevity
- Very comfortable hiking shoes, even straight out the box
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- On the pricier side, so an investment
- Can feel colder when wet
See the Danner Trail 2650 in more detail:
We love the Danner Trail 2650 shoes and in fact we believe they are some of the best hiking shoes for women out there (they’re also available in a men’s version too). They’re just so comfortable, they feel like an old faithful straight away. Plus, they look great for both the trail and town afterwards too – they could even be the only pair of hiking sneakers you need!
They’ve versatile – they’re perfect for general hiking, they do well with light mountaineering treks and stand up to water and are waterproofed very well. You’ll find their comfort comes mostly from the Vibram sole that has a medium to deep thread. This gives a great, chunky grip and really solid traction across all surfaces. We found on slippery surfaces you’ll feel confident and glide past.
If you have a wider foot, the Danner Trail 2650’s will suit you well as the have a wider toe post than some. Their materials are mostly leather suede and synthetic mesh and rubber, which helps with their longer-term comfort.
At this stage, we’ve hiked hundreds of miles in these hiking shoes and they are dependable and reliable. They are unbelievably comfortable and we’ve found it hard to take them off once you put them on – there aren’t many shoes that compare to them in terms of comfort. You’ll love these – they’re one of the best low cut hiking shoes out there. Read our in-depth review of the Danner Trail 2650.
Columbia Women's Trailstorm
Best Budget
Great news: This shoe is also available in a men’s fit.
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- They offer a lot of impressive features for their price point
- Very grippy with excellent traction
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- Can feel sweaty in warmer conditions
- Runs small – you may need to size up
See the Columbia Women’s Trailstorm in more detail:
The Columbia Women’s Trailstorm hiking shoe is a great option for the price point, when you consider what you actually get in terms of grip and durability. If you’re looking for something that will work well in colder and wetter conditions, then this is a great shoe for you. Maybe not so much for hotter locations though! This is certainly geared more towards handling rain and even snow well.
What we loved was the innovative lug design which gave a really great level of traction on a whole range of terrain, from alpine to boggy, marshy ground. They’re just a comfortable shoe right out of the box and the ghillie lacing system gives you something really adjustable.
As they’re constructed of durable synthetic materials, they should last the test of time, and whilst they aren’t really the most exciting to look at, considering the price point, they’re well worth it. They give you the kind of performance you’d expect from much more expensive models. Read our in-depth review of the Columbia Women’s Trailstorm.
Hoka Speedgoat 5
Best Lightweight
Great news: This shoe is also available in a men’s fit.
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- Good level of traction
- Cushioned, platform sole gives a great bounce
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- The cushioned sole is divisive
- You can feel everything underfoot
The Hoka Speedgoat 5 is kind of divider. Some love it, others hate it. Some love the bouncy feel the iconic sole gives, whilst others say it’s just too bulky. Having tested, we have to say we are on the side of loving them, especially if you use them in the right conditions.
They sit as a trail runner, and they offer a really strong level of traction and make use of Vibram Megagrip for their outsole. The outsole is one of the most distinctive parts of their design and it’s springy and cushioned which helps to absorb shock extremely well. We loved the level of breathability this shoe offers – and it’s a real winner for warmer conditions and fair-weather hikes.
It does lack a bit of protection between the midsole and outsole which allows you to ‘feel’ the ground underneath when hiking. Some hikers love this – but this was our main area to mark this shoe down. That said, it did very well on loose and slippery surfaces and the chunky design felt good to wear. It may not be the best solution for more rugged alpine trails but its lightweight feel makes it pretty much perfect for well-maintained paths. Read our in-depth review of the Hoka Speedgoat 5.
Adidas Terrex Swift R3 Gore-Tex
Best for Winter
Great news: This shoe is also available in a men’s fit.
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- Extremely durable
- Very grippy, with great traction on the most slippery surfaces
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- Can feel too large if you have narrower feet
- If you’re used to trail runners, you may find this shoe quite stiff
See the Adidas Terrex Swift R3 Gore-Tex in more detail:
Terrex have come up time and time again over the last few years since they entered the hiking scene, and we really feel that the praise received is warranted. The Adidas Terrex Swift R3 Gore-Tex hiking shoes give a really strong level of durability and traction which sees them perform well in a lot of differing and challenging terrain.
Their Continental soles handle really well on slippery surfaces, rock and light alpine. We also found through our testing that the Gore-Tex waterproofing handled exceptionally well in harsh conditions, but they also work well as a fair-weather shoe too.
If you have narrower feet, you may not find these the right shoe for you, as they can feel a little wide. They also do have a slight break in period as they are a little stiff to begin, but once they’re worn in, they feel really comfortable and effortless to wear.
After testing on further trips to places like Norway, the Alps and the Tatar Mountains in Poland, we’ve found these hiking shoes to really come into their own on more technical trails, especially in summer inclement weather. They’ve rapidly become one of our favorite pairs and love the fact that they still look pretty much good as new.
They make use of at least 50% recycled materials too, and they have made some good headway with their sustainability credentials too. Their appearance, look and feel are a little divisive but we think they sit up there well, punching above their weight. Read our in-depth review of the Adidas Terrex Swift R3 Gore-Tex.
Keen Zionic Speed
Best for Long Distances
Great news: A similar shoe is also available in a men’s fit.
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- A great fast and light shoe
- Roomy toe box, and comfortable for wider feet
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- Not waterproof
- Durability concerns on the sole
The Keen Zionic Speed hiking shoe is a lightweight contender with a flexible design and good level of grip. It works perfectly for fair weather areas, fast and light hiking, and well-maintained trails.
It has a wide toe box which suits wider feet and feels really roomy and comfortable. It does lack in the waterproofing department though, which is a shame. Though this is made up for with its quick drying design and its use of recycled materials.
If you’re looking for a budget friendly shoe, this will be a good option, especially if you’re likely to head out on shorter trails. Likewise, if a lightweight feel and breathability are important, the Zionic Speed is a good choice. Read our in-depth review of the Keen Zionic Speed.
Altra Lone Peak 7
Best for Trail Running
Great news: This shoe is also available in a men’s fit.
Pros / Reasons to Buy
- With space in the toe box, these are a great option for wider feet
- Can use a gaiter for added protection from the elements
Cons / Reasons to Avoid
- Seem a little flimsier than some others in our reviews
- On the pricier side
The Altra Lone Peak 7 is one of the best hiking shoes for women out there right now if you have wider feet. Even if you don’t, the comfort offered in these shoes will be a welcome addition for anyone! If you’re already familiar with the Altra Lone Peak Hiker Hiking Boots, you’ll like this offering.
It seems that Altra have gone to some lengths to work on some of the previous concerns that their fan base had about traction, especially when it comes to slippery surfaces. In our tests, we found the Altra Lone Peak 7 hiking shoes gripped well when it came to slippery surfaces and in fact a whole range of different environments. This is helped by the use of Altra’s ‘Trail Claw’ lug and their ‘MaxTrac’ outsole.
This is also a great option if you’re looking for a hiking shoe that can work as a trail running shoe too, it’s almost a hybrid, kind of fastpacking but not quite, so it’s great for many purposes. They also weigh in at a very light 635g/1lb 4.5oz. We think you’ll be very happy with the Altra Lone Peak 7 if you buy them! Read our in-depth review of the Altra Lone Peak 7.