10 Best Hiking Boots Tested and Fully Reviewed

Support/Stability:

The high cut of these boots rises 6 inches from the arch to provide ample ankle support for those carrying a heavy load. Reviewers appreciate the adjustable lace system with 2 hooks along the ankle. Stopping at the first hook gives a bit more flexibility for a mid-boot feel, or you can increase stability by lacing the boots to the top. Either setting feels secure, and the foot seems to remain solidly in place. The sole provides excellent lateral stability without being inflexible.

Traction:

Users find the Contragrip outsole and solid lugs perform well in wet and dry conditions.

Comfort:

Users are impressed by the immediate support and short break-in period for these hiking boots. The combination of Nubuck leather and nylon provides excellent flexibility and the 2 lbs, and 13 ounces do not make feet feel heavy. Some reviewers think the insole is too thin and prefer to switch them out for their insoles. Users find the high ankles and waterproofing do an excellent job at keeping water out, even during quick creek crossings where feet are submerged completely. The newer version does seem to be a bit narrower than the original and users with more full feet do not find them as comfortable.

Durability:

Unfortunately, this is where these light to mid-weight boots fall short. The shoes do hold up well for some time but some users note premature separation of the sole or fraying at the seams.

Value:

These boots are on the more expensive side, and some users find themselves disappointed by their durability considering the cost.

"Salomon Quest 4D 2 GTX" is one of the best hiking boots on our list!

Support/Stability:

Users love the Lowa Renegade for its balance between lightweight flexibility and ruggedness. It has significantly more rigidity through the underfoot than light hiking shoes but does not feel too stiff or inflexible. Nubuck leather uppers provide good structure while remaining flexible and the mid-ankle cut, rising about 5 inches from the arch, gives reliable ankle support. The lacing system does not lock in the heel quite as well as the Salomon Quest, but it does provide a unique, customizable feel.

Traction:

Vibram outsoles mix rubber with hard lugs to provide reliable grip in a variety of conditions.

Comfort:

Similar to the Salomon Quest, these hiking boots require very little time to break in. Users, not they are very comfortable right out of the box, and the adjustable lace system is great for accommodating a variety of foot sizes and shapes. They are reported to run a bit small, and the company recommends ordering a half size up.

Durability:

The thin leather upper provides flexibility and comfort right out of the box but does not do much in terms of long-term durability. Some users noted separation of the upper from the sole after not very much time but are thankful it does not take much time to break in the next pair.

"Lowa Renegade GTX 10" is one of the best hiking boots on our list!

Support/Stability:

This flexible hiking shoe has more support than a trail runner but is much more manageable through the underfoot and collar than low top hiking boots. For short day hikes, this flexibility is great for keeping you moving quickly and does provide significantly more support for ankles than a regular running or even trail running shoe.

Traction:

The rubber Vibram outsoles provide excellent traction but are not the best on dry and dusty descents.

Comfort:

The Merrell Moab offers unrivaled comfort as a hiking shoe and requires no time to break in. Extra padding around the collar and tongue provide comfort around the ankle opening. A flexible build in the upper and footbed is so comfortable that many users prefer these as regular walking shoes. The cushioning is a bit thinner through the footbed so some rocks can be felt along the bottom of the foot.

Durability:

The Moab line is an excellent option for reliable durability. The waterproofing will need to be refreshed annually, but the shoe holds up very well especially when considering the lightweight design.

Value:

Consistently under 150 dollars, this is a decent option for casual hikers.

"Merrell Moab 2" is one of the best hiking boots on our list!

Stability/Traction

Adding the Contragrip rubber sole to the lug pattern gave the X Ultra 3 Mid GTX that extra grip you want when your hiking the trails. Add some Goretex to the rest of the shoe and you have a well-rounded hiking boot fit for any type of hiking condition.

Salomon made these with less stack height in the collar but added padding for the extra ankle support most higher designs offer, for a more stable ride. This lower profile also allows for them to be worn daily without screaming “I LIKE MUD”.

Comfort

As we mentioned in the intro, these are made with a trail shoe design. They offer support in all the right areas and padding to make sure you do not get the evil ankle roll. This makes them more flexible than most in their class.

However, this also means the under is a bit thinner compared to others. Salomon works out the difference by adding a strong chassis design that holds the foot in place while giving great toe protection against roots and sharp objects.

Durability

Although they cut out some weight with thinner midsoles, making it less durable than some on the list, this doesn't affect the rubber outer and high-grade toe protection that creates the durability this shoe does offer, which helped it get a spot on out 10 Best Hiking Boots lineup. The Goretex running on the upper also adds a ton of durability, while making the shoe waterproof as well.

Value

One of Salomon’s best sellers, the X Ultra 3 GTX is a great value for those that are wanting to get some miles in without the added load: fast-paced hikers, backpackers, etc. These will keep you dry, comfy and stable and won’t make you wonder where you’re money went.

Support/Stability:

The Verge 2.0 may not look rough and tumble, but they do have the stability and protection to carry you through tough terrain. The combination of welded overlays and ESS rock plates bring excellent support and help with balance while you’re hiking.

Traction:

The Michelin rubber outsoles are molded to the Wild Gripper lug pattern, so they provide decent traction without being obtrusive.

Comfort:

These are more lightweight than most heavy-duty hiking boots, with light EVA midsoles and a breathable outer membrane. The quality Gore-Tex 100% waterproofing is good for dewy hikes and misty treks and offers protection from mild weather.

Durability:

Sturdy welded supports and rock plate protectors add extra durability, while quick-dry materials help extend the life of these shoes. Textile uppers may prove easier to care for than various types of leather that usually need a little more care, but may also not provide the same level of durability that leather does.

Value:

Although different size options and colors may affect the price range of these hiking boots, they still dip below most of the other boots on our list, potentially making them a cost-friendly option for buyers on a budget. Even at the higher cost, the price is justified by all of the great features and versatility of this shoe.

"Under Armour Verge 2.0 Mid GTX" is one of the best hiking boots on our list!

Stability/Traction

The Moab Ventilator has the Vibram sticky rubber outer soles that help keep the slippage under control. They have an orthopedic insole to add to it for extra support that keeps you from feeling the rough terrain beneath your feet, helping you stay upright and trecking through the terrain.

Merell didn't add any lugs to this design so that means it is a bit more versatile and stable for more moderate terrain. The stability and traction the Moab Ventilator offers is ideal for those who are looking for a lighter and easier going option or for beginners who want to get a solid feel for the hiking life.

Comfort

That Orthopedic footbed we mentioned has an anatomical design that cushions and cradles the foot; it’s as if you have a pillow in your hiking boot. It is a leather and textile blend that allows for extra airflow as well.

Airflow combined with the M-Select dry wicking technology leaves your feet dry and fresh. Merell also added the M-Select Fresh to prevent odor from making an unpleasant appearance post-hike.

Merell Moab Ventilators have a 4” height that adds support to the ankle. This helps you stay aligned with your stride no matter how rocky a trail can get. The lock-in lacing system keeps the boot in place and all your pressure is ut into the air cushion heel for a super shock absorbency that keeps you going longer without foot pain.

Durability

Water resistance and leather/textile blended material make these a pretty darn durable hiking boot. Keeping water out while allowing them to breathe offers longevity to the hiking boot. Because there are no lugs, wear is not an issue either. The Vibram rubber is known to last and the tread design aids in it lasting longer than normal as well.

Value

Merell Moab Ventilator is a steal. You're getting all the boot without spending all the monies. They are highly rated by consumers for comfort and support and offer pretty decent durability too. Although we would take these scrambling, they are highly effective for those day trippers and fast-paced hikers that want to push through terrain with ease.

Stability/Support:

These boots have a sturdy feel from the first second you put them on. The midsole is substantial and feels solid underfoot, and the boot hits high on the ankle to provide support. It is a solid boot for backpacking with heavy loads but is not clunky and performs more like a light alpine boot.

Traction:

Vibram outsoles provide excellent traction on wet and dry trails.

Comfort:

The R-evolution features a sock-fit design with a memory foam-padded tongue to cradle the foot and prevent the fabric from bunching. The solid build of these boots requires a short break-in period to conform to the foot. However, even during this break-in time, few users report blisters. The innovative sock-fit tongue and lacing system allows for a more customized fit without pinching making this a comfortable option for a variety of foot widths.

Durability:

The suede uppers and stitching on these boots make them feel well made and high quality. Users find they stand up well to rugged trail conditions and resist abrasions. A few reviewers found that the green color on the tongue does bleed onto socks when wet. Others wish the laces felt more substantial and report some issues with the laces slipping during use.

Value:

Well over 200 dollars, these are on the more expensive end for hiking boots. The innovative fit system and precision build do set these apart from a lot of the competition, however, and Scarpa is a brand that has been around for a long time and has an excellent reputation in the outdoor gear community.

"Scarpa R-Evolution GTX" is one of the best hiking boots on our list!

Stability/Support:

The Newton Ridge Plus has excellent support through the sides and ankle, but the underfoot does not cradle the foot quite as well as some other designs. For day hiking boots will provide excellent stability to prevent ankles from rolling.

Traction:

Omnigrip lugged outsole provides excellent grip. Users find they work great on rocky surfaces but do not perform as well as Vibram outsoles on loose gravel or wet conditions.

Comfort:

Despite the full grain leather upper, these boots are easy to break in and are reasonably comfortable straight out of the box. Those with higher arches do prefer their inserts for additional arch support. Many users also find heavy leather and waterproofing to be a bit to warm for hot conditions.

Durability:

These boots are very durable especially considering the budget price tag.

Value:

At less than 100 dollars these shoes are a bargain. They provide excellent ankle support and traction for hikes where running shoes just won’t cut it.

"Columbia Newton Ridge Plus" is one of the best hiking boots on our list!

Stability/Support:

The Keen Targhee offers more in the way of waterproofing and foot protection than support for hiking. The mid-cut height does provide reliable ankle support, but the underfoot structure is somewhat lacking.

Traction:

Keen rubber outsoles provide traction comparable to Vibrams. The traction is excellent on wet surfaces, but the lack of mid-foot support can lead to the unsure footing on more challenging descents.

Comfort:

Comfort is the main selling point of these hiking boots. They have a softer, padded feel that opposes the rigidity of most hiking boots. The Keen Dry technology effectively waterproofs these boots while remaining more breathable than those with full Gore-Tex liners.

Durability:

These Keen boots are well built and highly durable. Some users note a few scratches to the Nubuck leather uppers but no substantial damage.

Value:

These are mid-range in price. If you are planning to stick to trails and are seeking comfortable waterproofing and support, these Keen boots are worth the investment.

"Keen Targhee II" is one of the best hiking boots on our list!

Stability/Support:

The full-grain leather uppers give this boot a sturdy feel with the support that rises to the mid ankle. The footbed features Ariat’s exclusive ATS (Advanced Torque Stability) technology to cradle the foot and provide multi-directional support.

Traction:

The outsole is made from Ariat’s Duratread technology which employs a proprietary rubber compound for flexible and slip-resistant performance. The tread is more excellent and does not have the large lugs that are common to typical hiking boots. Some users find they do not perform as well when scrambling over rocks.

Comfort:

Comfort is a big selling point for these hiking boots. Reviewers love these for extended backpacking trips where they are on their feet all day. They do run a bit significant and are useful for accommodating wide feet.

Durability:

The full grain leather and quality build provide excellent durability. The waterproofing on these boots is very useful and keeps feet dry through most conditions.

Value:

For under 125 dollars these are a great value. They are not the most technical hiking boots available but are very comfortable and supportive for extended wear on easy to moderate terrain.

"Ariat Terrain H2O Copper" is one of the best hiking boots on our list!