10 Best Hiking Boots Tested and Fully Reviewed

Support/Stability:

The high cut of these boots rises up 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 good 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 comfort and short break-in period for these boots. The combination of Nuback leather and nylon provides good flexibility and the 2 lbs and 13 ounces do not make feet feel heavy. Some reviewers feel the insole is too thin and prefer to switch them out for their own 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 wider feet do not find them as comfortable.

Durability:

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

Value:

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

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. Nuback leather uppers provide good structure while remaining flexible and the mid-ankle cut, rising up about 5 inches from the arch, gives solid ankle support. The lace system does not lock in the heel quite as well as the Salomon Quest but it does provide a good 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.

Support/Stability:

This flexible hiking shoe has more support than a trail runner but is much more flexible 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 good 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 a great 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.

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 great support and help with stability 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:

Tough 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 shoes, 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 definitely justified by all of the great features and versatility of this shoe.

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. This 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 stiff 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 a great reputation in the outdoor gear community.

Stability/Support:

The Salomon X Ultra offers flexible and lightweight support up to the mid-ankle that can help prevent ankle rolls with light to medium weight packs. The midsole has a low profile to help the foot feel grounded and stable.

Traction:

Salomon’s Contragrip outsoles create great traction on a variety of surfaces.

Comfort:

Feeling like a hybrid between a hiking boot and a running shoe, these boots excel in the area of comfort. They have mesh paneling and a lightweight feel that makes them breathable despite the waterproof Gore-Tex lining.

Durability:

These boots feel like a trail runner but offer substantially more durability. A protective synthetic upper prevents the mesh from developing tears. The tread will wear down eventually but most users feel they can get many miles in before they need to be replaced.

Value:

Under 200 dollars, these are a good midrange option. Fans of this boot feel the lightweight comfort is worth investing in time and time again.

Stability/Support:

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

Traction:

Omnigrip lugged outsole provides good 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 fairly comfortable straight out of the box. Those with higher arches do prefer their own inserts for additional arch support. Many users also find the 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 good ankle support and traction for hikes where running shoes just won’t cut it.

Support/Stability:

The Vasque Breeze provides lightweight and flexible support through the upper. It holds the ankle well when bearing light to medium loads over rocky or loose terrain. The molded EVA footbed provides a good hold for the heel and absorbs shock as you hit the ground.

Traction:

The Vibram outsole provides excellent grip in a variety of terrain and seems to perform very well on loose rock. Some users do note some slippage on wet surfaces which is unfortunate for such a great waterproof boot.

Comfort:

This lightweight option is another one that can be very comfortable right out of the box. The flexible nubuck leather and nylon mesh panels require very little time to break in and reviewers love the sturdy feel of the footbed. The only complaint when it comes to comfort is that these shoes do run a bit narrow.

Durability:

Overall these shoes have a quality and durable construction. The waterproofing lasts a long time, particularly when treated with DWR after a year or so. A few reviewers did find that the hook for the laces broke off after some time.

Value:

At less than 200 dollars these are inexpensive to mid-range for high-quality hiking boots.

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 solid ankle support but the underfoot structure is somewhat lacking.

Traction:

Keen rubber outsoles provide traction comparable to Vibrams. The traction is very good on wet surfaces but the lack of mid-foot support can lead to 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.

Stability/Support:

The full-grain leather uppers give this boot a sturdy feel with 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 a flexible and slip-resistant performance. The tread is finer 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 long backpacking trips where they are on their feet all day. They do run a bit large and are good for accommodating wide feet.

Durability:

The full grain leather and quality build provide excellent durability. The waterproofing on these boots is very effective 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 long wear on easy to moderate terrain.