COMFORT and FIT –Fit can be very individual. What works for one person may not work for another. Comfortable shoes allow your toes to spread and cushion your feet. They also have some flexibility in the upper to move with your foot.

• Comfortable hiking shoes that don’t need to be broken in Salomon X Ultra 4, Low GTX, HOKA ONE ONE speedboat 4, Saucony Peregrine 12, & Altra Lone Peak 6.
• The best hiking shoes for wide feet: Merrell Moab II WP, Keen Targhee IV Low WP and Altra Lone Peak 6

PRICE We are willing to pay a little more for high-quality footwear as we believe that healthy, happy feet are key to our adventures. We believe comfort and fit should always be a priority. However, we recommend quality options in the top picks below at all price points.

• The best budget hiking shoes are Saucony Peregrine12 and Merrell Moab2 WP Low
• The best value hiking shoes are Salomon X Ultra4 Low GTX and Altra Lone Peak6. HOKA ONE ONE Speedgoat4
• Best high-end hiking shoes: Vasque Breeze LT Low GTX, La Sportive Spire GTX & Salomon XA Pro 3D V8 GTX

WEIGHT Foot weight zaps 5 times as much energy as weight on your back. They can reduce muscle fatigue and stumbling and help to avoid hip and knee flexor problems. However, heavier shoes don’t necessarily mean they are worse. You may feel more secure in a sturdy, durable shoe if you hike off-trail a lot or have a heavier pack.

DURABILITY AND MATERIALS Hiking boots can be expensive. Choosing the right hiking shoes will ensure you get the best value for your money. Lightweight trail runners are more durable than traditional leather shoes. You can opt for trail runners with nylon reinforcements to keep your weight down. This will ensure that you get the best combination of durability and weight.

The OBOZ FIREBRAND II BDRRY IS SUPPORTIVE AND DURABLE, MAKES IT A GREAT CHOICE FOR RUGGED TRAILS

WATERPROOF Vs. NON-WATERPROOF

Waterproof shoes are a lifesaver for those who hike in wet or muddy terrain. They are great for day hikes in the spring and autumn, especially when wet. However, waterproof shoes can get hot and heavy, and they don’t dry quickly when wet. Non-waterproof shoes, on the other hand, are lighter and more breathable. They can also get wet easily, but they dry quickly.

• Salomon XU 4 Low GTX, Merrell Moab2 WP Low, Vasque Breeze LT low GTX & Salomon XA Pro 3DV8 GTX are the best waterproof hiking shoes.
• Best non-waterproof hiking shoes: HOKA ONE ONE Speedgoat 4, Saucony Peregrine 12 & Altra Lone Peak 6

The Best Hiking Shoes for Men

SalomonX Ultra 4 Low GTX

BEST WATERPROOF HIKING SHOES FOR COMFORT & TRACTION

MSRP: $150

MEASURED WEIGHT PAR PAIR (SIZE13):2 Lb. 0.9 oz.

ALSO AVAILABLE: Waterproof

SIZING True to Size; Wide Sizes Available

PROS – Comfortable, out-of-the-box, lightweight, durable, supportive, stable, excellent grip, secure fit

CONSQuicklace requires some time to get used to

BOTTOMLINE: These Salomon Ultra 4 GTX hiking boots are light and durable. These shoes feel lighter and more agile than similar-built shoes. The fit is very similar to a trail runner’s shoe. They are also comfortable enough to be worn straight out of the box, like a trail runner. They are great for backpacking and day hikes on difficult terrain. We love the X Ultras. They are a great choice for hikers looking for a shoe that is both a trail runner shoe and a traditional hiking shoe.

Saucony Peregrine 12

Best Non-Waterproof Hiking Shoes OVERALL For TRACTION, LOW WEIGHT AND COMFORT

MSRP: $130

MEASURED WEIGHT PAR PAIR (SIZE12):1 Lb. 8.1 oz.

ALSO AVAILABLE: Waterproof

SIZING True to Size

PROS Excellent traction and lightweight, comfortable fit.

CONS:Not as sturdy as traditional hiking boots

BOTTOMLINE: For many years, the Saucony Peregrines has been our favorite hiking shoe, and we have worn them for thousands of miles. The Peregrines’ exceptional traction is what makes them stand out. The Peregrines provide stability and confidence, whether trekking through Nepal or California’s high sierras. While the Peregrines’ durability and comfort are the same as in the older model, the new version is lighter. For demanding hikes, where reliable traction is essential, the Peregrine 12s is our favorite choice.