best trek shoes 2022

The Top Footwear on the Appalachian Trail: 2022 Thru-Hiker Survey

T he second installation of the Trek’s annual AT Thru Hiker Survey covers all things footwear. Shoes are one of the most important gear choices to a thru-hiker’s comfort, considering that they’ll take over five million steps in them. We asked hikers about their footwear preferences including style, model, and brand.

The same companies you know and love are still around this year, but there’s also a new brand making a big name. The results have even made me consider changing my shoe of choice, which I’ve been using since my own AT thru-hike in 2017. Keep on reading for all the details.

The Hiker Sample

In 2022, 403 hikers participated in the survey, all of whom hiked on the AT in 2022. Almost 90 percent were thru-hikers, and the rest were section hikers. For more details on hiker demographics, check out our first post with general information from the survey.

The data were collected from October through November of 2022 via our social media platforms, Backpacker Radio, and TheTrek.co. Some clean-up of the data was done only when necessary, mostly involving start/end dates. (There were a few time travelers who claimed to have started their hike in 2023 while still completing it this year.) No obvious duplicates were found.

Footwear Style

As in previous years, the majority of 2022 survey respondents favored trail runners. Hikers showed a strong preference for trail runners from the start: about three-quarters of hikers began the AT in trail runners compared to just 14 percent in boots.

However, some hikers who started out in boots or other footwear ultimately made the switch to Team Trail Runner. This year, 86 percent of hikers said they wore trail runners for the majority of their hikes, while only 5.5 percent said they wore hiking boots the majority of the time. Meanwhile, 7 percent of hikers ended up in hiking shoes.

Three hikers wore sandals and three wore mid-top/hybrid trail runners. All the hikers who wore mid-top runners and sandals started and ended their hikes in the same type of shoe.

We’ve recorded the trend towards trail runners instead of hiking boots over the years. The preference for trail runners dipped a bit from 89 percent in 2021 to 86 percent this year—the first year-to-year drop in trail runner popularity we’ve recorded since 2015.

However, the results still reflect significant growth in the preference for trail runners from when we started collecting the data in 2014, and they still remain by far the dominant choice among hikers in our survey. It’s difficult to discern changes in the popularity of alternative footwear like sandals and hiking/hybrid shoes given the small number of survey participants who report using them each year. However, they appear to be gaining popularity year after year.

Readers have requested in the past that we look at how hikers’ footwear preference changes with age. With smaller datasets in older age groups, it’s difficult to parse this data. However, trail runners were clearly the dominant footwear choice in all age groups surveyed this year, and all of the oldest hikers surveyed wore trail runners.

Satisfaction

Similarly to previous surveys, those who started hiking in trail runners were considerably more satisfied with their shoes than those who started in hiking shoes or boots. 91 percent of respondents who began their hike in trail runners said they were happy with their choice. On the other hand, only 64 percent of hikers starting in hiking boots were satisfied. Low-top hiking shoes didn’t have much higher satisfaction rates than hiking boots, but this category also had the fewest number of respondents.

These sentiments may help explain why more respondents ended up in trail runners than started in them.

In terms of completion rates, 90.5 percent of hikers who started in trail runners and intended to complete a thru-hike were successful compared to an 81.8 percent success rate for those who began in hiking boots.

Footwear and Backpacking Experience

On the request of John F. in the comments below, we took a look at hikers’ shoe choices compared to their previous backpacking experience. There was a lower percentage of hikers using trail runners and slightly more use of hiking boots in those with seven nights of backpacking experience or less. When looking at the same comparison but with shoe type worn the majority of the hike, over 50 percent of the less experienced hikers who started with hiking boots switched to another type of shoe.

John also asked about hikers that got off trail due to injury and their shoe choices. Out of the 15 hikers who were injured and ended their hikes, 12 (80 percent) hiked in trail runners, 2 (13.3 percent) in hiking shoes, and 1 (6.7 percent) in hiking boots. It’s hard to know if the shoes had any impact on their injuries with the small amount of data. However, these percentages are comparable to the breakdown of footwear types hikers wore for the majority of their hikes.

Changes in Footwear Style

Replacements

We asked hikers how many pairs of shoes they used on their thru-hike. The most common answer (given by 43 percent of respondents) was four or five pairs. This lines up with what we’ve seen in previous years as well as conventional advice to change shoes every 300 to 400 miles.

In contrast, the majority of respondents who wore hiking boots used only two to three pairs of shoes total, implying that hiking boots do last longer.

Top Footwear on the Appalachian Trail: Brands and Models

We asked hikers about their favorite brands and models of shoes for the AT. Altra is the top brand again this year and has two models in the top three. The Altra Lone Peak remained the most popular footwear choice overall, worn by 26 percent of respondents.

HOKA ONE ONE was again the second-most popular brand, while their Speedgoats were the second-most worn model overall with 77 hikers wearing them (almost another quarter of the total respondents).

READ NEXT – The Best Trail Runners for Thru-Hiking

A new brand has made waves this year, having never made the cut on the survey before: Topo Athletic was the third-most popular brand of shoe worn by long-distance hikers in our survey, while the Topo Ultraventure was the fourth-most worn model overall. I’ve been considering giving them a try for some time, and seeing these results has solidified my resolution to a pair.

Saucony also made the rankings for the first time this year, coming in at number seven in the most popular footwear brands.

The most popular sock brand was once again Darn Tough with over three-quarters of hikers wearing their socks.

Top Overall Model: Altra Lone Peak (83) (versions 5 and 6 were most popular)

Top Sock Brand: Darn Tough  (302)

1) Altra (166)

Lone Peak (83)

Most popular models: 5 & 6, olympus (64), most popular models: 4 & 5, 2) hoka one one (88), speedgoat (77), mafate speed (2), torrent (2), 3) topo athletic (34), ultraventure (22), terraventure (5), 4) brooks (22), cascadia (16), caldera (3), 5) salomon (21), x ultra (7) (some gtx, some not), xa pro 3d (4), speedcross (4), 6) merrell (16), 7) saucony (9), peregrine (9), 8) oboz (9), sawtooth (5), 9) the north face (7).

As usual, Darn Tough was the most popular sock brand by a wide margin: 75 percent of all respondents wore their socks this year. Darn Tough provides a lifetime warranty and will replace any damaged pair if you send it back. At many outfitters on the Appalachian Trail (at least when I hiked in 2017), you could give the store your damaged (clean, please wash them first) socks for a new pair of Darn Toughs on the spot. Their warranty has always made them a fan favorite.

• Darn Tough  (302)
• Injinji (42)
• Smartwool  (23)
• Farm to Feet  (5)

Very few people remembered sock models, and there are so many of them that this information was not possible to report.

Almost a third (31 percent) of long-distance hikers in our survey wore sock liners. Injinji toe socks lead the sock liner brands by a landslide. Some respondents who wore regular Injinji socks may have responded to the sock liner brand question in error: 127 hikers claimed to wear Injinji sock liners, but only 122 hikers claimed to wear sock liners in the first place. Regardless, Injinji is the clear winner (its second-closest competitor was REI at six respondents).

• The trend of most hikers wearing trail runners over heavier, sturdier boots continued this year; the numbers were about the same as last year with a slight (3%) dip in popularity for trail runners.
• While boots may still be preferable during the snowy sections, we recommend that hikers planning thrus or long sections consider lightweight, more flexible shoes for the majority of their hikes.
• In general, thru-hikers should plan to go through four to five pairs of trail runners or two to three pairs of boots.
• Altra remains the top brand for trail runners, and the most popular model was the Lone Peak.
• Topo Athletic made the list for the first time, ranking in the top 4 brands and boasting the third most popular model overall with the Ultraventure.
• Darn Tough, Injinji, and Smartwool socks were all well-represented on the AT, but Darn Tough was by far the most popular with 75 percent of respondents using them.
• Injinji is the leader in sock liners, used by almost a third of respondents.

Many thanks to the hikers who participated in the survey! Congratulations to you all! Check out our previous post with general hiker information. Upcoming posts from this year’s survey will cover shelters, sleeping bags and pads, backpacks, and stoves/filters. To stay updated on the subsequent hiker survey posts, subscribe to The Trek newsletter.

Featured image: Graphic design by Chris Helm.

This article was updated on 01/05/23 to include data about footwear choices compared to level of backpacking experience and injury rates.

This website contains affiliate links, which means The Trek may receive a percentage of any product or service you purchase using the links in the articles or advertisements. The buyer pays the same price as they would otherwise, and your purchase helps to support The Trek's ongoing goal to serve you quality backpacking advice and information. Thanks for your support!

To learn more, please visit the About This Site page.

I'm Kate, aka Stickers on the trail. After growing up in New England, the Appalachian Trail was on my bucket list and I completed my thru hike of the AT in 2017. That got me hooked on the hiking lifestyle and I thru hiked the Pacific Crest Trail in 2019. Nowadays, I'm a weekend warrior living in Portland, OR getting outside and traveling all over the West as much as possible.

Comments 86

Extremely scientific survey of 400 people ??? definitely not a funded fluff piece by people who sell trail runners ???

As someone who was on trail this summer this is fairly representative of what I saw, the only thing this didn’t account for is the trend of people who started with Altras switching to hokas or topos. And if numbers were consistent that 400 is close to half of people who probably finished.

I haven’t hiked the AT but it’s still on my bucket list at 66YO. I still play like I’m 40 with skills to match and my playground is the White Mountain where I run and hike extensively. I have tested many many shoes and I can tell anyone listening the Lone Peaks are an awful and dangerous shoes in these conditions. The proprietary sole compound that ultra uses, does not stick well to slimy wet rocks and is downright dangerous. If you want to use a shoe with a big toolbox, absolutely go with the topo’s with a Vibram mega grip compound on the sole. MegaGrip is a fantastic grippy material which offers you safety. Can you use the Altra lone peaks obviously many people do, but the better choice in my opinion would be to use the Topo’s, which are also a more durable and better built shoe. Personally, in the whites, I use the Hoka speed goats, and a shoe made by a company called VJ which has the stickiest material on the planet, but I certainly wouldn’t use them for a through hike. Wouldn’t use a Hoka speed goat on a through hike either the toebox is just not accommodating enough and I don’t think they’re durable enough either.

I enjoy reading these survey results. Can you correlate the use of trail runners vs. boots with the 63% of respondents who had 7 or fewer nights backpacking experience before attempting their thru-hike? And how many of the 33% who bailed due to injury were wearing trail runners vs. boots? Thanks.

Great review! But none of these Shoes/Boots fit My Feet of 6 & 1/2 Wide! Which is not in unusual considering they’re Usually not made Here in the US and the Demand for Smaller Sizes isn’t there! Shame ! They used to back before the EPA Outlawed the Glue on the Soles and of Course Labor Cost! Anyway, Great Article!

John, have you looked at the Altra LP5 in navy in women’s sizes? I too struggle to find shoes, as I wear a men’s 6 wide, but have been very comfortable in that model in a 7.5W.

Well done Kate. I switch off according to weather, Salomon Quest in the winter, XA Pro 3D for the rest. Socks, yes, Darn Tough though there are still a couple of pairs of Smartwool boot height still in my kit. Best of trail luck to you.

Thx for the great post. I wish Trail Shoes/sneakers fit my 12 4e feet. They do not. Propet is the only brand of boot that seems to fit me.

I really tried to drink the train runner Kool-Aid, and I did love how the Altra Lone Peaks were so featherweight light, but . . . my feet slopped around in them, especially on complicatedly rocky downhills, and I could feel every single pebble through them. It felt like I was hiking in bedroom slippers.

I too did not like the lack of lateral support in the one pair of Altra LPs I owned. But don’t condem all trail runners based on this. I switched to Brooks Cascadia. They have a more conventional fit. You may also find they work better.l for you. I wore mine for 5 days through the Grand Canyon (which has just a few rocks 😉), and they performed great. I really liked the way they could conform to and grip rocks. My footing always felt very secure (unlike the Altras), and had zero foot problems.

Ever notice all those detour trails around puddles and mud? Those are from hikers wearing trail runners.

How do you know that? With trail runners I go through puddles. They dry in no time.

Hiking Te Araroa…..been wearing Speedgoats but the amount of road is wearing them out too fast. One of my group (I refuse to call us that word beginning with T) has worn the same pair of Topos for my 2 pairs of Speedgoats (switching to Topo’s for the foreseeable future) and one of the group was on 3 pairs of Altras before he switched to Topo’s.

Very indicative of what I saw. I remember being unsurprised at the amount of Altras as I hiked. And a bit surprised at the number of Hokas…

As for me (and I did complete this survey) I was one of the crazy 3 hikers who hiked in sandals! I also know Sour Cream did too!

Love reading these each year. Curious about % people wearing gaiters, brand, etc. Good work!

Would be nice to include waterproofness and issues with wet feet and blisters correlated with it.

Link issue: The Injinji link right above Summary is a duplicated Darn Tough link. It doesn’t show Injinji products.

The best footwear is one YOU are comfortable with. Im on trail now, and yes many are wearing trail runners, but I personally wouldnt wear them just because they cant beat the additional wear and tear a Merrel Moab 2 mid hiking boot can take. Boots weigh on avg. 2lbs+ but trail runners weigh 1.5lbs which equals less protection imho. The extra protection and durability an additional 8 to 12 ounces provides in a boot doesnt make me want to trade peace of mind and ankle stability just because of the latest trend/ fashion. Make your choice wisely.

Trail Runners are a HARD NO for me for long distance hiking (or even medium distance)…Mainly because of the rather poor cushioning in the soles, and no ankle protection and support, both in comparison to a solid hiking boot. I have zero understanding of how people feel TR’s are a better platform for anything other than Trail Running. Sure, they are nice and light weight, and very breathable, but having done even relatively “easy” distances, like the Trans Catalina, in low-top TR’s, I paid for it dearly with injured ankles and bruised footbeds (…especially, don’t expect to go off-piste rambling down some scree towards that beautiful beach 500 feet below you, then come hiking and climbing all the way back up, without your feet and ankles cursing you for days, weeks, and months afterwards…unless, of course, you are 20 years old and a ultra-athlete of some kind)…I say, y’all do what feels best, but I’m sticking with a solid hiking boot, “clunkiness” and greater weight be damned.

What Do You Think? Cancel reply

BEST WEEK EVER

Try out unlimited access with 7 days of Outside+ for free.

Start Your Free Trial

Powered by Outside

The 8 Best Men’s Hiking Boots and Shoes for Any Terrain

17 testers tried 41 hikers. these came out on top..

Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

Trail running shoes are the most popular footwear on-trail these days, which may lead you to think traditional hiking boots are on the way out. Our big test this year suggests something different: Most of the 41 models we tested proved emphatically that proper hiking boots and shoes make backpacking easier and more comfortable, protect our feet and ankles, and stick to roots, rocks, and dirt.

But the push to go fast does permeate the entire market these days, which is great. It means lighter weights, a nimbler feel, and smoother striding, no matter the style of boot. The very best hiking shoes and boots for men—the ones that made this list—will help you walk with less effort, leaving you more energy to go further and faster while savoring the journey along the way.

At a Glance

• Editors’ Choice: Saucony Ultra Ridge GTX ($190)
• For Backpacking: Lowa Trek EVO GTX ($340)
• For Carrying Heavy Loads: Meindl EuroLight Hunter ($295)
• For Scrambling: Zamberlan Salathe Trek GTX ($330)
• Best Mtn-to-City Hiker: Salewa Puez Knit PTX ($240)
• For Speed Hiking: Oboz Katabatic Wind ($185)
• For Weekend Hikes: Asolo Falcon Evo Jacquard ($240)
• Beefiest Low: Scarpa Moraine Low WP ($169)
• How   to Choose the Right Hiking Boots

How We Test

All gear in this guide was tested by multiple reviewers. When you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside. Learn more .

Editors’ Choice

Saucony ultra ridge gtx.

$190 at Amazon $190 at Running Warehouse

Weight: 12.6 oz (men’s) / 11 oz (women’s) Sizes: 7-15 (men’s) / 5-12 (women’s)

Pros and Cons ⊕ Lightweight ⊕ Springy trail runner fit and feel ⊗ Lacks backpacking support

Trail runner-based boots tend to skew in one direction or the other—either they’re too light to support heavy loads, but feel great at speed, or they’re too overbuilt to move fast. One of the lightest high-top boots we’ve ever tried, the Ultra Ridge GTX might just be the first fusion to hit the bullseye. “It’s as comfortable as the most comfortable running shoe, but with the ankle support of a light boot,” gushed tester Patrick Lowkes after a 17-mile hike and run through New York’s Tongue Mountain Range. A Pebax-based foam insert in the midsole—the same kind used in bouncy, marathon-racing super shoes—is remarkably comfortable and lively-feeling underfoot.

It never felt squishy or unstable thanks to a firmer EVA frame below and around the insert and a lightly padded high-top that provides lateral support. It excels over a variety of surfaces: an unobtrusive rock plate prevents bruising while a grippy, durable, chevron-studded outsole digs into mucky and slippery surfaces. Testing them through a soggy New England summer, Lowkes says the Gore-Tex liner didn’t overheat in humid, 75-degree weather, deflected all-day rain, and emerged from a four-inch-deep mud puddle unsodden.

And there’s year-round utility, too. Outside’s senior running editor, Jonathan Beverly, found there was enough ankle height to keep snow and slush from spilling over the top. Backpackers who kept their weight under 30 pounds loved the Ultra Ridge GTX, but the soft upper cuff doesn’t offer enough support for heavier loads. For trail runners headed into crap weather, the boot-averse, and anyone else who ranks weight and spring above all else, the Ultra Ridge GTX is the most comfortable and speedy hiker we’ve tried.

Best for Backpacking

Lowa trek evo gtx mid ($340).

$340 at Lowa Weight: 1.4 lbs (men’s) / 1 lb (women’s) Sizes: 7.5-14 (men’s) / 5-10.5 (women’s)

Pros and Cons ⊕ Excellent grip ⊕ Supportive ⊗ Expensive

Lowa calls the Trek Evo a fastpacking boot, but our testers swear its sweet spot is backpacking. It’s certainly energetic enough for moving quickly down the trail: For a six-inch-tall hiker, it’s relatively lightweight, thanks to an all-synthetic upper with just a thin TPU film for toe and heel protection. (Despite the lightweight construction, however, our sample still looks new after nearly 100-miles of testing.) Cutouts in the tongue and heel enhance the forward flex.

Even more impressive? As testers added pounds to their pack, the boots never wavered. The TPU midsole wrapped around the sides of the foot and worked with stiffer synthetic panels on the upper to cradle and support the ankle, while three open eyelets allowed micro adjustments. And the Vibram Rock Trac outsole provided reliable grip on a variety of surfaces, including rock edging and smearing. Climbing Vancouver Island’s Victoria Peak with a 30-pound pack, the boots provided a stable platform for mountain guide Bill Phipps. “They made me feel more confident, especially carrying a heavy load,” he says.

Best for Carrying Heavy Loads

Meindl eurolight hunter uninsulated.

$295 at Meindl

Weight: 1.5 lbs (unisex) Sizes: 7-14 in D width, 8-14 in EE

Pros and Cons ⊕ Weatherproof ⊕ Off-trail performance ⊗ Tall and heavy

As the name suggests, Meindl designed these 9-inch-tall boots for hunting— which means they’re stellar for heavy loads and bushwacking. After plodding along logging roads, rolling down trails, and scrambling up steep hillsides, our testers say the Eurolight Hunters stand out in how nimble they feel for such a burly boot. The waxed, full-grain Nubuck leather upper with eight lace eyelets reaches well above the ankle, and a polyurethane midsole creates a stable base to carry more than 50 pounds.

Despite all that stability, the Eurolight Hunter isn’t particularly stiff—cutouts in the leather along the tongue and in the achilles area and gusseting allow for more flex and fluid movement. They required only a couple of day hikes to break in and were easy to pull on and take off, says JF Marleau, a sea kayak guide who tested them in the B.C. Coast Range while hiking and hunting. Bashing around off trail, the outsole’s deep round lugs and sharp edges provided excellent grip and stability in a variety of on- and off-trail surfaces.

Even more impressive was the Gore-Tex waterproof-breathable liner. While the all-leather upper got sweaty in temperatures above 65 degrees or when going hard, this boot was impermeable. “It was raining, and I had to cross many creeks,” says Marleau. “At the end of the day, my feet were dry and happy.”

Best for Scrambling

Zamberlan salathe trek gtx.

$330 at REI

Weight: 1.1 lbs (unisex) Sizes: 7.5-13 (unisex)

Pros and Cons ⊕ Grippy ⊕ Waterproof ⊕ Durable ⊗ Expensive

Zamberlan’s Salathe Trek GTX is the new, mid-cut big brother of the popular Salathe approach shoe. The brand kept the foot-conforming suede upper (backed by a Gore-Tex liner), the to-the-toe lacing for a snug fit, a chunky Vibram outsole with smearing and edging sections, and a 360-degree rubber rand to protect against scree and rock gashes.

To handle pack weight and the uncertainties of route-finding, Zamberlan raised the ankle to six inches high with just a bit of foam for support. The extra height and waterproof membrane were appreciated in soggy conditions: The hydrophobic suede deflected melting snow while the Gore-Tex liner stood up to an all-day soaker. The liner also upped breathability, which was above average for an all-leather boot. (Testers noticed some clamminess above 65 degrees.)

To maintain walking flexibility, Zamberlan added a cutout at the ankle crease, which allows for natural motion in combination with a springy, lightweight, dual-density EVA midsole. “They felt light on my feet and springy on the ground,” says tester Jakob Schiller, who wore them scrambling in the Sangre De Cristo Mountains of New Mexico. There’s enough boot here for gear-intensive trips and backpacking, unless you load up with more than 35 pounds on the back, when an ankle roll starts to feel inevitable.

Otherwise, Schiller says, what stands out is the quality: thick suede leather, durable rubber rands, high stitch counts, and a resoleable design: “They’re built to last.”

Best Mountain-to-City Hiking Shoe

Salewa puez knit ptx.

$240 at Salewa

Weight: 1 lb (men’s) / 13 oz (women’s) Sizes: 7-14 (men’s) / 6-11 (women’s)

Pros and Cons ⊕ Out-of-box comfort ⊕ Versatility ⊗ Not stable enough for backpacking

The Puez Knit PTX Low is the rare hiker that can pull double-duty on a variety of trails and blend in seamlessly around town. For folks who care more about utility than looks, the upper is a knitted nylon and ripstop polyester that stretches to create a conforming fit. A waterproof-breathable membrane and full wrap rubber rand add water and scuff protection. A dual-density EVA midsole (partially made with hemp) adds stiffness and cushioning.

Wearing them right out of the box, tester John Waters climbed a steep, muddy trail, crossed hard-packed summer snow, and scrambled up rock slabs to snag a Vancouver Island peak without even the suggestion of a blister or hot spot. The outsole has big, chunky lugs covering most of the shoe, with a smearing area at the toe. It’s a versatile combo that shed mud and stuck to slick rocks. “They have amazing grip and awesome stability for a shoe,” Waters says, although their low cut and softness meant they were not up to overnight loads.

For around town, one tester found that the PTX Low’s were the perfect traveling shoe, cushioning miles of pavement wandering. Their earth-tone hues and multi-textured fabric helped them blend into the background for wearing into restaurants and shops post-adventure.

Best for Speed Hiking

Oboz katabatic wind low.

$185 at REI $185 at Amazon

Weight: 12.3 oz (men’s) / 10 oz (women’s) Sizes: 8-14 (men’s) / 6-11 (women’s)

Pros and Cons ⊕ Cushy ride ⊕ Good value ⊗ No weather protection ⊗ Built for light-loads

As comfortable as a pair of runners, the Katabatic Wind Lows are made for going fast. Oboz borrowed tech from running shoes, including a forked carbon-fiber plate, nitrogen-infused foam (which is springier and more cushioned than typical EVA foam), and a rockered outsole. “So cushioned I never got sore feet and found myself wearing them all the time,” says Alabama-based tester Seth Kromis. On heel strike, the combo seemed to absorb energy, roll to the toe, and accelerate the foot into the next stride, says Kromis.

The mesh upper—highly breathable but not weatherproof at all—has TPU inserts along the forefoot for durability and in the heel for a touch of rigidity. “It’s the perfect balance of support and bounce that made me feel like breaking into a run,” says Bozeman-based Allison Bodznick, who used the shoes as trail runners and city walkers. The chevron-shaped tread pattern, enhanced by the proprietary sticky rubber compound, provided solid traction on a variety of surfaces. “I could feel the treads sticking to the ground like frog feet,” says Bodznick. These shoes are built for speed and will last a lot longer than trail runners, but watch that pack weight: even on a day hike, the Katabatic Wind Lows started to feel unsupportive when loads exceeded 20 pounds.

Best for Weekend Backpacking

Asolo falcon evo jacquard gv.

$240 at REI $240 at Asolo

Weight: 1.1 lbs (men’s and women’s) Sizes: 7.5-13 (men’s) / 6-10.5 (women’s)

Pros and Cons ⊕ Lightweight ⊕ Waterproof ⊗ Poor grip in gravel

Don’t let the mid-height of these boots fool you—the Falcon Evo Jacquard GV’s are speed demons. For one, they’re lightweight, weighing eight ounces less than similarly-constructed hikers, thanks to a feathery woven polyester blend rather than suede or leather, and a coating of polyurethane along the base of the upper in lieu of a rubber rand. Webbing daisy chain eyelets and just a thin bit of foam cushioning around the heel and tongue cut even more weight.

The exception to the gram-counting? The midsole: A dual-density EVA that provides solid cushioning and stability. “They’re extremely comfortable,” says Lindsay Elms, who tested the boots over 30 miles of running, hiking, and mountain climbing around his home on Vancouver Island. “The boot responded well to quick changes in rough terrain and was malleable without being too soft.” There’s just enough structure for light backpacking and off-trail day hikes carrying up to 30 pounds.

Elms found the Vibram Megagrip outsole worked well in mud, dirt, and rock, but was less predictable in loose gravel and sand. The Gore-Tex liner, which rises nearly to the top of the boot, keeps feet dry when low cut shoes would be underwater. Durability is solid, but we don’t expect the lightweight material mix will hold up over the long term compared to the other mids in test—an acceptable tradeoff for such a lightweight boot.

Beefiest Low-Top

Scarpa moraine low wp.

$169 at Scarpa

Weight: 1.4 lbs (men’s) / 1.1 lbs (women’s) Sizes: 7-13 (men’s) / 6-10 (women’s)

Pros and Cons ⊕ Stability ⊕ Built-in RECCO locator ⊗ Heavy

Opting for an airy low-top doesn’t necessarily mean less stability and protection than a tall boot. The Moraine Mid WP is prime example: In addition to dual-density EVA cushioning, Scarpa added a nylon medial shank and a stiff TPU counter to the shoe, which wraps high around the heel. The Moraines don’t have the bouncy feel of a speedier hiker—they feel quite stiff, in fact—but compensate by smoothing out uneven ground and providing a surprising amount of ankle support for a low-cut hiker.

“They have boot-sized stability without the clunk,” says category manager Ryan Stuart. “After hard hikes, the added protection left my legs feeling fresher.” He found the Moraines were most at home on day trips, but he didn’t wish for taller boots (the Moraine comes in a mid height as well) while hauling a 25 pound load into Cream Lake on Vancouver Island or route-finding in Coast Range scree. And on a rainy fall hike, the oiled nubuck leather and recycled mesh upper, backed by a waterproof-breathable membrane, kept his feet dry. After more than 50-miles of use, the Moraine Low WP’s showed no signs of wear.

How to Choose the Right Hiking Boots

The most important consideration for hiking boots is fit. They should feel snug (but not tight) everywhere except around the toes, where you want a little extra room to accommodate foot swelling and to keep piggies from hitting the end of the shoe on downhills. All footwear brands come with their own idiosyncrasies—finding the exact right fit will take trial-and-error. So it’s best to try boots on before purchasing. Ideally, go to a brick-and-mortar retailer later in the day when your feet have swelled a little. Bring your favorite socks and a footbed if you prefer an after-market one. Once you’ve found a pair that seems to fit, resist the urge to hit the trail right away. Instead, wear them around the house for a few hours. This will give you an early sense of any issues while retaining the option of returning them.

Hiking Style

Before you start trying pairs on, think about the type of hiking you’ll be doing. For light and fast hiking, a lower cut and softer, more flexible midsole is preferable. For heavy pack loads or mountainous terrain, an above-the-ankle boot and stiffer midsole may work better. These burlier boots often have shanks and heel counters, which add even more rigidity and support. Many boots and trail runners also come with a rock plate for protection from bruising on sharp trail protrusions.

Environment

Finally, focus on trail conditions and environment. For rainy or wet trails, a waterproof membrane will keep your feet dry. For a dedicated summer hiker or for hot and dry conditions, a mesh boot will breathe considerably better and dry out quickly. Turn the boot over and look at the outsole pattern. Most lug patterns offer versatile grip, but in general, wet trails benefit from a deeper and wider lug pattern, which digs into and sheds mud better. A sharp inside edge and lug-less smearing zone around the toe help with scrambling on rock and slabs.

• Number of testers: 17
• Number of products: 41
• Number of miles hiked: Pushing 700
• Number of peaks climbed: 23

Mostly we just let our testers do what they do best: walk. We called in 41 different hiking boots and shoes and handed them out to 17 testers with instructions to put on some serious miles. They took short hikes and 30-mile backpacking trips, on-trail and off. They scrambled up peaks and down canyons, logging more than 700 miles in total. As they trekked along, we asked them to consider everything from fit to grip, cushioning to stability. Because pack weight can influence all these variables, we had them hike with both light loads and heavy packs. And to understand how boots and shoes performed in different weather conditions and environments, we spread testers and samples across the continent, from coastal British Columbia to New England’s windy summits.

Meet Our Lead Testers

Ryan Stuart has been lacing up for more than 30 years. Growing up in Alberta, Canada, he started hiking as a teenager on the world class trails of Banff National Park, before moving on to the coastal hikes and lonely mountain trails of Vancouver Island, where he now lives. His hiking resume spans the world, from Australia to Ireland, northern Canada to the U.S. southwest.

Lindsay Elms was running ultra races and knocking off Fastest Known Times long before they were trendy. Originally from New Zealand, he’s lived on Vancouver Island for more than 30 years. He reckons he logged more than 50 hours of trail time testing hiking boots this year.

Podcaster and photographer Adam Sauerwein (@mradamx) lives out of his van, which makes it easy for him to do a lot of hiking. Like a lot. The host of The Pursuit podcast, he estimates he trekked more than 250 miles in two months of testing, mostly in upstate New York, but also in Pennsylvania and Arizona.

When you buy something using the retail links in our stories, we may earn a small commission. We do not accept money for editorial gear reviews. Read more about our policy.

Popular on Backpacker

The 30-mile thru-hike was the ideal trip for putting our backpacking and hiking candidates through the wringer.

• 2024 Summer Gear Guide

Related content from the Outside Network

Navigation – desert, what’s it like to go on a 200-person hike better than you think., how to pack for backcountry skiing, the original yosemite firefall.

Best Hiking Shoes of 2024

For a lightweight and nimble alternative to boots, we’ve tested and picked the year’s top hiking shoes.

Switchback Travel ( Jason Hummel )

We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases. Read more about us . 

The momentum in hiking footwear is moving away from bulky boots toward lightweight shoes and even trail runners that are faster and more comfortable. You do lose some ankle support when carrying a heavy pack or traversing rocky trails, but the weight savings and feathery feel are worth it for many. Our team of avid hikers and backpackers donned countless pairs of shoes to narrow in on the streamlined selection of 18 models you see below. These are our favorite hiking shoes of 2024, from ultralight options for fast-and-light trips to more supportive models for carrying a full pack. For more background information, see our hiking shoe comparison table and buying advice below the picks. Also, while this article includes both men's and women's options, we do have a dedicated review for women's hiking shoes . 

Editor's note: We updated this guide on April 16, 2024, to include information regarding our testing practices , add the new La Sportiva TX4 Evo and Altra Lone Peak 8, and expand some of the sections in our buying advice. We also combed through the guide to ensure prices, colorways, and products were current at the time of publishing.  

Our Team's Hiking Shoe Picks

• Best Overall Hiking Shoe: Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX
• Best Budget Hiking Shoe: Merrell Moab 3
• Best Ultralight and Cushioned Hiking Shoe: Hoka Speedgoat 5
• Best Shoe for Backpacking and Technical Trails: La Sportiva Spire GTX
• Best Hiking Shoe for Off-Trail Scrambling: La Sportiva TX4 Evo
• A Comfortable Shoe for Hard-to-Please Feet: Altra Lone Peak 8

Best Overall Hiking Shoe

1. salomon x ultra 4 gtx ($160).

Salomon’s X Ultra has been one of our favorite hiking shoes for years, offering an exceptional combination of comfort, on-trail performance, and durability for everything from casual day hikes to ambitious overnight missions. A few seasons back, they released an update to the much-loved shoe in the X Ultra 4 here. Beyond its sleeker and more modern look, the X Ultra 4 features a revised lacing system and chassis, along with a roomier fit in the toe box. Importantly, the shoe retains the outgoing version’s fantastic mix of agility, support, durability, and protection, and there’s enough cushioning underfoot for full days with a loaded pack. Finally, at 1 pound 9 ounces for our men’s size 9, it’s competitively lightweight and nimble.

While the latest X Ultra 4 takes our top spot, it wasn’t a near-universal choice as in years past. In short, some of our editors weren’t huge fans of the 4’s fit, which features a narrow midfoot, spacious forefoot, and hard-to-customize quick-pull lacing system. For some, this offers a locked-down feel but perhaps too roomy of a toe box; for others, it’s ideal in the forefoot but too tight at the arch. What’s more, the raised collar around the front of the ankle can be a source of rubbing and discomfort for some users (in this case, it wasn’t a problem for our testers). All that said, if you can try it on before you purchase (and it fits), the latest X Ultra is undeniably a high-performance, quality option... Read in-depth review See the Men's Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX   See the Women's Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX

Best Budget Hiking Shoe

2. merrell moab 3 ($120).

These may not be your long-distance or fast-and-light hiking shoes, but there is a lot to like about Merrell’s flagship Moab 3. What has made this shoe so popular over the years? Most notably, it's the lightweight but planted feel, comfortable and well-padded fit, excellent durability, and attractive price point. Merrell updated the Moab over a year ago, including recycled materials, a new insole, and modest updates to cushioning and traction, but the formula largely remains the same. For day hikers sticking to established trails, the Moab 3 is comfy and a great value.

In terms of downsides, on rocky and muddy trails, we’ve found that the Moab’s traction and stability fall short of a performance shoe like Salomon's X Ultra above or the La Sportiva Spire below. And at 2 pounds 1 ounce for a pair, it feels a little slow and cumbersome compared with some lighter and nimbler alternatives (including the X Ultra 4). But these are reasonable trade-offs for casual hikers, and it’s hard to deny the price, which checks in a full $40 less than the top-rated Salomon. Keep in mind that we included the non-waterproof version here, but Merrell also makes a waterproof model that costs $140 and weighs slightly more at 2 pounds 2 ounces per pair... Read in-depth Moab 3 review See the Men's Merrell Moab 3   See the Women's Merrell Moab 3

Best Ultralight and Cushioned Hiking Shoe

3. hoka speedgoat 5 ($155).

Hoka used to be a niche brand for runners, but that has changed dramatically over the past few years and the brand is now a go-to option for hikers. This trajectory makes sense: More and more people are ditching their burly boots for hiking shoes and trail runners—if you stay mostly on established trails and aren’t scrambling or carrying a heavy pack, a lightweight trail runner can offer the best combination of performance and comfort. And with thick yet supportive cushioning, an impressively grippy sole, and a long track record of success, the Hoka Speedgoat 5 is our favorite shoe in this category.

What are the shortcomings of the Hoka Speedgoat 5? We have been surprised by how quickly they wear down—the sole and midsole in particular. When standing at our local running store recently, a gentleman in front of us was buying new Hokas and said, “I absolutely love these shoes but am bummed by how quickly they pack out,” which sums up our experiences as well. In addition, the revamped upper now forgoes any overlays, which means you get less protection and stability than previous models—we found the 5 quite squirrely for trail running on technical terrain. But for those who hike or run mostly on established trails, you simply won’t find a more comfortable shoe for the job. See the Men's Hoka Speedgoat 5   See the Women's Hoka Speedgoat 5

Best Shoe for Backpacking and Technical Trails

4. la sportiva spire gtx ($209).

Many of the designs on our list are lightweight or almost trail runner-like in nature, but La Sportiva’s burly Spire is backpacking-ready—or just about as close as a hiking shoe gets. It feels sturdy and substantial with good stiffness and a thick midsole, effectively isolating you from rough and rocky trails (La Sportiva even goes so far as calling it a low-cut hiking boot). Throw in excellent protection and grip over a variety of terrain, plus a quality build that we’ve come to expect from this Italian climbing brand, and you have one of the more capable hiking shoes on the market.

Why isn’t the La Sportiva Spire ranked higher? At nearly 2 pounds, it’s heavy for a low-top hiking shoe and sits relatively high on the ankle. Second, the $209 price tag makes it the most expensive model on this list, and notably more expensive than many hiking boots. Finally, we appreciate the accommodating fit that should work well for most foot types, but the shoe is a little wide at the heel and we had to cinch it down tightly to avoid slippage. These issues aside, it’s hard to knock the performance chops or build quality of the La Sportiva, and it offers a nice step up in on-trail performance and durability compared to the TX4 Evo below... Read in-depth Spire GTX review See the Men's La Sportiva Spire   See the Women's La Sportiva Spire

Best Hiking Shoe for Off-Trail Scrambling

5. la sportiva tx4 evo ($169).

The La Sportiva TX4 Evo—the brand's latest take on their longstanding TX4—certainly isn’t a traditional pick, but boy do we love this shoe. It’s built as an approach shoe, which means that it’s grippy and tough for long hikes to climbing objectives or traveling over steep, rocky terrain. The Vibram outsole, full rubber rand, and smooth area of sticky rubber under the toe make it a great option for scrambling, smearing, and edging on rock. But what we have been impressed with most is its versatility: The TX4 does equally well moving fast on the trail with its light and moderately flexible construction. We even like it for everyday use due to the high levels of comfort and attractive design.

As with most approach shoes, the TX4 Evo does have limitations. The dotty tread grips exceptionally well on wet and dry rock and even impressed us with traction on snow, but it will fall short of a true hiking shoe in dirt and mud. Further, some hikers—mostly those of the fast-and-light variety—might find that the stiffer sole feels clunky and inflexible. But overall, don’t be dissuaded by the approach shoe label: The TX4 Evo is a worthy companion for long days on the trail. And keep in mind that La Sportiva does make this shoe in a number of versions, from the uber-lightweight TX2 Evo up to the TX Hike Mid (a full-on hiking boot). Note: We recently received the TX4 Evo for testing and will update this write-up with our feedback soon. The design is largely similar to the outgoing TX4, but with eco-friendly touches like recycled materials and a new platform that can be resoled to maximize the shoes' lifespan... Read in-depth review   (previous model) See the Men's La Sportiva TX4 Evo    See the Women's La Sportiva TX4 Evo

A Comfortable Shoe for Hard-to-Please Feet

6. altra lone peak 8 ($140).

Similar to the Speedgoat above, Altra’s Lone Peak was designed first as a running shoe and has since become a thru-hiker favorite. But while we love the Speedgoat for its agility and cushioning, the Lone Peak is highlighted for a different skill set: The shoe has a roomy toe box, features a zero-drop shape that encourages a natural stride, and offers great ground feel with just 25 millimeters of stack height compared to the Speedgoat’s 33 millimeters (at the heel). It all adds up to a very comfortable shoe that’s especially ideal for long-distance hikers with wide or hard-to-please feet. Altra also tacks on a few trail-worthy features, including a rock plate and gaiter attachments; and the recently updated 8th generation improves the design with a moderately more aggressive outsole, slightly lower weight (by 0.6 oz. per pair), and a new "Ghillie" lacing system with optional pull-through points for a more customizable fit.

We commonly recommend the Lone Peak to hikers who have struck out with other hiking footwear (most often due to issues with blisters and pressure points caused by overly stiff or narrow designs) and have yet to lead anyone astray. But the shoe isn’t for everyone: It can be too wide for most narrow feet, and the zero-drop design can feel particularly squirrely on uneven terrain. And compared to a svelte shoe like the Speedgoat , the Altra offers a more sluggish, “padding along” kind of experience—in fact, we have a hard time not using the word “slipper” to describe the Lone Peak. But for long-distance hikers who prioritize roominess and comfort above all else (this is especially key once your feet start to swell), the Lone Peak is hard to beat. Note: We're in the process of testing the latest Lone Peak 8 and will share our feedback here once we stack on more miles. See the Men's Altra Lone Peak 8   See the Women's Altra Lone Peak 8

Best of the Rest

7. danner trail 2650 ($170).

The North Face’s footwear lineup has seen a lot of modernization in recent years, and the Exploris 2 is case in point. Taking inspiration from their Vectiv trail running collection, this hiking-specific variation features a rockered profile for moving fast on the trail, a full-length TPU plate in the midsole for stability, and a lightweight yet durable synthetic ripstop upper. TNF utilized their in-house Futurelight waterproofing, and the thin construction helps minimize overheating when working hard in mild temperatures. Finally, the updated “2” boosts comfort with 2 millimeters of extra cushion and a more accommodating toe box. The styling may be a little polarizing—it’s not as around town-friendly as alternatives like the Danner Trail 2650 above—but it’s clear that a lot of thought and effort went into the design.

We took the Vectiv Exploris 2 backpacking in Patagonia and returned with mostly positive impressions. The SurfaceCTRL rubber was impressively confidence-inspiring on everything from slippery rock to mud, and there was little to no break-in period. Further, the waterproof membrane held up extremely well despite the sloppy conditions and numerous creek crossings. And while the rockered shape did feel a little awkward at first, it really came to life and gave the shoe a natural and poppy feel when hiking quickly. We wouldn’t push the Exploris 2 too hard into cross-country terrain—it felt slightly tippy while crossing talus and boulder hopping—and despite the updated toe box, we found the shoe to be on the narrow side. But for a durable yet nimble hiking shoe that will feel just as comfortable on mile 20 as it does at mile 2, the Exploris 2 is well worth a look. See the Men's TNF Vectiv Exploris 2   See the Women's TNF Vectiv Exploris 2

9. Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX ($180)

The Hoka Speedgoat above has achieved legendary status among hikers (specifically the thru-hiking community), but there are some notable trade-offs with the trail-running design. For those who want a bit more support and protection, Hoka also offers an impressive lineup of hiking-specific footwear, including the Anacapa 2 Low here. The Anacapa (also available in a mid-height version ) features Hoka’s well-known springy midsole, a rockered shape for a smooth ride on the trail, and a beefed-up construction that includes durable nubuck leather and a Gore-Tex waterproof liner. The result is a fast-moving shoe that nicely mixes a trail runner-like feel with the added structure of a hiker.

The Anacapa was updated to the “2” with a focus on more sustainable materials, along with a few noteworthy changes to the midsole and upper. With a less intrusive heel counter, additional tongue padding, and a slightly softer midsole, the 2 is arguably more comfortable than the outgoing version, and Hoka also enhanced the toe box for more durability and protection. However, we were surprised to see that the Vibram Megagrip outsole remains virtually unchanged—like the original, it features large sections of blown rubber that are susceptible to damage from rocky trail use. Additionally, we found it fit slightly larger than the outgoing model (some may need to go down a half size). But the Anacapa 2 nevertheless is a solid update to a very good hiking shoe, and it’s especially ideal for those who stick to established trails and prioritize cushy comfort. For a more breathable design for summer hiking, check out the non-waterproof Anacapa Breeze Low ($155)... Read in-depth Anacapa 2 Low GTX review See the Men's Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX   See the Women's Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX

10. Adidas Terrex Swift R3 GTX ($160)

With a light but sturdy and supportive build, Adidas’ Terrex Swift R has consistently been a trail favorite. The third generation brought a more traditional lacing system—which we consider a positive as the quick-lace design on the R2 was finicky—but otherwise, they stuck to the winning formula. Its outsole grips well on everything from mud to rock, and the moderately stiff construction makes it a nice pairing for more technical terrain and when carrying an overnight or multi-day load. Finally, we appreciate the tough and long-lasting materials used throughout: There’s no open mesh in the upper like you’ll find on less durable trail runners, and protection is great around the toes and sides of the feet. For hikers wanting a boot-like feel in a low-top shoe, the Swift R3 is a worthy option.

Some of the Swift’s closest competitors include the La Sportiva Spire and Salomon X Ultra above. All the designs balance weight, cushioning, and trail performance well, although the Salomon is the lightest and nimblest of the bunch. For those who like a little more structure and stiffness, the Adidas and La Sportiva have their appeals, but the trade-off is a longer break-in period and a somewhat clunky feel when you’re trying to move quickly. We also found the R3 runs a little big, which led to a fair amount of heel slippage on extended climbs (some may need to size down). These complaints push the Swift R3 down our rankings, but if it fits you well, the shoe offers a nice combination of durability, support, and price... Read in-depth review See the Men's Adidas Terrex Swift R3 GTX   See the Women's Terrex Swift R3 GTX

11. Brooks Cascadia 17 ($140)

Now in its 17th generation, the Brooks Cascadia is one of the longest-standing trail runners on the market and particularly popular in the thru-hiking community. Like the Speedgoat and Lone Peak above, this shoe bridges the gap for speed-focused hikers with the support and protection you need for rugged trails alongside a hefty dose of cushioning for long days out. And at only 1 pound 6 ounces for the pair (our men’s size 9 was a hair more at 1 lb. 6.5 oz.), it won’t weigh you down as much as the hiking-specific shoes here. We took the updated “17” on a backpacking trip through Washington’s Necklace Valley and were impressed with its balanced design: The Cascadia felt stable and precise while traversing off-camber terrain with a full pack but remained impressively quick and responsive when running the vehicle shuttle at the end of the trek.

How does the Cascadia compare with another darling of the thru-hiking world, the Altra Lone Peak? Both offer a nice array of trail-ready features like aggressive rubber outsoles and attachment points for gaiters, but the Brooks is the technically capable option with more cushioning and protection underfoot and better stability. In terms of fit, the two shoes feature roomy toe boxes that are great for accommodating swollen toes (the Altra is more spacious), but the Cascadia locks things down more at the midfoot and heel for a more performance-oriented fit. A final key difference is the Cascadia’s 8-millimeter drop compared to the Lone Peak's zero-drop shape, which lends a more agile and quick overall feel (although the “natural” zero-drop profile of the Altra is one of the reasons it has such a loyal following). In the end, we think the Brooks is the better all-rounder for most hikers, although the Altra gets the edge for those with particularly hard-to-please feet. See the Men's Brooks Cascadia 17   See the Women's Brooks Cascadia 17

12. Merrell Moab Speed 2 Low ($140)

Merrell is a longtime leader in hiking footwear, and their recently updated Moab Speed 2 Low brings the much-loved Moab (above) into the modern era. The Speed 2 Low features a lightweight and cushioned design that will appeal to day hikers and weight-conscious backpackers alike. And despite its trail-runner-esque appearance, the Speed 2 still offers a healthy amount of protection and support—including a generous toe and heel cap and firm but comfy midsole—along with a capable Vibram outsole. We also appreciate that Merrell added more foam with the latest model, resulting in a noticeably cushier and less rigid feel. The end result is a hardwearing yet easy-to-wear hiking shoe that toes the line between weight-savings and on-trail performance better than most—and the price is right too at just $140.

The Moab Speed 2 Low will get the job done for the majority of day hikers and lightweight backpackers, but keep in mind that it’s far from the most supportive or durable shoe here. If you’re headed out on technical terrain or with a heavy pack, models like the La Sportiva Spire and Salomon X Ultra 4 will offer noticeably more underfoot stability and isolation from the trail. On the other end of the spectrum, the Speed 2 Low feels decidedly firmer and more planted than the even lighter Speedgoat above, although you don’t get the Hoka’s snug and sock-like feel (the Merrell's roomy toe box and lack of secure heel resulted in some sloppiness). But in the end, these shoes strike a healthy balance between comfort and structure, offering enough underfoot support for covering technical ground without feeling overly stiff... Read in-depth review of GTX version See the Men's Merrell Moab Speed 2 Low   See the Women's Merrell Moab Speed 2 Low

13. La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II ($149)

La Sportiva bills their Ultra Raptor as a mountain running shoe, but we’re big fans of this design for hikers venturing above treeline on rugged trails or cross-country terrain. Now in its second iteration, the Ultra Raptor II provides chart-topping protection against rocks and roots by way of generous toe and heel caps and a full-length rock plate, along with incredible grip on everything from mud and loose talus to boulders and snow. Ample cushion makes the shoe comfortable enough to wear all day, and a sock-like construction keeps the foot snug while sealing out trail debris. For high routes, climbing approaches, and peak bagging, the Ultra Raptor gives Sportiva’s Spire and TX4 Evo shoes above a run for their money in terms of protection, support, and durability.

But for all the Ultra Raptor’s strengths, it’s not our shoe of choice for most trails. Compared to most trail runner-inspired designs, the Sportiva is rather stiff and clunky, and the rigid TPU heel counter is known to cause discomfort in the heel for some. Second, although the Ultra Raptor is built with a mesh upper, it has a tendency to absorb rather than drain water, which makes for a heavy shoe after creek or snow crossings. But the Ultra Raptor is an incredibly capable shoe for technical mountain terrain, and the fun updated colorways—particularly for women—certainly don’t hurt... Read in-depth review See the Men's Ultra Raptor II   See the Women's Ultra Raptor II

14. Scarpa Rush 2 GTX ($199)

The hiking-shoe-meets-trail-runner love story has been unfolding for a number of years, and Scarpa’s Rush 2 GTX is a prime example. With the cushion and rocker of a trail runner alongside the stability and protection of a hiking shoe, the Rush is a best-of-both-worlds option for modern hikers. Specifically, you get a durable fabric upper with welded reinforcements, burly midsole with EVA foam and TPU reinforcements for cushion and stability, and a sticky, rockered outsole that facilitates quick movements. All told, if you’re considering a trail runner but are wary of giving up the support and hardwearing nature of a hiking shoe, the Rush 2 GTX (also offered in a mid-height version ) is well worth a look.

We wore the first-gen Scarpa Rush while trekking in southern Patagonia and were impressed with its prowess on everything from hardpacked trail to talus and smooth rock. Our main gripe was the shoe’s low collar and poor ankle lock; thankfully, the 2 offers a noteworthy improvement with increased stability and torsion control at the rear. And while the Rush is heavier than trail runners like the Speedgoat and Lone Peak above (read: not ideal for running), it does feel lighter than its weight would suggest (and in a side-by-side test, the first-gen version was notably more cushioned than the top-ranked X Ultra 4). Finally, the Scarpa is pricey at $199. But for speed-focused hikers and fastpackers, it’s hard to knock the purpose-built design, which offers a nice boost in stability and protection compared to standard trail running shoes. See the Men's Scarpa Rush 2 GTX   See the Women's Scarpa Rush 2 GTX

15. Adidas Terrex AX4 ($100)

We didn’t anticipate two Adidas Terrex shoes making our 2024 list, but the AX4 impressed as a well-rounded budget offering. At just $100 for the non-waterproof version—$20 less than the Moab above—you get excellent traction from the Continental-brand outsole, a durable upper, and a simple but effective lacing system. On lengthy and challenging hikes in southern Patagonia, we found the shoe surprisingly adept: Its light weight and low-profile midsole make it easy to trust when scrambling, and there’s sufficient cushioning to isolate you from rocks and roots. As a day hiking option, the Terrex AX4 has a lot going for it.

Unsurprisingly, there are a few compromises in the AX4’s affordable build. First and foremost is the lack of a proper toe cap, which we got a few painful reminders of when catching rocks on the trail. Additionally, the insole is cheap, thin, and seems to hold stink more than a higher-end OrthoLite design. Finally, while comfort is quite good considering the price, spending up for a shoe like the Merrell Moab Speed above will get you a softer interior and springier cushioning. In the end, high-mileage users may want to steer clear, but the AX4’s combination of price and performance earns it a spot for this year... Read in-depth review See the Men's Adidas Terrex AX4   See the Women's Adidas Terrex AX4

16. Arc’teryx Aerios GTX ($180)

Arc’teryx has built a reputation around premium and sleek-looking designs, and their Aerios GTX carries the torch. Now in its second iteration, this shoe is one of the Canadian brand’s biggest success stories of late, combining the comfort and light weight of a trail runner with the protection and stability of a hiking shoe. It’s very light and nimble at just 1 pound 8 ounces per pair, waterproof with a Gore-Tex membrane, and tough with a burly toe cap and a large swath of TPU where the upper meets the outsole. What’s more, the current iteration features a 100%-recycled polyester upper, which has proven itself to be just as durable as the outgoing model’s Cordura. For these reasons, it’s our favorite shoe in Arc’teryx hiking footwear lineup to date.

In terms of traction, the Aerios is in its element on rock thanks to a sticky Megagrip Vibram outsole, but the shorter lugs compromise grip over wet and soft terrain like mud and snow. Additionally, some users have reported premature delamination along the front and sides of the upper, although we haven't experienced any issues with several iterations in the Aerios line. Finally, the shoes' basic lacing system makes it hard to customize fit and results in loosening throughout the day. These gripes aside, the Aerios GTX is a premium piece of footwear for everything from speedy day missions to week-long treks in the mountains. And for a more breathable option for hot summer hiking, Arc’teryx also makes the non-waterproof Aerios Aura ($150) , which features a mesh upper. See the Men's Arc'teryx Aerios GTX   See the Women's Arc'teryx Aerios GTX

17. Keen Targhee Low Vent ($155)

Like Merrell's Moab, the Targhee is Keen's signature everyday hiker. Updated a few years ago, the changes weren't groundbreaking but did a nice job at modernizing the classic design. Most importantly, the super-wide foot bed of the previous model has been trimmed down slightly to give the shoe a slightly less sloppy feel over rocky terrain (it’s still plenty roomy for most folks, though). The Targhee Low Vent still won’t be confused with an aggressive model like the Salomon X Ultra 4 above—in looks as well as performance—but its tough leather construction, reasonable weight, and well-cushioned interior make it a great casual hiking shoe.

Among day hiking options, the Keen Targhee Low and Merrell Moab 3 are two of the most popular on the market. Both are very comfortable right out of the box, offer sufficient support and traction for non-technical trails, and can even do the trick on shorter backpacking trips. The Targhee’s Nubuck leather upper is a little more durable than the Moab’s mesh-heavy build, but the Keen isn’t as good of a value at $155 (the waterproof version is $165). That price difference is enough to push it slightly down our list, but the Targhee’s standout comfort make it a consistent favorite. Note: Keen recently released the Targhee IV Vent , and we will report back here after testing the latest model. See the Men's Keen Targhee Low   See the Women's Keen Targhee Low

18. Oboz Sawtooth X Low ($140)

Based in Bozeman, Mont., Oboz has a reputation for making tough, comfort-first footwear for less than much of the competition. The Sawtooth has long been one of their most popular models for both day hiking and overnights, and this year it received a full overhaul with the latest “X.” Responding to the resounding movement toward lighter and nimbler footwear, the Sawtooth X features a modernized aesthetic and refined fit, along with added Cordura for abrasion resistance. But the original formula remains largely the same, including a roomy toe box and plush interior, Oboz’s supportive O Fit insole, and a tough, durable construction that can handle mile after mile of trail abuse.

What’s not to like about the Sawtooth X? Despite Oboz’s efforts toward streamlining the design, it’s still a fairly heavy shoe and less agile than most. And with a leather upper and plush cushioning, its breathability suffers compared to the lighter, mesh-heavy hikers above. In looking at the Sawtooth X and Moab 3 side-by-side, the Merrell is $20 less and better ventilated, while the Oboz is a bit lighter (by about a half-ounce per shoe) and offers more durability by way of Cordura in the upper. It’s also hard to find fault with the Sawtooth X’s fit, which is built to accommodate medium-to-high-volume feet and has a very minimal break-in period. And lastly, the Sawtooth X also comes in a low-top waterproof model ($165) and waterproof and non-waterproof versions of a mid-height boot. See the Men's Oboz Sawtooth X Low   See the Women's Oboz Sawtooth X Low

Hiking Shoe Comparison Table

About our testing process.

The Switchback Travel team is no stranger to long days on the trail. From epic high routes traversing striking peaks to months-long thru-hikes across the country, we clock serious miles each year on all sorts of terrain. Former editor-in-chief John Ellings drew from his experience on local trails in the PNW and far-flung expeditions to southern Patagonia (and beyond) to whip up our initial selection of 12 hiking shoes back in 2015. Senior editor Chris Carter took over the guide in 2024. A seasoned thru-hiker, Chris has completed the Triple Crown of long trails in the United States (AT, PCT, and CDT) and continues to backpack and explore around the world. He's worn well-earned holes in more hiking shoes than he can count and knows the importance of solid kicks for tackling any trail.

We meticulously tested countless highly rated hiking shoes to narrow in on the selection of 18 models above, drawing from personal experiences as well as feedback from seasoned contributors and the hiking community as a whole. Weight, durability, breathability, and cushioning are all key factors we consider when gauging the mettle of a hiking shoe, and each design had to prove itself over grueling miles to earn a spot in this round-up. Finally, we know the hiking shoe market is constantly evolving. As a result, we keep our finger on the pulse of new products when they surface, adding standouts to our list along the way and ensuring our existing reviews stay up-to-date. If you know you prefer an over-the-ankle style, check out our article on the best hiking boots .  

Hiking Shoe Buying Advice

• Hiking Footwear Categories

Stability and Support

Waterproofing, breathability, lacing systems, hiking shoe "upper" materials, midsoles and cushioning, outsoles and traction, toe protection.

• Hiking Shoes vs. Hiking Boots​  

Hiking Footwear Categories​

Hiking Shoes For the vast majority of day hikers, and even a good number of backpackers and thru-hikers, a hiking shoe that falls just below the ankle is the perfect match. Shoes like our top-rated Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX are stiffer and more substantial than a trail runner for carrying a light load over mixed terrain but don't feel draggingly heavy like a full-on boot. Furthermore, hiking shoes often have a tougher construction than trail runners, with increased use of leather and durable nylons as opposed to mesh. Protection from obstacles like rocks and roots comes courtesy of rubber toe caps and medium-stiff midsoles. Hiking shoes are also great options for folks needing a substantial shoe for daily wear; just be aware that the outsoles will wear faster on pavement.  

Trail Running Shoes If moving fast trumps all else, you should consider a trail runner. Shoes like the Altra Lone Peak and Hoka Speedgoat have gained significant popularity over the past few years for being the ultimate lightweight option and are a common sight on thru-hikes like the PCT and AT. That said, keep in mind that these types of shoes are not traditional off-trail or backpacking footwear. Trail runners are flexible and super comfortable, but they don’t provide much in the way of ankle support when you’re carrying a heavy load and generally have minimal toe and underfoot protection. For hikes on established trails or for experienced minimalist trekkers, however, a trail runner remains an excellent option. We’ve included a couple great hybrid trail running and hiking options in this article, but for a complete breakdown, see our article on the best trail running shoes .  

Approach Shoes The third option has a relatively narrow focus: climbers or hikers that need a grippy shoe to tackle steep rocky terrain. Many rock climbers will use an approach shoe on the hike in (hence, the “approach” name), and swap out to a true climbing shoe when the going gets vertical. Approach shoes are easy to spot: They have a large rubber toe rand and a sticky, low-profile rubber compound underfoot for maximum grip on rock. The shoes can be plenty comfortable on day hikes, especially a crossover style like the La Sportiva TX4 Evo , but aren’t what we typically recommend as a daily driver or backpacking pick—though one of our editors does know someone who hiked the entire AT in TX4s. The treads aren’t as secure on muddy hiking trails and they’re generally not as comfortable underfoot for long trail days. If, however, your day hikes include a lot of scrambling or low-grade rock climbing, an approach shoe is an excellent choice.  

As a reflection of the push for lighter gear in all facets, hiking shoes are moving away from the traditional stiff construction of a hiking boot in favor of flexibility and a nimble feel. All hiking footwear (excluding some minimalist trail runners) does retain a degree of stiffness thanks to built-in shanks or internal supports. These features are part of what separates a hiking shoe (and approach shoe) from a super flexy cross trainer or road-running shoe.  

For day hikes on flatter or less technical terrain, we can’t recommend a lightweight and semi-flexible hiking shoe enough. Shoes like the Merrell Moab 3 and Keen Targhee Low are standouts for these uses. As your trips get longer and your pack gets heavier, a more substantial shoe still wins out for us. Look to the Salomon X Ultra 4 , Adidas Terrex Swift R3, and La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II for great all-around options that are equally adept at conquering summit peaks and multi-day backpacking.  

Once you narrow your hiking footwear search, you may be considering the GTX question: Do you need waterproofing or not ? In theory, waterproofing is a nice security blanket if you’ll be hiking in the mountains. The extra protection that comes with a waterproof and breathable membrane inserted into the shoe is great for creek crossings, surprise rainfall or if you hit snow on an early season trek. But the extra layer adds weight, impacts breathability pretty significantly (discussed below), and the designs aren’t always perfect. We’ve found Gore-Tex models to work consistently well, and many in-house designs perform similarly keeping water out (breathability is a different story), including the Oboz Sawtooth's BDry technology.  

Whether or not you need waterproofing often comes down to a personal choice. Are you a summer-only hiker or live in a warm and dry area? We’d recommend a non-waterproof shoe in most cases, and some of the best ventilating shoes are the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II and Merrell Moab 3 . But if you get into the alpine regions or would benefit from the added protection and modest insulation waterproofing provides, we’d lean the other way. The great news is that most shoes on our list are offered in both varieties. Expect to pay about $20 to $30 more for the addition of waterproofing.  

The truth about waterproof liners, even expensive Gore-Tex booties, is that they don’t breathe well—just as a waterproof jacket won’t be as breathable as a comparable non-waterproof version. Simply put, waterproof and breathable membranes restrict a shoe’s ability to pull moisture away from your sweaty feet as efficiently as a non-waterproof upper. Not all non-waterproof shoes should be treated equally, however. Footwear that features thinner fabrics and a lot of mesh will increase moisture transfer and airflow, which will keep feet less sweaty in hot weather as well as dry out soggy hiking socks far more quickly.  

Gore-Tex Surround, which is designed to bring 360 degrees of breathability by venting out the insole of the shoe, is an intriguing, if expensive, concept. It’s been well received in a few models, including the La Sportiva Spire, but performance will always fall short of a shoe made mostly of mesh (for more, see our in-depth Spire review ). No matter your final decision, we encourage you to at least give non-waterproof footwear a thought before selecting your next pair of hiking shoes.  

Easily overlooked, laces, as well as the lacing system of hooks and eyelets, play an essential role in fit and comfort. If a shoe has a poor lacing system that is prone to loosening, you’ll find yourself having to readjust constantly on the trail. If the system itself doesn’t secure your heel very well, the up and down walking motion will create hot spots and blisters. If the culprit is just the laces themselves, it’s an easy fix: There are a number of good quality replacement laces available. But if the system design doesn’t hold your foot very well, we recommend looking elsewhere.  

Some models, including the Salomon X Ultra 4 , have a single-pull lacing system. The design is totally convenient and we’ve had no more issues with durability than a traditional lace. One thing to keep in mind, however, is that you aren’t able to adjust the fit between eyelets, so the fit will be equally tight across the entire foot. Those with finicky feet that need to fine tune their laces to be comfortable may be best served avoiding quick lace designs.  

Nubuck Leather Made of full-grain leather, but given a brushed finish that has a suede-like feel, Nubuck leather is a common sight on heavier-duty hiking shoes. The softer-touch leather is lighter and more flexible than traditional, glossy full-leather options and more durable than most nylons. It does fall short in breathability, however. As a result, it’s common to find a mix of leather and nylon mesh for abrasion resistance and breathability, as seen on shoes like the Merrell Moab and Keen Targhee Vent. Hoka's Anacapa 2 Low GTX also features a recycled mesh upper crisscrossed with Nubuck leather overlays, which boosts durability while still affording decent breathability—a tricky balance for waterproof shoes.  

Digging a little deeper into the shoe's construction, we'll look at midsole construction next. Its importance lies in cushioning your feet, working as a shock absorber from impacts, and providing an additional layer of protection from sharp rocks. Depending on the design, midsoles vary from very thin (minimalist trail runner ) to stiff and substantial (burly hiking shoe). Most include EVA, TPU, or a combination of both in their construction. EVA Foam EVA midsoles are a common site on running and hiking footwear. The cushy soft material takes some of the sting out of your heel or midfoot impacts and is also extremely lightweight. While nearly all shoes on this list use some sort of EVA, the proprietary versions can vary from super soft to mildly stiff. For logging serious miles on tougher terrain, we prefer a firm and supportive midsole as opposed to too much cushioning. Those overly soft midsoles also have a tendency to break down overtime, much like a road-running shoe. In general, you pay more for an improved midsole design and a higher-quality EVA compound.  

TPU Thermoplastic polyurethane, (mercifully) shortened to TPU, is a durable plastic commonly found in performance-oriented light hikers. Shoes that use TPU underfoot are often less cushy than those with only EVA but will last longer and better handle a heavier load. In addition, they’ll keep their shape longer and won’t be prone to compressing like EVA. Because both midsole types have valid applications and TPU is more expensive, it’s common for a manufacturer to use a TPU frame or shank for stability and toughness and add in EVA underfoot to increase comfort.  

One of the main reasons to upgrade from a flimsy cross trainer to a true hiking shoe is for improved traction. In a way that more casual footwear can never match, hiking and trail running footwear is leaps and bounds better when the going gets rocky, slippery, and steep. And much in the same way that Gore-Tex dominates the market for mid to high-end waterproofing, Vibram inhabits a similar space for outsoles. Their name is synonymous with solid grip and traction on a variety of terrain, and Vibram rubber is incredibly durable compared to other compounds we've tested. Not all Vibram models should be treated as equals, however, as the rubber manufacturer tailors their designs for the specific footwear and brand. Some have much larger lugs underfoot for serious grip in mud, and others prioritize sticky rubber for scrambling over rocks. There are also more entry-level options that just do well on easier trails, like the lugs you’ll find on the bottom of the Merrell Moab 3 boots and shoes.  

Salomon is one brand that doesn’t outsource their traction needs. Instead, they use their in-house Contagrip compound for all of their hiking and trail running models. We’ve found the level of quality and performance is in line with the Vibram offerings across the board, from anything from their fast-and-light X Ultra 4 hiking shoes to the burly Salomon Quest 4 backpacking boots.  

Hiking trails, even well maintained ones, are full of rocks, roots and other potential hazards, so we almost always recommend a hiking shoe with some type of toe cap. Lacking any protection on the front of your shoes can lead to a trip ruining impact when you inevitably look up from the trail to enjoy the scenery. Hiking shoes typically have a full rubber toe cap, but trail runners sometimes have a trimmed down version or none at all—one of the compromises in opting for a minimalist shoe. Approach shoes, on the other hand, have exceptional toe protection with their wraparound rubber rand at the front of the shoe.  

Just like with running shoes, the stock insoles that come with nearly every hiking shoe generally are cheap. For some, this might not make a difference, but for others it’s what separates comfort from misery. Thankfully, removing your insoles is super easy, and replacing them with an aftermarket model that’s specific to your foot size and shape can remedy most shoe maladies. New insoles can provide more or less volume to fill out the shoe, improve the fit under the arch, and increase or decrease the cushion and impact shock. We recommend checking out Superfeet insoles for their wide selection of options and trusted reputation in daily shoes, ski boots, and hiking footwear.  

Hiking Shoes vs. Hiking Boots

Perhaps the biggest point of differentiation between hiking shoes and boots is height: Shoes have a low-top fit, while boots generally sit above the ankle. Hiking shoes excel on smooth trails where rolled ankles are less of a possibility, if you keep your pack weight down, and for those who want to move fast with less on their feet. Tradition tells us that hiking boots are the better choice for heavy packs and rough trails, and in most cases that holds true today. The tall height, along with laces that hold the shoe snugly around your ankle, offer a more secure fit, greater stability, and more protection. That said, with enough practice and trail time, hikers can build up ankle strength in low-top shoes and remain quite safe traversing the same terrain that they would in boots. Given the choice, we most often select a hiking shoe for its light feel, but both are viable options for day hiking, backpacking, and non-alpine peak bagging.   

In 2024 and beyond, we see the lines between hiking shoe and boot categories continuing to blur. They still will be separated by height—although some modern boots only cover part of the ankle—but fewer and fewer boots resemble the heavyweight leather clunkers of old. One example is the over-the-ankle version of our top-rated Salomon X Ultra 4. It’s the exact same shoe with the same defining characteristics—feathery feel, aggressive stance, and supportive fit—but the “Mid” sits slightly higher on the ankle, weighs a couple more ounces, provides a little more protection, and perhaps a modest increase in rollover prevention. Since most folks stick to defined trails, the push for this type of light and fast footwear will continue to take over the market. Back to Our Top Hiking Shoe Picks   Back to Our Hiking Shoe Comparison Table

Learn More About Hiking Gear

Hiking Gear Reviews

Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX Hiking Shoe Review

Best Women's Hiking Shoes of 2024

Do You Need Waterproof Hiking Shoes?

Merrell Moab 3 Hiking Shoe Review

Best Hiking Boots of 2024

Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX Hiking Shoe Review

Best Trail Running Shoes of 2024

On Location: El Chaltén

Mobile Menu

Megamenu - desktop hamburger menu.

• Hiking Gear
• Backpacking Gear
• Biking Gear
• Camping Gear
• Footwear Reviews
• Climbing Gear
• Skiing Gear
• Winter Gear Reviews
• In-Depth Gear Reviews
• Hiking Shoes
• Hiking Boots
• Trail Running Shoes
• Mountain Bike Shoes
• Approach Shoes
• Climbing Shoes
• Beginner Climbing Shoes
• Mountaineering Boots
• Winter Boots
• Rain Jackets
• Down Jackets
• Synthetic Jackets
• Fleece Jackets
• Hardshell Jackets
• Softshell Jackets
• Windbreaker Jackets
• Ski Jackets
• Winter Jackets
• Hiking Pants
• Hiking Socks
• Trekking Poles
• Baby Carriers
• Running Vests
• Backpacking Tents
• Backpacking Packs
• Backpacking Sleeping Bags
• Backpacking Sleeping Pads
• Backpacking Stoves
• Backpacking Food
• Water Filters
• Altimeter Watches
• Handheld GPS
• Mountain Bike Helmets
• Mountain Bikes
• Mountain Bikes Under $1,000
• Mountain Bikes Under $2,000
• Gravel Bikes
• Bike Brands
• Kids' Bikes
• Hitch Bike Racks
• Camping Tents
• Rooftop Tents
• Camping Sleeping Bags
• Camping Mattresses
• Camping Chairs
• Camping Stoves
• Duffel Bags
• Rock Climbing Shoes
• Climbing Helmets
• Climbing Harnesses
• Climbing Quickdraws
• Belay Devices
• Climbing Ropes
• Climbing Backpacks
• Winter Gloves
• 4-Season Tents
• Ski Helmets
• Ski Goggles
• Ski Backpacks
• All-Mountain Skis
• Ski Bindings
• Backcountry Skis
• Backcountry Ski Boots
• Skis for Beginners
• Hardpack Skis
• Mirrorless Cameras
• Full-Frame Cameras
• DSLR Cameras
• Point-and-Shoot Cameras
• Travel Cameras
• DSLR Lenses
• Mirrorless Lenses
• Lofoten Islands
• Lofoten Hiking
• Hardangervidda
• Jotunheimen
• 10 Great Norway Hikes
• Public Huts
• Torres del Paine
• Chalten and Glaciares
• Lake District
• Patagonia National Park
• Milford Sound
• Abel Tasman
• Marlborough
• Great Walks
• Adventure Towns

Add adventure to your inbox

• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Service

© 2024 Switchback Travel. All Rights Reserved. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission.

The Best Hiking Shoes of 2024

Summer means long days, warm temps, and miles on the trail.  And while we love a good pair of hiking boots, a hiking shoe is ideal for many trail adventures. They’re light and easy to move in, and they keep your feet cool. You’ll give up a bit of ankle support with a shoe, but many find that the increased comfort and performance are well worth the trade-off.

The footwear you choose for your adventure is arguably one of the most important elements of your kit, and it’s vital to find the shoe that works for you and the goals you have in mind. With so many brands and designs on the market, it can be difficult to choose which hiking shoe is best for you.

We hope this guide assists in wading through the masses of models out there, and helps you dial in on the perfect fit. Whether you’re staring down the barrel of a months-long thru-hike, or need something to walk the dog with every evening, there’s a shoe here for you.

With the traditional pressure to wear hiking boots for long treks wringing in his ears, current author Chris Carter set off on each trail of the Triple Crown (PCT, CDT, and AT) in lightweight hiking shoes — and never looked back. He’s now a firm believer in shoes’ ability to perform just as well as boots on extended journeys, and much prefers them for their lightweight mobility and long-term comfort.

Chris is always lacing up in the newest kicks as soon as they surface, testing the competition, and seeing if they deserve any real estate in this guide. He’s tested over 20 different models in the past year alone.

Scrambling across alpine scree in the San Juans, slogging up muddy Appalachian slopes, and plodding across the blistering African savanna, he put a multitude of different models through the wringer to bring you the streamlined selection you see today. Rest assured, each of the shoes below will carry you hundreds — if not thousands — of miles across brutal terrain.

Our  included comparison chart  allows for quick and easy comparison, while our  comprehensive buyer’s guide and  FAQ section  will let you know exactly what to look for as you consider your options.

Editor’s Note: We refreshed this guide on May 17, 2024, covering the updated Altra Lone Peak 8 , the technical La Sportiva TX4 EVO , and the sporty Adidas Terrex Free Hiker GORE-TEX 2.0 Low .

• Best Overall Hiking Shoes: Altra Lone Peak 8
• Best Budget Hiking Shoes: Merrell Moab 3
• Best Hiking Shoes for Style & Function: Danner Trail 2650
• Best Water Hiking Shoes: Astral TR1 Water Hiking Shoe
• Best Hiking Shoes for Summer Travel: Salomon X Ultra 4 Low
• Best Hiking Shoes for Technical Approaches: La Sportiva TX4 EVO

Altra Lone Peak 8

• Weight 1 lb., 3 oz.
• Material Quick-dry air mesh
• Best Use Trail Running, Thru-hiking
• Top Attributes Wide Toe Box, Zero Drop, MaxTrac Rubber Outsole

• Roomy Toe Box
• Grippy Outsole
• Superior Drainage
• Minimal Cushion
• Zero Drop isn't for everyone

Picking up where the Altra Lone Peak 7 left off as our Best Overall Hiking Shoe is the Lone Peak 8 ($140). The newest version of the Lone Peak has the roomy toebox we’ve all come to enjoy. It also retains the zero-drop experience key to any outdoor adventure in these shoes. Additionally, the Lone Peak 8 brings back Ghillie lacing which opts for loops instead of eyelets. This allows you to customize the tightness of the fit — or loosen it up — in key areas across the bridge of your foot.

Also new is a completely redesigned ripstop mesh upper for added comfort and a refined fit. Additionally, Altra decided to shave a few ounces off of the 8’s. This might not be something you notice when holding them in your hand, but after a few miles on rough and rugged terrain, you’ll appreciate this smaller detail.

Overall, our experience with the Lone Peak 8’s was similar to what we had with the 7’s. These shoes have an excellent natural feel and superior drainage which helps keep you moving without getting bogged down and blistered. The changes in the upper made for a less cushioned, but easier-to-adjust experience around the ankle.

We loved the MaxTrac rubber chosen for the outsole. It provided exceptional grip on rocks and over other wet terrain. But, more importantly, it instilled confidence in the steps you made in those situations. Peace of mind goes a long way when you’re wandering around in the middle of nowhere.

In the long run (pun intended) we’re stoked by how the Lone Peak 8’s perform. In testing, we ran and hiked on all sorts of terrain. We even went grocery shopping and ran around soccer fields trying to catch wayward balls sent in all directions by 7-year-olds. They became the shoes we fell in love with and relied on for everything.

Merrell Moab 3

• Weight 2 lb., 1 oz.
• Material Pigskin leather and mesh
• Best use Day hikes
• Top attribute Durable, solid value

• Impressive traction and stability for a low-cut hiking shoe
• A bit heavy
• Requires a break-in period for peak comfort

It’s no surprise the  Merrell Moab 3 ($120) is one of the top-selling hiking shoes. The side ventilation keeps feet cool during warm-weather hikes, and the pigskin leather and mesh upper hold up well through rocky scrambles, long day hikes, and multiday adventures.

We like that they provide some of the stability and traction generally found in a hiking boot with the low-top freedom of a shoe.

The toebox was wide enough that our testers didn’t experience any uncomfortable rubbing. But they are a bit stiffer, and we recommend slowly amping up your mileage. Give them time to break in, and you could have a great hiking shoe for seasons to come at a very affordable price point.

These aren’t the lightest hiking shoes available. And on technical or wet terrain, they didn’t perform as well as shoes like the La Sportiva TX4 EVO, but the   Moab 3s   are winners for day hikes on regular trails. They’re also available in a waterproof version . Overall, they’re one of the best hiking shoes for regular use on moderate to easy terrain.

Danner Trail 2650

• Weight 1 lb., 8 oz.
• Material Leather
• Best use Day hikes, dry summer adventures, town-to-trail excursions
• Top attribute Out-of-the-box comfort, breathable, stylish

• Grippy outsole
• Expensive compared to other options

Danner is known for making high-quality, long-lasting hiking boots. And this is true of its hiking shoes, too. Inspired by the terrain of the 2,650 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail, the  Trail 2650 is built to go the distance.

The mesh liner helped keep our feet cool and aided in breathability on hot summer hikes. In addition to the stylish looks, we really appreciate the fantastic grip these provided. We found them comfortable out of the box and suitable for all manner of day hikes.

Some testers wished they had more arch support, while others found them a perfect fit. This is a matter of personal preference and foot shape. The Trail 2650 shoe comes in several versions, including waterproof, mesh, and mid styles.  Check out our full review  of these Danner styles.

Astral TR1 Water Hiking Shoe

• Weight 1 lb., 5.2 oz.
• Material Ripstop 2-denier mesh with TPU overlays
• Best use Desert canyons, tropical trails, and trails with water crossings
• Top attribute Easy-draining and quick-drying

• Roomy and comfortable toebox
• Great odor control
• Not the most supportive

If you like   exploring slot canyons   or trekking through soggy rainforests, a good pair of quick-drying hiking shoes is essential. North Carolina-based Astral is known for making bomber life jackets. And it’s bringing this same water-centric focus to shoes.

Whether you’re a paddler who also plans to hike or a hiker who happens to be near water, the  TR1 shoes will keep your feet happy.

We like how light they feel on our feet and how easily they shed water. With holes at the front and back, they easily drain water and the mesh dries quickly. Plus, they help your feet breathe and stay cool even on dry trails.

The sticky rubber soles provided plenty of traction even when rock-hopping along the river’s edge. And we like that the wider toebox design of the  TR1  gave our feet room to spread out.

The Polygiene-treated insole makes stinky shoes a thing of the past. This is an all-around great shoe for moderate hiking, tropical adventures, and all manner of watersports. If you’re taking a trip to Hawaii, for instance, these could be the best hiking shoes for the job.

Salomon X Ultra 4 Low Aero

• Weight 1 lb., 6.4 oz.
• Material Nylon mesh
• Best use Summer hiking and technical trails
• Top attribute Breathable and light with plenty of grip

• Highly breathable
• Good traction
• Lightweight
• Not ideal for technical scrambling on rock and steep terrain

The  Salomon X Ultra 4 Low is breathable, grippy, and comfortable. If you’re looking for a warm-weather hiking shoe, this is it. The polyester mesh panels help keep feet cool, and at about 1.5 pounds for the pair, they won’t weigh you down.

With the mudguards and extended toecap, we never had any problems with rocks or sticks jabbing our feet. And the lugs proved plenty burly even for technical trails.

The sole of the  X Ultra 4  is surprisingly flexible, which our testers enjoyed. But if you’re looking for something stiff, you may want to choose a different shoe.

Another feature you’ll either love or hate is the Quicklace system. Pull the lace, and it locks into the desired tightness. We’ve found it works well and doesn’t need retightening throughout the day. However, it can limit how specific you get on tightening your shoe.

All in all, these shoes offer traction and comfort while keeping feet cool. With this Salomon offering, you get a do-it-all shoe for $140. The  women’s version  seems to run a bit large, so we recommend going down a half-size.

Designed with relative simplicity with technical features where you need them, we think the X Ultra 4 is one of the best hiking shoes on the market today.

La Sportiva TX4 EVO

• Weight 1 lb., 12 oz.
• Material Nubuck leather
• Best use Technical approaches or rocky scrambles
• Top attribute Environmentally responsible construction and materials

• Extremely sticky rubber
• Balance between comfort and support
• Durable and abrasion-resistant upper material

No one is saying you can’t go on a backpacking trip with the La Sportiva TX4 EVO ($169). We just think you’ll find them better adapted to rocky terrain that forces you to scramble around to get where you’re going. That’s where aspects like the Eco-friendly Nubuck upper and the insanely sticky Megagrip outsole will outperform the competition.

In the past, we have reviewed the standard TX4s and have loved their balance between stiffness and flexibility. With the EVO model, attention has been paid to using environmentally responsible construction and materials to create a shoe that performs just as well but adds in the feature of being better for the planet. 

In testing, we enjoyed the overall durability of the TX4 EVOs as we traversed up and over scree and other rocky outcrops. Our tester lives in Connecticut and a majority of the terrain is composed of trap rock that’s known for being sharp and unforgiving. The TX4 EVOs took a serious beating on the way to a trailhead as well as in a situation where they had to climb down from one level of the trail to the next, relying on small footholds. The TX4 EVOs were fantastic in keeping our tester from slipping on the way down. Vibram’s Megagrip outsole is second to none in adventures like this.

Approach shoes, like climbing shoes, can be more restrictive due to their lace-to-toe design. But we found that this kept our feet from moving around in the shoe. This proves to be especially beneficial when you’re scrambling around and trying to keep your feet from getting jammed up between the rocks. Additionally, after a few good approaches, the TX4 EVOs broke in well enough and are comfortable enough to wear out and about and on casual hikes.

HOKA Speedgoat 5

• Weight 1 lb., 4.6 oz.
• Material Recycled engineered mesh
• Best use Technical trails and long thru-hikes
• Top attribute Maximum cushion and lightweight durability

• Fantastic traction
• Lighter than previous models
• Superior cushion
• Gusseted tongue is a little short
• Not as stable due to high stack height

With superior traction, durability, and cushion, the Hoka Speedgoat has been a legacy shoe in the trail running and now long-distance hiking community for years. Its newest update, the  Speedgoat 5 ($155), doesn’t disappoint and carries on Hoka’s stellar reputation.

While the Speedgoat definitely lets you push the pace, these things truly shine in their durability and unprecedented comfort over the long haul. Though they used to only be worn by trail running aficionados, their reputation has recently seeped into the long-distance hiking community.

Senior Editor Chris Carter walked over 5,000 miles in the Speedgoats in 2021 on his thru-hikes of the AT and CDT and won’t hike in anything else now. He squeezed out about 700 miles a pair and experienced little durability issues.

The soles are fitted with Vibram Megagrip and 5mm lugs, somehow providing even more traction than previous iterations. They also shaved off half an ounce. This doesn’t seem like much, but every gram literally counts at the end of a grueling day on the trail.

The new model also features a bolstered heel collar, more comfortable features, and what feels like a more responsive midsole with what Hoka calls a “late-stage meta-rocker.” An initial gripe of ours is the new gusseted tongue. It’s kind of short and super thin. We liked the previous one better.

We appreciate the protective toe rand that wraps around the front of the shoe. This works well for those who tend to drag their feet as they get tired near the end of a long day. Despite the lighter weight, Hoka still managed to keep the cushion balanced and comfy, and seemed to even improve it a little.

For months-long epics across the country, or weekend backpacking trips to your favorite alpine lakes, Hoka’s Speedgoat 5 will get you there in about as much comfort as you could ask for. Check out our full review.

Adidas Terrex Free Hiker GORE-TEX 2.0 Low

• Material Abrasion Resistant Upper
• Top Attributes Abrasion Resistant Upper, Cushioning, Continental Outsoles

• Lots of Cushion
• Springy Heels
• Advanced Stability
• They Look Like Grampa’s Lawn Mowing Shoes

The new Adidas Terrex Free Hiker GORE-TEX 2.0 Low ($180) is one of the most comfortable pairs of shoes we have ever worn. In fact, there might not be another shoe rated for hiking and trail running that has anywhere near as much spring in its step as these shoes do. When combined with the Continental outsole’s advanced traction on both wet and dry surfaces and overall stability, you’re really in for a treat on the long haul.

Adidas designed the Terrex Free Hiker GORE-TEX 2.0 Low to be a good middle ground between a hiking boot and a trail runner. Although we found it a little bit heavier than the standard trail running shoe, considering the double duty these beauties are pulling off, 2 pounds is acceptable.

The abrasion-resistant upper and the GORE-TEX lining allowed us to run through trails, fields, muddy ruts, meadows, and paved surfaces without worrying about the shoes getting torn up or soaked on the inside.

In terms of overall fitment, the Terrex Free Hiker GORE-TEX 2.0 Low runs roughly half of a size bigger. This was quite a surprise for a shoe with so much cushion. That said, the pair we tested were a size 9 and we experienced slight slipping in the heel due to the factory oversizing. We compensated for this by wearing a heavier sock. Either way, it’s worth noting if you’re going right from the store to the trail.

The one gripe we had with the Terrex Free Hiker GORE-TEX 2.0 Low was the choice of colors. The light green color wasn’t much of an issue, but the white foam midsoles and heel turned tan and spotty after a few good runs through a puddle. 

Overall, If you’re buying these shoes to look cool with your friends, take a hard pass. But if you’re buying them for extended comfort and stability on all types of terrain then the Terrex Free Hiker GORE-TEX 2.0 Low are the right shoes for you.

Brooks Cascadia 17

• Weight 1 lb., 6 oz.
• Material Air mesh
• Best use Technical, slippery trails
• Top attribute Durable tacky outsole

• Articulated Rock Shield provides great protection but is still flexible
• A smidge heavier than previous iterations
• A bit stiff out of the box

There’s a reason Brooks is on its 17th iteration of the  Cascadia ($140): It’s a simple staple in the running and hiking community, and it continues to offer reliable durability for a whole slew of different activities.

Another classic trail runner that has eked its way into the hiking world, the Cascadia is being seen on more and more hiker’s feet, from weekend warriors to thru-hikers going the distance. The latest update keeps everything we loved from prior models, and offers improvements that focus on the comfort, protection, and sustainability of the shoe.

The Cascadia offers adequate cushion, with a 20mm heel that tapers down to 12mm in the forefoot. Brook’s Ballistic Rock Shield provides additional protection, which is sandwiched between two layers of that luxe DNA LOFT v2 foam we’ve grown to love from the Cascadia 16. This gives the runner noticeable defense against pokey protrusions on trail, without limiting flexibility.

The new PrintDyed air mesh upper is created more sustainably than previous iterations (saving 66% of the energy, and 75% of the water required for traditional dying processes), and affords a bit better ventilation than earlier models — though we haven’t had these shoes for long enough to fully test their upper’s durability compared to the 15 or 16. After a good deal of torture, though, it is showing little to no signs of wear.

New to the 17 is Brooks’ Trail Adapt System — a power combo of their DNA LOFT v2 cushion, rock plate, and strategically placed outsole pods that respond to uneven ground. Paired with their new sustainably made TrailTack Green outsole, these shoes performed quite well over loose, sludgy terrain. We’ve yet to find a proprietary outsole that could match something like Vibram or Vibram Megagrip’s tacky nature, but this does a surprisingly good job in wet, slippery conditions.

We have similar grumbles with the 17 as we had with prior models — namely its stiff nature out of the box, and heavier reading on the scale (even heavier than the 16). The shoe quickly becomes more flexible with use, but those first few hikes feel a bit rigid.

These qualms aside, the Cascadia is a top-shelf shoe that’s been at the forefront of hiking and running comfort for years. The 17 carries on its tradition as a standard bearer for long day hikes over rough trails, or extended backcountry backpacking trips alike.

Adidas Terrex Swift R3 GTX

• Weight 1 lb., 11.9 oz.
• Material Warp-knit textile
• Best use High mileage on marginal trails
• Top attribute Long-term value

• Highly capable on technical and slick terrain
• Supportive enough for heavy backpack loads

The sturdy Continental rubber outsole proves that this shoe from the evolving Terrex line is meant for the trail. Never mistaken for a running shoe, the Swift R3 GTX   excels in nasty conditions, including moving across sidehill steeps and slick rock.

Feet are protected like few other models under test with a toecap crafted for apocalyptic rock falls and narrow canyons. Tensioned speed lacing allows fast on-trail adjustment, even as the padded collar minimizes Achilles trauma. A GORE-TEX lining keeps moisture out, but is still breathable.

Not for bouncing along tourist paths, this hiker craves bigger challenges and carries the load in multiday backpacking scenarios. Tight mesh uppers keep abrasion resistance high but can’t undo the weight of the beefy outsoles at around 28 ounces per pair.

We’d recommend trying these on before use, but if they fit well, the  Swift R3 GTX  is one of the better hiking shoes we tried for technical terrain.

Oboz Sawtooth X Low

• Weight 1 lb., 15.6 oz.
• Material Oiled nubuck leather and CORDURA fabric mesh
• Best use Mid-to-high-mileage backpacking journeys with loads up to 50 lbs.
• Top attribute Versatility

• Minimal break-in period
• Heavier than others
• Take forever to dry out if they get wet

Are you looking for a hiking shoe that offers more of a traditional hiking boot design? This below-the-ankle pick could be just what you need. The   Sawtooth X Low slices through harsh terrain better than most mid-height hiking boots, and offers stellar durability with bomb-proof oiled nubuck leather and CORDURA fabric mesh.

The new Adaptive Cushioning Technology used in these shoes is an interesting touch. Dual-density rubberized EVA is designed to easily adapt to changing terrain. While we can’t say we fully felt the effects of this, this has a cushioned ride to it and a soft heel strike zone with solid shock absorption.

This shoe comes out of the box ready to hike. It promotes more foot freedom with a wider toebox and an “O fit” insole that combats shifting and boosts comfort even on daunting descents.

The lug pattern of the  Sawtooth X  gives plenty of grip, and the toe overlays prevent abrasion. Our testers are happy to report that even after significant abuse, these show little signs of wear. Plus, you can feel good knowing that Oboz plants a tree for every pair of shoes sold.

HOKA Anacapa 2 Low GTX

• Weight 1 lb., 14.7 oz.
• Material Recycled mesh
• Best use Technical hiking over sludgy, slippery terrain
• Top attribute Sustainable build with a tacky outsole

• Sustainably made
• Sticky Vibram Megagrip outsole with self-cleaning lug pattern
• Plenty of cushion
• Runs a bit large
• Extended heel cushion isn't everyone's cup of tea
• Pretty heavy

Hoka has always been about innovation — and can consequently be quite polarizing. From the inception of their brand, the folks at Hoka have churned out futuristic designs with bleeding-edge tech, in wild color schemes that pop off the shelf.

True to their experimental nature, the newly minted Anacapa 2 Low GTX brings a unique flair to the traditional hiking shoe last, seemingly forcing people to either end of the spectrum. You either love ’em, or you hate ’em, but one thing’s for sure — there are few shoes like them.

Senior Editor Chris Carter recently got to spend several days testing the low and mid versions of the new Anacapa 2 in Zion National Park with Hoka developers, putting the shoes through the wringer and truly picking Hoka’s brain on its interesting design.

While it’s not his steed of choice for long hikes, he’s convinced these are some of the more well-designed, and sustainably constructed shoes for those who don’t require an aggressive ride while clocking miles in the backcountry. The supremely tacky outsole and thoughtfully placed Meta-Rocker make these shoo-ins for any serious hiker’s shortlist.

To that last point, we’ve always been fans of Hoka’s Meta-Rocker technology — a curved silhouette with denser foam placed at strategic points in the midsole, giving each stride a degree of smooth propulsion. The Anacapa features a late-stage Meta-Rocker, which puts the rocker point closer to the toe for added stability with slower paces.

Though our editor prefers an early-stage rocker for swifter movement on the trail, this is perfect for those who want stable confidence over variable terrain, and aren’t too concerned about chasing FKTs. For most hikers, this is the design of choice.

Vibram Megagrip — hands down our favorite outsole — decorates the bottom of the shoe. Its performance on slippery, rocky terrain, or muddy, uneven trails is next to none. Qualms we’ve had with other Hoka outsoles were addressed with this shoe. Vibram can be rendered useless if mud packs in tight around the lugs, making the sole a single, sleek sheet that easily slips around.

The Anacapa 2 features a “self-cleaning” lug pattern that channels mud away from the lugs as you step, forcing it to slide off the sole, and allowing the deep sticky tread to work its magic. This, paired with a GORE-TEX Invisible Fit liner, makes these shoes power players in wet, sloppy conditions.

The protruding SwallowTail heel is perhaps the first feature you notice on the Anacapa 2 — and isn’t for everyone. It undeniably affords better traction and stability while bombing down uneven hills, but can sometimes snag on roots and rocks (or even the other shoe) as you clunk down trail. The jury’s still out on whether we dig this design, but it does provide solid surface area on the steeps.

We do find these shoes to be sized a bit large, so make an effort to try them on in-store before snagging a pair. These are also on the heavier (and pricier) end of the spectrum, but the comfort and cushion they afford atone for these sins. Nearly every element of the shoe is designed with recycled components, making this a much more sustainable shoe than the previous iteration, without sacrificing longevity.

For all-day comfort and stability on quick weekend outings, or extended journeys through all sorts of climates, the Anacapa 2 GTX would be a stellar companion for any adventure you could drum up.

Hiking Shoe Comparison Table

How We Tested Hiking Shoes

In our search for the best hiking shoes, we spent months on the trail. From the dry Arizona desert to the hot and humid Appalachian Trail, and the Rocky Mountains — we’ve logged a lot of miles.

The recommendations on this list are the result of intensive testing and thorough observation. “Hiking” is a broad term, and not all people who hike have the same needs. While compiling our roundup, we considered the intended use of each individual model. We paid careful attention to comfort, stability, outsole traction and grip, and long-term durability.

Staff Writer Mallory Paige led the charge with this guide back in May 2019, accruing our initial selection of 10 shoes. A dedicated hiker and backpacker, Mallory is a seasoned pro in the world of hiking shoes.

Senior Editor Chris Carter took over the guide in August 2022, and has been rummaging around his shoe rack and combing the interwebs ever since to bring you the most current, deserving selection possible. Chris has thru-hiked the Triple Crown of long trails in the United States: the Pacific Crest Trail, the Continental Divide Trail, and the Appalachian Trail. He’s plodded back and forth across the country in countless different models of shoes and knows the importance of dialing in on the perfect fit for various adventures and terrain.

Most recently hiker and GearJunkie contributor Nick LeFort has been taking these shoes for a spin. Nick is a former boot fitter who knows his way around a Brannock device and can make solid recommendations for any foot shape.

Our hiking shoe testing process is ongoing. As we continue to wear and assess new models, we’ll update our recommendations for the best hiking shoes on a regular basis.

If you need to carry super heavy loads or are just looking for some more ankle support, be sure to check out our guide to the best hiking boots , and have a look at the best women’s hiking shoes for a women-specific perspective.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Hiking Shoes

From day hiking to thru-hiking, the right pair of hiking shoes can become the most beloved and essential piece of gear in your kit. As the primary contact between you and the trail, your shoes make your adventures possible, and it’s imperative that they’re reliable.

While some still prefer the ankle support and robust structure of hiking boots , more and more hikers and backpackers are opting for the weight savings and nimble performance of hiking shoes. For any hiking endeavor, good-quality shoes are more than capable of handling a wide variety of terrain.

Because there are so many styles and variables, selecting the best hiking shoes for your unique needs can be difficult. In this guide, we include everything you need to know to select a pair of shoes that will treat your feet well and instill confidence in your stride.

Hiking Shoes vs. Boots

One of the main differences between hiking shoes and boots is the height. Whereas shoes have a below-the-ankle height, hiking boots offer full ankle support and high-top construction. What you give up in ankle support, you make up for in weight savings and out-of-the-box comfort.

Hiking shoes are great for day hikes, smooth trails, and anytime you want to go fast and light. For bigger backpacking trips with a heavier backpacking pack , you may want to consider a full hiking boot. That said, we know thru-hikers who swear by lightweight hiking shoes and day-trippers who won’t head out without their boots. It’s all about preference.

And while there isn’t a single best hiking shoe for everyone out there, we’ve broken down this list into categories to help find the best hiking shoe for you.

In recent years, hiking shoe technology has moved toward low-profile and lightweight designs. Modern fabrics and soles manage to be thinner and lighter without sacrificing performance on the trail. For long hikes and thru-hikes, the benefits of a light pair of shoes only grow as the miles wear on.

While many burly hiking boots weigh over 4 pounds per pair, hiking shoes tend to weigh around 2 pounds or less. If you like to go fast on the trail, or if you plan to do some trail running in your hiking shoes, light is undoubtedly better.

Yes, shaving ounces sometimes does reduce long-term durability. However, lots of pairs of shoes on this list are more than capable of holding up just as long as a hefty pair of boots.

With modern materials and advancements in design, you don’t need to give up durability to cut weight and gain comfort. The shoes on this list range from speedy lightweight models, like Hoka’s Speedgoat 5s at 1 pound, 4.6 ounces, to beefy but stalwart shoes like the Oboz Sawtooth X Low , tipping the scales at 1 pound, 15.6 ounces.

Comfort and Fit

Comfort is the most important factor for any pair of active footwear. The shape of the human foot varies wildly, and the shoe that feels comfortable to someone else might not be comfortable for you. Feet can be wide or narrow, arches can be high or flat, and heels can be bulbous or low volume.

When selecting a pair of hiking shoes, there is really no substitute for trying them on and paying attention to how they feel in action. Most people will want to seek out a fit that minimizes negative space but does not actively constrict or compress their feet or toes.

If your foot moves in the shoe, you’ll likely be dealing with blisters before long. In general, hiking shoes tend to be more comfortable than  hiking boots . It’s totally possible to find a pair that you can happily wear all day long.

There are pros and cons to hiking in a pair of shoes that are billed as “waterproof.” When hiking on muddy and wet terrain, waterproof hiking shoes help keep your feet dry and comfortable. When your feet are wet, you’ll be more likely to develop blisters and other foot issues.

However, waterproof hiking shoes also tend to be warmer and less breathable. Once wet, waterproof shoes usually take longer to fully dry.

Most waterproof hiking shoes include a membrane in their liner (GORE-TEX is the most common) that keeps water from reaching the inside of the shoe. In addition, many hiking shoes are treated with a durable water-repellent coating, which can be reapplied after it wears off.

While it is good to prioritize dry feet, it is also important to remember that by sealing moisture out, you’re also sealing it in. Shoes with a waterproof liner are prone to becoming hot and sweaty in warm or humid conditions. All hiking shoes will soak through if they get very wet or become fully submerged, even if they’re labeled as waterproof.

Durability and Materials

The two primary areas of a hiking shoe that will suffer the most from wear are the upper and the outsole. On the top of the shoe, the upper is the material that determines how waterproof, durable, and breathable the shoe is overall.

Most hiking shoes include an upper made from nylon, mesh, leather, or a combination. Nylon is lightweight and breathable, but it may not hold up well to repeated abrasion.

Mesh tends to be the least hardy, but it is super breathable and makes a comfortable choice for the tongue of a shoe. Leather is significantly less breathable, and it is often found on heavier-duty hiking shoes because it holds up to wear.

Although heavier and burlier hiking shoes often have the advantage of durability, many modern lightweight options are impressively long-lasting, too. Softer rubber outsoles will wear through faster than dense, firm outsoles.

Hiking Shoes Lifespan

It’s important that you don’t wear your hiking shoes (or boots) for longer than you should. Just because your toes aren’t hanging out of holes on the side, doesn’t mean the shoe has more life in it. Each manufacturer recommends different mileage for each shoe, but as a general rule, you want to replace your hiking shoes after 300-800 miles.

Many trail running shoes-turned-hiking shoes (such as Altra’s Lone Peak and Brooks’ Cascadia) are not designed to handle the same level of abuse as dedicated hiking shoes. It’s a good idea to retire shoes like these after between 300 and 500 miles.

Stalwart hiking shoes (like Merrell’s Moab or Salomon’s X Ultra 4 Low Aero ), crafted for endless days on trail wearing a heavy pack will last you between 500 and 800 miles before you should lay them to rest.

It’s important to keep a rough estimate of the number of miles on your hiking shoes to avoid injury on trail. We like to keep a running document on our computer with a list of what trips we’ve done on each shoe, and how many miles were added each time. This may not be necessary for you personally — but we clock a heck of a lot of miles each year and have several different shoes in rotation.

Stability and Support

A shoe’s support comes from the construction of its components, including the sole and the midsole. These underfoot layers can be thick and sturdy, or thin and floppy.

For hiking, most people prefer a shoe that is stiff and stable through the middle part of the foot, but slightly more flexible near the toe. This allows your foot to feel supported without sacrificing the ability to flex your toes.

Most hiking shoes have a low-cut ankle collar. If you are seeking lots of ankle support, hiking boots are probably a better choice.

Lacing Systems

The way a shoe laces up can make or break your big-mile adventure. Not being able to find a comfortably snug fit or fighting with constant loosening are both frustrating trail experiences.

Some shoes have a single-pull system. And while it looks delicate and breakable, we’ve had no issues with long-term durability. Many testers find this system allows for a dialed fit, and we appreciate the ability to make quick adjustments.

That said, it’s harder to create a more custom tightness with quick laces. They tend to provide the same tension across the entire foot. If you prefer to create pockets of snugness across your foot, go with a traditional lacing system.

The bottom of a good hiking shoe will feature a firm and grippy outsole. Vibram is the most common manufacturer of outsoles, although some footwear companies make their own.

A sturdy outsole is a major feature that sets a hiking shoe apart from a sneaker or tennis shoe. On a wide range of surfaces from loose scree to slick rock, a good hiking shoe will maintain reliable traction.

Many hiking shoe soles are designed to specialize in certain types of terrain. If you’ll be regularly hiking through unstable surfaces like deep mud, you’ll want a sole with firm, large rubber lugs underfoot.

If you plan to do a lot of scrambling and smearing your feet on slabs of rock, a soft and sticky rubber sole with a flat toe edge is the way to go. Many entry-level hiking shoes will include a versatile sole that will perform fairly well on any hiking surface.

Some manufacturers have specific, niche approach shoes for technical rock scrambling on long approaches and walk-offs of big rock climbs. These shoes, like the La Sportiva TX4 in this guide, have super tacky rubber, and midsoles designed for smearing and adhering to rocks.

Breathability

A shoe’s breathability comes from the materials that make up its construction. Areas of open synthetic mesh and woven nylon will greatly increase breathability.

Meanwhile, large patches of leather and waterproof membranes like GORE-TEX will decrease breathability, but add significant durability. A breathable shoe will feel cooler and less sweaty over the course of a rigorous hiking day, but usually won’t last as long.

However, breathable shoes are more likely to soak through to your socks when hiking in the rain or trudging through puddles. Shoes billed as “waterproof” may feel hot and sweaty at times, but they also help keep mud and moisture from reaching your socks and feet.

The cost of hiking shoes varies, and it is possible to buy a quality pair without breaking the bank. There are many excellent and long-lasting pairs with reasonable price tags. However, you may find that some lower-priced shoes come with fewer features, such as a waterproof liner or a Vibram sole.

The general price range of modern shoes is about $75-200, although there are some exceptions. After lots and lots of testing, we have determined that the cost of a pair of hiking shoes is not necessarily a direct indicator of performance.

The best hiking shoes are the ones that fit your feet comfortably and allow you to enjoy your time on the trail. When combing through the options, your first priorities should be fit and comfort.

Durability, support, and traction are important, too, but ultimately none of that matters if the shoes hurt your feet.

Also, no single pair of hiking shoes will be the very best for every application. The materials, design, and tread pattern will add up to a set of strengths and weaknesses in every shoe.

The current momentum in hiking footwear has shifted away from bulky ankle-high boots in favor of nimble, lower-cut hiking shoes. Hiking boots are heavier, and weight carried on your feet can feel very uncomfortable at the end of a full day. Switching out a 4-pound pair of boots for a 2-pound pair of hiking shoes can make a huge difference in your performance.

Also, many hiking boots have very stiff soles that keep the foot from flexing properly. Many boots are constructed with nonbreathable materials, meaning that your feet are more likely to get sweaty and form blisters. That said, hiking boots can be a great option for those who prefer lots of ankle stability or underfoot stiffness.

Hiking shoes are generally similar in shape to a pair of trainers or tennis shoes. The difference is that hiking shoes are built with durable materials and feature an outsole that is made to grip dirt, rocks, and mud. Compared to boots, hiking shoes feel light, nimble, and somewhat less supportive.

That depends. Keep in mind that no pair of hiking shoes is entirely water-resistant. Although some are marketed this way, full submersion in a puddle for more than a few seconds will soak through just about any pair of hiking shoes. Also, because they are low cut around the ankle, water is prone to getting in at the top of the shoe anyway.

Still, waterproof shoes do include membranes, like GORE-TEX, that can keep a significant amount of moisture out. When walking through dewy grass or muddy trails, waterproof shoes will keep your socks and feet drier than non-waterproof shoes.

Shoes with waterproof membranes are less breathable. If you will be hiking in hot and dry areas, you’ll probably feel more comfortable in non-waterproof shoes.

For the most part, sneakers are designed to perform on artificial surfaces such as asphalt or cement. Many sneakers have flimsy soles and lack the appropriate level of support that is needed for hiking on uneven terrain. Additionally, sneakers are less likely to hold up to the abrasion and wear that is common while hiking on rough trails.

If you plan to mostly walk on flat trails in urban parks or backyards, you’ll probably be just fine with sneakers. However, for hikes of any significant length — and especially backpacking — hiking shoes are a much better choice.

Barefoot shoes are designed to allow your foot to flex naturally with every step. Thanks to their thin and flexible materials, barefoot shoes let you feel the texture of the trail in the soles of your feet.

With each step, the tissues of your feet directly respond to the trail, conforming and contracting as needed. As the name suggests, the experience is similar to walking barefoot.

While  barefoot shoes  are known for helping hikers and runners develop strong feet, they do take some getting used to. If you have been hiking in boots or hiking shoes, the transition to barefoot shoes will need to be gradual. If you do too much barefoot shoe hiking too soon, you may experience discomfort or quickly develop an injury.

Barefoot shoes lack insulation. They also will not protect your feet from sharp objects underfoot and may be quick to wear out. While some experienced hikers have made the transition to barefoot shoes, we generally do not recommend them to beginners.

The Best Hiking Boots of 2024

If you’re looking for the best hiking boots, look no further. We’ve tested dozens of hiking boots over hundreds of miles to help you stay happy and comfortable on the trail.

The Best Hiking Boots for Women in 2024

We tested the best women’s hiking boots of 2024 with options for every budget. Top picks include SCARPA, Merrell, and more!

Based in beautiful Chattanooga, Tennessee, Chris Carter is a Senior Editor for GearJunkie, while squeezing in side gigs as an adventure filmmaker and content creator in the outdoor industry. Drawing from his childhood in Africa, experience as a rock climbing and backpacking guide, ultra-marathon running, and years of extensive thru-hiking, he’s passionate about journalism that gets people into the wild. He has thru-hiked the Triple Crown of long trails in America: the Pacific Crest Trail (2018), the Continental Divide Trail (2021), and the Appalachian Trail (2021), and has explored, rock-climbed, and backpacked all over the world. He hopes to spread his love of adventure and travel through his writing, art, and videography.

Austin Beck-Doss is a Staff Writer at GearJunkie. Austin has been writing about climbing, hiking, and snowsports for 6+ years. Prior to that, Austin worked as a rock climbing and wilderness guide.

Nick LeFort is a contributing writer of GearJunkie and makes guest appearances in a handful of other outdoor and craft beer publications. He is also the author of his own blog, The Tribe of Flannel, and part-owner of Ragged Mountain Knife Works.

LeFort has been writing for over 30 years but spent 10 years writing professionally about knives and tools, off-roading, overlanding, and outdoor living. Prior to GearJunkie, LeFort was the Director of Knife and Tool Testing for Gear Institute.

Based in Connecticut, LeFort is an avid wanderer and loves spending as much time as possible in the outdoors with his two daughters. That includes doing his best to find all the best muddy ruts throughout New England to see if he can ever get his 4th Gen 4Runner stuck. So far, so good.

In 2017, he helped open a brewery in Connecticut and is an avid supporter of local breweries and helping them market themselves successfully in a real bear of a market.

Follow Us On

Subscribe Now

Get adventure news and gear reviews in your inbox!

Join Our GearJunkie Newsletter

Gear Top Stories Deals

• svg]:stroke-accent-900"> 735K
• svg]:stroke-accent-900"> 133K
• svg]:stroke-accent-900"> 54.1K

The Best Hiking Shoes, Tested and Reviewed

By Laura Lancaster

Updated on Jun 21, 2024 4:19 PM EDT

15 minute read

Best Overall

Altra Lone Peak 7

Best hybrid.

Danner Trail 2650 Campo GTX

Most comfortable.

Hoka Speedgoat 5

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn More ›

In recent years, the line between hiking shoe and trail running shoe has blurred, with more and more day hikers, and even backpackers, opting for the latter. Today, there are options ranging from durable shoes with similar ground protection of the best hiking boots to lightweight shoes that border on minimalist trail runners. To find the best hiking shoes on the market, I talked to a variety of individuals, from staff here at Outdoor Life to long-time gear testers to members of the Colorado Mountain Club.

Best Trail Runner: Altra Lone Peak 8 ( Men’s ) ( Women’s ) ↓ Jump to Review

Best Traditional: Oboz Katabatic Low Waterproof ( Men’s ) ( Women’s ) ↓ Jump to Review

Best Hybrid: Danner Trail 2650 Campo GTX ( Men’s ) ( Women’s ) ↓ Jump to Review

Most Comfortable: Hoka Speedgoat 5 ( Men’s ) ( Women’s ) ↓ Jump to Review

Best for Beginners: Merrell Moab 3 ( Men’s ) ( Women’s ) ↓ Jump to Review

Best Barefoot: Vivobarefoot Primus Trail FG ( Men’s ) ( Women’s ) ↓ Jump to Review

Best Sandal: Teva Hurricane XLT2 ( Men’s ) ( Women’s ) ↓ Jump to Review

Best Water Shoe: KEEN Drift Creek H2 ( Men’s ) ( Women’s ) ↓ Jump to Review

Best for Camp: Merrell Hydro Moc ( Men’s ) ( Women’s ) ↓ Jump to Review

How We Chose the Best Hiking Shoes

Since body types, foot structures, and overall preferences differ so much, it can be difficult to ascertain what the best hiking shoe is in any one category, especially if you prefer a different style altogether. Years ago, I tested the Brooks Cascadia (my top pick for trail running shoes and a long-time thru-hiker favorite) and found that its 26mm/18mm stack made for uncertain footing after years of running in a zero-drop minimalist shoe. But my experience in no way counteracts the positive experiences of others — I just prefer a different style of shoe. 

For that reason, I considered the opinions of many different hikers and backpackers, including the OL gear team and contributors, thru-hikers (including gear tester and thru-hiker Pam Himstedt), and members of the Colorado Mountain Club — in addition to plugging my own favorite hiking shoe, the Vivobarefoot Primus FG). These individuals span a wide range of preferences and activities, and their insights provide solid choices, backed by years of on-trail experience for each category. I have also included top picks from OL’s tests of the best lightweight hiking shoes , best hiking shoes for beginners , best barefoot shoes , best hiking sandals , best camp shoes , and best water shoes for hiking .

Best Hiking Shoes: Reviews & Recommendations

Best trail runner: altra lone peak 8, key features.

• Weight: Men’s: 21.4 ounces, Women’s: 18.3 ounces
• Stack height: 25mm
• Heel-to-toe drop: none 
• Lug height: 6mm
• MaxTrax outsole
• Available in regular
• Wide toe box increases stability
• Substantial lugs for improved traction 
• Rock plate can inhibit ground feel 
• Heel doesn’t lock in as securely

The Altra Lone Peak 8s combine the best features of responsive trail running shoes with the serious bona fides of a true hiking shoe. This shoe is a great choice for everything from long distances to day hikes to trail runs. It starts with a zero-drop in the stack height (meaning there’s no height difference between the front of the shoe and the back of the shoe), which promotes striking on the midfoot. Yet, they still provide enough cushion for committed heel strikers. The Lone Peaks also have an unusually wide toe box that allows your toes to splay as you hike, improving ground feel and promoting stability. 

To protect the foot from sharp rocks and other trail hazards, the midsole is equipped with comfortable cushioning and a solid rock plate. One OL staff member was impressed by the substantial lugs on the Lone Peak 6, which performed well on a steep pass covered with wet leaves, “I felt in control even in the moments I slowed down out of caution,” they said. Read the OL Gear Team’s full review: Altra Lone Peak 6 Review: We Put the Best Hiking Shoe to the Test.

Best Traditional: Oboz Katabatic Waterproof Low

• Men’s and women’s specific models
• Weight Per Shoe: 12.7 ounces (men’s), 9.8 ounces (women’s)
• Available Sizes: 8-14 (men’s) and 5-12 (women’s)
• Four color options 
• Non-waterproof and waterproof options ($20 more)
• Mid-ankle option available
• Breathable mesh
• No wide options
• Not a Vibram outsole

OL contributor Justin La Vigne picked the Oboz Katabatic as his top lightweight option, despite having never used it prior to running a test of the best lightweight hiking shoes. Here’s what he had to say: To be honest, this was my first time trying Oboz. I hear so many people rave about the brand, the quality, and the comfort, but I finally tried out the Katabatic Lows to see about the hype. What did I discover? Out-of-the-box comfort and no rub spots after over 100 miles. The unique construction of abrasion-resistant, breathable mesh with plastic rubber molds the shoe around the foot for better protection and support. “They are the only company that adds a molded hard plastic insole to their shoes for real arch support that will not quickly squish down under pack weight or a foot that habitually overpronates. It’s like getting aftermarket insoles for free in every pair,” Kim Kelley, a member of REI’s virtual outfitting team, says.  

While they don’t utilize a Vibram outsole, Oboz does have their own Trail Tread, which has an aggressive multidirectional lug pattern comparable to Vibram outsoles. I always kept my grip, even on wet, rocky, and rooted trails. Its relatively low heel-to-toe drop of 8mm gives a nice sense of stability to this shoe as well. 

Green bonus: They are designed in Bozeman, Montana, and Oboz will plant a tree for every pair of shoes sold.

Best Hybrid: Danner Trail 2650 Campo GTX

• Weight: Men’s: 24 ounces, Women’s: 19 ounces
• Stack height: 32mm
• Heel-to-toe drop: 8mm 
• Lug height: 4mm
• Vibram 460 outsole
• Gore-Tex option
• Available in regular and wide
• Protects the foot like a traditional hiking shoe
• Fast break-in period
• Heavier than a typical trail runner
• Substantial heel-to-drop promotes heel striking

It can be tough to transition from the durability and secure fit of a heavier hiking boot or hiking shoe to lightweight trail runners, which aren’t always built for the heavy loads some backpackers carry. In preparation for an upcoming thru-hike, one tester took the Danner Trail Campo 2650 GTX on a series of day hikes that totaled fifty miles around Land Between the Lakes in Kentucky. She found that the integrated tongue of the shoe improved the overall fit, locking her heel into place and giving her the stability she was accustomed to from hiking shoes. Strategically placed leather panels on the upper also helped protect her toes and Achilles area, while the ventilation in the Gore-Tex kept her feet from overheating. But they were more akin to trail runners when it came to comfort, “I did not have to break them in at all—they felt great on the first hike,” she reported. 

Alex Murphy, in his look at the best men’s hiking shoes , also found the Campo’s a versatile choice. Here’s what he had to say: The first thing I noticed with the Danner Trail 2650 is they look cool. I have a pair of blue ones, and they look like you can wear them just about anywhere. Aside from looking the part, Danner also uses the Vibram sole for great grip. While the actual shoe is thin and breathable, I found it had extra reinforcement where you need it, like on the toe box, which is helpful on rocky trails. The GORE-TEX material also helped keep my feet dry from outside water while allowing for breathability and avoiding sweaty feet. I would recommend sizing down these men’s hiking shoes in some cases as I felt a little bit of wiggle room, especially around the heel.

Most Comfortable: HOKA Speedgoat 5

Olya Grunskaya

• Weight: Men’s: 20.6 ounces, Women’s: 17 ounces
• Stack height: 32mm
• Heel-to-toe drop: 4mm 
• Lug height: 5mm
• Vibram Megagrip outsole
• Comfortable 
• Improved stability from previous models
• Excellent traction in wet, slippery conditions
• Can feel heavy
• Narrow toe box doesn’t allow the foot to splay naturally

The substantial cushion on the Hoka Speedgoat 5 will catch your eye immediately. This feature makes this shoe the go-to for a wide range of people, from day hikers to trail runners to thru-hikers. But the stack height belies the mild heel-to-drop on this shoe, which promotes a mid-foot strike (as opposed to a heel strike), which lessens the impact on the rest of your body—especially if you’re carrying a heavy load down a steep trail. 

Compared to previous versions of the Speedgoat, the 5s have slightly less cushion but are substantially more stable. An OL staff member noted that, in combination with the Vibram outsole and 5mm lugs, these shoes were excellent on their state’s varying terrain. Whether backpacking or trail running, “from solid trail to steep skree fields…my foot felt secure and supported,” they said.

Best for Beginners: Merrell Moab 3

• Weight: 1 pound 10 ounces
• Drop: 11.5mm
• Merrell Air Cushion heel
• Vibram TC5+ outsole
• 100 percent recycled laces and webbing
• Available in a waterproof version
• Comfortable
• Good for wider feet

It’s no surprise that the Merrell Moab 3 was a favorite of Colorado Mountain Club members for low-priced hiking shoes, and it was also Associate Editor Ashley Thess’s pick for the best hiking shoe for beginners. For many people, including those with wide feet, it’s a comfortable hiking shoe from day one that doesn’t result in blisters. And the combination of suede leather and mesh will stand up to tough trail conditions. This is a hiking shoe that you can expect to own for several years without any issues.

Read Next: Best Hiking Shoes for Beginners

Like many hiking shoes, the Moab 3 is heavy, and has a substantial heel drop, especially if you’re used to wearing lightweight tennis shoes. Your ankles may feel more fatigued more quickly in this shoe. It’s also designed to accommodate heel strikers, which is common but something to keep in mind if you typically have a mid-foot strike. 

Best Barefoot: Vivobarefoot Primus Trail FG

Laura Lancaster

• Weight: Men’s: 18.4 ounces, Women’s: 15.7 ounces
• Stack height: 6.5mm
• Lug Height: 4mm
• Firm ground outsole
• Available in regular only (although they run wide) 
• Short stack height and zero heel drop make this a true barefoot shoe
• Durable lugs and reinforced upper
• The upper requires some break-in
• Does not provide as much ground feedback as others

Most minimalist trail runners are breezy, barely-there affairs, with only the thinnest membrane between your feet and the ground. And while that works well for low-key trail runs, the Vivobarefoot Primus FG can tackle more challenging backcountry conditions like slickrock, volcanic pumice, or the scorching desert floor at midday.

I wore these on a thru-hike of the Colorado Trail and was impressed by their durability. At the end of the trip, there were no holes in the upper and the seam at the feather edge was intact. While the lugs were worn to a nub at the forefoot, there were no significant signs of wear on the outsole itself. Despite being on the heavy side (although still substantially lighter than a standard trail runner), the Primus FG still performed like a minimalist shoe and promoted a mid-foot to forefoot strike that kept my foot low enough to the ground to negate any concerns of ankle roll. They also dried fast after stream crossings.

One word of caution is that this shoe should only be worn on the trail by people already accustomed to minimalist footwear, as an undeveloped arch is at risk of developing plantar fasciitis without the support of a standard trail runner or hiking shoe. 

Read Next: Best Minimalist Hiking Shoes and Trail Runners

Best Sandal: Teva Hurricane XLT2

• Weight: 1 pound, 2 ounces
• Hook-and-loop closure
• EVA footbed
• Nylon shank
• Rubber outsole
• Recycled polyester webbing
• Life Naturals anti-odor
• Out of the box comfort
• Easily adjustable
• TevaForever recycling program
• Take a while to dry

I’m on my second pair of Tevas and they’re my favorite hiking sandals. At 18 ounces they’re lightweight enough to backpack with as camp shoes while also providing the support and traction necessary to hike around once you’re ready to ditch your sweaty boots or trail runners. The nylon shank that supports your arch is flexible and great for anyone with low to medium arches. These have a roomy fit with plenty of toe splay and I love the lightweight feel when scrambling over rocks or trudging through deep sand. I backpack with these frequently in wet or sandy conditions, even 19 miles in a day.

The rubber outsole and deep lugs add protection and grip for stream crossings. However, they are typically still damp by the time I get to camp because they take a while to dry. The hook and loop closure make them easy to adjust, take off, and put back on quickly. You can also incorporate socks or neoprene booties if necessary. Once your Tevas have finally bit the dust, you can recycle them through the TevaForever program instead of sending them to a landfill.—Ashley Thess

Read Next: Best Hiking Sandals

Best Water Shoes: KEEN Drift Creek H2

• Weight: 1 pound per pair
• Available Sizes: Men’s 7-15; women’s 5-12
• Runs true to size
• Reasonably priced
• Great drainage
• Not enough protection for the most treacherous stream crossings

If you spend a lot of time in the water and want a shoe that can transition easily from a lazy paddle to a fast-moving day hike, then the KEEN Drift Creek H2 is the shoe for you. The relatively low stack height of this shoe means it had good stability on uneven surfaces and surprisingly good traction for a hiking sandal. But what stood out the most with the Keen Drift Creek H2 was its drainage. Not only did water clear out of the shoe almost as soon as I got to shore, but it was also easy to clear out any sand or pebbles by giving my foot a gentle shake in the water.

Read Next: The Best Water Shoes for Hiking

The downside of this design is that it means you have less protection overall from objects in the river itself (although the Drift Creek H2 does have robust toe protection, unlike most hiking sandals). Most of the time, this won’t be an issue, but if you plan to do extensive hiking in fast currents or murky water, you’d be better off going with either the Salomon Tech Amphib 4 or La Sportiva TX Canyon.

Best for Camp: Merrell Hydro Moc

• Available Sizes: Men’s 7-15, women’s 5-11
• Materials: Injected EVA foam
• Weight: 14.6 ounces
• Moderate arch support
• Can be used for river crossings 
• A bit dorky looking

This is the do-it-all camp shoe. First off, it’s comfortable and roomy. At the end of the day, when your feet have been banged up by a full day of backpacking, the smooth, cushioned sole of these shoes, coupled with its wider-than-usual interior will feel good to your feet. They are easy to slip on and off, a boon during that midnight bathroom break. The inclusion of a true back heel (unlike the Crocs Classic) makes the Merrell Hydro Mocs secure enough for all but the gnarliest river crossings. (Indeed, it was the winner of our best camp shoe award when we tested the best water shoes for hiking .)

They are even affordably priced, one of the few camp shoes we looked at to come in at well under $100. And you can feel good about their eco bonafides, as 10 percent of the shoe is made from Bloom , a foam derived from algae. The algae was harvested from waterways around the world where an excess in algae (which can occur as a result of both rising temperatures and agricultural runoff) has the potential to result in toxins entering waterways.

Read Next: Best Camp Shoes

Things to Consider Before Buying the Best Hiking Shoes

To learn more about how to choose between hiking boots, hiking shoes, and trail runners, I chatted with Kim Kelley, a member of REI’s virtual outfitting team. Here’s what I learned:  

Hiking Boots, Hiking Shoes, or Trail Runners? 

The choice between hiking boots, hiking shoes, and trail runners is a matter of personal preference. Some like the secure fit of a hiking boot, while others prefer the more athletic feel of a trail runner. Still, others are looking for something in-between. A hiking shoe can provide a nice mixture of the foot and ankle support of a hiking boot with the lightweight, athletic profile of a trail runner. At the end of the day, the choice is about what’s most comfortable for you. 

Ankle Support

It turns out that the upper of a hiking boot does not help prevent ankle rolling—it’s actually the firmness of the base that does this. If you’re thinking about switching to a hiking shoe from a hiking boot, you can test this by trying to twist the base of the shoe. If it moves, it won’t provide as much ankle support. 

Arch Support

On long hikes or backpacking trips, it’s common for the arch of the foot to become fatigued, which can lead to plantar fasciitis. A common cause of this, especially among day hikers and backpackers, is overpronation, where the foot leans or collapses inward. Anyone experiencing this, or suffering from pain while they walk might benefit from an insole like Superfeet (individuals with exceptionally strong arches may prefer a Currex insole ). 

Read Next: Best Insoles for Hiking

With hiking shoes, it’s important that there’s some space between your toes and the end of the shoe—aim for about a finger’s width of space between the end of your toes and the tip of the shoe. For most people, that will work to about a half size larger than they typically wear. However, Kelley cautions that many people, especially women, rely on shoe sizings that they received when they were younger, and don’t take into account the natural growth of the foot over time. Also consider if you need wide hiking shoes . Getting your foot sized by a professional—something you can do through REI’s Virtual Outfitting without visiting a store—is an important part of choosing a hiking shoe. 

Traditionally, one of the most important differences between trail runners and hiking shoes was the size of the lugs. But today, there are a number of trail runners on the market with substantial lugs that mirror the functionality of traditional hiking shoes or boots. 

One important difference between hiking shoes and trail runners is durability. Hiking shoes typically last for 500 to 700 miles, while trail runners only last 300 to 500 miles. Factors that can affect this include the durability of the rubber, the sole, the midsole, and the uppers (leather vs. mesh), as well as the weight of the person wearing the shoes and the conditions they frequent. 

If you love your running shoes, wear them everywhere, and are comfortable in them, then yes, you can absolutely wear your running shoes hiking. If you’re heading out on a particularly technical trail, where there’s potential to slip or loose your foot on a steep slope, it’s worthwhile to check out the lugs on the underside of your shoe—if the lugs are worn off, or insubstantial to begin with, you may want to look into buying a new pair.

Hiking shoes should be locked in at the heel, but then loosen up as the foot moves forward. If the balls of your feet feel constrained or your toes are unable to splay (inhibiting shock absorption) then the shoe’s volume is too small for your foot. One option to increase the volume of the shoe is to take out the insole. 

A rock plate is a hard, thin membrane that doesn’t flex, inserted inside of the shoe, that stops hard or pointy objects from penetrating the shoe and injuring the foot. However, rock plates do inhibit ground feel, or your foot’s ability to react to rocks or roots on the trail, which can impact other parts of the leg or foot. 

Trail runners and hiking shoes both cost in the neighborhood of $100 and $200. However, keep in mind that hiking shoes typically last longer than trail runners. 

Final Thoughts on the Best Hiking Shoes

With so many options to choose from—and just as many strong opinions about their pros and cons—it can be daunting to choose the best hiking shoes if you’re new to the market. Keep an open mind, but also consult your own preferences. Do you value comfort above all else? Are you nervous about navigating rocky or rooty trails? Are you prone to blisters, or do you rarely get them? 

My advice: if you find a pair of shoes that works perfectly for you, buy multiple pairs if you can. Shoe manufacturers are forever tweaking their different models—the perfect shoe one year may not work for you when a new model is released. 

Best Trail Runner: Altra Lone Peak 8 ( Men’s ) ( Women’s )

Best Traditional: Oboz Katabatic Low Waterproof ( Men’s ) ( Women’s )

Best Hybrid: Danner Trail 2650 Campo GTX ( Men’s ) ( Women’s )

Most Comfortable: Hoka Speedgoat 5 ( Men’s ) ( Women’s )

Best for Beginners: Merrell Moab 3 ( Men’s ) ( Women’s )

Best Barefoot: Vivobarefoot Primus Trail FG ( Men’s ) ( Women’s )

Best Sandal: Teva Hurricane XLT2 ( Men’s ) ( Women’s )

Best Water Shoe: KEEN Drift Creek H2 ( Men’s ) ( Women’s )

Best for Camp: Merrell Hydro Moc ( Men’s ) ( Women’s )

RS Recommends: The Best Hiking Shoes for Every Type of Trek

By Danielle Directo-Meston

Danielle Directo-Meston

If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission.

Whether you’re hitting up local trails or embarking on a weekend backpacking trip, the last thing you want are blistered, aching feet to distract you from the great outdoors . The best hiking shoes will ensure that you start your adventure on the right foot.

There’s no shortage of options when it comes to buying the right hiking shoes. Outdoor footwear comes in a range of proprietary materials that make the most of what technology has to offer, from incredibly durable construction that helps you stay light on your feet, to form-fitting silhouettes designed to withstand the wilderness.

Foot fatigue is a given since you’re putting prolonged pressure on your steppers, which is why it’s important to choose shoes that offers adequate support and protection. Keep reading to find out the factors you’ll want to consider when shopping for hiking shoes.

How to Shop for Hiking Shoes?

Not all hiking shoes are designed with the same activities or support level in mind. In addition to the types of trails and treks, you’ll also want to consider the weather and terrain of your destination. Your shoes should be able to stand up to the elements, so whether you plan on crossing creeks or stepping into dry sand, waterproof footwear is a safe and versatile bet.

And if you have pre-existing foot conditions, you may need custom or ready-made orthopedic inserts to help relieve pressure and properly redistribute weight. A few examples include flat-footedness, which causes issues like overpronation and shin splints; and high arches, which can result in problems such as metatarsalgia, plantar fasciitis, and foot and ankle stability. It’s best to consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat any foot pain.

What Are the Different Types of Hiking Shoes?

Hiking shoes:  Typically designed for short treks and defined trails, hiking shoes tend to be lighter and more flexible. They don’t offer as much support when compared to boots, which is why many seasoned hikers often wear this type of shoe if they’ve already got a good amount of their own strength built up in their legs, ankles, and feet. They’re meant to be worn with light or medium-thickness socks , depending on the activity.

Editor’s picks

Every awful thing trump has promised to do in a second term, the 250 greatest guitarists of all time, the 500 greatest albums of all time, the 50 worst decisions in movie history.

Hiking boots:  If you’re hiking on rough terrain or long distances, carrying a moderate amount of gear, or are a beginning hiker who needs good support in your legs, ankles, or feet, then hiking boots are a good option. They typically offer better ankle support and overall protection and are thus heavier than hiking shoes. Hiking boots are also meant to be worn with heavyweight hiking socks with or without a liner.

Backpacking boots:  Taller and more supportive than hiking shoes and boots, backpacking boots are the best footwear for those multi-day hikes that require carrying a full supply of gear. Meant to be worn with thick hiking socks, they’re usually more protective and offer better support and balance, which means they’re going to be heavier than other outdoor footwear. That being said, keep in mind that you’ll need to wear them for at least two weeks to break them in before your adventure.

Another thing to consider is the difference between women’s and men’s hiking shoes. Generally speaking, men’s shoes are designed for wider feet and narrow heels, while women’s footwear tends to be narrower and made for people with less muscle mass. That’s why women’s shoes are designed to have different support in the midsole or heel. It’s worth keeping these things in mind, especially if you have a wider or more narrow foot shape regardless of your gender.

What Are the Best Hiking Shoes?

Below, we’ve rounded up a range of women’s and men’s hiking shoes to suit a variety of activities — read on for our top picks that’ll help you get the most out of your al fresco journey.

1. Danner Trailcomber Women’s Hiking Shoes

We like these Trailcomber hiking shoes by Danner for their everyday wearability. Weighing just 8.8 ounces per shoe, this lightweight pair is great for warm weather, thanks to its breathable lining and footbed. If comfort is your priority, you’ll appreciate the quick-drying midsole and three-layer footbed, which both offer great support, shock absorption, and underfoot cushioning.

These women’s hiking shoes are also made for resilience and versatility. They feature a Vibram outsole that offers strong grip on wet and dry terrain, while the abrasion-resistant Cordura knit fabric helps extend the life of these shoes. The EXO Lite heel system and DT6 last work in tandem to offer heel-to-toe stability and security without adding extra weight to the shoe.

Dr Disrespect Knowingly Sent Explicit Messages to a Minor, Former Twitch Employee Says

Why is everybody talking about the hawk tuah girl, late-night hosts react to presidential debate: 'this cannot be real life', hawk tuah girl has already sold at least $65,000 worth of merch, 2024 tour de france livestream: how to watch every stage online, how to watch the first trump vs. biden debate online tonight.

Buy Danner Trailcomber Hiking Shoes $159.99

2. Nike ACG Air Mowabb Hiking Shoes 

Yes, Nike makes hiking shoes and they’re pretty slick too. Their popular ACG Air Mowabb was designed almost 30 years ago, featuring a silhouette that provides the support you need in a hiking boot, with the look and feel of a sneaker.

The lightweight shoes feature a cushioned midsole, breathable construction, and a soft, nubuck leather that stands up to the elements to keep you warm and dry. The rubber sole is super grippy, and “Huarache” tech at adds enhanced stability to the heel, especially when stepping out on uneven surfaces. We like the throwback design of the ACG Air Mowabb, which is finished off with a subtle nod to the Nineties shoe culture with the heritage logo on the side, and vibrant colors.

Buy Nike ACG Air Mowabb $160

3. Danner Trail 2650 GTX Men’s Waterproof Hiking Shoes

These waterproof men’s hiking shoes feature Gore-Tex material and breathable mesh lining to keep your feet dry and cool. You can expect plenty of support, great tread and traction, and stability on even the rockiest terrain, thanks to this footwear’s Trailguard platform, reinforced heel counter, and Vibram sole.

The OrthoLite footbed and flexible EVA midsole offer all-day comfort and shock absorption, while the suede and textile upper make this pair lightweight and durable. Each shoe weighs 12 ounces, so they’re great lightweight options for hiking and backpacking.

Buy Danner Trail 2650 GTX $169.99

4. Merrell Altalight Women’s Waterproof Hiking Shoes

If you expect some splashing on your trails, these vegan-friendly waterproof hiking shoes are a great option. Designed for wet and dry conditions, these women’s shoes feature tear-resistant nylon ripstop upper and a barrier that keeps your feet dry while allowing much-needed moisture.

A contoured removable insole and cushioned foam midsole offer excellent arch support and comfort, and the air cushion heel absorbs shock and while adding stability. The shoe’s mountain-grade rubber outsole means you’ll have plenty of support and grip in rugged environments. And at just 12.4 ounces per shoe, these sturdy shoes are fairly lightweight, too.

Buy Merrell Altalight Hiking Shoes $139.99

5. Merrell Moab 2 Vent Men’s Hiking Shoes

These men’s hiking shoes by Merrell are constructed with a suede and leather exterior and interior mesh lining, so they’re durable and breathable in dry and hot environments. Ideal for camping and casual hikes, they feature a contoured footbed that offers dynamic foot support and a nylon arch shank for added stability in steep or narrow terrain.

The Vibram rubber outsole is great for handling smooth and wet rock surfaces, and the closed-cell foam tongue helps to keep out debris and moisture. Each shoe weighs about a pound, and this pair is a good choice for anyone looking for a sturdy and flexible fit.

Buy Merrell Moab 2 Vent Shoes $99.99

6. Merrell Alverstone Mid Waterproof Women’s Hiking Boots

Those looking for good ankle support and stability on those rougher trails will want to step into these Merrell women’s hiking boots. The suede leather and mesh upper and rubber toe cap guards keep your feet protected from debris and the elements, while the waterproof membrane keeps water and moisture out.

These mid-profile hiking boots are as comfortable as they are sturdy, thanks to the molded nylon arch shank, removable contoured insoles, and the compression-molded flexible EVA midsole. The company’s air cushion technology helps to absorb shock in the heels, and the outsoles feature a 5mm lug depth that allows the shoes to grip onto a range of smooth and rugged surfaces. The bellows tongue also helps to keep out dirt and rocks.

The heel pull tabs make it fairly easy to step into this pair, and each shoe weighs 13 ounces. Bonus: these shoes also feature an anti-microbial interior to cut down on odors.

Buy Merrell Alverstone Boots $109.95

7. Keen Targhee III Mid Waterproof Men’s Hiking Boots

For all-terrain adventures, these Keen men’s hiking boots will help you traverse nearly any trail. They feature a long-lasting leather exterior and a waterproof, breathable membrane to keep your feet dry and protected from the elements. The anti-microbial mesh lining makes this footwear odor-resistant and breathable, too.

The mid-profile boots offer plenty of ankle support as well as a rubber sole with multi-directional lugs that offer great traction and security on even the most roughest ground. Rounding out the sturdy construction is the internal shank and heel counter for added stability.

Buy Keen Targhee III Boots $149.95

8. Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX Women’s and Men’s Backpacking Boots

Inspired by the brand’s best-selling trail running shoes, Salomon’s rugged yet lightweight backpacking boots are for hikers seeking comfort and protection in the toughest environments. Available in both women’s and men’s sizing, these hiking boots are made with an abrasion-resistant and waterproof synthetic upper as well as a breathable Gore-Tex membrane.

In addition to shielding your feet from the elements, these shoes offer excellent support and stability. The Contragrip outsole grips to a variety of surfaces, and the 4D advanced chassis gives the flexibility and balance you need when facing different types of ground. This pair is also built with a moisture-wicking Ortholite footbed and lining and a flexible dual-density EVA midsole for added support and comfort.

Other great features include the pressure-relieving gusseted tongue that also keeps rocks and dirt out, and each boot is fairly light for a backpacking shoe at under 1.5 pounds.

Buy Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX Boots $149.95

Buy Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX Boots $229.95

9. Northside Men’s Peyton Hiking Shoe

If you want a comfortable, lightweight and reliable pair of hiking shoes, we highly recommend picking up something from Northside . The American brand specializes in boots, sandals, hiking shoes and more for the great outdoors, and we recently tested out a pair of low-profile hikers on a trip to Zion National Park.

These Peyton hiking shoes are made with a super comfy sock-style upper, with a built-in moisture-wicking lining to keep your feet dry. A padded insole and compression-molded EVA midsole ensure protection and cushioning, while the rubber outsole gives you traction on all landscapes — and in all conditions. The grippy shoes kept us stable and sure-footed while hiking muddy trails, darting through sand dunes, and climbing steep rocks. Everything wipes down easily for easy maintenance, and the sneaker-style design makes these easy to wear to a bar or restaurant after your hike too.

10. Hoka TenNine Gore-Tex

Hoka makes some of the best running shoes out there, but the company is turning heads with their hiking boots too. Case in point: these gender-neutral TenNine Gore-Tex boots, which merge a bold, chunky silhouette with seriously impressive tread and durability features. The stylish look is what you’ll notice first (great for those post-hike IG pics) but serious climbers appreciate the TenNine boots too.

Hoka says the shoe’s “HUBBLE” heel geometry distributes weight and impact more evenly for a smoother climb, while creating a more efficient “heel-to-toe transition.” Water-repellent materials and a Gore-Tex lining keep your feet try, while the ripstop fabric and metal hardware can take a beating whether you’re in the desert or summiting a cliff. The Vibram sole adds traction and comfort. We’ve tested these Hoka hiking shoes before and while the “oversized” silhouette took a few minutes to get used to, once we started hiking in them, we were glad we had them on. Every step felt secure and grippy, and our feet were comfortable even after a day in the boots.

Buy Hoka TenNine Gore-Tex Boots $250

11. Softstar Megagrip PRIMAL RunAmoc

For something a little different, consider picking up a pair of these PRIMAL shoes from performance footwear brand, Softstar .

Developed to mimic and embrace the “natural physiology of the human foot,” the shoes are made with flexible, breathable material with an extra wide toe box and natural toe splay. If you like the feeling of running barefoot, these are the next best thing, with an ultra thin 6mm sole that keeps you close to the ground. The Vibram rubber makes the sole super grippy and durable, so even if you’re pounding the pavement, you won’t feel the pressure on your feet. A rubber toe cap at the front adds enforcement and protects your toes when you’re kicking up the dirt trail.

Use these shoes for running or hiking — your feel stay cool, comfortable and supported, without the bulk and hardware of other hiking shoes.

Buy Megagrip PRIMAL RunAmoc Shoes $170

Our Favorite Dyson Supersonic Alternatives to Buy Online Right Now

• Good Hair Day
• By Anamaria Glavan

This DIRECTV via Internet Deal Lets You Save Every Month on Live TV for Two Years

• By Sage Anderson

The Best PC Gaming Accessories for a Better Setup

• up your game
• By Brandt Ranj
• STREAMING GUIDE
• By Oscar Hartzog and John Lonsdale
• debate livestream
• By Oscar Hartzog

Most Popular

Sean penn says he 'went 15 years miserable on sets' after 'milk' and could not play gay role today due to a 'timid and artless policy toward the human imagination', 'tulsa king' season 2 premiere date and teaser trailer released, inside sources claim all of meghan markle’s products for american riviera orchard are just a red herring, nba agent sues klutch sports, rich paul over lebron fees, you might also like, trump media stock price falls after ex-president’s debate victory over biden, princess charlene suits up in monochrome white look for monaco’s olympic team presentation ahead of the paris 2024 games, the best yoga mats for any practice, according to instructors, 2025 oscars: best actor predictions, scotus chevron rejection could upend ncaa, college athlete cases.

Rolling Stone is a part of Penske Media Corporation. © 2024 Rolling Stone, LLC. All rights reserved.

Verify it's you

Please log in.

TOUR DE FRANCE

Don’t miss a moment with our daily newsletter.

THE TOUR DE FRANCE DAILY NEWSLETTER

The Best Hiking Boots and Shoes of 2022

These hikers will help you carry your load and stay comfortable and secure, no matter the terrain

Heading out the door? Read this article on the Outside app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

Tecnica Magma S Mid GTX ($190)

Most Versatile

Most of Tecnica’s Magma line takes its DNA from trail-running shoes , and the new S Mid model is no exception. It has “backpacking boot” written all over it yet does not abandon its speed-focused roots. The S Mid is certainly light, and its snug last encourages nimbleness. Still, the 24-millimeter (in the heel) EVA midsole prevented sore feet both on Rocky Mountain trail runs and while carrying a 35-pound pack in Montana’s Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness. An airy, synthetic-mesh upper and a Vibram Megagrip LiteBase sole keep weight at just over 1.5 pounds for a pair, and an oversize heel counter adds stability on descents whether you’re running or hiking. “As someone who appreciates the dexterity of trail-running shoes but the support of midcut boots, the Magma S Mid struck the perfect balance,” said one tester. A Gore-Tex lining kept out precip and handled sweat well while she hiked in Colorado’s Golden Gate State Park on a day “hot enough to fry an egg.” 1.6 lbs (men’s) / 1.4 lbs (women’s)

Men’s Women’s

Salewa Wildfire 2 ($140)

Best Approach Shoe

Few approach shoes are actually comfortable for hiking . The new Wildfire 2 is the exception. It feels more like a light hiker, without losing its chops on technical rock. “This shoe was a joy to wear on rolling dirt trails below treeline but still gave me plenty of confidence once I hit the rock,” one Alaska-based tester said after wearing the Wildfire 2 for three days of hiking and ridge scrambling in the Chugach. A relatively beefy EVA midsole absorbs shock, and the outsole’s four- to five-millimeter lugs grab dirt (a capability you also don’t see a lot of in this category). The most unique feature is Salewa’s adjustment mechanism. While other Salewa shoes have a static cable that wraps the heel to link the laces to the heel cup, the Wildfire uses a dynamic nylon cord. Leave the cord uncinched for a nimble, flexible fit on the hike in; when it’s time to climb, tighten the lacing to simultaneously cinch the heel cord, lower the volume, and increase precision. The shoe’s nonwaterproof, mesh-and-TPU upper breathed well into the seventies. This shoe isn’t made for carrying large loads, but it kept our feet comfy under a 35-pound climbing pack. Bonus: an included multipart insole lets you customize the shoe to the volume and width of your foot. 1.3 lbs (women’s) / 1.6 lbs (men’s)

Women’s Men’s

Asolo Eldo Mid LTH GV ($195)

Best for Protection

Is shoulder season your favorite time of the year? The Eldo Mid can slosh through water and mud with the best of ’em. This light hiker pairs a Gore-Tex waterproof-breathable membrane with a nigh-impenetrable (1.5- to 1.7-millimeter-thick) suede upper to keep your feet dry. “My feet were only a little damp—rather than drenched—after three hours of hiking through wet vegetation,” said one tester after navigating flooded trails, soaking brush, and deep mud while hunting for blueberries in Alaska’s Chugach Mountains—an impressive accomplishment for shoes in this category. All that waterproofing takes a toll on breathability, though: our tester was sweating big-time in temps over 60 degrees. The polypropylene lasting board and midheight cuff were enough to support a multi-day pack while we hiked around Ship Lake Pass. Our tester was also impressed with the minimal break-in time, especially for a mostly leather boot (credit the supple suede). 1.6 lbs (women’s) / 1.8 lbs (men’s)

Sponsor Content Darn Tough Light Hikers ($17-22)

One of Darn Tough’s most popular styles (and the #1 Hiking Sock in the USA), the Light Hikers are slip, bunch and blister free, and unconditionally guaranteed for life. Now in new colors.

Vasque Torre AT GTX ($200)

Best for Big Loads

Boots designed for carrying heavy packs are typically, well, heavy. The Torre AT turns that paradigm on its head with lightweight materials that provide surprising responsiveness under big loads. A thin (but still durable) suede and mesh upper and Vibram’s ultraslim LiteBase outsole both shave ounces, helping keep the Torre AT nimble as you stride. A proprietary EVA compound midsole provides enough cushion and rebound for you to comfortably shoulder a 45-pound pack, though, and a seven-inch ankle cuff adds support. The boot’s Gore-Tex membrane kept water out during stream crossings in New Hampshire’s White Mountains, and breathability was impressive: “Even while I climbed switchbacks in Bear Canyon outside Boulder, Colorado, in 70-degree temps, my feet got only mildly sweaty,” one tester said. Note: some found that the boot required a break-in period similar to other burly models, and that the first few hikes prompted a few blisters. 2.4 lbs (men’s) / 2 lbs (women’s)

Astral Rambler ($110)

Best for Trail-to-Town

The Adirondack High Peaks are known for unforgiving trails, so if a casual-looking shoe can handle them, it’s tough. On a hike up New York’s Porter Mountain, where the path morphs from rubble and roots to steep slabs, the Rambler’s responsiveness and grip impressed. Its sticky rubber outsole performed well on scrambles (though the widely spaced lugs struggled in loose dirt). A beefy tongue and broad laces held our tester’s feet in place for the descent, and when the hike was over, she wore the Rambler for a celebratory beer in Lake Placid. The hemp-and-polyester upper is surprisingly durable and—bonus—looks swanky in town. A soft EVA midsole lacks the support for anything heavier than a light overnight pack, but it can handle any day hike you throw at it. Ventilation holes help the nonwaterproof Rambler dry quickly on wet outings. 1.2 lbs (women’s) / 1.3 lbs (men’s)

Danner Panorama Mid ($140)

Best for Durability

Navigating New England’s rocks and steep trails is a tall task, but the Panorama took one of our testers through a full season of Northeast hiking without a hitch. That’s thanks to a tough, 1.6-millimeter-thick suede upper and a beefy leather rand, as well as a wraparound rubber outsole. “I haven’t noticed a single stitch that’s come loose,” our tester said after traversing craggy, salt-washed terrain in Maine’s Acadia National Park and boulder-strewn paths in the Whites. A pliable upper and cuff meant the boot maxed out around 30 pounds. The outsole provided proficient traction on slabby summits: “I typically hike with my trekking poles but felt very secure without having to use them at all,” one tester said. The suede’s water-resistant treatment failed to impress and absorbed a little water, but a waterproof membrane kept our feet dry. 2.3 lbs (men’s) / 1.8 lbs (women’s)

Keen NXIS EVO Mid WP ($190)

Best All-Arounder

The Nxis Evo Mid may not stand out in any one category, but this boot does everything well. It’s supportive, breathable, comfortable straight out of the box, and provides adequate traction for most trails. The 15.5-millimeter-thick EVA midsole helped us wield a 40-pound pack for four days of hiking in Montana’s Beartooth Mountains. Another helpful feature is a metal cable that wraps around the heel for a snug fit when you tighten the laces up front. A waterproof-breathable membrane, bolstered by an airy-yet-durable synthetic mesh upper, was impressively breathable even at the height of summer. After four months of testing, the Nxis looks brand-new save for a couple nicks on the sole. Note: if you’re wary of Keen’s typical aesthetic, this boot has a clean, updated look (though it still rocks the signature rubber toe). 1.5 lbs (women’s) / 1.8 lbs (men’s)

Merrell Moab 3 Mid ($120)

The Moab is one of the most popular hiking shoes on the planet for a reason. Not only is it affordable, it’s also capable enough for day hikes and overnnights alike. This updated third iteration improves support and comfort to handle larger loads than before. A redone EVA midsole with more rebound and longevity (thanks to an added polymer) amps up the support of this lightweight boot: one tester remained comfortable even carrying 45 pounds of water and gear in Idaho’s Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve. That’s bolstered by a new, more cushioned footbed. Meanwhile, the Vibram outsole held tight to loose dirt. The Moab 3’s mesh-and-leather upper grants breathability on hot days (the boot we tested isn’t waterproof, but a waterproof version is available for $25 more). 1.8 lbs (women’s) / 2.1 lbs (men’s)

• Hiking and Backpacking
• Hiking Boots
• Hiking Gear
• Hiking Shoes

This post contains affiliate links, primarily provided by our priority partner REI.com . We may earn a commission if you buy through these links. Read more about our policy.

Popular on Outside Online

Enjoy coverage of racing, history, food, culture, travel, and tech with access to unlimited digital content from Outside Network's iconic brands.

© 2024 Outside Interactive, Inc

• Hiking Shoes
• Hiking Boots
• Hiking Sandals
• Trail Runners
• Base layers
• Hiking Shirts
• Fleece Jackets
• Softshell Jackets
• Rain jackets
• Down Jackets
• Hiking Pants
• Hiking Shorts
• Base Layers
• Rain Jackets
• Hiking Bras
• Baby Carriers
• Cookware Sets
• Water Filters
• Water Purifiers
• Sleeping Bags
• Sleeping Pads
• Hiking Poles
• GPS Devices
• Solar Chargers
• Dive Regulators
• Dive Computers
• Dive Watches
• Dive Wetsuits
• Dive Gloves
• Dive Lights
• Dive Knives
• Spearfishing Wetsuits
• Spearfishing Masks
• Spearfishing Fins
• Spearfishing Watches
• Freediving Wetsuits
• Freediving Masks
• Freediving Fins
• Freediving Watches
• Sit On Top Kayaks
• Inflatable Kayaks
• Fishing Kayaks
• Tandem Kayaks
• Touring Kayaks
• Kayak Paddles
• Kayak Seats
• Kayak Roof Racks
• Kayak Carts
• Stand Up Paddle Boards
• Touring SUPs
• Inflatable SUPs
• Fishing SUPs
• SUPs For Yoga
• SUPs For Surfing
• SUP Paddles
• Climbing Boots
• Belay Devices
• Climbing Shoes
• Women's Climbing Shoes
• Bouldering Shoes
• Approach Shoes
• Climbing Pants
• Bouldering Pants
• Mountain Bikes for Men
• Mountain Bikes for Women
• MTB Handlebars
• Bike Saddles
• Bike Computers
• Bike Lights
• MTB Jackets
• Bike Helmets
• Bike Packing Gear
• Fat Biking Gear
• Ski Bindings
• Ski Helmets
• Ski Goggles
• Ski Jackets
• Snowboarding Bindings
• Snowboarding Boots
• Snowboard Helmets
• Snowboard Goggles
• Snowboard Pants
• Snowboard Jackets
• Snowshoe Poles
• Avalanche Beacons
• Avalanche Probes
• Avalanche Shovels
• Ski Backpacks
• Surfboards For Beginners
• Surfboards For Kids
• Surfboard For Small Waves
• Soft Top Surfboards
• Foam Surfboards
• Body Boards
• Boogie Boards
• Kiteboarding Kites
• Kitesurfing Boards
• Kiteboarding Harnesses
• Surfing Wetsuits
• Men's Rash Guards
• Women's Rash Guards
• Board Leashes
• DLSR Travel Cameras
• Mirrorles Travel Cameras
• Point and Shoot Travel Cameras
• Fuji Travel Lenses
• Nikon Travel Lenses
• Tripods for Travel
• DLSR Landscape Cameras
• Mirrorles Landscape Cameras
• Point and Shoot Landscape Cameras
• Fuji Landscape Lenses
• Nikon Landcape Lenses
• Canon Landcape Lenses
• Tripods for Landscape Photo
• Wildlife Cameras
• Wildlife Lenses
• Wildlife Tripods
• Wildlife Monopods
• Birdlife Cameras
• Birdlife Lenses
• Surfboards For Small Waves

Best Hiking Shoes of 2024

Hiking may just be one of the most underrated outdoor activities. Not only is it a fantastic and inexpensive workout, but hiking can also grant you access to majestic sights that you otherwise may never lay eyes on. It’s a great activity for all ages and, depending on your geographic location, it can be done as a year-round pastime. Selecting the right (or wrong) hiking shoe can make or break any outing. Shoes literally provide the foundation for any great hike. But with all the options to choose from, picking the best hiking shoes for you can feel like a daunting task.

Here at The Adventure Junkies, we pride ourselves in putting our best foot forward to help you find the ideal products for your specific needs. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best hiking shoes on the market to help you head down the trail with confidence in your new shoes.

For more of our top hiking footwear recommendations, check out these popular articles:

Waterproof Shoes | Lightweight Shoes | Trail Runners | Water Shoes

Hiking Shoes for Women | Hiking Shoes for Flat Feet | Hiking Shoes for Kids

Quick Answer - The Best Hiking Shoes

• Salomon X Ultra 3 Gore-Tex View at REI
• Merrell Moab 2 Ventilator View at REI
• Hoka One One Toa Gore-Tex View at REI
• Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX View at REI
• La Sportiva TX4 View at REI
• Merrell MQM Flex View at REI
• Oboz Sawtooth II Low View at REI
• Salomon OUTline Low GTX View at REI
• KEEN Venture Low WP View at REI
• Vasque Breeze LT Low GTX View at REI

Comparison Table - The Best Shoes for Hiking

Reviews - best hiking shoes, salomon x ultra 3 gore-tex.

• Height : Ankle
• Weight : 1lb 10.8oz
• Waterproof? : Yes
• Gore-Tex® waterproof liners
• Soft textile linings wick moisture away
• Ortholite sockliners combine a specific Ortholite foam and contoured EVA heel cups for enhanced heel support and cushioning
• Mud guards and integrated rubber toe caps provide durable protection from roots and rocks

BEST OVERALL HIKING SHOES

Providing for the optimal blend of light weight, durability, and comfort, the X Ultra 3s are a great companion for wearing on pretty much any hiking trail you travel.

With multiple models to choose from, you’re sure to find an X Ultra 3 that is perfect for you. This Gore-Tex model offers excellent water resistance but this does cause the shoe to run warmer than the non-waterproof models. The sole of this shoe has impressive grip across a variety of terrains and substantial cushioning to ease the weight of carrying a heavy pack. The synthetic uppers and beefy toe cap help keep this shoe on the trail for years to come.

What I like about this choice is how versatile the line-up is, including lightweight, wide, and a non-GTX model you can choose for better breathability.

Merrell Moab 2 Ventilator

• Height : Over-the-ankle
• Weight : 1lb 15oz
• Waterproof? : No
• Performance suede leather and mesh uppers with protective rubber toe caps
• Bellowed, closed-cell foam tongues keep moisture and debris out
• Merrell Air Cushion in the heels absorbs shock and adds stability
• EVA midsoles provide stability and comfort
• Vibram TC5+ outsoles have a 5mm lug depth for grip

BEST FOR: HIKERS ON A BUDGET

When you need a quality hiking shoe for your next adventure and you don’t have a lot to spend, consider the Moab 2s — they just might be exactly what you’re looking for.

These perfect summer time hiking shoes excel at keeping your feet cool and comfy all day. Durable synthetic uppers offer substantial ventilation and increased cushioning in the heel provides for support when you’re carrying a heavy pack. The Ventilator model described here is perfect for hot weather hiking but it’s important to note that there is a Gore-Tex version, which may suit hikers in wetter conditions.

What I like about the Moab 2s is that for a moderate price, you can get a long-lasting pair of hiking shoes.

Hoka One One Toa Gore-Tex

• Weight : 1lb 14.2oz
• Waterproof nubuck leather uppers and GORE-TEX® waterproof booties provide a complete barrier against wet weather
• Mesh collars offer breathability and comfort
• Gusseted tongues offer secure midfoot lockdown
• Rubberized toe caps provide protection against trail debris

BEST FOR: COMFORT ON OR OFF TRAIL

These plush, well-cushioned kicks are designed to protect your feet and joints from excessive soreness — as well as help with injury prevention — after a long day out on the trail.

Rocker-designed soles with multiple layers of foam help make these shoes one of the most comfortable hikers available. A soft synthetic fabric is wrapped around the foot like a cloud to help prevent the formation of hot spots and slow blister development. The slightly taller ankle support inspires confidence while cruising through rocky or loose terrain. Last but not least, an oversized outsole serves to adequately protect you from contact abrasion with rocks and sharp objects that you might encounter out on the trail so you can focus more on your surroundings and less on your feet.

What I like most about the HOKA One Toas is that even with the substantial extra support and comfort these shoes provide, they still only weigh in just a little over 2 pounds.

Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX

• Weight : 1lb 8.4oz
• GORE-TEX® membranes provide waterproof protection at a light weight across variable conditions on the trail
• Toe caps guard against stubbed toes
• 4mm thick OrthoLite® 3D molded insert adds cushioning
• Vibram® Megagrip outsoles deliver surefooted traction across varied terrain

BEST FOR: ULTRALIGHT HIKING

If you enjoy maximum freedom of movement and feeling like you are not wearing shoes at all, look to the Aerios.

Minimalist hiking shoes are gaining traction in the hiking industry as more people opt for lightweight footwear over the clunky boots of trail days past. These Gore-Tex lined shoes are not only waterproof but weigh only 1.6 pounds, making them ideal for long trips and thru-hiking. The ankle support for these shoes is slightly lower than other alternatives, which does open the door to potential ankle rolling, but when worn properly, these shoes can carry you a long way injury free. Even with the waterproof layer incorporated into these shoes, the cordura mesh upper still breathes rather well.

What I like about these shoes is the waterproof liner that allows you to move through small puddles with ease, an uncommon trait associated with minimalist shoes.

La Sportiva TX4

• Weight : 1lb 10oz
• Durable leather uppers provide comfort and abrasion resistance in rugged terrain
• STB Control System™ delivers torsional rigidity and support without encumbering underfoot cushioning
• OrthoLite® insoles offer comfort and odor control

BEST FOR: ROCKY TERRAIN

Next time you plan on tackling a rocky summit, be sure to don the TX4s for the ultimate combination of comfort and traction.

By redesigning the sole of these shoes, La Sportiva was able to boost traction without adding weight, making them ideal for ascending or descending steep, bouldery slopes. A thick rubber sole, full rubber rand, and durable leather upper inspires confidence for moving fast. If you don’t mind the stiffer midsole integrated to increase underfoot support while scrambling, these shoes are equally suitable choice for everyday hiking. The drawstring woven into the lacing allows you to achieve a snug fit around the foot without becoming so tight that you experience rubbing or chaffing.

What I like most about these shoes is despite being designed as approach shoes for climbing, they’re surprisingly light, weighing in at 1 pound 10 ounces.

Merrell MQM Flex

• Weight : 1lb 3oz
• Breathable Mesh Linings
• Air Cushions In The Heel (to absorb shock and add stability)
• Proprietary Grip Rubber Outsoles Provide Excellent Traction

BEST FOR: MOVING QUICKLY IN THE MOUNTAINS

Merrell was founded nearly four decades ago with a mission to design and manufacture handmade custom boots. One of those original styles remains in the brand’s lineup today. Today, this industry leader creates a multitude of footwear options all while remaining true to their humble beginnings. 

Utilizing a variety of proprietary materials, the MQM Flex is chocked full of features for moving light and fast on the trail. Synthetic uppers and breathable mesh linings will protect and keep your feet comfortable for extended outings. The M Select Grip rubber outsoles provide excellent traction for a variety of trails and conditions.

Oboz Sawtooth II Low

• Weight : 2lbs 2.8oz
• Proprietary Waterproof Membrane
• Breathable Mesh Vents
• Asymmetric Ankle Collars For Increased Comfort

BEST FOR: LONG DAYS ON THE TRAIL

Founded in Bozeman, Montana, Oboz is a company as committed to producing quality footwear as they are to protecting the environment. The company’s headquarters is powered entirely by wind power and the brand plants a tree for every pair of shoes sold. 

The Sawtooth II Low BDry features a waterproof leather upper with a moisture-wicking mesh liner for breathability. In addition to the naturally waterproof properties of the leather upper, this shoe utilizes a proprietary waterproof and breathable membrane called “B-Dry”. Located in the liner, this membrane allows moisture to escape from the inside of the shoe while keeping out the elements for a comfortable hike every time. Asymmetrical ankle collars (lower on the outside and higher on the inside) accommodate a wide range of movement on a variety of terrains.

Salomon OUTline Low GTX

• Weight : 1lb 7.8oz
• Protective Toe Caps For Extra Protection
• Antimicrobial Treated Footbeds For Odor Control
• Gusseted Tongue Aids In Keeping Debris Out Of The Shoe

BEST FOR: TECHNICAL AND AGILE ADVENTURES

Salomon was founded as France was emerging from World War II. Their initial offerings included ski edges and saw blades. Born in the French Alps, the brand evolved, as did the market for outdoor sporting equipment and apparel. Today, the company is internationally known for producing high quality products for hiking, trail running, adventure racing, skiing, and snowboarding. 

The OUTline Low GTX is the evolution of a running shoe paired with a hiking boot. The shoe is technical and agile, yet also rugged enough to protect your feet on the trail. This lightweight hiking shoe features protective rubber caps around the toes to prevent painful stubbing on roots and rocks. And, it’s waterproof with a Gore-Tex lining on the interior of the shoe to keep your feet dry in case you get caught in the rain on the trail.

It also comes with a gusseted tongue, which means that it’s attached at its sides to the shoe’s upper. This style of tongue helps prevent debris from entering the shoe from the top. The brand’s proprietary rubber outsole is called Contagrip and is designed to grip any surface, no matter how slick.

KEEN Venture Low WP

• Weight : 2lbs 2oz
• Mesh Uppers For Breathability
• Natural Odor Control
• Proprietary Waterproof Membrane (to keep your feet dry)

BEST FOR: GO-ANYWHERE SUPPORT

Keen is a relative newcomer in the footwear industry. What started in 2003 with the brand’s iconic hiking sandal has blossomed into a brand that features both lifestyle and active options.

Utilizing an array of proprietary materials, the Venture Low WP is a lightweight go-anywhere shoe. It features a KEEN.DRY waterproof and breathable membrane to keep the water out while allowing moisture to escape the interior of the shoe so you can hike comfortably through puddles or wet grass without worrying about soaking your socks. The Keen All-Terrain rubber outsoles provide high-traction grip on a variety of terrain. The mesh uppers are further reinforced with synthetic overlays that help to increase the durability as well as the lifespan of the shoe.

Vasque Breeze LT Low GTX

• Weight : 1lb 6oz
• Moisture Wicking Materials
• Abrasion-Resistant, Microfiber Mesh Uppers (for increased breathability and durability)
• GORE-TEX Waterproof Membrane (to create a waterproof environment for your feet)

BEST FOR: LONG DISTANCE HIKES

Founded in 1964, the brand was founded with a singular mission to get Americans outside and hiking. Over five decades later, Vasque continues to create dependable and durable products utilizing innovative technologies and materials.

The Breeze LT Low features an outsole that combines Vibram Megagrip with Vibram Lightbase technology to provide exceptional traction with a 25% reduction in weight. Founded in 1937, Vibram is an innovative outsole manufacturer that produces high-quality rubber that can be found on footwear worldwide. A waterproof GORE-TEX membrane surrounding these shoes provides a waterproof barrier to protect your feet from outside moisture while moving sweat away from the inside of the shoe. While the waterproof liner protects your feet from the elements, the durable, synthetic mesh outer provides an abrasion-resistant shell so you don’t have to worry about your feet getting wet or injured while hiking. The footbeds of the Breeze LT Low are anatomically designed to offer additional support and shock absorption.

THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE BUYING HIKING SHOES

Type of hiking.

Terrain dictates the type of shoe one should choose when planning to purchase footwear. Hiking footwear is typically used for day outings while carrying lighter loads in a daypack. Rugged boots are usually overkill for day hikes and can prove to be hotter and heavier than shoes designed to be lighter and more breathable. Always ask yourself, what type of hiking do I plan to do ? Will I be hiking on designated trails? Will I go off-trail and bushwhack through the woods and low brush? Will the terrain be rocky and wet or dry and flat (or any combination of the above)?

Hiking shoes come in an array of styles and price points. In addition to the type of hiking you plan to do, you should also consider your budget. We’ve provided a broad selection of quality hiking shoes that are as varied as their costs. Some are more budget friendly while others will require a little more of an investment. Properly cleaning your hiking shoes can increase the lifespan of your footwear so you won’t have to purchase a new pair of shoes every year.

ANKLE SUPPORT

While hiking (versus backpacking) often involves carrying lighter weights, you should consider your individual needs in regards to ankle support. With hiking, you typically carry a daypack and just a few essentials for the hike. Unlike backpacking, this frees you up to choose from a wider range of hiking shoes versus heavier boots. If you know you have weak ankles and need additional ankle support, we have provided several over-the-ankle options on the list above. In general, ankle-height shoes provide little to no ankle support and this factor should be considered when deciding on which shoes are right for you.

HIKING SEASON

Hiking is a great year-round activity. With summer, the temperature rises, and having breathable footwear can be advantageous in preventing too much moisture retention. Pairing a breathable shoe with quality hiking socks can provide a symbiotic relationship that will provide the ideal balance for a long (or short) day on the trail.

However, as the weather begins to cool, it’s important to consider a shoe that will prevent moisture from entering from the outside of the shoe (like those containing GORE-TEX or other proprietary waterproof membranes). This feature will protect your feet should it rain or if you have to step in shallow creeks or puddles on the trail. These waterproof membranes also allow moisture created in the form of sweat to escape from the shoe, which helps to keep your feet warm and dry .

FEATURES EXPLAINED

The outsole is the outermost layer of a shoe that comes into contact with the ground. Rubber is used for all outsoles in hiking shoes.

An insole is the inside part of a shoe that makes direct contact with the bottom of the foot.

Vibram was created by an Italian based company. They have been producing rubber outsoles for over eighty years. Though originally created for mountaineering, these soles are now used by numerous footwear manufacturers (including many in this roundup).

WATERPROOF LINING

Waterproof fabrics like Gore-Tex (GTX) and proprietary fabrics used by Oboz, Merrell, and Keen (in this roundup) provide a barrier against water entering the footwear from the outside. These same fabrics also allow for moisture inside the shoe to escape through a breathable membrane layer.

Lugs are raised bumps on the bottom of the outsole that provide traction on a variety of terrain. The pattern of the lugs on the bottom of the shoe can also work to provide traction under varied conditions.

For more of our top hiking & backpacking gear recommendations, check out these popular buyer's guides:

Best Hiking Backpacks

Best Backpacking Tents

Best Backpacking Sleeping Bags

Best Backpacking Sleeping Pads

Best Backpacking Stoves

Best Hiking Boots For Men ( and Women )

Best Hiking Shoes For Men ( and Women )

Table of contents

Best Hiking Shoes for Women of 2024

Some of the links on this page are affiliate links

Choosing a great pair of hiking shoes is one of the most important gear decisions you’ll make. Finding the right balance of comfort, traction, weight, durability, and weather resistance will make a huge difference with every step along the trail.

Our team has trail-tested over 50 pairs of hiking shoes all over the world. From 2000+ mile thru-hikes on the CDT and PCT to quick day hikes, we’ve put the best hiking shoes from brands like HOKA, Merrell, Altra, Keen, Saucony, and more through the wringer to narrow down this list of our top picks.

If you want something even more rugged for your feet, take a look at our favorite hiking boots . For truly cold-weather hiking, our winter boots guide has what you need. And don’t forget to pick up a pair of high-quality hiking socks to go with your new footwear.

Quick Picks for Women’s Hiking Shoes

Check out this quick list of our favorite hiking shoes, or continue scrolling to see our full list with in-depth reviews.

Best Hiking Shoes Overall:  HOKA Speedgoat 5 ($155)

Best Budget Hiking Shoes: Merrell Moab 3 ($120)

Best Balance of Weight, Support & Breathability: Topo Athletic Ultraventure 3 ($150)

Best Budget Trail Runners for Hiking:  Saucony Peregrine 14 ($140)

Most Durable & Supportive Hiking Shoes:  La Sportiva Spire GTX ($209)

Best Waterproof Hiking Shoes: Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX ($160)

Best Hiking Shoes for Long-Distance & Thru-Hikers:  Altra Lone Peak 8 ($150)

Excellent Balance of Weight & Durability at a Great Price:  Merrell Moab Speed 2 ($140)

Excellent Value Hiking Shoes for Day Hikers: Women’s Keen Targhee IV WP ($155)

Highly Supportive Hiking Shoes That Hold Up to Hard Use: Women’s Oboz Sawtooth X WP ($160)

Lightweight Hiking Shoe/Approach Shoe Hybrid: Women’s Merrell MQM 3 ($120)

Some new shoes hit the market this year, and we’ve been putting them to the test to see how they stack up against our top picks:

• The La Sportiva Spire GTX are new to our list earning a spot for their durability and support.
• We’ve updated our review for the newly released Saucony Peregrine 14 .
• The Altra Lone Peak 8 remains our favorite shoe for thru-hiking after receiving an update from their previous version.
• We’ve also added the Merrell Moab Speed 2 which are a lighter, less bulky take on the classic favorite Merrell Moab 3 .

Women’s HOKA Speedgoat 5

Best Hiking Shoes Overall

Price: $155

Weight (Pair): 1 lb. 4.7 oz.

Options: Waterproof

Heel-to-Toe Drop: 4 mm

• Very cushy soles
• Lightweight
• Excellent traction
• Roomy toe box
• Above-average comfort
• No break-in needed
• Taller stack height can feel a bit unstable

The HOKA Speedgoat 5 s are known for their exceptional comfort and low weight. The standout feature of these shoes is the ultra-cushy midsole, which is excellent at absorbing impact and doesn’t flatten out as quickly as many other lightweight hiking shoes we’ve tested.

Thanks to that comfy design, the Speedgoats are a favorite among thru-hikers who need a shoe that’s lightweight and can keep their feet and joints comfortable while logging lots of miles. These shoes are also more durable than many trail runners because they’re constructed with less mesh, so you get more literal and figurative mileage out of them.

All that cushioning means the Speedgoats have a taller stack height, and this is where we find the limitation of these shoes. They can feel a bit unstable when carrying a heavy load, so we recommend getting your pack weight as low as possible before tackling big miles in these shoes.

That said, the rockered sole is designed to keep you moving fast, and the on-trail performance of the Speedgoats is excellent in terms of traction and underfoot protection. Hikers who prioritize a cushioned ride and an unrivaled balance of low weight and durability should look no further than the Speedgoats.

Women’s Merrell Moab 3

Best Budget Hiking Shoes

Price: $120

Weight (Pair): 1 lb. 10 oz.

Heel-to-Toe Drop: 11.5 mm

• Less expensive
• Very little break-in needed
• Far more breathable than other leather shoes
• Wide sizes available
• On the heavier/bulkier side

The Merrell Moab 3 s have reigned supreme as our best budget hiking shoes for years due to their comfort, durability, and performance. Their relatively heavy and bulky design means they aren’t our first choice for big-mile days, but day hikers and those looking for a shoe that gives the protection of a boot without the restriction of a high collar will absolutely love these shoes.

The upper is constructed with a combination of leather and mesh which translates to an excellent balance of durability and breathability – especially when compared to many of the full-leather waterproof designs typically found on more traditional hiking shoes. The Moabs also come in a waterproof model , but we find that the breathability and decently quick drying time of the non-waterproof version are generally more important to us than the added water protection. No amount of waterproofing will keep moisture out during sustained downpours or deep water crossings anyway.

What the Moabs lack in grace, they more than make up for in cushioning and support. They also require less break-in than other traditional shoes which means you can spend more time doing what you love – enjoying your hike – without the need to slowly ramp up mileage. If a burlier shoe that doesn’t compromise on durability, traction, and comfort is what you’re after, the Moabs could be the perfect shoe for you.

Women’s Topo Ultraventure 3

Best Balance of Weight, Support & Breathability

Price: $150

Weight (Pair): 1 lb. 4.6 oz.

Options: N/A

Heel-to-Toe Drop: 5 mm

• Great price for the quality
• Cushy soles

The Topo Ultraventure 3 s have quickly become a favorite hiking shoe for our team because they’re lightweight, highly breathable, and they have excellent grip on a variety of terrain types. 

The Ultraventures hit a nice middle ground between the HOKA Speedgoats above and the Altra Lone Peaks a little further down this list. They provide similar cushioning to the HOKAs combined with a natural foot shape like the Altras, so we think the Ultraventures are a homerun for hikers looking for the best of both worlds.

The uppers are flexible, light, and airy, so they’ll keep your feet feeling cool and unrestricted on long hiking days. However, we’ve found that the taller stack height (a 5mm increase over the Ultraventure 2s) feels a bit unstable on tricky terrain. That said, the Ultraventures are plenty comfortable and secure for putting up big miles on established paths that don’t include sloped rock traverses or scrambling.

Women’s Saucony Peregrine 14

Ultralight Trail Runners with Exceptional Traction

Price: $140

Weight (Pair): 1 lb. 1 oz.

• Superior traction
• Great price for the performance
• Not as durable as some
• Not supportive enough for heavy loads

We’ve hiked thousands of miles in these shoes over the years, and the Saucony Peregrine 14 s continue to be some of our favorites due to their exceptional traction and low weight. Over treks through Nepal, the Sierras, and the Torres del Paine in Patagonia, the sticky outsoles of the Peregrines were up for the challenge.

This version is lighter than ever, even grippier than before, and has a refined fit. These shoes also have an increased stack height with more underfoot cushioning for tough terrain. Plus the Peregrine 13s are made with a highly breathable knit upper that dries quickly, so they’re ready for just about anything you throw at them.

A shoe this light won’t hold up as well as more traditional models in the long run, but you’ll expend less energy with each step and experience fewer problems with sweaty feet (like blisters). The Saucony Peregrines are the shoes you’ll catch us rocking for most of our high-mileage backpacking trips, and we can’t recommend them highly enough for those who prefer lightweight trail runners.

Women’s La Sportiva Spire GTX

Most Durable & Supportive Hiking Shoes

Price: $209

Weight (Pair): 1 lb. 10.2 oz.

Heel-to-Toe Drop: 6 mm

• Above-average support
• Exceptional durability
• Decently breathable for waterproof shoes
• Cleaner look than other burly hiking shoes
• On the heavier side
• Some break-in required
• A bit stiff

The La Sportiva Spire GTX are what we reach for when we need maximum traction and stability on technical terrain. We really put these shoes through their paces on recent hikes among the granite mountains of Southern Arizona, and they delivered exceptional protection and grip from trailhead to peak.

What stands out most about the Spires is their boot-like performance in a more nimble package. With a high level of support and durability but a streamlined fit and look, it’s not surprising to us that La Sportiva describes these as a low-cut boot. This beefy build contributes to a higher overall weight for the Spires, but we don’t find them uncomfortably heavy thanks to the balanced design.

Backpackers hiking with a heavier pack weight in the 35+ pound range will find these shoes well-suited to supporting a heavy load. However, those traveling a bit lighter may prefer to forego the substantial cost of the Spires by choosing the more flexible and affordable Salomon X Ultras below. The Spires are a bit stiffer than the X Ultras – even after breaking in – but they provide undoubtedly better support and traction.

Women’s Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX

Best Waterproof Hiking Shoes

Price: $160

Weight (Pair): 1 lb. 9.9 oz.

Options: Non-waterproof

Heel-to-Toe Drop: 11 mm

• Lightweight for how durable/supportive they are
• Excellent waterproofing
• Fit isn’t our favorite on this newest model
• Quicklace system is clunky

The Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX hiking shoes have a nearly unrivaled balance of durability and low weight – they’re built like a traditional shoe but they fit more like trail runners. These shoes feel much more nimble than others in their category, and they require practically no break-in period. After several hundred miles of testing – including 100 on the rugged Arizona Trail – we’ve found that the traction is well above average on the X Ultras, so they’re great for backpacking or day hikes on challenging terrain.

We’ve used every iteration of the X Ultras since the originals came out, and this is the first model that we weren’t completely in love with. With a stiff, narrow arch that opens up to a slightly wider toe box, this version has a fit that might not work for everyone. We find the heel and midfoot too stiff for our liking, but hikers who like a locked-in feel will probably really dig the new design.

Our fit preferences aside, we’re still big fans of the X Ultra line for its durability, balance of weight/support, and top-tier traction on variable terrain. So we highly recommend them for hikers wanting a shoe that fits like a trail runner but lasts as long as more traditional hiking footwear.

Women’s Altra Lone Peak 8

Best Hiking Shoes for Long-Distance & Thru-Hikers

Weight (Pair): 1 lb. 2.3 oz.

Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0 mm

• More durable than previous Lone Peak models
• Built-in gaiter attachment
• Zero-drop takes some getting used to
• Not as cushioned as the other trail runners

Altra Lone Peaks have long been the flagship shoe of lightweight hikers due to their low weight, grippy outsole, and roomy fit. The 8th iteration of the LPs hit the market with some slight improvements over the LP 7s – the upper material has changed to a more durable ripstop nylon, the overall weight is lower, and the toe cap is slightly beefier.

If you’ve never tried an Altra shoe before, the first thing you need to know is that these are zero-drop – meaning your heel and toes sit at the same height in the shoe as opposed to having a higher heel. Hikers who are new to zero-drop should ramp up mileage to build strength in muscles and tendons that aren’t used to working so hard before taking these on any big trips. That said, once you acclimate to the build, the Lone Peaks allow your foot to move in a more natural way and many hikers find this more comfortable and intuitive.

Adding to that ergononmic feel is the foot-shaped toe box that allows your toes to spread naturally as you step. Most other shoes are designed to direct your foot into a specific gait, but again – many hikers find it’s better to let their feet do their thing according to their particular gait. Like most things with footwear, it’s a highly personal choice and we recommend trying the Lone Peaks for yourself to see if they’re right for you.

Lone Peak enthusiasts have been lamenting the downfall of durability since the LP 4.5s, but the Lone Peak 8s sport a new upper material and more reinforced spots that will make them last longer than previous iterations. But durability will always be part of the tradeoff when you want a lighter shoe, and the Lone Peaks are about as light as you can get for a long-distance shoe.

We put about 650 miles on a pair of Lone Peak 7s on the notoriously tough-on-shoes Arizona Trail before needing to buy a new pair. The Lone Peak 8s feature the same strips of reinforcement as the previous model, but we expect the new upper fabric on this latest model to allow us to push a little further.

Hikers who loved the Lone Peak 7s as much as we did will find that the Lone Peak 8s perform very similarly with a few small improvements. Those seeking a low weight and wider fit that allows for natural movement, should keep the Lone Peak 8s at the top of their list.

Women’s Merrell Moab Speed 2

Excellent Balance of Weight & Durability at a Great Price

Weight (Pair): 1 lb. 3.4 oz.

Heel-to-Toe Drop: 10 mm

This isn’t your father’s Merrell Moab. The Moab Speed 2 is a whole different breed built for lightweight hikers and backpackers looking to cover longer distances. Like the traditional Moab 3 above, the Moab Speeds feature a stout toe cap and a beefy heel that provide solid protection on rocky terrain – but the Speeds deliver it with a lighter and more streamlined build. 

Sitting somewhere between a trail runner and a hiking shoe, the Moab Speeds are more comfortable than many of the hiking shoe offerings on the market. During our test hikes in the foothills of Idaho’s Lost River Range, we found ourselves forgetting to take off the Speeds at camp because they were just that comfy.

We love that the Moab Speeds have a similar, comparatively less expensive price point than their traditional counterparts, but budget-conscious hikers tackling tricky trails with a backpack over 35 pounds will likely prefer something like the standard Moab 3s for their added durability and support.

That said, the Moab Speeds are a solid choice for day hikers and lightweight backpackers looking for a more nimble shoe that won’t break the bank. And the Speeds are good-looking and comfortable enough to double as an around-town shoe.

Women’s KEEN Targhee IV WP

Excellent Value Hiking Shoes for Day Hikers

Weight (Pair): 1 lb. 15.5 oz.

Heel-to-Toe Drop: 14 mm

• Great traction on non-technical trails
• Extra secure lacing system
• Stiff soles
• Waterproofing limits breathability
• Requires longer break-in period

The KEEN Targhee IV WPs are a favorite because they’re a dependable shoe that’s made to last. These leather hiking shoes require a longer break-in time than many of the lightweight models on our list, but the high-quality material of the upper holds up for hundreds of miles on the trail.

One of our favorite features of the Targhees is the elastic band that connects the laces to the heel cup. This provides a secure, locked-in feeling and makes it easier to dial in the perfect fit. The Targhees are also known for their wide toe box, so they’re an excellent choice for hikers needing a little extra wiggle room in their shoes.

Because they’re on the bulkier side and not as breathable or fast-drying as some shoes, we recommend the Targhees for shorter hikes and for those who want something long-lasting and comfy for daily wear.

Women’s Oboz Sawtooth X WP

Highly Supportive Hiking Shoes That Hold Up to Hard Use

Weight (Pair): 2 lb. 1.1 oz.

Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8 mm

• More supportive than most hiking shoes
• Wide toe box
• Surprisingly quick break-in for such a stout shoe
• Heavy/bulky
• Support is overbuilt for some

Thanks to their signature premium insoles, the Oboz Sawtooth X WP are some of the most supportive hiking shoes we’ve tested. The molded arch and heel cup, cushy midsoles, and exceptional traction make this shoe a great choice for challenging terrain – especially for backpackers who tend to carry heavier loads over 40 pounds.

The Sawtooths have been a star in Oboz’s lineup of trail shoes for years, and this tenth anniversary edition stays true to the heart of the original while improving upon some key performance features. The reimagined midsole is more durable and supportive, and the outsole has stickier rubber with a new lug pattern for better traction on variable terrain.

The traditional-style Sawtooths start a little stiffer than other pairs, so we recommend breaking them in before taking them on any big trips. But after you get past this initial period, you’ll have a comfy shoe that can withstand multiple years of hiking.

Women’s Merrell MQM 3

Lightweight Hiking Shoe/Approach Shoe Hybrid

Weight (Pair): 1 lb. 6.5 oz.

• No break-in required
• Traction isn’t as solid as others
• Stiffer than others in their weight class

The Merrell MQM 3 s are pretty unique shoes that blend the freedom of a lightweight hiking shoe with the scrambling prowess of an approach shoe. They have a slim heel and midfoot that opens up to a wider toe box for a secure, yet unrestricted fit that allows your toes to move naturally.

The outsoles don’t have much variety in the lug pattern, so we’ve found that the MQMs can struggle a bit on trails with mixed terrain. But the sticky climbing zone at the front and the soft rubber of the Vibram lugs along the rest of the foot work well for granite inclines and rocky traverses. The cushy soles also provide plenty of comfort for long days with a pack on, so the MQMs are a good choice for hikers tackling mountainous trails.

Though the hybrid design of the MQM 3 doesn’t excel as a hiking shoe or an approach shoe in our view, we think its affordable price and solid performance in both categories make it a good option for hikers who spend most of their time on granite-laden trails.

Product Comparison Table

How we test & methodology.

We assess hiking shoes along five different dimensions: comfort, traction, weight, durability, and weather resistance. We have hiked hundreds of miles in each pair of shoes and taken them the distance to determine how each model performs in the following metrics.

Comfort is queen when it comes to footwear. We test with a careful eye toward the space in the toe box – enough to accommodate natural toe splay and prevent squished toes and blisters during long hikes, but not so much that shoes feel floppy. We scrutinize the lacing system, looking for both a secure and customizable fit that allows users to adjust tension over the course of a hike and prevent slippage or pressure points. The right sole stiffness is crucial to strike a balance between stability and flexibility, ensuring sufficient support while allowing for natural foot movement on uneven terrain. We also take note of arch support, examining each shoe’s ability to provide adequate support for various foot arch types to limit fatigue and discomfort over extended periods. Also paramount, we use our feet to feel out cushioning and a shoe’s capacity for impact absorption and responsiveness with every each stride.

For traction, we tackle a variety of terrains. From traditional single track to gravel, rock scrambles, mud, and sand. Most shoes perform admirably enough in fair conditions, so we are sure to put each pair through its paces in wet and slick conditions to figure out which ones can really grip in the muck. We analyze the lug pattern of the outsole, and rank them by depth and bite. Deeper lugs typically provide superior traction in loose or slippery conditions. The sole material plays a vital role in traction performance and we are also sure to test out additional traction features like heel brakes and forefoot grooves, which generally enhance grip and maneuverability on steep descents or ascents.

The lighter the better, all else being equal. We look at the listed manufacturer weight and weigh each pair ourselves.

Durability is every aspect of construction and materials that ensures long-lasting performance on the trail. We put on mile after mile, carefully assess the outsole material, opting for durable rubber compounds and specialized blends that resist abrasion and wear. We also feel out the insole foam to see how well it maintains its cushioning properties and structural integrity over extended use. The upper material is another critical consideration for us and we examine its resilience against tears, and punctures, especially in high-wear areas. And though they are replaceable, we still scrutinize the durability of the laces, ensuring they can withstand repeated tightening and loosening without fraying or breaking.

WEATHER RESISTANCE

Weather resistance is about keeping out water, drying quickly, and providing breathability to keep feet dry. After hiking through rain and crossing waterways, we thoroughly examine the upper material of each pair for its ability to repel water. Certain features like well-sealed seams and a gusseted tongue are important for their effectiveness in preventing water penetration. In addition, we pay attention to the design of the collar, looking for a snug (but still comfortable) seal against rain, mud, and debris. Furthermore, we assess the breathability of the shoe to prevent sweat buildup.

Why Trust CleverHiker

The CleverHiker team has an expert eye for outstanding hiking shoes, and we’ve spent more than 2,000 days hiking and trekking to find the best models for every use case. Gear Analyst, Casey Handley , has conquered thousands of miles on the Appalachian Trail, Colorado Trail, and Arizona Trail, meticulously testing women’s hiking shoes. Her assessments after hiking through various weather conditions and some of the longest trails in the world guarantee that only the best footwear earns a spot on our list. With extensive experience in gear sales and years of detailed product reviews, Casey upholds a high standard of quality and performance when it comes to gear. Her deep knowledge of footwear means her recommendations will suit hikers of every skill level.

Analysis & Results

Tighten those laces and scroll down to find out which hiking shoes are the top performers for comfort, traction, weight, durability, and weather resistance.

High-quality hiking shoes can be expensive, but they’re one of the most important investments you’ll make – keeping your feet happy and healthy on the trail. Not only do we assess performance, but we look for great value. The better performance a product has relative to its price, the greater its value.

If you’re looking for premium shoes without the premium price, our top performers are the HOKA Speedgoat 5 , Merrell Moab 3 , and Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX . Each of these models is an excellent choice for hiking thanks to high-quality Vibram outsoles that offer unrivaled durability and superior traction. They are also some of the most comfortable options on our list, with cushy midsoles, superior grip, and ergonomic designs that support the foot during long hikes to reduce fatigue, promote natural foot flexion, and prevent discomfort. And, they’re all made with highly breathable materials that promote healthy airflow and excellent moisture management. They stand out as durable shoes made with robust construction and materials built to last for years. The Speedgoat, Moab, and X Ultra 4s are some of the most versatile and value-forward shoes on our list.

The most comfortable shoes we tried are the HOKA Speedgoat 5 , Merrell Moab 3 , and the Topo Ultraventure 3 . The Speedgoat 5 offers one of the most plush, responsive midsoles of any shoe on this list, offering excellent cushioning to absorb impact and keep your feet feeling fresh after long hiking days. Its roomy toe box accommodates swelling and the lightweight design and breathable mesh upper will keep your feet cool and comfortable throughout the hike.

We’re big fans of the Moabs, with its out-of-the-box comfort thanks to a contoured footbed with plenty of arch and heel support that makes them feel stable and reduces strain. The breathable liner wicks moisture away to keep feet dry and comfy, and the flexible, cushy heel absorbs shock and adds stability.

And, you can’t go wrong with the Topo Ultraventure 3. This model has one of the widest toe boxes on this list so your toes and forefoot can splay and flex naturally, reducing discomfort and the potential for blisters. Its soft EVA midsole provides plush cushioning and responsiveness and the breathable mesh upper and gusseted tongue make this one of our top choices for hot days since it’s so breathable with the lacing system offering a reliable, strong fit.

The top performers for traction are the Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX , Oboz Sawtooth X WP , Topo Ultraventure 3 , and the La Sportiva Spire GTX . All four models are equipped with aggressive, multi-directional lugs on their outsoles that bite into the ground effectively – whether it’s mud, rocks, or loose gravel. Robust lug patterns like these models make them stable and reduce the risk of slipping. Each one uses durable rubber blends in their outsoles like Vibram and proprietary materials that are incredibly abrasion-resistant and long-lasting, so the lugs maintain their grip over the life of the shoe. Plus, each shoe offers a supportive midsole construction that makes them feel simultaneously responsive and stable, which directly translates to better control and traction on uneven terrain.

The lightest shoes on our list are the Saucony Peregrine 14 , Altra Lone Peak 8 , and Merrell Moab Speed 2 . These models walk a fine line between weight and support, so you’ll feel comfortable and stable – without feeling weighed down. These shoes lead the pack when it comes to breathable materials for ventilation, flexible outsoles for top-tier ground contact, shock-absorbing midsoles for added comfort, and ergonomic designs that promote natural foot movement. Just because they’re lightweight, though, doesn’t mean they aren’t durable.

These models are impressively versatile and feature excellent construction for added longevity. The Saucony Peregrine 14 weighs just 1 lb. 1 oz. thanks to lightweight mesh and synthetic overlays in the uppers, which makes them durable and airy without unnecessary bulk. The Altra Lone Peak 8 is a very close second at 1 lb. 2.3 oz. The Lone Peaks use similar advanced materials and a minimalist, zero-drop midsole that offers ample cushioning while keeping the overall weight low. And, rounding out our top three for weight is the Merrell Moab Speed 2, weighing in at just 1 lb. 3.4 oz. The Speed 2 also utilizes lightweight construction, including breathable mesh uppers and streamlined midsoles.

If your top priority is durability, look no further than the Oboz Sawtooth X WP , Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX , and the La Sportiva Spire GTX . These shoes share features like reinforced toe caps, abrasion-resistant uppers, durable, grippy outsoles, quality waterproofing, and robust construction.

Additionally, these models are equipped with high-quality and effective waterproof membranes like  Oboz’s B-DRY and Gore-Tex, which protect against the elements and extend the shoes’ lifespan. The Oboz Sawtooth X WP is our top pick due to its sturdy leather and mesh upper and outstanding, burly lug pattern built to last season after season. Alternatively, the Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX has a synthetic upper that’s seriously abrasion-resistant, but it also stands out thanks to long-lasting details like metal grommets, tall and soft heel cuffs, and a large toe cap. The La Sportiva Spire GTX rounds out our top picks with its rugged Vibram outsole and burly Nubuck leather and mesh upper, offering excellent resistance to wear and tear.

For weather resistance during wet, snowy, and muddy adventures, our top picks are the Oboz Sawtooth X WP , Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX , La Sportiva Spire GTX , and KEEN Targhee IV WP . These models share features that make them exceptional when the clouds roll in, like high-quality waterproof membranes, seam-sealed construction, protective uppers, and moisture-wicking linings.

They all offer rugged outsoles that offer excellent traction on wet and slippery surfaces as well. The Oboz Sawtooth X WP features the Oboz B-DRY waterproof membrane, which will keep your feet dry and still allow for excellent breathability thanks to their combination of leather and mesh in the upper. The Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX is equipped with a Gore-Tex waterproof membrane, offering reliable protection against rain and puddles without sacrificing breathability.

La Sportiva Spire GTX also utilizes Gore-Tex Surround technology, which provides 360-degree waterproofing and breathability. The KEEN Targhee IV WP incorporates the brand’s own KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane, effectively sealing out moisture while allowing for air circulation.

How to Choose Hiking Shoes

Boots vs. shoes vs. trail runners.

Hiking footwear is a really personal choice, and people often have differing opinions on what type of shoe works best for hiking. We tend to prefer lightweight trail runners since they’re more comfortable to hike long distances in and they’re typically more breathable. Traditional hiking shoes – especially those made with leather – are going to be more durable, but they’re typically significantly heavier/bulkier. Hiking boots tend to work well for those wanting extra ankle support and durability. Here’s an article that will help you decide which style works best for you.

Feet can swell during long days on trail, so it’s a good idea to buy hiking footwear at least a half size larger than your normal shoes if you’re on the edge of a size. A good way to test sizing on your hiking shoes is to loosen all the laces, situate your foot so that your toes touch the front of the toe box, and then make sure you can put your index finger between your heel and the back of the shoe. This will ensure that your toes don’t slide forward and hit the toe box on downhill sections of trail. You should also consider which  socks  you’ll be wearing and if you’ll be adding  aftermarket insoles  when choosing a size. It’s much better for footwear to be a little big than too small.

BREAK-IN PERIOD

You’re going to take thousands of steps on any backpacking or hiking trip, so you need to know that your footwear will fit comfortably and won’t cause blisters. We recommend buying your footwear at least a few weeks before any long hiking trips and spending as much time in them as you can. This will allow your new shoes to soften up, and you can make sure they work well for your feet. If you notice any issues, it’s much easier to address them before you head into the backcountry.

Traction is one of the most important aspects of backpacking and hiking footwear. Your shoes will take you over narrow and rocky ridgelines, through slippery water crossings, and across loose scree fields. Knowing that your footwear will keep you from slipping is crucial, especially over washed out or exposed sections of trail. We heavily factored quality traction into all of our footwear recommendations.

MANAGING MOISTURE & BLISTERS

If you’re on an extended trip in wet conditions or you find yourself caught in a downpour during a day hike, your feet will likely get wet no matter what type of footwear you’re wearing. Wet feet can lead to hot spots and blisters, but this can be prevented if you have a healthy foot care routine. Whether you hike in waterproof hiking shoes or non-waterproof trail runners, be sure to check out our post on How to Prevent and Treat Blisters  for more info on moisture and blister management.

WATERPROOFING TREATMENTS

zzWaterproof footwear is ideal for soggy day hikes, but it’s important to remember that “waterproof” doesn’t mean that water can never get in. Water always finds a way in during a prolonged downpour, and light rain can drip down your legs and into your shoes. Keep in mind that waterproof treatments are not permanent, you’ll eventually need to  reapply a treatment  to keep your shoes sealed.

We’ve found that wearing quality socks makes a big difference in how long we can keep our feet happy and in good shape on trail. Hiking socks should be comfortable, durable, and made with materials that wick moisture away from your skin. Check out our Best Hiking Socks  list to see our top picks.

Aftermarket insoles can help alleviate a variety of shoe discomforts on the trail. If you suffer from  plantar fasciitis  or you just need more  cushioning and support  in an otherwise rigid shoe, swapping insoles may be your solution. Insoles can also help take up a little extra space in footwear for a customized fit if you’re between sizes.

Honorable Mentions

These hiking shoes are very popular and have a lot of good things going for them. You never know, one of them might be your perfect fit:

Merrell Siren Edge 3

The lightweight and affordable Merrell Siren Edge 3 hiking shoes have a varied lug pattern for good traction on many different types of terrain. We find the support to be a little stiff and overbuilt for our liking, but many others like the Siren Edges for wearing as everyday shoes around town.

As for their performance on trail, the aggressive arch and stiff underfoot take away much of the ground feel and make us less confident on paths with a lot of uneven terrain – like rooty and rocky trails. The tread is excellent for groomed paths with a mix of stone slab, dirt, and wet rock, but they’re noticeably more clumsy on loose terrain and muddy trail.

La Sportiva TX 4

La Sportiva’s TX4s are approach shoes, so they excel on trails with a lot of scrambling. While they’re not as versatile as the other shoes on our main list, they do what they do quite well.

So who needs an approach shoe? The main demographics are climbers and mountaineers who need nimble but supremely grippy shoes for tricky traverses to final ascents, but some hikers who don’t mind a snug fit find the exceptional traction of the TX4s preferable for all manner of trail.

Most members of the CleverHiker team prefer a looser fit for their shoes, and that’s a big part of the reason the TX4 just wasn’t it for us. Moreover, we tend to find that footwear that attempts to blend uses ends up being really good for one thing and not so great for the other. If you asked us our favorite approach shoe – it would be the TX4, no questions asked. But for typical hiking trails, we’re almost always going to reach for something less stiff, snug, and specific.

We hope this guide to the best women’s hiking shoes helps step up your hiking game to tackle long miles and big trail adventures. Footwear that excels in dimensions like comfort, traction, weight, durability, and weather resistance will transform your trail experience and make every hike even more enjoyable.

Why trust us?

We understand how tough it is to find trustworthy gear advice, and that’s one of the main reasons we built CleverHiker. We live for outdoor adventure, and we take these guides very seriously.

• Our recommendations are completely independent and based on hands-on experience.
• We test outdoor gear for a living – we’ve logged over 20,000 trail miles and 1,000 nights in the wilderness.
• Our team has thru-hiked some of the most iconic long trails, including the Continental Divide Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, Appalachian Trail, Colorado Trail, Long Trail, Oregon Coast Trail, Arizona Trail, Pinhoti Trail, Superior Hiking Trail, as well as extensive peak bagging, and international treks.
• We field test every product we recommend, which is sadly not the norm.
• We travel to industry trade shows to stay up-to-date on product innovations.
• We continuously update our guides throughout the year and when new products launch.
• We treat recommendations to our readers as if they were for our family and friends.
• We’re lifelong learners and we’re always open to feedback. If you think we’ve missed a worthy product or got something wrong, we’d love to know about it.

Need more Footwear advice?

Best Women’s Winter Boots of 2024

Best Women’s Hiking Boots of 2024

The 7 Best Rain Boots for Women of 2024

Best Trail Running Shoes for Women of 2024

Best Women’s Hiking Sandals of 2024

The Best Camp Shoes of 2024

5 Reasons To Ditch Your Hiking Boots

How to Prevent and Treat Blisters While Hiking

10 Best Hiking Socks of 2024

Best Hiking Boots for Men of 2024

Best Hiking Shoes for Men of 2024

Best Rain Boots for Men of 2024

Get the best content from cleverhiker & around the backpacking world.

Social media is great, but our bi-weekly newsletter is a much better way to stay in the know.

Sign up to get our curated emails with the best content from CleverHiker and around the backpacking world. You’ll be turned on to new videos, trip reports, gear reviews, inspiring outdoor stories and much more. So get in the mix!

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works

Home / Features / The best walking shoes 2022: top choices for your next trek

The best walking shoes 2022: top choices for your next trek

Hiking tech has evolved and you can now buy fast and light all terrain shoes and boots with trainer levels of comfort

Walking shoes and boots have changed. No longer are you necessarily looking for a traditional leather boot to tackle hikes and more; youu can now buy fast and light all-terrain shoes and boots with the same level of comfort that you’d expect from a pair of sturdy sneakers.

After all, while a decent pair of boots is a Godsend for a day spent walking in the Lake District, it’s not necessarily what you want for a fairly flat few miles – it might still be muddy, of course, but you don’t need the same rigidity. Added to which, many boots can feel quite restrictive and heavy, too.

These walking shoes then, are designed to be a lighter alternative to leather boots – however, be warned that they’re just not as good in bad weather, so if you’re going hiking where it’s going to rain all week or you need to cross streams, you’ll probably need something a bit more substantial.

Most walking shoes do have a waterproof lining, many ultilise Gore-Tex and have synthetic uppers rather than leather – more breathable, but as we mentioned, less weather-resistant. Here’s our pick.

Our pick of the latest walking shoes and boots

Haglöfs Duality AT1 Gore-Tex

Sustainable, stylish and surprisingly versatile, the PFC free, recycled polyester toting Duality ATI boasts trainer like levels of comfort for all-day mooching, waterproofing in case you make friends with a muddy puddle, and, ingeniously, a choice of interchangeable midsoles, one of which is soft and flexible for all-day casual wear, the other has added stiffness, guarding your feet from rocks and roots when you head off the beaten path. In reality, most people will never swap away from the softer midsoles – they’re great for casual off-tarmac trail walks as well as in town – but if you do, you’ll not only help justify the high price with the 2-4-1 deal on walking boots and trainers but, when combined with the ASICS rubber sole, also enjoy excellent support for when the going underfoot gets tougher.

Adidas TERREX AX4

Choose anything from the Terrex range these days and you won’t be disappointed, but if you’re looking for a go-anywhere pair of walkers with great support and sensational traction the AX4 is for you. Gore-tex keeps your feet dry, the upper is made from Primegreen recycled materials and the soles are slathered in a thick layer of Continental tyre rubber.

Nike ACG Mountain Fly Low GORE-TEX

This impossibly cool pair of sneakers will serve you as well in Shoreditch as Snowdonia, but with Gore-Tex waterproof upper and plush React midsole you’ll enjoy bouncy fun all the way to the summit. The chunky lacing system really hugs your feet for added security over rough terrain, while the big toe bumper protects them from boulder stubbings. 

Salomon Outpulse GTX

Based around Salomon’s class-leading trail running tech, but geared towards those moving at a more sedate pace, these Gore-Tex shoes are brilliant on trails and towpaths thanks in part to Fuze Surge foam that offers excellent energy return and cushioning, and Contagrip rubber outsoles give grip on wet and dry terrain. Also available without waterproofing if you want your feet to breathe.

AKU Rock DFS GTX

A versatile and technical approach shoe designed for climbers but appreciated by virtually everyone who wears them. The uppers are made from suede and AKU’s own innovation Air 8000, which is both warm and highly breathable. There’s a broad rubber rand and toe box for added protection, while the grippy Vibram sole and dual lacing system – tweak tightness in two places depending if you’re walking or climbing – is brilliantly innovative. 

• Which trainers should you buy? The best workout shoes for running, training and exercise

Freelance Journalist - tech, audio, lifestyle, health and interiors, not always in that order.

Share this:

Related content, the bob and brad d6 pro massage gun fixes an old age problem…my back.

Aches and pains, be gone

This brand’s first running shoe wants to help you go faster at any distance

Sudu’s a new brand on the scene, and its debut running shoe is the SRM 01 – design for fast-paced performance at any distance

Best camping gear 2024: top tent tech and festival accessories

Gear up for summer festivals, rainy campsites and glorious glens with our guide to top camping gear

Our editors carefully select every product we recommend. We may earn a commission from these links. Learn more

Tested: The Best Men’s Hiking Shoes For Tackling The Trails

By: Ethan Brehm Published: Jun 19, 2024

When shopping for your first pair of footwear for hiking , it may seem natural to pick something with a little extra heft; something bulky to withstand the demands of a trail. However, hiking shoes may prove to be a better option for some. They’re light, more breathable, and provide more freedom when jaunting through the woods or mountains. To make your shopping decision easier, we’ve put together a guide to the best hiking shoes to buy this year where we got to test out our favorites.

Best Hiking Shoes

Best Budget Hiking Shoes

Merrell Moab 3

Best Boot-Like Hiking Shoe

Oboz Firebrand II Low Waterproof

Most Stylish

Salomon X Ultra 4 GORE-TEX

Best All-Arounder

Danner Trail 2650

Best for Backpacking

HOKA Anacapa 2 Low GTX

Best Upgrade

La Sportiva Spire GTX

Article Overview

How We Tested

What to look for, hiking shoes comparison chart, hiking shoes vs. hiking boots, honorable mentions, tested: the best men’s hiking sandals to hit the trails.

A rugged activity like hiking doesn’t need to be paired with chunky footwear. Whether you’re new to the activity or a seasoned veteran, you’ll quickly see how low-top hiking shoes will afford you a breezier experience. Admittedly, there are a lot of excellent options to choose from out there, but there are also some not-so-great choices. For our guide, we looked to our favorite brands and popular brands that we may not have had as much experience with, considering aesthetic , durability, materials, waterproofing, outsole, laces, and price.

From there, we sourced our units and got to the fun part of the job: testing. We took each pair outdoors to see how they felt on-foot and how long they lasted, looking at supportiveness, traction, agility, and all-around comfort. The results are detailed below.

Measurements: I, Ethan Brehm, was the person testing these hiking shoes. I’m a U.S. size men’s 12.5 and have medium-width feet, so keep that in mind when reading my feedback on these units. Unless stated otherwise, all of the shoes in this guide are a size 12.5.

Durability: When traversing the outdoors, the durability of your shoes is extremely important, both for the immediate outing and for longevity (you don’t want to be replacing these shoes every year or two). As such, look for upper materials such as nylon or leather, and even tough outsole rubber, especially from brands such as Vibram. Durability also includes midsole plates for protecting your own feet and toe guards for any unexpectedness on the trail.

Weight: Another thing that makes hiking shoes preferable over boots is their lower weight, which allows you to go a bit faster and, thus, last longer outdoors . Most of these shoes are fairly lightweight, with some being better in that regard than others.

Traction: The main difference between casual footwear and hiking shoes/boots is the traction. You won’t want to spend much time on uneven terrain with regular sneakers on. In these regards, Vibram is by far the most popular and common outsole maker on the planet. But even within the Vibram sphere, certain lugs will be higher than others. If you’re looking to do steep inclines/declines or trek through mud, make sure you have something with a bit more traction.

Support: While hiking boots will give you more stability and support than hiking shoes, hiking shoes still win the low-top shoe game in this regard. Modern innovation has managed to lessen the weight of these sneakers without losing much of anything in the way of support. That said, you should still be considering how long you’ll be wearing these shoes and the intensity of your trek. For backpacking and multi-day hikes, opt for some of the sturdier options.

Waterproofing: Because of their lower profile, hiking shoes don’t cover above your ankles. So when traversing through streams and lower water, you won’t be afforded as much leeway. However, most hiking shoes offer some innate water resistance, whether it be water-repellant uppers materials or an entire GORE-TEX membrane that will protect your foot entirely.

• Always reliable
• Comfortable arch and heel support
• Bellowed tongue keeps out debris
• Quick to break in
• Not the most stylish
• Laces are thick
• Runs large in front

Best Budget Hiking Shoes: Merrell is simply one of the best brands when it comes to hiking footwear . Its updated version of the flagship Moab better optimizes the size of the mesh lining vents on the sides and has more cushioned midsoles, more supportive insoles, and more grip on its Vibram outsole with the TC5+. The insoles themselves are removable Kinetic Fit Advanced, which has a reinforced heel for medium support. Merrells don’t take long to break in, and these shoes are no different. The proprietary Air Cushion in the heel and blended EVA midsoles give you support and comfort for a long journey, while the bellowed foam tongue keeps out any unnecessary extras. Weighing around 2lbs, the Moab 3 is both flexible and sturdy. There’s a reason why you can’t go far on the trails without spotting these.

Years ago, the first purpose-built pair of hiking boots I bought were Merrell Moabs (first-gen) and they’re still some of the best boots I’ve ever worn. This is my first experience with the low-top version, which has a similar underfoot feel, with remarkable yet straightforward traction, solid arch support –– perhaps my favorite of any brand –– and durability that’s obvious just from looking at the shoes.

Another obvious advantage of the Merrells is their price tag . For just about $120, these shoes have hardly gone up in price over the years and yet you still get a superb on-trail experience. I particularly noticed the heel support this time around, which complements the arches very well. I tend to lean on my heels more when I stand/walk, so this was helpful to me especially.

The Not So Good

A major detraction people have with Merrells is their “crunchy” appearance. Not known for being as stylish as, say, the Salomon and Hoka offerings, the brand’s range is nevertheless function-forward, which is quite alright when you’re hiking. I will say, however, that compared to the boot version that I’ve gone out with, the Moab 3 shoes seemed to run a tad large. I tested a size 12.5 and there was too much space by the toes, which was only a major issue when going up or down slopes. Likewise, Merrells have always had an issue with the laces, in that they’re pretty thick so you’ll have to double-knot these if you want them to stay tied.

Verdict: You won’t get a sophisticated lacing system, waterproof uppers, or extra features for technical trails but the Merrell Moab 3 is a steady, reliable hiking shoe for a fantastic price. We noticed that the low-top shoes ran a tad large and they won’t be as stylish as other options on this list but in terms of function, you can’t go wrong with Merrells.

Weight: 2lbs Waterproof?: No Uppers: Pigskin leather and mesh Outsole: Vibram TC5+ Lug Height: 5mm Heel Drop: 11.5mm

• Good ankle security
• Surprisingly stylish
• Versatile traction
• Wide toe box to prevent blisters
• Lots of laces to tighten
• Takes a while to break in

Best Boot-Like Hiking Shoe: Boots have their place in the hiking world , and certain adventurers can’t live without ankle protection. However, from a performance standpoint, hiking boots also feel a bit sturdier and wider than their low-top compatriots. While it’s still very much below the ankle, Oboz’s range of hiking shoes does a great job of blurring the gap between a shoe and a boot. Narrower in the heel, yet wider in the toe to prevent blisters, the Firebrand II Low offers extreme traction with sidewall lugs and Sawtooth lugs underneath for an unbelievable capability. Likewise, the noticeably dense cushioning on the underfoot makes these great for multiday expeditions. Still a hiking shoe through and through, these low-tops from Oboz are breathable thanks to the wide mesh vents, yet entirely waterproof with B-DRY leather membranes throughout the uppers.

Compared to your standard hiking shoes, the Oboz Firebrand II felt more like boots in their height and sturdiness. If you can get the laces right, the ankle is far more secure than the other shoes I tested. I also loved how stiff they felt around my feet (I’m more of a boot guy, personally) and how the traction performed even on harder surfaces like asphalt.

Like a more stylish version of the earth-tone-heavy Merrells, the Oboz Firebrand II is surprisingly attractive, even if it won’t give you tons of versatility off the trail. Despite testing a size 13 (larger than my regular size 12.5), I can also deduce that these fit true to size, even with the wider toe box up front, which is designed to prevent blisters. The 13 Firebrands fit similarly to the 12.5 Merrells above, which were a tad large. So if you’re getting a pair, go for your normal size with the Oboz.

Like the Merrells, these had super thick spaghetti-sized laces that require double-knotting. However, my least favorite aspect was how many switchbacks there were, with about triple the amount on the Moabs. This only adds extra time when lacing up, which I do meticulously because I’m a stickler for fit and tightness. I also didn’t love how the tongue felt on my foot, with weird pressure at certain points throughout my hike. Some wearers may not love how stiff the uppers feel at first. While I personally didn’t mind them, they do take a while to break in for more flexibility.

Verdict: Sturdier than your average hiking shoe, the Oboz Firebrand II also features superb traction and heightened security around the ankle –– that is, if you can get the laces to tighten to your liking. While they take a bit longer to break in than some others and take even longer to lace up (just exaggerating), these shoes are still some of the more stylish trail-specific shoes you’ll find.

Weight: 2.3lbs Waterproof?: Yes Uppers: Nubuck leather and nylon mesh Outsole: Rubber Lug Height: Unspecified Heel Drop: 15mm

• Fantastic lacing system
• Lightweight
• Comfortable
• Perfect fit
• Uppers took some time to break in
• Strangely similar to Salomon’s non-hikers

Most Stylish: Lately noted for crossing over to the streetwear scene, Salomon hasn’t forgotten about its first calling card: outdoor activities . And this pair is certainly made for traversing the more challenging trails in the backcountry. While Salomon’s oeuvre includes high-top “shoes,” we went with the purists’ pick. Breathable and waterproof, the Salomon X Ultra 4 taps into the brand’s expertise in trail runners, equipped with GORE-TEX protection and the low profile of a hiking shoe. Made for agility on any terrain, this silhouette weighs in at just 1.7lbs but keeps your foot secure thanks to a single lacing system, proprietary SensiFit cradling technology, and Active Support, which adapts to the shape of your foot. The Contragrip MA outsoles let the wearer go from wet to dry terrain without losing any traction.

Compared to your average hiker, the Salomon X Ultra 4s undoubtedly look cooler. These low-top shoes almost don’t seem like they’re meant for the outdoors at all, which is perfectly fine because they perform well. Like other Salomon sneakers, these feature built-in vents that integrate with the design of the upper, serving both form and function. Likewise, these fit incredibly true-to-size, with a perfect amount of room in front of the toes while also locking my feet into place, which helped a lot with inclines and more narrow paths that may have been trickier with other shoes or boots.

Salomon has arguably my favorite lacing system of any shoe I’ve worn, hiking or otherwise. They helped with fine-tuning the fit, which was already great. I’ve become quite a fan of cinched lacing systems but Salomon has perfected the tech here and made it easy to get the hang of after only a couple of uses.

My criticism, and it’s kind of a weird one, is that I can’t see too much of a difference between Salomon’s X Ultra 4 hiking shoe and its Acs walking shoe . Both happen to be incredibly comfortable, stylish, and easy to walk in but it does call into question the brand’s ability to separate the two activities. However, hiking and walking are admittedly adjacent to one another, and I found the transition here to be fluid. Some users complain that these aren’t as comfortable or supportive as the X Ultra 3s but I found them to be just fine. The uppers were, however, a bit stiff and didn’t break in very quickly.

Verdict: Lightweight and comfortable, Salomon’s X Ultra 4 may not have much differentiation from the brand’s non-hikers but these stylish trail shoes are nevertheless superb. Our biggest complaint is the lack of break-in time for the uppers but the underfoot feeling and fit checked all the boxes. If you’re looking for the lacing system perfected, and at a fair price, check out these outdoor-streetwear crossovers.

Weight: 1.72lbs Waterproof?: Yes Uppers: Synthetic and textile with GORE-TEX lining Outsole: Rubber Lug Height: Unspecified Heel Drop: Unspecified

• Really comfortable OrthoLite footbed
• Transitions well to town wear
• Tongue doesn’t cover enough
• Back of collar could be more comfy

Best All-Arounder: You don’t have to sacrifice style for function on your adventure. Danner’s Trail 2650 comes in three attractive colorways to pair with any hiking ensemble. But what’s most impressive is how well-rounded these shoes are. With some of the most reliable traction on the market, the Trail 2650s utilize the expertise of the Oregon-based footwear brand who’s specialized in some of the sturdiest adventure and work boots over the past 90 years. Weighing just 12oz per shoe (1.5lbs total), these low-profile sneakers come equipped with Vibram 460 outsoles for gripping any terrain, durable uppers made from leather and textiles — lined with mesh for ventilation — and an OrthoLite footbed to keep you going for as long as you’d like.

Perhaps more than most other Danner models, the American-made Trail 2650 has incredible style. Available in several unique and neutral colorways, the shoes we picked for testing were the “Clay” variant, which looked great on my feet. I found the leather and textile uppers to be remarkably form-fitting yet I never once found them to lack in durability. Likewise, the heel bumper is great for getting clumps of dirt off without hurting the back of your foot. I also found the outsole traction to be quite versatile, supplemented even more by how lightweight these felt on my feet. It has an agreeable midsole, which balanced bounce and firmness –– the most like a walking shoe of any I tested. Due to both the style and the comfort of the shoe, I kept these on for the rest of the day, even after my hike was over.

Like the Oboz above, these Danners feature a high number of switchbacks for the laces. However, this time around, it doesn’t affect the user experience as much. These shoes are very easy to slip on –– one benefit that can be had for shoes over boots –– and they don’t take as long to lace up.

It’s important to note that there is no tongue guard to prevent debris from getting in, which happened on a couple of occasions throughout my (fairly moderate) hike. I would also add some cushion to the back of the collar behind the Achilles. It’s a bit rigid and too noticeable when hiking. These also run a bit small. I tested a size 13, rather than a proper 12.5, and they fit just fine, so keep that in mind.

Verdict: We call the Danner Trail 2650s the “best all-arounder” because it balances everything from comfort to style to durability to performance to price. Nearly perfect, these hiking shoes only missed the mark in a couple of places, notably the tongue, which allowed too much debris inside, and the back of the collar, which could’ve been more comfortable against the Achilles. Other than that, these are very well-rounded hikers.

Weight: 1.5lbs Waterproof?: No Uppers: Leather and textile Outsole: Vibram 460 with Megagrip Lug Height: Unspecified Heel Drop: 8mm

• Most comfortable on this list
• Lightweight but not flimsy
• Versatile outsole
• Versatile aesthetic
• Would swap out the laces for something flatter/stretchier

Best for Backpacking: If you’re going to be gone for days on end, the last thing you want to be complaining about is the very thing keeping you afloat: your shoes. HOKA has gone from start-up to one of the most dependable footwear firms in the world over the past decade thanks to its oversized outsoles and meticulous cushioning. With its roots in running and distance running shoes, the French-based company has transposed its expertise effortlessly to its line of hiking boots and shoes. Among its most popular models, the Anacapa Low GTX is a take on the Anacapa Mid boot and boasts the same tech. Made from waterproof nubuck leather and upcycled polyester, these shoes weigh just 14oz per shoe and employ a balanced compression-molded EVA cushion, GORE-TEX fabric , and the brand’s signature heel geometry.

Transposing Hoka’s knack for comfortable, wide-soled support to the outdoor world, the Anacapa doesn’t seem like it would be a hiking shoe at first glance. However, with a closer look, you’ll see how well they’re positioned to serve you well outdoors. Featuring a meticulously-designed upper with both breathability and durability in mind, the shoes are complemented by a very comfortable midsole –– no surprise here. As I mentioned, I lean back on my heels when I stand and walk, and they gave me some extra cushioning in the right spots. However, cushioning doesn’t always yield support and sturdiness , and I felt after a while that I needed something less plush underfoot perhaps. On the other hand, if you’re backpacking on less-technical terrain, these should aid you well.

In terms of the outsole, the Vibram Megagrip was exceptional on both dirt, uneven rocky terrain, and smoother surfaces. I was able to transition to wearing these around the house and even on a few errands without an issue (and they don’t look too crunchy either). They’re also pretty lightweight, which helped with endurance as well.

First of all, the fit of the Anacapas didn’t really work out for me. I went with a size 12.5, which was slightly too large. I could’ve gone a half-size down no problem. I also didn’t love the laces here. They were thick, cord-like shoestrings that never felt like they stretched enough to tighten around my feet properly. If these were my daily hikers, I would swap out the laces for something flatter and stretchier (I loved the Danner laces).

Verdict: Compared to the Mid version of the Hoka Anacapa 2s, the low-top iteration felt similar underfoot and performed equally. However, the higher collar on the Mid may mitigate the issues with the laces here. We still loved the Lows with its versatile aesthetic, underfoot comfort, and sneaky durability. These are incredibly lightweight as well, which will serve you well on longer trips.

Weight: 1.75lbs Waterproof?: Yes Uppers: Waterproof nubuck leather and recycled polyester with GORE-TEX Invisible Fit lining Outsole: Vibram Megagrip Lug Height: Unspecified Heel Drop: 8mm

• 360-degree breathability
• Great for more challenging hikes; builds confidence
• Really supportive underfoot
• Surprisingly lightweight
• Great on any terrain

Best Upgrade: La Sportiva is one of the oldest boot-makers on this list — an Italian brand launched in 1928 that eventually made custom mountain boots for soldiers during World War II. Today, the company has quite a range of both broad and specialized footwear. Made for day hikes for serious outdoorsmen, the low-top Spire is constructed with abrasion-resistant mesh, 100% recycled polyester laces, and a combination of Nano Cell 2.0 and GORE-TEX Surround for 360-degree breathability. For versatile traction on any terrain, the outsole comes equipped with Vibram XS Trek and Impact Brake System.

I’ve gotten hands-on with La Sportiva’s incredibly assertive Nepal EVO GTX Mountaineering Boots in the past but these Spire GTX shoes are completely different in every way. Much more accessible for the average hiker, but even better for the experienced hiker, these waterproof sneakers feel very light on the feet. I also loved how supportive they were. I felt the most confident with these shoes when it came to getting on top of rocks or even going up more technical slots. Likewise, these didn’t have any aggressive midsole tech, which I loved since I just wanted something that could keep me balanced all day.

These also featured a traditional lacing system but utilized bungee-style laces that had solid tension yet allowed me to fine-tune my fit, which was crucial since I had the wrong size to begin with. Despite the comfortable uppers, these felt very durable up top, while also providing me with proper breathability. I wasn’t getting too hot in these, which can happen with some waterproof models.

All of my issues with the Spire GTX have to do with the fit. I got a size 12, since they were out of stock of the 12.5, and the shoes were remarkably small. I’m a comfortable 12.5 but I’ve worn 12s on many occasions without any issue. Despite needing some more room, as expected, in the front of my toes, I wasn’t expecting to be suffocated from the sides. These shoes are incredibly narrow, which is saying a lot since I don’t have abnormally wide feet by any means. So keep that in mind when shopping for these. There’s also the matter of availability. As stated, I couldn’t get a 12.5 at the time of sourcing these units for testing.

Verdict: $200+ is notably a lot for any pair of hiking shoes but the La Sportiva Spire GTX is a lightweight, durable shoe that builds confidence out on the trail, especially when doing more technical climbs. The downside is that these were pretty narrow, which affected endurance on the trail –– a shame since the support underfoot was optimal. Whether you’re an advanced hiker or a newcomer, you’ll find these sneakers to be quite helpful, as long as you find the right size.

Weight: 1.94lbs Waterproof?: Yes Uppers: Abrasion-resistant mesh and NanoCell 2.0 with GORE-TEX Surround Outsole: Vibram XS Trek with Impact Brake System Lug Height: Unspecified Heel Drop: Unspecified

If you’ve only ever hiked in one of the two, it’s easy to see how hiking boots and hiking shoes would be interchangeable. These days especially, many “boots” are simply high-top versions of their low-top counterparts. And while similar, each type of footwear has its pros and cons. For one, the lower silhouette is optimal for those with bad or weak knees. If you twist or roll your ankle in boots, you run the risk of injuring your knee, since the damage will often transfer to the nearest support joint that’s not being supported. On the other hand, if your ankles have taken some damage over the years, you’ll probably want to opt for boots instead.

To be honest, hiking boots and hiking shoes are typically two sides of the same coin. For any given brand, these two options are typically built with the same materials and durability, yet just feature a different silhouette. High-top hikers are great for some, but not every excursion demands the capabilities of a heavy-duty boot. If you’re just trekking through a few trails after work or even doing some low-maintenance hikes for a few hours on the weekend, lighter-weight shoes won’t weigh you down as much and can ensure that you and your feet can last the entire duration. Likewise, the smaller frame allows them to pack better in a suitcase if you’re planning on embarking on some adventures on vacation.

If you’re looking for a hiking shoe with a higher boot-like feel, these adidas Terrex Swift R3 GORE-TEX have a very accessible silhouette for transitioning from hiking to other activities — which is one of the main benefits of hiking shoes over hiking boots anyway. We just couldn’t get our hands on the shoes for testing.

Columbia makes fantastic budget-friendly outdoor gear and these Facet 75 Outdry hiking shoes are no different. However, we didn’t love the look of the shoes, despite the $130 price tag.

While socks pose great advantages on our feet, such as rubbing protection and sweat absorption, we may not always want an added layer between our feet and our shoes. Likewise, there’s nothing worse than hiking with wet socks. Fortunately, Astral’s TR1 Mesh Shoes are great whether you’re hiking through wet or dry terrain, and best of all, don’t require you to wear socks. However, these seemed a bit more like water shoes than traditional hiking shoes, so we skipped them for this guide.

Blending the best of a trail runner and a hiking shoe, the Naglev Unico Hiker is both agile and sturdy. Made from a single piece of Kevlar, the upper is reinforced with abrasion- and water-resistant rand that also repels oil, and is backed by a breathable wool sock liner on the inside that wicks moisture as well. However, at over $250, these were a bit impractical (and ugly) for the price.

Sporting a nice minimalist aesthetic, the Arc’teryx Aerios Aura Shoe didn’t meet some of our requirements during our research but they were loved by a lot of people out there, so we decided to mention them anyway.

Fans were excited when Keen unveiled their Targhee IV a couple of months ago. However, these are very similar to the Oboz above and we opted for the latter for their durability and support.

If you prefer to sport something even lighter and more breathable on your feet when traversing the great outdoors, then check out our guide to the best hiking sandals to wear.

From Our Partners

Nike’s ACG Watercat+ Balances Form and Function with Attractive Cord Uppers That Wick Moisture

Presented by Nike

These Ergonomic Slippers from LUCA Can Transition from Fireplace to Fireside with Ease

Presented by Huckberry

The Best USA-Made Everyday Carry Essentials [VIDEO]

Presented by Gerber

More Footwear

Nike’s ACG Watercat+ Is The Versatile Water Shoe You Need This Summer

By Ethan Brehm

LUCA’s Drift Mule Is Designed to Transition Seamlessly from Indoors to Outdoors

Nike Adds Premium Materials to Its Air Jordan 4 Retro Sneakers in “Oxidized Green”

Tested: The Best Work Boots For The Job Site

By Tim Huber

These Versatile Workwear Pants Are Cut From a Rugged Yet Breathable Ripstop Linen

Nike’s Pegasus 41 Is the First to Feature ReactX Foam

• How to Watch the 2024 BET Awards
• BET Awards 2024 Nominations
• Taraji P. Henson to Host 2024 BET Awards
• BET Awards 2024: Usher to Be Honored
• Latest BET Awards News

The 15 Best Walking Shoes for Women in 2024 — Shop Comfortable Sneakers to Wear This Summer

Shop our top picks for the best walking shoes for women, including styles from Hoka, Nike, Allbirds and more.

Whether trying to stay fit, get healthy, or spend more time walking outdoors, gym equipment and  clothing  are important, but walking shoes are especially essential. Some people prefer an intense workout or yoga classes, but walking takes us back to basics. Walking is a wonderful form of exercise and one of the healthiest. It's also a great way to socialize with friends or get out of your head and just enjoy nature. 

But that doesn't mean walking is always easy-breezy. We've all been there: the foot pain kicks in — your toes cramp and you have an aching pain in the soles of your feet or an annoying shooting pain in your arch or heel. That usually means it's time for a new shoe . In fact, these are the biggest signs that you need to replace your  workout shoes with a sturdy and well-designed pair.

Important features to look for in a walking shoe are breathability, ample cushioning for your heel, and arch support. The best part about walking shoes is that with such great lateral support and cushioning, they can double up for most of your workouts . So, kickstart your fitness  routine with the most comfortable walking shoes for summer.

Below, shop all the best walking shoes for women that also happen to be sleek and stylish. Plus, be sure to check out our guide to the best running shoes for women .

Best Walking Shoes for Women in 2024

On cloud 5 shoes.

Truth: Some people's feet sweat more than others. Thankfully, the mesh upper on these shoes help your feet breathe – even on super-hot outdoor runs. And with the extra cushioning in this sneaker, you'll feel like you're running on marshmallows instead of hitting the pavement.

HOKA ONE Bondi 8 Shoes

If you're looking for style and comfort, the Hoka Bondi 8 running shoe is the perfect combination of both. Hoka always has fun colors and now has upgraded heel technology for ultimate shock absorption. 

Brooks Women's Ghost 15 Neutral Running Shoe

The Ghost 15 provides neutral support with its high energizing cushioning, making it perfect for all of your adventures.

$140   $100

New Balance Women's Nergize V3 Cross Trainer

These New Balance cross trainers provide cushion support for foot comfort while walking or jogging.

Ryka Devotion Plus 3 Walking Shoe

The Ryka Devotion 3 is a walking-style sneaker with pillow-soft cushioning and firm heel support that provide the utmost comfort. These affordable cross trainers include memory foam, a rubber outsole and shock absorption, and they come in a myriad of colors to match your workout gear and personality.

Allbirds Women's Tree Dasher 2

This über comfortable shoe from Allbirds is super soft, but provides stiff support if you want to also use it as a running shoe. 

Saucony Women's Triumph 21 Sneaker

Saucony's Triumph 21 sneaker is designed with the brand's lightest-ever PWRRUN+ foam cushioning for ultimate comfort.

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23

The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 shoes feature the GuideRails support system to help protect your knees by reducing excess movement. They also have an updated mesh upper with 3D print for structure and support. 

Asics Women's Gel-Excite 9 Running Shoes

Reviewers praise Asics sneakers for their superior shock absorption and comfort.

Nike Metcon 9 Women's Workout Shoes

The beloved Nike Metacon 9 workout shoes feature a larger Hyperlift plate and added rubber rope wrap for enhanced durability.

New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 1080 V13 Running Shoe

Sport these comfy sneaks on your next hot girl walk around the neighborhood.

lululemon Chargefeel 2 Low Women's Workout Shoe

Designed for all types of training, the lululemon Chargefeel 2 workout shoes deliver style, bounce, and agile support.

Hoka Clifton 9

Hoka's Clifton 9 is designed with a responsive new foam and improved outsole design for ultimate comfort. 

Saucony Women's Integrity Wlk 3 Walking Shoes

For those seeking responsive cushioning from a neutral walker, look no further than the Integrity Walker 3. Crafted with a premium full-grain leather upper, these walking shoes ensure a secure fit that lasts all day.

Brooks Women’s Revel 6 Neutral Running Shoe

With Engineered Air Mesh and 3D Fit Print on the upper, the Revel 6 creates the right blend of stretch and structure for ultimate comfort and stability.

Sign up for the latest deals!

  RELATED CONTENT :

The Best Walking Shoes for Men to Wear This Summer

Sales & Deals

The Best REI Deals to Shop for All Your Summer Adventures

The Best On Running Shoe Deals: Save 40% on Sneakers for Men and Women

The 16 Best Amazon Deals on Skechers Running and Walking Shoes for the Whole Family

Amazon Has the Best Sneakers for Women on Sale — Shop Adidas, Brooks, Reebok and More Starting at $30

The Best Walking Sandals for Women in 2024: Shop Summer Styles from Teva, Sorel and More

The Best Adidas Ultraboost Deals to Get You Out the Door in 2024

The Best Men's Sneaker Deals on Amazon

Updates on celebrity news, tv, fashion and more.

Trek Madone Gen 8 SL7: First ride review

Trek's new madone supersedes its aero champion and kills off the emonda altogether - so is this one bike to rule them all.

Early Verdict

The new Madone has big shoes to fill by replacing two of the most impressive bikes on the market, but initial impressions indicate it's done just that

Fantastic ride quality and comfort

Rigid in power transfer and handling

Stunningly light

A blisteringly fast bike

The accompanying water bottles may take some getting used to

You can trust Cyclingnews Our experts spend countless hours testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

It’s hard to conjure a bike more iconic to pro cycling than the Trek Madone. The Madone was born out of the glory years of Lance Armstrong’s now-shamed successive Tour de France wins, and named after his key training climb – the Col de la Madone. But the Trek Madone achieved the rare feat of surviving the Texan’s fall from grace and living on independently with its own unique legacy. 

The Madone Gen 8 is arguably the most true-to-nature version of Trek’s flagship racer since its original iteration - combining the aerodynamics of the previous Madone with the lightweight design of the Emonda and doing away with the latter model altogether in the process. It brings Trek’s entire performance road bike line back to basics - the Domane is still there for the comfort-cum-cobble market, but the Madone is now Trek’s one and only flagship racer. In the years before the dedicated aero bike, that was the norm, and Trek claims to have returned to that with no downside.

Trek claims that the new Madone SLR hits a frame weight of 765g and a fork weight of 370g, making it the same weight as the outgoing Emonda. It also manages that while exceeding the aerodynamics performance of the previous aero-focussed SLR - by a slender 0.1 watt at 22mph (and marginally faster all the way up to 40mph).

With its shift back to narrow tubes and lightweight performance, alongside the end of the Emonda, it seems fitting to pull back and take a look at how the Madone evolved to reach this latest and perhaps most complete iteration.

The Trek Madone - from the start and back again

Originally billed as an aerodynamic lightweight racer in 2003, it didn't dazzle in weight terms and aerodynamics was limited to a fin on the seat tube. The bike arguably didn’t disrupt that status quo until its second iteration in 2007, and in 2009 came a sub 900g OCLV masterpiece in the bike’s third and most iterative design. However, it still looked, largely, like a bike.

In 2015 that was no longer the case, as Trek unveiled a new Madone which completely transformed the genre. In (unintentional) sync with the launch of the Specialized Venge Vias, the Madone 9 series was the first road bike to completely conceal its front cabling – making the front of the bike completely clean with the help of integrated Bontrager brakes developed specifically for the Madone. To facilitate that, the headtube of the bike had retractable carbon flaps which would open when the handlebars were moved to an acute enough angle, in order to let the brakes pop out from within the headtube.

This was a truly unhinged design (albeit with actual hinges) which offered a seismic leap in aerodynamic performance and overall speed - I attended the launch in 2015 and assumed I was suffering from jetlag delirium. The weight suffered as a result of the aero design. That was exacerbated by the IsoSpeed decoupler on the seatpost which compensated for the harsh aero tubes. In the era of rim brakes and early aerodynamic advances, though, overall weight being a kilo over the UCI minimum weight limit was nothing compared to the enormous watt savings. 

Since then, the Madone developed an adjustable IsoSpeed and gained disc brakes which negated the carbon flaps, before gradually converging back toward a more all-around bike. The 2022 update of the Madone sided for lighter weight at the expense of the IsoSpeed, providing instead an exhaust-like cantilever chasm in the seat tube known as the IsoFlow - still present in the design of the Madone Gen 8.

Indeed, having already taken a step toward being an all-around racer, the Gen 8 looks like the last generation Madone has been on a diet with thinner tubes, radically reshaped for aerodynamics and comfort, all powered by improved 900 OCLV Carbon – Trek’s proprietary blend of carbon fibre.

On the whole, though, Trek’s goal was clearly to make an irrefutably fast bike, which wins both on the ascents, descents and solo into the wind.

More of everything

“To our knowledge this is one of the if not the fastest road race bike that exists within the professional peloton and in the market,” says Jordan Roessingh, Director of Road bikes at Trek. 

“When you're comparing both attributes [weight and aero] of either previous platform, it's 77 seconds per hour faster than Emonda. So that's an enormous difference in aerodynamic performance compared to the previous Emonda despite the fact it's the same weight.” 

The real sell is that the new Madone nails the Emonda’s weight while matching the previous Madone’s aerodynamics. “When you're comparing to a Madone, it's the exact same aerodynamic performance,” Roessingh says. “But 320g lighter – so an enormous weight saving between those two. So again, we're taking the best of both worlds here and merging them and still achieving the highest performance of both attributes.”

The new tube shapes play a big role in the lower weight, better ride and claimed aero benefits. It’s odd as the cross-sections of the aero tubes look blunt and devoid of aerofoil or Kamm-tail shaping. However, when taken as a whole system, sandwiched between a horizontal cross-section of the front rim profile, aero bottles and the rear bottles, the tubes form a sort of neat holistic aerofoil.

Said with almost a grimace, as it’s become an industry cliche, Trek boasts that the bike has better vertical compliance alongside more lateral stiffness. The central IsoFlow seat tube gap claims an 80% improvement in the Madone’s vertical compliance and a 24% improvement over the IsoFlow-less Emonda.

The new Madone carries over the same splayed integrated bar concept as the Gen 7 - positioning the rider 2cm inward on the hoods compared to the drops for aero gains while sitting on the hoods (which has increasingly become the standard aero position).

Strangely, Trek claims the handlebars are less aerodynamic than the Gen 7 iteration, but with a wider cross-section offer a better overall aero performance when air interacts with the bars and then the rider.

In another gravel-like nod to versatility, the new Madone has clearance for 33mm tyres - up from 28mm on the previous Madone. Trek argues that the previous Madone could have handled 30mm or larger in most rim combinations, and for the Gen 8, similarly, 33mm is a conservative estimate. We can believe that given the visible clearance.

Sizing, spec and bottled-up speed

Trek’s aero bottle design is intriguing because this is ground that the bike market had trodden before. Aero water bottles have been commonplace in triathlon and time trial for over a decade, and have crept up into the build of aero road bikes from time to time but never managed to break through.

It’s also intriguing because the Madone is slower than its previous iteration with round bottles. What’s more, without any bottles on the bikes at all, it’s slower - so no ditching your bottles at the base of the climb.

Given the fixation on aero gains, it’s surprising that the claimed 3.7-watt gains with Trek’s RSL water bottles haven’t been adopted across the peloton. In reality, though, aero bottles present a few issues. Typically the aero cages restrict the use of round bottles, while any minor challenge in liberating a bottle is a big issue to a WorldTour rider on a critical climb. Trek claims to have solved both of those problems. 

“These bottle cages are compatible with round bottles” explains Adam Bird, Trek’s Design Engineer for the Madone. “So from a practical perspective, it's something that we expect the pro riders to be trying at the Tour de France – they're actually intending on using aero bottles at the tour. But they need to be able to grab any water bottle from any team or any neutral service and be able to put it in there. So we're balancing the aerodynamic performance with practical performance.”

In terms of breaking through to riders in the WorldTour where in the past the idea may have been dismissed as impractical, Bird argues, "There's a difference in the rider mentality… a lot of the riders now in the peloton are really young. They're very interested in learning about all those slight performance gains that they could potentially find.”

“Ten years ago, we would have shown them this water bottle and they would be like: screw off! There's no way we're gonna practically try them in a peloton. Three Watts? We don't really care about that.”

The proof of concept will be in whether Lidl-Trek riders commit to these bottles throughout the Tour - a piece of minutiae of team tech which I’ll personally be following closely.

The bottles are still not able to be stacked upright, given their angular nature. So don’t pop it on a table ready for a refill.

The change is a bold one given the cycling community’s aversion to change, and for now will be shipped as standard only with SLR – the bottles will be an add-on for lower-tier SL bikes (hence making them comparatively slower than the outgoing Madone SL).

The new Madone is set to go from a 105-equipped SL5 for £3,250.00 ($3,499.99) to a £14,700 ($16,999.99) Madone SLR 9 AXS P1 (Interstellar) with the only deviation in the frame itself being 500 series OCLV in the SL vs new 900 series OCLV in the top-tier SLR. The SLR is also compatible only with electric drivetrains.

Interestingly, the overall offering has shrunk from eight sizes to six.

“We had a lot of sizes that had a lot of overlap,” Roessingh explains. “Many riders could actually ride two different sizes and that created some confusion of just what frame size to ride, as there were some that were like unbelievably close to each other.” In some cases as little as a 4mm difference in stack height.

The fewer sizes are billed as reducing confusion and consolidating the design of each size. The cynic in me naturally assumed that there was perhaps some manufacturing saving at work there, but Roessingh later walked me through some of the logistics of manufacturing on the scale needed for the Madone. Essentially, reducing eight moulds to six may offer substantial savings for a small frame manufacturer, but when selling thousands of frames per year the turnaround of worn moulds means fewer mould sizes doesn’t necessarily mean fewer moulds.

First ride impressions

Trek’s global launch took place near Cebreros in a mountainous corner of the Castile and León region in Spain. Our riding took us directly into the mountains and into open windy plains. 

I was riding the second-tier (Ultegra Di2-equipped) SLR 7, though it was identical to the top-spec SLR 9 as far as the frame design and material. No surprise, then, that there was an immediate sense of speed, power transfer and sharpness riding the Madone.

The previous aero-focussed Madone always excelled in comfort, however, its bulky tubes ultimately gave it the sensation of driving a beefy sports car, while the new SLR not only felt palpably lighter but seemed so much closer to the Emonda in general ride quality. This has the sharp turn of speed and lively handling of a lightweight climber while promising the same speed as an all-out aero machine.

When it comes to all-out speed, it’s very hard to quantify that through a pair of initial test rides. Perhaps the best I could say is that it carried speed well on flat terrain, and at times felt simply blisteringly fast, and was truly a beast on the descents.

It has been too long since I’ve been on a long alpine descent, and despite the relatively shallow inclines, I found myself happily edging toward 80kph. The Madone definitely dared me to take more speed into corners, with a rigid handling character and sat extremely steadily at high speed. 

While I always rated the IsoSpeed system for its abundant comfort, the slight detachment between the front and back of the bike with the 9 series was a bit of a sacrifice for the resulting ride quality. With the IsoFlow system, I didn’t notice any discomfort or bumps on the rear end that I felt needed to be filtered out, and the reward in weight and connection to the road was palpable.

The finishing kit tweaks were probably the most surprising element of my first ride. The squeezed-in handlebar hoods make so much sense. The slight splay in a bar has long been a trend in gravel - offering the wider drops for stability and the narrow for speed. It works very well on the Madone and I was left wondering why we ever bother with hoods that are 42cm apart. 

The bottles, despite my scepticism, were easy to handle and never once a hassle to stow or release from the cage.

Early verdict

While I’ve only had a fleeting ride experience with the Madone, my first impression is this is a bike that really shows the maturity of cycling tech at its best. While it’s common to chase wattage gains from minor frame changes, Trek is right to focus on the bike holistically from an aero perspective, where a saving of 3 watts on the bottles could eclipse huge cost and weight gains if those same aerodynamic margins were sought on the frame.

Meanwhile to hit 7kg (in the top-spec SLR 9) with range-topping aerodynamic and stiffness performance is something we didn’t dream of with a disc brake road bike even five years ago. That comes with the benefits of wider tyres and a better experience across climbing, descending and sprinting, alongside great comfort.

With that in mind, the new Madone is very much the everything race bike, but one that could bridge that considerable gap between the needs of the WorldTour’s best and the normal enthusiasts.

I’m excited to spend more time with it, and where this new direction will take one of the most storied bikes in cycling’s history.

Thank you for reading 5 articles in the past 30 days*

Join now for unlimited access

Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

*Read any 5 articles for free in each 30-day period, this automatically resets

After your trial you will be billed £4.99 $7.99 €5.99 per month, cancel anytime. Or sign up for one year for just £49 $79 €59

Try your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

Peter Stuart has been the editor of Cyclingnews since March 2022, overseeing editorial output across all of Cyclingnews' digital touchpoints.

Before joining Cyclingnews, Peter was the digital editor of Rouleur magazine. Starting life as a freelance feature writer, with bylines in The Times and The Telegraph, he first entered cycling journalism in 2012, joining Cyclist magazine as staff writer. Peter has a background as an international rower, representing Great Britain at Under-23 level and at the Junior Rowing World Championships.

Pro bike check: Tao Geoghegan Hart’s brand new Trek Madone SLR

As light as the Emonda and fast as the Gen 7 Madone, this is the Emonda-killing Trek Madone Gen 8

Tour de Slovakia: Anders Foldager captures uphill victory on stage 2

Most Popular

• Visit Our Blog about Russia to know more about Russian sights, history
• Check out our Russian cities and regions guides
• Follow us on Twitter and Facebook to better understand Russia
• Info about getting Russian visa , the main airports , how to rent an apartment
• Our Expert answers your questions about Russia, some tips about sending flowers

Russian regions

• Altay republic
• Irkutsk oblast
• Kemerovo oblast
• Khakassia republic
• Krasnoyarsk krai
• Novosibirsk oblast
• Omsk oblast
• Tomsk oblast
• Tuva republic
• Map of Russia
• All cities and regions
• Blog about Russia
• News from Russia
• How to get a visa
• Flights to Russia
• Russian hotels
• Renting apartments
• Russian currency
• FIFA World Cup 2018
• Submit an article
• Flowers to Russia
• Ask our Expert

Bratsk city, Russia

The city of Irkutsk oblast .

Bratsk - Overview

Bratsk is a city in Russia located in the north-west of the Irkutsk region, in the center of Angarsky mountain-ridge. It stands on the shores of the Bratsk and Ust-Ilim reservoirs formed on the Angara River.

Today, this city, formed in 1956 due to the construction of Bratsk hydro power station, is an agglomeration of dispersed residential areas separated by forests and water areas. Residential areas, different in size, are former settlements constructed near industrial enterprises.

The population of Bratsk is about 222,500 (2022), the area - 428 sq. km.

The phone code - +7 3953, the postal codes - 665700-665783.

Bratsk city flag

Bratsk city coat of arms.

Bratsk city map, Russia

History of bratsk.

In 1631, a group of 40 Cossacks headed by Panteley Demidov Penda founded a small fortress on the Angara River, in the mouth of the Oka River, and called it Bratsky ostrog. The name is derived by assimilating “Buryaty” (local native people) into “braty”, that is “bratya” (brothers).

When the fortress lost its military importance, the settlement received the name Bratsko-Ostrozhnoye, sometimes simply Bratskoye, later Bratsk.

The present city was formed due to the construction of Bratsk power station, to the north of the old settlement of Bratsk which was flooded by waters of the reservoir.

On July 15, 1955, the construction of Bratsk hydro power station and the city of Bratsk was announced as an All-Union construction. On July 26, 1961, the reservoir began to be filled with water. September 1, 1961, is considered the date of the Bratsk Sea coming into being.

Bratsk views

Bratsk Hydropower Station

Author: Sergeev Vitaliy

Lenin Square in Bratsk

Author: Vitaliy Alt

Bratsk street

Bratsk - Features

The city was formed from several settlements. Today, it consists of several districts located pretty far away from each other. The residential districts were built around preserved taiga forests. The length of the city along the shore of the reservoir is about 65 km. The distance to Irkutsk is 983 km by railway, and 618 km by highway.

The climate is continental with long severe winter (up to minus 35-40 degrees Celsius) and short hot summers (up to plus 25-30 degrees C). The heating season lasts 246 days. The average temperature in January is 22.7 degrees C below zero, in July - plus 18-19 degrees C. Despite the harsh climate, Bratsk economic and geographical location is quite favorable.

Bratsk plays a role of an important support base in the development of the northern regions of Eastern Siberia and the Far East. The city is located at the intersection of important communications connecting the European and Asian continents with the north of Eastern Siberia and Yakutia. This is the basis for its economic, social and cultural development.

Bratsk is one of the largest industrial centers in the region and Eastern Siberia: metallurgy; pulp, timber mass and carton producing; timber processing and wood working; chemical and food industries. It has access to electricity generated by Bratsk power station, unlimited water resources, navigable and timber-rafting ways, etc. Also, private gold miners working on the Angara tributaries and pearl divers (the Oka River) play significant role in the local economy.

Bratsk airport offers flights to Irkutsk, Krasnoyarsk, Novosibirsk, Moscow, Tyumen, Yakutsk. The city is connected by railway lines with central Russia, Siberia, Yakutia, Transbaikalia, the Far East.

One of the essential problems of present Bratsk is an adverse environment. The main sources of pollution are the enterprises of ferrous metallurgy, timber processing, energy, transport.

60 km east of Bratsk, there is a climatic resort “Bratsk seaside” located on the coast of the Bratsk reservoir. Patients with diseases of the circulatory and nervous systems are treated there.

Museums of Bratsk

• “Angara Village” - an architectural and ethnographical open-air museum (Komsomolskaya Street, 38),
• Bratsk museum of Angara assimilation history (Komsomolskaya Street, 38),
• The museum of Bratsk city and power station history (Gidrostroiteley Street, 54),
• The museum of history of political exile (Parkovaya Street, 3),
• Bratsk art exhibition hall (Komsomolskaya Street, 77).

Bratsk city of Russia photos

Bratsk places.

Monument to Pushkin in Bratsk

Hotel in Bratsk

Author: Isaev S.V.

Bratsk Palace of Arts

Author: Yulia Zolotovskaya

Pictures of Bratsk

Fountain in Bratsk

Church of the Dormition in Bratsk

The comments of our visitors

• Currently 2.94/5

Rating: 2.9 /5 (176 votes cast)