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Sep 15, 2023

The 16 Best Hiking Shoes of 2023

We tested these top boots across tough trails to help narrow down our list. Samson McDougall is a journalist, copywriter, editor and science graduate. Samson specializes in making the complex simple,

We tested these top boots across tough trails to help narrow down our list.

Samson McDougall is a journalist, copywriter, editor and science graduate. Samson specializes in making the complex simple, using the English language to democratize knowledge through highly effective, accessible communication.

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Health / Rachel Thalhuber

From sturdy leather high-tops to breathable mesh trail joggers—all of the hiking shoe options available today may leave you feeling confused about what to look for. Lightweight versus supportive? Waterproof versus airflow? Mountain summits or woodland wanderings? What you need to prioritize will ultimately come down to your specific needs.

“Fit is first!” says Wesley Trimble, Communications and Creative Director at the American Hiking Society. “I always say happy feet are essential to a pleasant hiking experience. Footwear is literally the foundation of the hiking experience, and no gear is as important as great-fitting, supportive, and adequate-traction footwear.”

In his 10,000+ trail miles hiking and running, Wesley’s seen massive improvements in footwear comfort, support, materials and ventilation. But he’s quick to note that what might be his perfect fit likely won’t be the right option for people with different feet and/or hiking aspirations. The experts we spoke to agree that it’s best to choose the features you want based on your intended use. So, before committing to hiking shoes or boots, it pays to take a deep breath and consider where you’ll be taking them. Once you’ve narrowed down the options, try on a variety of shoes to see what fits best.

To help you narrow things down even further, we personally tested some of the most popular brands and models to offer our recommendations across a number of categories. Our editors laced (and in some cases, velcroed) up and hit the trails—testing each boot, shoe or sandal during multiple hikes across a minimum of four weeks. We took notes as we went, evaluating each model on comfort, features, and overall performance. Here are our top picks based on our testing. A podiatrist from our Medical Expert Board also reviewed content on hiking shoe fit, support, and materials for accuracy.

Merrell

They’re comfortable and supportive, have almost zero break-in time, and come at an accessible price-point.

These are shoes not boots, so if you need additional ankle support try something taller.

Sturdy and durable, these shoes combine breathable comfort and excellent arch support for an all-round pleasurable hiking experience.

Unboxing the Merrell Speed Eco hiking shoe, we noticed right away the high-quality materials and finely detailed construction. The laces are thick, the bottom of the shoe have the traction we expected, and the insole and outer fabrics are sturdy. We also like the recycled components (including the outsole rubber and EVA footbed), which are nice touches for nature-loving hiker types like us.

These shoes felt super comfortable from the get-go. And though we started out slow, we soon realized there’s no need for a break-in period. The arch support is superb and the fit is just right, with no rubbing, blistering or hot-spots.

Out on the trails, these shoes felt sturdy, and the traction is excellent: no slips at all, even on rocky or uneven ground. Given the thick material, we were surprised at the breathability of the uppers as we experienced no wetness or odors across several hikes. And despite these shoes not being “water-resistant,” we loved that the mesh didn’t allow much moisture or cold to seep in.

Price at time of publication: $100

Product Details:

Amazon

They’re a versatile, breathable option for casual hikes, light trail runs, and everyday use.

These shoes are not weather-resistant, so they’re not ideal for hiking in rain or snow.

Take them out of the box, and the ASICS Men's Gel-Venture 8 look like any other pair of ASICS trainers or street shoes we’ve known. Flip them over, however, and the heavier treads and added support told us these are ready for the trails.

Supportive and well cushioned, these shoes fit true to size though slightly narrower than comparable brands/models (which is worth noting if you have wider feet). The arch support provides great stability on multiple terrains, even for people with high arches. And the materials hold up well across multiple hikes—if it wasn’t for the dirt they appeared brand new after we tested them.

What we love most about these shoes is the balance between warmth and breathability across a range of weather conditions. In the cold, they didn’t become overly rigid, and provided adequate warmth. In hot conditions, they provided great ventilation, so no overheating. Though experienced climbers and hiking enthusiasts may look for something more specialized, the Gel-Venture 8s delivered a great blend of traction, stability and comfort off-road as well as around town. They’re great option for casual hikers looking for an all-rounder at an entry-level price.

Price at time of publication: $70

Product Details:

REI

Lightweight and exceptionally breathable, the waterproof Gore-Tex® uppers kept our feet dry and warm in puddles, mud, and snow.

The traction wasn’t quite up to the most extreme terrain we tested.

Looking for a lightweight option with the feel of a running shoe and the support of a boot? The Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid Gore-Tex® hiking boot checks a whole lot of boxes.

Fitting true to size, these boots felt snug from our first wear, and offered plenty of room for the toes—no pinching or pressing. Breaking them in wasn’t an issue, and even a 5+ hour hike straight-up produced no blisters or discomfort. We wore them on loose gravel and rocks, in snow, and on uphill slogs, and even after taking a beating these boots wiped down to look as good as new.

Given the breathability of the mesh upper, we find it remarkable how waterproof these boots are. Even after slipping into creeks, and splashing in deep puddles, we never felt dampness inside of the shoe. Though you may need a little more traction where steep, slick surfaces or rock scrambling’s involved, we think these boots are a comfortable, durable choice for mixed trails and intermediate hikes.

Price at time of publication: $175

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Bedrock

Made with the highest-quality materials, these sandals more than live up to their lofty reputation.

Allow a little time for breaking in and strap adjustment before you hit the trails.

So light and comfortable you forget you’re wearing them, these adjustable sandals had no problem handling even the gnarliest conditions when we tried them out.

We found taking time to play with the three-way straps is essential to finding the best configuration. When fitted correctly, the flip-flop-style toe strap offers more maneuverability than other cross-strap sandals we’ve tried, and the Vibram® soles provides a great balance of sensitivity and grip, even while hiking up a wet granite riverbed near the California coast.

Though they fit roughly true to size, we’d definitely recommend trying a half size larger than your usual shoe, as the added sole length provides a little extra protection for your bare foot in hazardous environments.

Price at time of publication: $115

Product Details:

Amazon

They’re a great medium-weight shoe for casual hiking in all types of weather conditions.

Although they fit roughly true to size, they may be too narrow for people with wide or flat feet.

From first wear, the Salomon X Ultra Pioneer ClimaSalomon felt light and supportive with zero pinching or chafing even on multi-hour hikes. The tread performed well while navigating natural rocks, compacted dirt trails and downed trees. But it’s this shoe’s performance in streams and wet conditions that truly sets it apart: The attached tongue prevents leaks even when submerged to the laces.

While the heel cushion is fairly rigid, it offers great support, and the solid toe area offers great protection in rocky terrain. Given how waterproof these shoes proved to be, they were surprisingly breathable—we experienced no issues with overheating or excessive sweating. They’re great option for the weekend hiker tackling mixed terrain and people looking for a genuinely waterproof hiking shoe under $150.

Price at time of publication: $135

Product Details:

Danner

These shoes are so comfortable, we started wearing them instead of our regular sneakers.

If you’re off to the Rockies, you’ll need something significantly more sturdy.

The high-quality materials, lightweight construction, and fun colors make the Danner Trail 2650 hiking shoes a go-to choice, up trail or downtown.

The soft breathable fabric let us we slip these on straight out of the box, with no break-in period and zero risk of blisters. They felt a little small for their size at first, but some lace adjustment was all it took for a snug fit. We recommend considering a half size larger if you intend to wear thick socks though.

The mesh uppers offered great breathability, and the traction is suitable for moderate terrain and low-key trails. Though, due to the lightweight construction and materials, we’d definitely stop short of wearing them in rainy or muddy conditions. That said, it's because of their lightweight construction that these shoes are great for traveling, sightseeing, and packing as a versatile in-betweener. And the colorways are unlike anything else you’ll see in the hiking space.

Price at time of publication: $160

Product Details:

La Sportiva

Their firm soles and excellent ankle support makes these shoes a comfortable choice every step of the way.

The ankle support is great for jogging, but might be inadequate for more extreme hiking environments.

Across more than 100 miles of everything from pavement to dirt trails littered with thick roots, rocky sections with lots of loose gravel, mud, shallow streams, and grass—these shoes stood up to some rigorous testing. The soles offer excellent traction and the built-in gaiters mean there won’t be any rocks or bark in your shoes to slow you down.

Though we found the La Sportiva Jackal II BOAs fit slightly small for their size, the tighteners offer a bit of leeway for people to try a slightly larger shoe than they normally would. After using the shoes for morning walks over a brief period (around 10 miles total) before we started jogging, we had no issues with pinching, chafing or blisters. Because the breathable fabric dries quickly, you can stamp through a creek one day, and slip them on dry the next. Overall, we’d recommend these lightweight trail runners for fast and light adventures and everyday mileage.

Price at time of publication: $185

Product Details:

REI

Heavy-duty construction meets reliable support in a warm, wide, waterproof boot.

At more than 16 ounces per boot, they’re definitely not suited to jogging.

Out of the box, you first notice the Merrell Moab 3 Mid GTX’s heavy-duty, high-quality materials and construction. After just a few hours of active wear, we settled into these supportive and comfortable boots across varied terrain including mud, snow and icy rocks.

Though these boots fit true to size, it’s worth noting they’re wider than others we’ve tried (a real benefit for those of us with flatter feet!). Yet the arch support in combination with the lace system let us adjust and tweak until we found the perfect fit.

Temperature-wise, these boots strike a nice balance between warm toes (even on an icy day in upstate New York) and breathability. And the traction they provided in the range of conditions and terrains we navigated was impressive. As was their waterproof-ness—even after complete submersions the water ran right off. Comfy, versatile and durable, we’d recommend these boots as a solid all-round option for everything from cold-climate dog walking to icy mountain trails.

Price at time of publication: $120

Product Details:

Oboz

The wide, sturdy sole and base gives excellent ankle support for those of us with narrow feet (or those prone to rolling ankles).

The narrow heel cup is a consideration for people with medium to wide feet.

We found the Oboz Sawtooth X Low Waterproof hiking shoe just the ticket for slimmer heels, while still offering plenty of toe space.

Though we didn’t need any break-in time, we found paying a little extra attention to the laces was worth the effort when fitting these shoes for the first time. Even at half a size larger than normal, the ankle support provided by the large sole gave us the confidence to tackle rugged, muddy ground without slips, twists or strains.

Through testing across several 45-minute hikes per week, the shoes held up nicely—even when subjected to hilly Vermont terrain—with little sign of wear and tear. So if you’re narrow-footed and looking for a solid foundation to get active without fear of ankle rolling, these hiking shoes are definitely worth a look.

Price at time of publication: $160

Product Details:

Zappos

Across multiple hikes and various terrains, these shoes kept our feet consistently comfortable and cushioned.

The soles are a lot! They’re almost like platform shoes.

With cushioning this comfortable, these shoes molded perfectly to our feet. Don’t let the platform-style soles and extra height put you off. From first wear the Hoka Speedgoat 5 GTX felt supremely comfy. And over time we found the extra padding made it easier to cover greater distances, whether on sandy, muddy, paved or rocky trails. And despite their chunky appearance, they fit true to our regular sneaker size (just keep in mind that that’s without socks. So if you’re in colder climates, maybe try a half size larger).

The downside of all the padding: At times they felt hot. But even on moist or muddy trails, they don’t retain a lot of water, so odors don’t seem to be an issue. Also, with shoes this comfortable, the tradeoff is an aesthetic that won’t be to everybody’s tastes. But, hey! You can’t have everything. And out on the trails it’s all about function over fashion, every day of the week.

Price at time of publication: $170

Product Details:

Topo Athletic

High-quality materials meet supreme attention to detail for a durable, versatile boot across any terrain.

The signature Topo colorways are flamboyant when compared to other brands.

From hiking Denver’s dry rocky inclines, to lakeside mushroom foraging in Iowa; traversing everything from gravel to dirt, grasslands to brushy forest, mountain streams to sandy beach—the Topo Athletic Trailventure 2 took everything we threw at it. And, tribute to their sturdy construction, after multiple adventures we found almost zero wear and tear.

Yet despite their heavy-duty performance, they felt comfortable from day one, with plenty of cushioning and support to keep our feet secure as we moved from one landscape to the next. And whether in sweltering Colorado or chillin’ in temperate Iowa, the breathable eVent® waterproof inner-bootie construction kept water out (even during vigorous splashing and hosedowns), while keeping our feet at a comfortable temperature throughout.

If you’re looking for a great all-rounder with super-comfy soles, we found it hard to fault this boot. No surprises then, that the Topo Athletic Trailventure 2 came in as our #1 all-terrain pick.

Price at time of publication: $120

Product Details:

REI

No detail is spared in this high-end shoe that delivers on the manufacturer’s claims.

The tongue is a little stiff, making them tricky to slip on until they’re worn in.

From the microfiber uppers to the grippy soles, water-resistant ouches, toe-box rock guards, and breathable mesh panels, Zamberlan 335 CIRCE LOW GTXs pack all the features you’d expect at their price-point. And throughout testing across gravel, concrete, dirt, sand, and boggy terrain, the functionality measured up to the promise of all the bells and whistles included.

Beneath the rigid exterior, the plush cushioned inner offers comfortable support with no pinching or chafing straight out of the box. The wider heel gives extra stability, especially on uneven surfaces where balance is put to the test. And the traction held firm no matter where we took them.

Following the website instructions, we found it useful to trace our foot outline to determine exact size. By doing so, we discovered they fit true to size, unlike other brands who recommend choosing a half size larger. During several mild-weather hikes our feet stayed cool, and—true to Zamberlan’s claims—after substantial rainfall our feet remained dry. All in all, these are a solid option for those prepared to spend a little more money for a highly functional shoe that spares no attention to detail.

Price at time of publication: $250

Product Details:

Oboz

Tall, snug and superbly insulated, these boots kept our feet warm and dry even when our other extremities were freezing.

The cushioning is not nearly as soft as other brands, so you’ll need to get used to them.

Out of the box, you know these are boots of substance. They’re big (10” tall!). They’re heavy-duty. And they’re remarkably warm given their thin construction.

From the lacing hooks right down to the rigid, grippy sole, these boots emanate quality. The leather is supple and waterproof (we checked). And the toe area has plenty of room despite the snugness of the fit. If you’ll be using these in cold climates, it’s worth purchasing half a size larger than normal to allow for thicker socks.

Another thing worth noting: the cushioning borders on hard. Yes, this contributes to these boots being undeniably stable. But for some, the rigidity of the inners will be jarring. And though we experienced minor irritation from the tongue rubbing against the front of the shin, we found this could be alleviated by simply re-lacing.

The payoff for the slight reduction in cushioning: Your feet stay supported, toasty and dry no matter the conditions (we tested down to 20 F, on a variety of terrains). So if warmth and stability top your list of priorities, we rate the Oboz Bridger Insulated Waterproof Hiking Boot as our top cold-weather pick. Even if they take a bit of getting used to.

Price at time of publication: $210

Product Details:

REI

From snow-capped peaks to tropical Costa Rican trails, these boots are most definitely made for walking.

Looks can be deceiving, and the functionality of these boots far outweighs their modest exterior.

These shoes might not be the sexiest hiking boots we tested—at first glance they looked a little thick and heavy. So we were surprised by how great they felt, even during steep uphill hikes straight out of the box.

The narrow and wide options are ideal for people with irregular-shaped feet, and we found that the standard sizings fit true to size. Once safely strapped inside, the sturdy construction pays off. We confidently navigated rugged terrain without fear of kicking things, tripping on things, negotiating rocks or stomping through snow. And the traction, plus ankle and arch supports, offered the stability to keep pushing forward in some extreme environments.

Warm toes in the snow. Cool feet in the tropics. Waterproof even through a dunking. They’ve proven a comfortable and reliable option wherever we’ve taken them. So if you’re willing to fork out a little more as an investment in your all-terrain, all-weather future, we highly recommend these Lowa Renegade GTX boots. Even if they don’t look as flashy as the next guy’s.

Price at time of publication: $255

Product Details:

REI

These waterproof boots kept our feet dry all day, while the breathable fabric helped wick away sweat.

The unisex sizings fit a touch wide if you’re not wearing heavy socks.

Waterproof and breathable: an unlikely combination. But that’s exactly what you get with the La Sportiva TX Hike Mid GTX hiking boot. These boots withstood long days of wet and snowy weather, and even stayed bone dry inside after standing for five minutes in lake water. Lightweight and comfortable, the padded tongue helped stabilize our ankles, adding to the premium feel.

The big surprise here was the breathability of the boot. The Gore-Tex® and mesh uppers kept our feet warm during colder than average spring weather, while remarkably not overheating them or getting them sweaty during warmer days. Couple this with great arch support and a cushioned foot bed, and you get a comfortable and highly functional mid-weight hiking boot for a mid-range price.

Price at time of publication: $190

Product Details:

REI

These boots are so adaptable for light hiking, running errands, commuting, and just about anything else.

They’re somewhere between a sneaker and a boot, so if you’re hitting extreme terrain look for something more suitable.

The first thing we loved about these sneaker boots: the look! Somewhere between casual dining and wilderness rambling. And out on the trails, lots of people agreed.

This is followed closely by the feel: nicely fitted and super comfy with no pain points straight out of the box. And now we’ve taken them on adventures ranging from mid-range hikes around hills and steep embankments to errands around town, we can also vouch for their versatility.

Fitting true to size, the sole is firm enough to provide all-day support and the mid-rise ankle height felt supportive without limiting the range of motion. Because they look like a street shoe, we were pleasantly surprised that they live up to Foresake’s waterproof claims. The catch? Honestly, we couldn’t really find one. For an all-round sneaker boot that you don’t need to change between light hikes, work meetings and after-work drinks, we rate the Forsake Wild Sky Mid boot as our most versatile choice.

Price at time of publication: $155

Product Details:

To determine the best hiking footwear across a number of categories, we first spoke with several experts. Professionals we consulted include:

Experts emphasized the importance of great fitting hiking boots or shoes above all else. They also suggested making decisions based on the activities you’ll be using the shoes for.

With this in mind, our testing team tried out a range of boots, shoes and sandals across a variety of landscapes, in a plethora of conditions, altitudes, temperature zones and underfoot conditions. Ranging from hiking enthusiasts to occasional walkers, our team members followed a step-by-step process, beginning with initial at-home wear (to break the shoes in), followed by several hikes of various durations and across a variety of terrains, in line with their individual abilities. Key considerations included: fit and comfort, breathability, water-resistance, support, traction, break-in time, wear and tear, and overall performance.

Shoes, boots or sandals? Waterproof or breathable? Lightweight or heavy-duty? Given the range of price points, styles, and associated features, there’s a lot to consider when choosing the right hiking footwear for you.

Saylee Tulpule, DPM, of Foot and Ankle Specialists of the Mid-Atlantic, recommends Merrells, Salomon, Hoka, and Oboz as brands she trusts. She also suggests trying on (and potentially purchasing) in-store to ensure you get perfectly fitted footwear.

Wesley Trimble, Communications and Creative Director at the American Hiking Society agrees, noting that when it comes to footwear, it’s as much about comfort as it is about health and safety. He explains that because everyone’s feet and needs are different, it’s important to take your personal needs into consideration. Trimble also explains that if you have a history of rolling your ankles, seeking footwear with ankle support should be a top consideration.

When choosing between hiking shoes, trail running shoes, hiking boots, or sandals, again, Trimble recommends picking the footwear that provides adequate support for the intended terrain, distance, speed, and the amount of weight being carried. He recommends hikers who plan to do moderate day hikes look for trail runners, low to mid-top hiking boots, or shoes specifically made for hiking. However, those who plan on tackling very rugged trails or carrying lots of gear should opt for a stiffer boot.

Dr. Tulpule also notes that hiking shoes, when compared to boots, are lighter and have a lower ankle cut (which allows for more ankle flexibility). Plus, “Hiking shoes tend to dry off faster than boots and are also easier to break in,” she says. “True hiking shoes are more durable [than sneakers] and are better used for stability than speed.”

As soon as you start shopping around, you’ll notice footwear construction and materials have come a long way in recent years. To keep things simple, let’s break materials into three key areas:

The footwear we tested ranges in weight from 7.5 oz to a whopping 19 oz per foot. As mentioned above, choosing the right weight depends on the activity. As Wesley Trimble notes, “I typically recommend going with the lightest and most flexible soled shoe or boot that is still supportive and durable enough for most of the intended trails and terrain. A lightweight and flexible shoe or boot option minimizes fatigue (1 lb. of boot is equivalent to carrying 5 lbs. in a pack) and allows a more natural gait.”

Wesley Trimble notes that one of the biggest features to consider upfront is waterproofing vs breathability. “Keeping feet as dry as possible greatly decreases blisters and other foot ailments, BUT sometimes it can be counterintuitive to get waterproof footwear,” he says. “One of the most common misconceptions is that waterproof shoes are better. They are great for specific situations but not as great as many people think. There are several different waterproofing types, but one of the most common waterproofing technologies is a waterproof/breathable membrane. Without getting into specific details, once feet get wet from sweat, or if water comes in the top of the shoe from rain or a water crossing, your feet will stay wet longer than if you use well-ventilated, non-waterproof footwear. Once water gets inside a boot with a waterproof membrane, evaporation becomes dramatically reduced compared to a non-waterproof, well-ventilated boot.”

Dr. Tulpule agrees that waterproofing is great, until moisture gets into the boot. “The waterproof membrane of a hiking shoe might impede the quality of a breathable and quick drying shoe, but it can certainly help when exposed to wet conditions, such as winter hikes,” she says. “Breathable uppers are actually better than a traditional waterproof hiking shoe.”

Arch supports, soles (both outer and midsole), uppers, gusseted tongues—even laces—all play a role in hiking shoe stability. And, again, finding the right level of stability and support depends on how you’ll be using them. For moderate day hikes, our experts recommend trying trail runners, hiking shoes, or low to mid-top hiking boots. Carrying a lot of gear across hazardous terrain, and a more supportive and stiffer boot is a better choice.

It’s also worth considering medical history. If you’re prone to rolling ankles, higher uppers might be a solid option. Bung knees, and you might look for extra rigidity to prevent twisting. Most importantly, if in doubt: ask. Most quality retailers have the knowhow to point you to specific footwear that doesn’t just fit well, but is also fit for purpose.

The footwear we tested ranges in price from $70 to $255, and for specialized gear you can spend significantly more. It’s interesting to note that many of our top performing models come with mid-range price-points. Trimble notes that this is mostly because higher-end hiking shoes are usually designed for specialized terrain. For this reason, mid-range hiking shoes get the job done for most people just fine.

While these hiking shoes, sandals and boots didn’t top any of our categories, they may still be of interest to you.

Trimble explains that hiking shoes will usually be stiffer, heavier, and more than standard walking shoes. For this reason, most options on the market have less versatility than standard walking shoes, however, they’ll help support your feet over rough terrain.

It depends on the activity. Lighter, more flexible shoes or boots should be used for walking or hiking in moderate terrain while heavier, more rigid boots can be worn when carrying large pack weights and/or tackling steeper or more hazardous environments.

Short answer: not normally. Trimble says due to their stiffness and weight, traditional hiking shoes and boots often aren't great for running. He adds that “trail running shoes are a great hybrid for people who want the lightweight shoe with better traction and more protection than a typical cross-trainer or road running shoe.”

We found most brands and models we tested fit true to size. Though, if you’re likely to wear thick socks with your hiking footwear, many brands recommend choosing a half size larger than your regular shoes. Other considerations like gusseted tongues and bulky insulation can also change the shape and feel of hiking shoes and boots.

For the above reasons, Dr. Tulpule always recommends getting hiking footwear properly fitted in store to minimize a poor fit and ensure your feet don’t move around in the shoes.

Samson McDougall is a journalist, copywriter, editor, surfer, hiker and science graduate. His work encompasses everything from web copy for science museums to writing sexual health articles for universities, info sheets for first-in-category pharmaceuticals to brand messaging for wearable touch therapy by neuroscientists. Samson specializes in making the complex simple, using the English language to democratize knowledge through highly effective, accessible communication.