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While it's true that you could wear any old shoe hiking, a dedicated pair of hiking shoes will offer support and traction that your standard tennis shoes may not provide. When trails are muddy or feature challenging terrain, a durable hiking shoe can be your best bet.
Since 2012, we have trail-tested hundreds of hiking shoes, with this review reflecting our top 10 current favorites. We took each and every shoe on a variety of trails in various climates and evaluated their comfort and support along the way. We threw on heavy packs and tested their traction on challenging surfaces, crossing streams, logs, and slippery boulders. Whether you need a lightweight pair for fast missions or a sturdy pair for difficult terrain, we've found the perfect hiking shoe for just about any use.
Our favorite men's hiking shoe is the Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX, thanks to its unbeatable comfort. These shoes have a plush sole, tall flood height, and wide base for extra stability.
For women's hiking shoes, we love the La Sportiva Spire GTX. Our testing team found these comfortable and supportive enough to tackle just about any trail.
If you have a tight budget, check out the men's Columbia Crestwood and women's Crestwood, which are our favorites that you can grab for under $100. This is a sneaker-like shoe that offers decent traction, comfort, and support without setting your funds back too much — perfect for those who may only use their hiking shoes occasionally.
If we only had one word to describe the Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX, it's “comfortable.” Its compression-moded EVA midsole is made from 30% recycled sugarcane and we found it provides great comfort and support, absorbing much of the trail impact underfoot. The upper is constructed from nubuck leather and a high-quality mesh. In our experience, nubuck typically takes a few hikes to break in, but we found the Anacapa 2 comfortable right out of the box and increasingly so within a few hikes. The shoes weigh just shy of two pounds for a size 11, which is about average for our men's lineup. We don't necessarily think the weight of these shoes is a downside, considering their high-quality materials the support that they provide. However, if you are counting ounces, the Hoka Speedgoat 6 is the lightest shoe we tested, and it still has that classic Hoka cushion. We measured a three-inch flood height for the Anacapas, and the Gore-Tex Invisible Fit liner is effective in wet conditions, with our lead tester noting, “I was thrilled that my socks stayed dry as I made my way through river crossings and snow fields.”
While the wide platform that imparts so much stability to these shoes on the trail is something we love, the added width makes the Anacapa 2 Low less confidence-inspiring in terrain that requires precision footwork, such as scrambling in 3rd or 4th class terrain. A narrower or more nimble shoe might be more effective for this specific terrain, like the Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex. The Anacapa's unique Swallowtail heel design extends past the length of your foot by a few millimeters. Though this doesn't sound like much, getting used to it can take a few hikes. Our testing team had uneven ground contact as they wore these for the first couple of hikes, but this went away with more exposure to the design.
The La Sportiva Spire GTX trail has a thoroughly impressive design. It combines a trail runner's agility with a hiking boot's stability, making it an unstoppable force on the trails. The low-profile design offers a comfortable fit right out of the box, though it tends to run a little big. The abrasion-resistant mesh upper and compression-molded midsole provide excellent support while remaining flexible, ideal for day hikes or extended trips into the backcountry. Our lead tester, Trish Matheny, noted, “The thick lug pattern and stable base allowed me to tackle tricky terrain and I never felt restricted by their fit.” Additionally, the Spire boasts a high flood level of 3.75 inches above the ankle and a waterproof membrane that remains breathable without allowing water to penetrate the shoe.
While the Spire is an excellent choice for those searching for dependable and long-lasting shoes, it is not for everyone. It may be overbuilt with too many extra features for people searching for easy day hikes on well-maintained trails. These weigh 1.68 pounds for a US 8.5. While this isn't the heaviest in the lineup, it is certainly not the lightest either. If comfort is your first goal, the Altra LP Alpine is a superior choice. Furthermore, people wanting to trek at lower elevations during summer may find the waterproof fabric excessively hot. Finally, while the 100% recycled polyester laces are a tribute to sustainability, they are less resilient and finicky, necessitating adjustment or replacement depending on use. Despite these minor flaws, the Spire GTX is one of the most well-designed and dependable hiking shoes available. While pricey, it is well worth the money and should last for many hiking seasons.
The Columbia Crestwood has just about everything we could want in a day hiking shoe at a hard-to-beat price point. These leather and mesh hiking shoes feel stable and supportive for most casual day hikes with light backpacks, so they are great for taking a spin on maintained trails. We appreciated how ready-to-go they were right out of the box, with practically no break-in time. If you are an infrequent hiker, you can feel confident knowing these shoes are ready to go without painful break-in hikes. The cushiony TechLite midsole is comfortable and supportive and offers more of a tennis shoe-type feel. They are not waterproof, which means they do well in warmer temperatures despite having diminished performance in wetter weather. These have an average weight at 1.83 pounds for a US size 11. Impressed by the Crestwood, our lead tester said, “I'll gladly throw on the Crestwood for summer day hikes.”
The Crestwood OmniGrip outsole offers average traction in wet and dry trail conditions, and while they are generally quite stable, they are not the best choice for long days on the trail or with heavy packs. This is due to the lightweight nature of the midsole. For those longer trips, we'd suggest looking for a shoe with a more robust midsole, like the Oboz Sawtooth X Low Waterproof. We can't help but wonder how well these shoes will hold up for extended wear. The mesh doesn't feel as well-made as some other options in our lineup, like the Merrell Moab 3. The Moab is similar in price and performance, but offers a waterproof option. If you find yourself crossing rivers, you might opt for a waterproof version instead. In which case, we suggest looking into the Moab line. But for the price and comfort, it's hard to pass up the Crestwood for most typical light hiking applications.
Time and time again, we have reached for the wallet-friendly Merrell Moab 3. The mesh and leather combination upper with recycled mesh lining provides comfort directly from the box. However, we found that with a few miles on the trail, this shoe offered even more comfort thanks to a more customized fit and increased flexibility in the upper. The design is true to size and available in both wide and regular fits, while the super rebound compound midsole and the modest insole offer one of the more supportive designs for those with high arches. The non-waterproof construction allows for increased breathability in warmer climates and sunny summer days, though the waterproof Merrell Moab 3 WP is an option for wet climates. Our lead tester explains, “I love both the waterproof and non-waterproof version of this shoe. But, for warm desert hiking, I am opting for the non-waterproof shoes.” Merrell didn't skimp on the traction either, as this shoe features a Vibram TC5 rubber outsoles, complete with a multi-directional lug pattern that ensures excellent grip on hardpack and loose trails.
Though this affordable design stood out from the competition, it is not exempt from a few drawbacks. We never experienced any issues in durability during our testing period, but we can't help but notice that the primarily mesh and leather combination upper is not constructed from the same durable and high-quality materials as some of its heavier leather counterparts. We also would prefer the shoe to feature a reinforced metal eyelet rather than a mesh lacing attachment so as to provide more longevity to the design. One other detail to be aware of is the heavyweight design of this shoe, which features a substantial midsole and Vibram outsole. This shoe weighed in at 1.70 pounds for a US 8.5, which is roughly middle of the pack. These features definitely account for the additional weight; however, they increased the overall performance of the shoe. Overall, the Moab 3 is an affordable, consistent, and stable hiking shoe that is burly and supportive enough to be considered for backcountry overnights, even with the weight of a heavy pack. If you're looking for an even more affordable hiking shoe, check out the Columbia Crestwood that features a more flexible and breathable suede leather and mesh combination upper along with great traction on slippery terrain.
The Merrell Moab 3 provides enhanced breathability thanks to its non-waterproof construction that still offers great clearance above creeks, streams, and snow fields.
The Columbia Crestwood hiking shoe is comfortable directly out of the box for those with both narrow and wide foot shapes. The suede leather and mesh combination upper is true to size while offering a flexible, nimble, and lightweight sneaker-like feel underfoot. There is just enough padding surrounding the ankle and tongue to provide comfort without creating any unnecessary bulk that often traps heat on those hot summer hikes. The Techlite EVA midsole combines with a thin and removable insole to offer some support, though we recommend an after-market insole for those with high arches. The Omni-grip rubber outsole performs well on most terrain types, although our lead tester reports, “I found these to perform best on slippery and polished rocks along the trail.”
Though the mesh does absorb some of the moisture from lingering snow fields and mud puddles on the trail, we found that unless fully submerged, the shoe would resist some moisture. However, when we submerged this shoe in Hilton Creek for our water resistance testing, it was only a matter of seconds before the shoe flooded with water. We recommend using this detail to your favor by purchasing the Crestwood for day hikes at lower elevations or desert trails during the hottest months of the year, as the lack of waterproof performance supplies more breathability through the mesh upper. While we didn't experience any failures within the affordable design during testing, we can't help but notice the lack of quality within the affordable design, especially when compared to other top performers in our line-up. The lacing system is reinforced with only mesh, which we imagine could fail over time; however, reversing the final lace near the ankle may help prolong the design by placing less torque on the delicate attachment point. Overall, we were impressed with the performance of this affordable hiking shoe, making it easy for us to recommend the Crestwood for day hikes on well-maintained trail systems. If you don't mind spending a few more dollars in exchange for increased durability, the Merrell Moab 3 is burlier, offers more protection on the trail than this model, and remains reasonably priced.
Due to its affordable design, the Crestwood features a lacing system secured with mesh attachments. Therefore, we recommend reversing the final lace before the ankle collar so as to limit the torque placed on these attachments and hopefully prolong the life of the shoe.
The Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex is a solid choice for hikers looking for a supportive and technical shoe. We've tested plenty of shoes by Salomon, and the X Ultra 4 is one of our favorites for more rigorous terrain. The traction these shoes provide is truly remarkable. The well-defined lugs have a chevron and sharp pattern that bites down into loose terrain, and the soft rubber confidently tackles rock slabs. The lugs are spaced far enough apart that mud didn't get caked in. The ADV-C Chassis gives these shoes solid support, with our tester Ryan Huetter noting, “I found these to feel very dependable underfoot in uneven off-trail terrain.” The Sensifit lacing system within the upper kept our feet snugly in place during our hikes. Rather than tying laces, these shoes have a thin cord that gets cinched down and stored within the exterior tongue. For the support they provide, they are fairly lightweight at 1.76 pounds for a US size 11. Though they aren't the lightest in the lineup, they blend high-quality materials and technical stability without sacrificing too much weight. These shoes feel slightly wider than previous X Ultra models, though they remain narrower than many other models we tested. Folks with wide feet might want to look to the Merrell Moab 3.
While there is a lot to love, we also found a few issues while testing these shoes. The Quicklace speed lacing system can be hard to release but sometimes slips. The tongue, which is not sewn into place and does not have an extended gusset, easily pulls down, which can make slipping the X Ultra 4 on quickly an annoyance. We also found that the extended heel tab can rub, especially when wearing low-cut socks. Some users have also complained about durability issues. With this in mind, we extensively tested these shoes double the time of the others in our lineup. Our team really tried to beat them up on day hikes and multi-night backpacking treks. For all of which, we had no concerns with the durability. Overall, some of these issues are minor enough to look past and see the X Ultra 4 GTX for what it is — a lightweight, supportive, and capable shoe for backcountry hiking adventures.
Our women's hiking shoe testing team also loved the exceptional traction of the Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex. The Contagrip MA outsole confidently took on wet, loose, hardpack, and muddy terrain with no trouble. Their lightweight design is versatile and feels sleek. Trish Matheny reports, “I wore these on tough missions and found them to be supportive and nimble.” Great midfoot stability and a solid base make these hiking shoes well-suited to technical terrain and scrambling over loose or slippery surfaces. The synthetic welded upper locks your forefoot and heel securely in place, while the Gore-Tex lining keeps your feet dry. We measured a flood height of 3.5 inches, so we had no trouble crossing shallow streams. Though the X Ultra 4 toe box is wider than previous versions, they're still longer and narrower than other women's hiking shoes we tested.
Salomon's Quicklace system here again proves divisive. Its convenience for quickly slipping on is hindered by static laces that don't allow the same amount of give as other hiking shoes. Ours also tended to work their way loose, forcing us to stop and tighten them more often than traditional lace shoes. The lace storage pocket also tore early in our testing, not giving us confidence in the system's longevity. Still, with impressive traction and responsive support, the X Ultra 4 GTX is a great choice for tackling rugged environments. The La Sportiva Spire GTX scored higher for its comfort and even better traction, but it's also a lot more expensive and heavier.
Stellar waterproof performance from the X Ultra 4 will help you tackle all manner of terrain. That said, the Gore-tex liner does mean less overall breathability.
The Merrell Moab 3 is a longstanding staple in Merrell's lineup. We've tested various incarnations of this shoe (and its boot counterpart) over the years and have been continually impressed. It's a super comfortable shoe, even for folks with wide feet. “They're soft and flexible, requiring little break-in time, which allowed me to throw them on and get moving with little fuss,” our lead tester notes. They're quite well made, with a leather and recycled mesh upper that offers ample breathability, which is especially great for hikes in warm and dry weather. They're not waterproof, however (although we have tested the waterproof version of the Moab 3), but all the mesh helps them breathe better when your feet heat up.
We wouldn't recommend these for wet climates where you may encounter a lot of rain or creek crossings, because the mesh on this shoe means you're likely to get your feet wet. See the waterproof model mentioned in the previous paragraph if you need shoes that will keep your feet dry. They weigh around two pounds for a men's size 11, which is a bit heavier than some other models (although on par with the tester favorite Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX, which are waterproof). Overall, we're fans of Merrell's Moab line, and this is a comfortable shoe offered at an affordable price.
GORE-TEX Invisible Fit waterproof/breathable membranes
Midsole
EVA (30% sugarcane)
Outsole
Vibram Megagrip rubber
The Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX is a modern hiking shoe that features a unique, thickly-cushioned design that maximizes comfort, especially for those with narrow feet. There is a lot of breathability for the additional comfort in the upper. They are very springy and cushioned. The Vibram Megagrip outsole and substantial lug pattern are among the highest performers regarding grip strength and traction, whether moving through slippery and wet terrain or decomposing granite at lower elevations. Our tester notes, “I took these on various trails in different climates and still had top-tier traction the entire time.” The recycled mesh upper combines with nubuck leather to provide the perfect combination of Gore-Tex waterproof performance, 3.5-inch flood height, and breathability, whether navigating lingering snow fields or crossing cold runoff streams.
Though it can take some time to adjust to the thickness of the outsole, our testing team noted that the distinctive SwallowTail heel aided in the transition by adding more stability to the design. The fit can be a little tricky, too. Our lead tester has a narrow foot with a high arch and ended up sizing down a half size for a more comfortable fit. It is also an option to stick with your normal size and add an after-market insole for more support and to take up a little extra space. However, some of our other testers found these comfortable right out of the box. Additionally, these are on the pricey end of hiking shoes. If you're searching for a good deal, the Merrell Moab 3 is one of our favorites for its comfort and decent support. Overall, our testing team believes the Anacapa is worth the investment, as it offers excellent performance for those seeking maximum comfort on the trail.
A long-time favorite of our male testing team, the La Sportiva Spire GTX is a capable hiking shoe to which we continue to return. They perform well on all surfaces and achieve the elusive trifecta of comfort, support, and low weight. We weighed these shoes in at 2.06 pounds for a US size 11. While this isn't the lightest, it also isn't the heaviest. One of our testers reports, “I wholeheartedly think the extra weight is a fair trade-off for the more-than-capable design.” An extra cushioned midsole reminds us of a solid pair of trail running shoes. Meanwhile, the Vibram XS Trek and Impact Brake System provide excellent traction and support on the trickiest of surfaces. With a 3.5-inch flood height and Gore-Tex liner, a few steps in a puddle or snowfield won't leave your socks soaked.
While there are certainly lighter options, the Spire GTX provides a great blend of hiking performance without cutting back on overall comfort. They're also an exceptionally costly investment. If you are a casual hiker, a more affordable shoe might be up your alley, like the Merrell Moab. The Moab are still capable of hard hikes, but the out-of-the-box comfort allows them to be well suited for quick day hikes. Yet they remain among our top choices for springtime trail runs over patchy snow and speedy fastpacking missions. If you are willing to sacrifice a little comfort, check out the Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex, which is lighter and has better traction than the Spire.
The latest iteration of the Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Low 2includes new and improved traction thanks to a MaxTrac outsole and more flexible waterproof upper that allows more flexion and better grip throughout uneven terrain. Our tester, Trish, notes, “I certainly put the waterproof bootie construction to the ultimate test during an expedition in Chile, and I was surprised by how well they kept my feet dry.” While navigating soggy conditions after multiple days of sustained rain, the ALL-WTHR was only compromised when fully submerged in deep puddles. The design runs true to size and offers neutral support that's comfortable right out of the box. The trail running shoe performance makes it versatile enough to pick up the pace when you please and the lightweight construction makes it conducive to covering lots of miles with a light backpack. If you're interested in another lightweight and versatile trail running shoe design, check out options like the The North Face VECTIV Fastpack FUTURELIGHT or the Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex. The Vectiv is perfect for fast and light missions while the X Ultra 4 has enough structure to support the weight of a heavy pack. Altra also improved the lacing system which is now more user-friendly and easier to cinch to the perfect width for your foot. The ALL-WTHR 2 doesn't stray from Altra's Original Footshape, allowing plenty of room in the toe box and midfoot for even more comfort on the trail.
While the Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Low 2 is comfortable out of the box, there is an adjustment period for those not used to the natural positioning or 0mm drop that places the heel and forefoot at the same time. Once you and your calves have adjusted, you can enjoy a more stable foundation for the trail. The new design also included a more flexible, “sock-like” upper that allowed for more flexion both forward and laterally, which we noticed as our feet were more quickly prone to fatigue. We also found that the lightweight trail shoe design didn't provide enough support to allow us to carry a heavy backpack. We learned this the hard way as we negotiated very soggy trails while carrying a 70-pound haul bag, and our feet were so sore the following day. If you need a shoe that can support a heavy load, we recommend the La Sportiva Spire GTX that has far more support and structure within a waterproof design that also includes Vibram XS Trek outsole. That being said, the ALL-WTHR 2 shines as a comfortable, lightweight option with excellent traction to navigate technical trails during day hikes with a lightweight pack.
Our testers love the Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR 2 as a solid day hiking option that features a MaxTrac rubber outsole for excellent traction along with a flexible and durable waterproof bootie construction for those rainy days on the trail.
Credit: Trish Matheny
How We Tested
We have spent years testing hundreds of the best hiking shoes for men and women. We've logged thousands of miles to find the best shoes in the biz. We've crossed mountains, raced through the desert, explored forests, scrambled over scree, and splashed through streams in these shoes. We've taken them to our local parks, on cross-country road trips, and expeditions across the globe. Our testing team carefully considers the perks and drawbacks of every pair in every condition. We tested every shoe across metrics like comfort, support, traction, water resistance, weight, and durability. Learn more about how we test men's hiking shoes and how we test women's hiking shoes.
In testing hiking shoes, we hiked plenty of trails, measured their waterproofing, dialed in on comfort and support, among many other tests.
Credit: Ryan Huetter
Why Trust GearLab
A veritable army of veteran GearLab testers has added expertise to our testing and findings. Trish Matheny and Myrha Colt are the masterminds behind our women's hiking shoe review. Trish is well-versed across gear and sports and is an accomplished rock climber, trail runner, and splitboarder. Myrha is a lifelong adventure travel professional whose enthusiasm for trails has carried her through mountains worldwide, from the Himalayas to the Andes and New Zealand to Patagonia. With some input from other team members and trail runners, these ladies offer a discerning eye for the best hiking footwear.
Ryan Huetter and Ben Applebaum-Bauch are the brains behind our men's hiking shoe review. A full-time IFMGA Certified Mountain Guide, Ryan spends over 200 days a year hiking as an outdoor professional. When not guiding, he is often still wearing hiking boots while on his way to the crag. Ben is an avid distance hiker and has completed thru-hikes of numerous iconic American trails like the PCT, Superior Hiking Trail, Long Trail, and more. He has guided many backpacking, cycling, and canoeing trips around New England and Canada, covering thousands of miles of trail and bagging countless peaks in his lifetime. Because a remote trailhead is often the starting point of many adventures, we also draw input from our bevy of outdoor experts, which includes trail runners, climbers, backpackers, and world travelers.
We take our testing seriously, hiking to some of the most beautiful places in the world. Here, we test the Merrell Moab 3 on a day hike to a beautiful alpine lake.
Rough country! The Hoka Anacapa Low GTX makes light work out of all these granite stairs with its top-notch comfort.
This design is quite a bit heftier than more high-tech, modern hiking shoe options, but what you get is a shoe that's built to last.
Over the years, we've tested hundreds of pairs of hiking and trail running shoes for men and women.
Men's Hiking Shoes
We test the best hiking shoes for men thoroughly and thoughtfully. The table below highlights our overall performance ratings for many of the top men's hiking shoes on the market today that are included in our hiking shoes for men review.
Key Metric Scores - Men's Hiking Shoes
Product
Comfort
Support
Traction
Water Resistance
Salewa Mountain Trainer Lite GTX
7
9
9
9
Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX
9
8
7
9
Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex
7
8
9
8
La Sportiva Spire GTX
8
7
7
9
Columbia Facet 75 OutDry
8
6
8
7
Keen NXIS EVO Waterproof
6
8
6
9
Oboz Sawtooth X Low Waterproof
7
8
7
7
Adidas Terrex Swift R3 Gore-Tex
5
6
9
9
Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof
7
8
6
8
Merrell Moab 3
8
7
7
4
Columbia Crestwood
8
7
6
3
Hoka Speedgoat 5.0
8
6
6
3
Vasque Juxt
8
6
7
2
Danner Trail 2650 GTX
7
5
5
6
Keen Zionic Speed
5
4
6
3
Women's Hiking Shoes
The chart below demonstrates that the GearLab female testing team put many shoes through their paces. We go deeper into the models below in our review of hiking shoes for women.
Key Metric Scores - Women's Hiking Shoes
Product
Comfort
Support
Traction
Water Resistance
La Sportiva Spire GTX
8
8
9
9
Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX
9
8
8
7
Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex
7
8
8
9
Altra Lone Peak All-Wthr 2
8
6
8
8.5
On Running Cloudwander Waterproof
9
8
6
7
Oboz Sawtooth X Low Waterproof
7
8
7
8
The North Face VECTIV Fastpack FUTURELIGHT
8
8
6
8
Merrell Moab 3 WP
7
6
7
8
Adidas Terrex Swift R3 Gore-Tex
5
7
8
8
Altra LP Alpine
8
7
8
4
Merrell Moab 3
8
8
7
4
Keen Targhee IV Low
5
7
5
9
Columbia Crestwood
7.5
7.5
7
3
Keen Zionic Speed
8
5
7
4
Merrell Siren Edge 3
6
6
7
4
Danner Trail 2650
7
6
6
3
Merrell Moab Speed
7
5
6
3
Nortiv 8 Lightweight
6
4
5
2
Saucony Excursion TR17
6.5
4
4
2
How to Pick the Best Hiking Shoes for You
As far as sports go, hiking is a fairly easy one to get into. A ton of new gear isn't necessary — at least not for a simple day hike. The one thing you really need is a great pair of hiking shoes. There are many options to choose from, all of which can be the right choice for your experience, preferences, and intended use. We'll start by going over the main types of hiking footwear. We'll discuss the specific situations calling for different types of shoes. Finally, we'll dive into some specific features you may or may not want on your feet.
No matter how you want to hit the trails, there's a perfect pair of footwear out there for you.
Credit: Jared Ross
Hiking Footwear Types
Not sure which kicks to take on your next trek? Below we outline the different types of hiking footwear, including boots, shoes, sandals, trail runners, and more. Depending on your trail preferences, you might opt for one over another.
Hiking Boots
Credit: Merrell
The OG hiking footwear — the classic hiking boot — has come a long way from the days of repeated oiling and months of suffering through a painful break-in process. Today's hiking boots are much more diverse. They can be constructed from full-grain leather, fully synthetic materials, or a blend of the two. Hiking boots offer more support for carrying heavy loads and increased ankle protection and support, even on lower-cut models. They're generally heavier than hiking or trail shoes and are built durably.
Boots vs. Shoes
One of the main reasons to choose a boot is for extra ankle support. Hikers with ankle stability concerns — like those who frequently roll or sprain ankles — can greatly benefit from the extra support of a medium or high-cut boot.
Hiking Shoes
Credit: Oboz
Hiking shoes are a great solution for those who appreciate a shoe's freedom and low weight but desire the structure and support of a hiking boot. They are always low cut, leaving the ankle exposed and mobile. They come with various possible features, though they are less protective than boots. Most aren't meant for river crossings, but they often have a breathable waterproof membrane for some water protection.
Hiking Shoes vs. Trail Runners
If you carry weight when you hike or backpack, a hiking shoe's added structure and support are designed to help you along the way. Suppose you prefer quick and light trips with minimal weight. In that case, the flexibility and responsiveness of a trail running shoe may be a better fit for your style.
Trail Runners
Credit: Nike
Burlier than a running shoe, trail running shoes have extra features that make them an asset off the pavement. Support and stability make them reliable over uneven ground, yet they are lighter and more flexible than traditional hiking shoes or boots. Their extra tread gives them added traction on trails. Still, since they're designed for running rather than hiking, they often aren't supportive enough to carry a heavy backpack.
Running Shoes for Hiking
Trail running shoes can be a great option for experienced fastpackers and day hikers moving at speed. What they lack in structure and support, they make up for in agility and low weight.
Approach Shoes
Credit: La Sportiva
More and more folks are choosing to hike in approach shoes, whether they are rock climbers or not. These shoes are designed for “approaching” technical rock climbs or canyons and have stickier rubber and a tighter fit in the toe box. They provide extra security when navigating everything from smooth rock slabs to loose boulder fields. If the terrain is more technical, an approach shoe will allow your footing to be more precise and secure.
Approach Shoes for Hiking
If you like to wander off packed trails and explore boulders and rock ledges as you hike, an approach shoe might be a great option to consider. Some are built to be more technical and could be overkill for casual use, but many are focused on comfortable walking — they'll just provide you with sticker rubber and a toe shape capable of stepping on tiny rock features.
Hiking Sandals
Credit: Bedrock Sandals
A sandal as a hiker? You bet! While sandals are often thought of as a casual piece of footwear, the market for burly, well-treaded models has blown up. If you like to switch it up and allow your toes to breathe — or your hike will involve water crossings — a hiking sandal could be a perfect fit. Technical sandals are also ideal for outings on a boat or swimming where many sharp objects are underfoot.
Shoes vs. Sandals
While even the most rugged sandal will not be appropriate for some terrain, there are instances where it's a great alternative. A model with supportive, adjustable straps and sticky treads can be a solid companion for shorter trips, hotter weather, or wetter circumstances. Some folks build their foot and skin strength enough to hike long distances in a sandal. There are lightweight, minimal options that are ideal for bringing along as a backup on longer trips.
Best Uses for Hiking Shoes
“Hiking” covers various ways to connect your feet to a trail. Depending on how long you want to be out, how much weight you plan to carry, and your general foot support needs, you'll want to look for certain types of footwear. Here, we'll break down general types of hiking and what kinds of shoes work best in each situation.
Pack Weight Considerations
We'll refer to different size loads for hiking and backpacking. In general, loads greater than around 15% of your body weight (like what most people carry in a 55+L backpack) are considered “heavy.” Loads around 10-12% of your body weight (typical for a full 20L daypack) we consider to be “medium”. And packs that are less than about 8% of your body weight (such as in a hydration pack or small daypack) we will consider a “light” load.
Thru-Hiking
Starting on the most extreme end of the hiking spectrum, thru-hikes are long-distance hikes on trails such as the Pacific Crest Trail, the Appalachian Trail, or the Continental Divide Trail. These massive undertakings involve weeks or even months spent backpacking, and many who seek to accomplish these exceptional distances value low weight and comfort over all else. Many thru-hikers spend months training in trail running shoes and counting ounces to lighten their loads. Others align themselves more with backpackers than fastpackers, opting for a few extra ounces in foot support by wearing hiking shoes.
Thru hiking may involve heavier loads for longer distances or lighter loads for moving quickly - depending on your style.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
Backpacking with Medium to Light Loads
Most hiking shoes are ideal for carrying medium to light packs on well-maintained trails. Many experienced hikers (with strong ankles) who occasionally venture into backpacking by spending a few nights out find that their hiking shoes work just fine for packing light. Models with extra support in the midsole help to cushion a mid-sized backpack's worth of gear while their added durability keeps up over rough terrain.
When hiking, you may consider shoes with extra support through the midsole to help handle the extra load.
Credit: Myrha Colt
Fast Hiking
Fast hiking and fastpacking are exactly how they sound: taking on a trail at a pace much faster than average. This growing subdivision of hiking is all about logging as many miles as possible every day — sometimes even for months on end during a thru-hike. Fastpackers do their best to cut as much weight as possible from their packs, and speedwalking sometimes turns into a light jog on flat sections. A lightweight hiking shoe or even a reliable trail running shoe can offer the perfect combination of support and cushioning for the individual fast hiker.
Fastpacking calls for lightweight shoes with great traction and responsiveness.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
Day Hiking
As simple as it sounds, day hiking is heading out on a hike for the day. Most day hikers do not carry much more than the essentials (and perhaps a few emergency supplies, just in case), making for light packs. Because even the most fully loaded daypacks aren't all that heavy, the footwear required to support them doesn't need to be as structured as a backpacking model. All of the hiking shoes — and many of the trail running shoes and even hiking boots — that we tested can be a good choice for day hiking, depending on your desired foot feel.
Day hiking with a light pack doesn't require that much added support from your shoes.
Credit: Jen Reynolds
Trail Running
While many people choose to run trails in their road running shoes, trail running shoes have many features that make them better suited to trail conditions. Deeper tread, extra support, and even waterproof membranes can make all the difference when running down a gravelly trail, over tallus, or through a spring stream. And if you're an experienced trail person with strong ankles and feet, trail running shoes can be a great option for hiking with light loads.
Trail running shoes can double as great hiking shoes for experienced hikers looking to keep weight low.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
Key Considerations When Choosing Your Shoes
Now that you've figured out you want a low-cut hiking shoe and have thought about what types of hiking you plan on doing, there are still many options. To further narrow down what type of footwear will serve you best on your outings, there are several possible features you may or may not want.
Hiking Shoe Components
Upper
Midsole
Outsole
Overall Comfort
Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX
Recycled mesh
EVA (30% sugarcane)
Vibram Megagrip rubber
1
2
3
4
5
La Sportiva Spire GTX
Abrasion-resistant mesh
EVA
Vibram XS Trek
1
2
3
4
5
Altra Lone Peak All-Wthr Low 2
Waterproof bootie
Altra EGO foam
MaxTrac rubber
1
2
3
4
5
Columbia Crestwood
Leather, suede, mesh, webbing
Techlite
Omni-Grip
1
2
3
4
5
Merrell Moab 3
Pigskin leather, mesh
Super rebound compound
Vibram TC5
1
2
3
4
5
Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex
Synthetic textile
EVA
Rubber Contagrip
1
2
3
4
5
Salewa Mountain Trainer Lite GTX
Synthetic
EVA
Pomoca MTN Trainer Lite
1
2
3
4
5
Estimate Your Abilities Correctly
Whether this is your first foray into hiking or you're replacing a pair of shoes going into your 60th year of trail exploration, a realistic understanding of your feet's needs is crucial. If your feet are sore without wearing supportive insoles at work, make sure you're looking for shoes with adequate support. If your ankles often roll when you walk, prioritize ankle support. Buying a hiking shoe is not the time to be optimistic about your feet's abilities.
Support and Weight
The support of a shoe is due to many factors. The most immediately obvious one is the feeling of the insole against your foot — particularly for those looking for arch support. However, the unseen midsole is the main structural component that provides long-term support, particularly when carrying a pack. EVA is one of the most common materials comprising a midsole. From “soft” to “dual-density,” even the densest EVA feels immediately softer underfoot than polyurethane (PU) midsoles. While EVA requires no break-in period (unlike PU), this foam will eventually pack down and offer less support, resulting in a shorter lifespan for your shoe.
PU midsoles feel more rigid right out of the box and can require a longer break-in period than models utilizing EVA. Once broken in, though, the polyurethane is designed to last longer than EVA. Its added stiffness provides long-term support for your feet, particularly when carrying heavy packs. On the other hand, shoes with added support also usually weigh more than their more flexible cousins. But if your feet need a helping hand to prevent foot fatigue on long days, that increase in weight is probably worth it.
For hikers carrying a pack, having a supportive midsole is important.
Credit: Ryan Huetter
Water Resistance
There are a few common ways for hiking shoes to achieve water resistance. The first is by integrating a waterproof membrane between the layers of fabric comprising the upper portion of the shoe. Some manufacturers make their own membrane, while others add a layer of Gore-Tex (often denoted by “GTX” in the shoe's name). These membranes are designed to keep water from seeping through the shoe fabric while still facilitating breathability for your feet. Polyurethane (PU) coatings are another way to add water resistance. This coating can be added by the manufacturer (or by you at home) and is applied to the external layer of the upper. It helps water to bead off your shoe rather than soak in — though it can't make a mesh shoe waterproof.
Not everyone needs a waterproof hiking shoe, though. Having waterproof shoes is key if you live in a rainy place like Appalachia or the Pacific Northwest. Even for early spring hikes over snow and encountering swollen streams, the ability to keep your shoes — and therefore your feet — dry is paramount to your feet's comfort. After all, you can change a sweaty sock, but you can't change wet shoes. On the other hand, even the most breathable waterproof membrane adds warmth to a shoe. A waterproof membrane is likely not your friend if you mostly hike in hot weather or on dry trails. For many hikers heading out on perfect-weather days, the added breathability of going out without a waterproof membrane is much more enjoyable.
Sloshing through streams is not a problem for the Anacapa 2.
Credit: Ryan Huetter
Toe Protection
All hiking shoes offer some level of toe protection, ranging from molded toe caps to leather-covered toes. How much toe protection you actually need depends on the conditions you expect to encounter. Groomed and maintained trails of hard-packed dirt don't demand much toe protection. However, crossing rocky scree or hiking around thorny vegetation begs for more coverage. As always, adding extra features like a bulky toe cap will add weight to your shoe — but if it prevents you from being stabbed by a vengeful cactus, that weight may be worth it.
Hiking footwear can offer some beefy protection from wayward rocks and sharp sticks.
Credit: Matt Bento
Fit
Lastly, but most importantly, the fit of your footwear is the most crucial factor in your overall happiness while wearing them. If you can, head to a local retailer and try on options from many manufacturers. Take the socks you plan to wear while hiking to ensure you end up with the right size. Put them on and walk around the store with them. Talk to an expert if you can.
If you have to buy online, double-check the return policy before clicking “purchase.” Research the manufacturer who makes the model of shoe you're considering — some tend to run long, narrow, or small. If you fall between sizes, we recommend erring on the larger size. Feet typically swell when walking or standing all day. Ensure that the tips of your toes don't touch the front of your shoe when laced. And even if you're trying them on at home, walk, jump, and skip around your house to see if the shoes you've got are truly the ones you want.
Finding the right fit for your fit is paramount.
Credit: Myrha Colt
Conclusion
If you've chosen your footwear correctly, you probably won't even notice them the next time you hit the trail. The right pair of hiking shoes is what's comfortable for your feet, your stride, your adventures, and your preferences. We hope we've helped you identify some promising options for your lifestyle and budget. Take the time to find the perfect pair for you — and have a fun and safe time out there!
—Trish Matheny, Myrha Colt, Ben Applebaum-Bauch, and Ryan Huetter
