The Best Hiking Shoes for Men

Our Picks of Men's Hiking Shoes

Best Overall Hiking Shoe

Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX

The Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX continues to be the most overall comfortable hiker. We have reviewed a lot of hiking shoes, but these ones stand out for their cushy comfort, solid support, abrasion-resistant uppers, and waterproof liner. The uppers are soft and pliable thanks to the high-quality mesh, but they gain extra durability with the nubuck leather, too. They are built on a responsive sugarcane EVA midsole that absorbs impacts on the trail. Additionally, they easily conform to the foot with time and do not require much of a break-in period. As we knock out the miles, we like the support provided by the cushiony midsole and slight rocker that makes striding smoother. Our tester, Ryan Huetter, explained, “My foot sits low in the shoe, making them feel stable, while the wide outsole resists rolling.”

The stability and durability provided by these shoes add a couple of ounces in weight, but that is a sacrifice we are willing to make for a well-built shoe. Using the well-known waterproof and breathable membrane, Gore-Tex, they keep water away from your feet and boast a three-inch flood height. Additionally, this Gore-Tex membrane lets our feet breathe on warm days. They are grippy thanks to a Vibram Megagrip outsole, which another of our testers, Chris, also appreciated. “Whether I stepped on a slick log I probably shouldn't have or climbed up a muddy trail, the wide aggressive traction never let me down.”

Measured Weight (per pair, size 11)	1.99 lbs
Upper	Recycled mesh, nubuck leather
Lining	GORE-TEX Invisible Fit
Flood Height	3.0 in
Last Board/Shank	Not specified

Surprisingly, we have little criticism for the Anacapa. However, we found ourselves grabbing the Oboz Katabatic LT Low GTX when we expected sustained scrambling in rugged terrain, as the Hoka's wide platform can feel cumbersome in more technical environments like on steep granite traverses. We also had to get used to the Swallowtail design as it extends beyond the natural heel more than other shoes do, but even our longest striding testers came to like it after a few hikes. If you'd prefer a more traditional heel design, the Salomon X Ultra 5 Gore-Tex performs well in technical terrain but also impressed us for cruising on trails. All in all, the Anacapa 2 is a high-scoring model and is the shoe we would heartily recommend to someone looking for a super comfortable option for most hiking applications.

Read more: Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX review

Best Bang for Your Buck

Columbia Crestwood

The Columbia Crestwood initially caught our eye for its low price point, but really “wowed” us when we put them on and took them for a stroll. They use a Techlite midsole that is reasonably supportive but is not overly stiff. Our feet felt comfortable as we trekked on uneven terrain. Weighing 1.83 pounds for a size 11, they are among the lightest in our lineup. These shoes use a suede leather and mesh upper that is pliable and breathes well in arid climates. We enjoyed wearing these on day hikes on our local trail system, but we also took them into moderate off-trail terrain and found them to do surprisingly well for a budget shoe. These shoes feel more like tennis shoes, and we had very little break-in. Our tester, Ryan Huetter, mentions, “Fitting much like a well-loved pair of sneakers, I found these easy and enjoyable to walk in.”

Measured Weight (per pair, size 11)	1.83 lbs
Upper	Suede leather, mesh, webbing
Lining	None
Flood Height	1.5 in
Last Board/Shank	Not specified

The Crestwood is not as supportive as many other shoes in this review, like the Salomon X Ultra 5 Gore-Tex that features a stiffer midsole construction. This lighter construction will limit the Crestwood's usefulness in really demanding terrain. They are also not waterproof, and their flood height is only one inch, so those seeking a shoe that will keep their feet dry in wet climates may look to another shoe such as the Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof. However, if you live in a warm and dry climate, you likely won't need a waterproof shoe. For those looking for an entry-level shoe that won't break the bank and offers good performance in mild and moderate hiking terrain, we enjoy the Crestwood and recommend it for its bargain price.

Read more: Columbia Crestwood review

Best Technical Hiking Shoe

Salomon X Ultra 5 Gore-Tex

The Salomon X Ultra 5 Gore-Tex hiking shoe is built to chew up even the roughest trails. This latest update is still made for rugged terrain, but its simplicity makes it a winner for casual day hikes as well. Built on an AVD-C Chassis, the lateral support offered by these low-top hikers is top-tier, and the new Kevlar fiber-infused Matryx upper feels flexible yet supportive right out of the box. We marveled at how confident the footbed makes us feel whenever we venture off-trail, and the waterproof Gore-Tex liner breathes fairly well, keeping our feet cool on warm spring days. Our size 14 test pair weighed in at just 2.1 lbs, which is very lightweight in comparison. Our tester, Chris, says, “When I'm cruising on a trail or exploring through the woods, I can't believe how confident I feel each time I step in these X Ultra 5s. The side-to-side stability is so good, I feel like I can spend more time looking at the scenery than down at the ground, planning each step.”

Measured Weight (per pair, size 11)	2.1 lbs (size 14)
Upper	Synthetic with Matryx Kevlar weave
Lining	Gore-Tex membrane
Flood Height	3.86 in (size 14)
Last Board/Shank	ADV-C chassis

While the X Ultra 5 Gore-Tex Quicklace system makes tightening these shoes fast and easy, you have to tuck the laces into a little pocket over the tongue to avoid a tripping hazard. It takes just as long as tying shoes with traditional laces, but you do end up with a trim ride so your laces are unlikely to catch on sticks or brush. The previous version had a tall rear heel tab that bothered the Achilles area on some, but Salomon shortened it in the Ultra 5, making it much more comfortable. Sizing is a tad short and a bit narrow, which ensures a stable fit and outstanding technical performance, but the snug fit is something you might want to consider if you prefer a roomy feel. The Oboz Sawtooth X Low Waterproof is another shoe worth considering for its performance in rugged terrain, though not nearly as light as the Ultra 5.

Read more: Salomon X Ultra 5 Gore-Tex review

Best Urban Trail Cruiser

On Cloudrock Low Waterproof

The On Cloudrock Low Waterproof is the best hiking shoe for cruising hard-packed trails and the pavement on the way to urban parks and nature preserves. “I can't get over how cushy these shoes feel on concrete,” Chris says. “Of course, they're great on hard terrain, but the Helion superfoam midsole — with those cool pass-through holes — is so good at softening impacts that I find myself choosing these shoes any time I need to run errands around town. Crazy comfort here.” The lightweight build features a remarkably burly upper made from 100% recycled polyester. The TPU toe cap protected our toes when we accidentally kicked a rock or stick on rough ground, and the full perimeter mud guard helped protect the upper when striding off-trail.

Measured Weight (per pair, size 11)	2.36 lbs (size 14)
Upper	Recycled polyester, TPU
Lining	Waterproof membrane
Flood Height	3.87 in (size 14)
Last Board/Shank	X-shaped Speedboard

The waterproof membrane inside the Cloudrock Low kept our feet dry while treading through dewy grass and impromptu stream crossings, but the relatively thick upper results in a shoe that ran a bit warm on the hottest summer days. “The waterproof membrane is breathable, but after a couple of hours hiking in the summer, my feet usually got hotter than I like,” Chris reported. If hot-weather hiking comfort is more important to you than sloshing through puddles and wet forests, the Merrell Moab 3 kept one of our testers' feet cool while hiking in temperatures around 90° Fahrenheit. If you want to be able to step through shallow mountain streams without getting your feet wet, the waterproof Salomon X Ultra 5 Gore-Tex runs a bit cooler in hot weather — though it's not as cushy underfoot as the Cloudrock.

Read more: On Cloudrock Low Waterproof review

Best Crossover Shoe

La Sportiva Spire GTX

Year after year, the La Sportiva Spire GTX continues to be one of our favorites. This capable hiking shoe performs admirably on all terrain, from on-trail walks to long-distance thru-hikes over rough cross-country routes. Supportive and comfortable, we are also impressed with their weight. While there are certainly lighter models out there, at 2.06 pounds per pair, the Spire gives us a lot of hiking performance without sacrificing comfort. “The cushioned midsole kept my feet happy mile after mile,” Ryan Huetter said, noting that the beefy Vibram XS Trek outsole bit down on loose surfaces. The deep and widely spaced lugs shed mud and avoid caking on debris. These shoes have a unique Impact Braking System, which helps grab onto the ground during steep descents. We had no trouble running in these shoes, yet they aren't soft enough that we would only run in them. We gladly pick these up for hikes and runs.

Measured Weight (per pair, size 11)	2.06 lbs
Upper	Abrasion-resistant mesh
Lining	Gore-Tex Surround
Flood Height	3.5 in
Last Board/Shank	Molded EVA

The Spire GTX is a shoe we recommend to people who want to easily switch between hiking and running while out on the trail. It is the most effective option in our lineup as a trail running shoe, though it contains so many hiking shoe attributes that we classify it as such. If you are looking for a running-specific shoe, be sure to read our review on trail running shoes. Fastpackers, speedy thru-hikers, and those who prefer softer, more forgiving on-trail footwear will like this shoe. If you're looking for something well-cushioned that also excels off-trail, the Adidas Terrex Free Hiker Gore-Tex 2.0 Low is an excellent option. These have a premium price tag attached to their great performance. The Columbia Facet 75 OutDry is much cheaper and has a sneaker-like style, offering comfort and great traction. However, they aren't as durable or supportive as the Spire.

Read more: La Sportiva Spire GTX review

Best Lightweight Waterproof Explorer

Oboz Katabatic LT Low GTX

The Oboz Katabatic LT Low GTX is the best waterproof trail shoe for hikers who like to go light and fast. Each shoe weighed less than a pound, even in our tester's size 14, helping these svelte shoes feel agile on all terrain. “When a trail braided then disappeared for long sections, the trim build of these shoes let me cruise through rocky alpine landscapes. I could step through boggy meadows and hop over old logs without tripping up,” Chris said. For long, fast day hikes that might get gnarly, this is our new favorite go-to.

Measured Weight (per pair, size 11)	1.97 lbs (size 14)
Upper	Recycled polyester
Lining	GORE-TEX Invisible Fit
Flood Height	3.62 in (size 14)
Last Board/Shank	Not specified

While the aggressive, relatively soft tread on the Katabatic LT Low GTX seems to rival mountain goat traction by conforming to rocky cracks and angles, it could wear down a little faster than harder rubber compounds. Similarly, the softer, flexible sole isn't fantastic if you need to bite your edges into soft forest duff while side-hilling in the mountains. Check out the Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof if you need a stiffer sole — or the non-waterproof Moab 3 version if you want more ventilation. Still, if you're tired of clunky shoes that have to create comfort through massive slabs of foam, these Oboz trail shoes are for you.

Read more: Oboz Katabatic LT Low GTX review

Best For Warm Climate Hiking

Merrell Moab Speed 2

The Merrell Moab Speed 2 is awesome for people who like to hike in hot weather. When we took it to the trails in temperatures exceeding 95° Fahrenheit, the light, meshy upper let air escape with each step, keeping our feet reasonably comfortable. Its aggressive traction let us handle sandy, hard-packed ascents and descents in arid areas, but it was also a capable cruiser on trails in Idaho forests. “For dry, summertime hiking, this is the shoe I want on my feet,” Chris noted. “I thought the non-Speed version, the Merrell Moab 3, was pretty great for warm weather, but the Speed 2 is definitely more comfortable.”

Measured Weight (per pair, size 11)	1.89 lbs (size 14)
Upper	Nylon ripstop, TPU
Lining	Recycled mesh
Flood Height	1.37 in (size 14)
Last Board/Shank	Not listed

The biggest drawback to the fair-weather Merrell Moab Speed 2 is the lack of support on very steep ground. “While the footbed and sole are remarkably stable and supportive on common trails, I had to ratchet down the laces to keep my foot from distorting the upper,” Chris reported. “This is most noticeable on steep, side-hilling situations.” If off-trail exploring is your thing, the Moab 3 has leather sections built into the upper that improve stability over steep ground. Similarly, the Hoka Speedgoat 6 did a decent job of letting our feet breathe, though they're not as airy as the Moab Speed 2.

Read more: Merrell Moab Speed 2 review

How We Tested

Since the category of hiking shoes is broad, our review staff and editors spend much time sifting through the countless models before settling on the most promising shoes for testing. This starts with extensive research, ultimately selecting interesting, exciting, or highly regarded models. We then buy each pair and ship them out to our expert review staff, who spend untold hours hiking around in multiple types of terrain for each shoe. We use our predetermined metrics to judge each pair and see how they perform against each other. Once we have walked many miles in each of these hiking shoes, we tally up our results to share with you. For more on our test process, see our How We Test article.

We tested men's hiking shoes across six performance metrics:

• Comfort (30% of total weighted score)

• Support (25% weighting)

• Traction (20% weighting)

• Durability (15% weighting)

• Water Resistance (5% weighting)

• Weight (5% weighting)

We performed more than 10 individual assessments on each hiker, and our testers wore each pair in the real world for a minimum of 20 miles to determine long-term wear and changes in performance over time as they break in and potentially wear out. Each shoe was scored on a scale of 1 through 10 for each metric, resulting in an overall score. While looking at the overall score to see which models were the best across all metrics is useful, you should also pay attention to how each model performs in specific applications.

Why Trust GearLab

This review was a team effort led by Ryan Huetter with Ben Applebaum-Bauch and Chris Maxcer pounding out some test miles, too. Ryan is a full-time mountain guide who spends more than 200 days a year hiking, climbing, and recreating on and off-trail. As an IFMGA Certified Mountain Guide through the American Mountain Guides Association, Ryan is an outdoor professional, and hiking on a trail is his daily commute. Ben started his outdoor career as a guide on multi-week backpacking and cycling trips. He is an avid distance hiker, completing thru-hikes of iconic American trails, including the Pacific Crest Trail, Long Trail, Oregon Coast, Pinhoti, and Superior Hiking Trail. Chris is an outdoor enthusiast and gear tester who has evaluated and reviewed hundreds of pairs of hiking and backpacking boots, wading boots, water shoes, and more, logging 200+ miles each year while adventuring in the Northwest.

Analysis and Test Results

We tested thoroughly, taking meticulous notes along the way so that we could score them all using a set of pre-defined testing metrics to help you find the right hikers for you.

What's the Best Value?

One of our favorite value options, the Columbia Crestwood, gives a great performance for a very reasonable dollar amount. These are great day shoes in warm climates for mild to moderate trails. If you need a waterproof shoe, the Columbia Facet 75 costs just a little bit more, but they provide great all-around performance and more comfort.

The Moab 3 is another option that we love to take on the trails that has great value. The Moab 3 is available in both non-waterproof and waterproof versions, so you can choose the right shoe for your climate and hiking preferences. Additionally, the Moab is one of the most comfortable shoes in our lineup, especially after a few hikes.

Comfort

Comfort is king when it comes to all hiking footwear. There is simply no reason to choose a shoe that does not feel great right out of the box. Everyone's foot is different, and we recommend ordering a few different shoes and keeping the ones that fit the best. Luckily, we are past the days of excruciating break-in periods; modern hiking shoes are lighter and use less rigid materials, which allows them to be ready to hit the trail from the moment you lace them up.

We take extensive notes on how each shoe feels when we test for comfort. We start by scrutinizing material stiffness, ease of entry and removal, lacing systems, and roominess. A shoe should not need to be broken in if it's made from synthetic fabrics such as mesh and PU-coated nylon, which is now quite common. The material should wrap around the foot without feeling bulky or clunky, and it should not have any stiffness leading to discomfort while walking, such as a tongue that cuts into your ankle. Comfort also relates to fit, and we relate the fit to individual foot volume so that you can get an idea of how loose or snug a pair of shoes might be. Shoes like the Hoka Anacapa 2 Low and La Sportiva Spire rose to the top of the more traditional hiking shoes, and for those that like trail running shoes, the Hoka Speedgoat 6 and Columbia Facet 75 were also high scorers.

We consider the entire shoe and cover everything, including the way the cuff feels around the ankle, the width of the shoe, the insole quality and arch support, the size of the toe box, as well as any improvements to comfort and protection, such as a molded toe cap or bumper, like you might find on the Keen Targhee IV Low.

Finally, we looked at how well each model breathes. Dry feet are comfortable feet, and a good design keeps everything dry when splashing through puddles while still breathing well on warmer days. We took each model to the local gym to walk on a treadmill at the same speed (3 mph), at the same incline (moderate), and for the same distance (1 mile) in the same socks (no fear, we cleaned them between trials). Afterward, we noted how hot our feet were, then removed the shoes to check for sock dampness and sweat accumulation on our feet. The non-waterproof products with meshy uppers, like the Merrell Moab Speed 2 and Hoka Speedgoat 6, breathe the best by far. Those that use leather sections for durability with mesh vents, like the Merrell Moab 3 and the Columbia Crestwood, also breathe quite well.

Of the shoes with waterproof membranes, the La Sportiva Spire breathes the most, likely thanks to the added air ventilation below the insole. The Columbia Facet 75 was a solid contender in this regard — lots of mesh along the upper allows it to breathe quite well. Some users will need to choose a shoe with a waterproof lining based on where they hike (wet environments), but if you live in an arid climate, then consider one of the shoes without a liner so that your feet will breathe better and not get as sweaty and damp.

The Hoka Anacapa Low 2 GTX is the most comfortable shoe in our review. It provides luxurious comfort with a cushioned midsole that helps shield your feet from the jarring impacts of firm surfaces like rocks and packed down trails. Our testers didn't need to break them in; they were comfy from day one. The Altra Lone Peak 9 Waterproof has a super wide, roomy toe box, which one of our testers found surprisingly comfortable for moderate hiking, but he sometimes didn't feel as locked down, connected to the footbed as he prefers on more rugged terrain. Those with wide feet who crave space for their toes should consider it. For more off-trail-ready comfort, the Spire GTX was a tester favorite.

Support

How much support a shoe provides depends on several factors, including the thickness and materials of the midsole, the thickness of the outsole, the shape of the last, and, to a lesser extent, the insole. An ideal hiking shoe is stiff from heel to midfoot but flexible upfront. Most models we reviewed include a shank between the midsole and outsole, increasing stiffness and protecting the foot over rough terrain. Stability is also affected by the forefoot width and ankle collar height.

To investigate stiffness underfoot, we tested the lateral torsion of each model. Reliable torsional support reduces the risk of injury in uneven terrain and when carrying a load. Holding the front of the shoe in one hand and the heel in the other, we twisted the shoe, similar to wringing out a towel. The more twist resistance, the greater rigidity in the sole. This rigidity improves a shoe's support when moving through talus and rough terrain or scrambling and hopping boulders. The Keen Targhee IV provides strong torsional stiffness at the cost of some comfort while striding. The X Ultra 5, on the other hand, manages to be both comfortable and supportive with its ADV-C chassis.

Those who desire a hefty underfoot structure may also find the Facet 75 OutDry a solid option. With an especially wide base that our testers found to reduce the likelihood of ankle rolls, it felt similar to the Hoka Anacapa 2 Low. The Facet also comes with a robust heel guard, which secures the back of the foot. We were pleased that all the shoes we reviewed flexed sufficiently in the forefoot. While this flex and softness of materials can help with comfort, if the design is not well executed, it can leave you feeling uneasy and vulnerable.

Additionally, we measured the forefoot at its widest point on each shoe. Wide bases provide a stable foundation for powering through each step. The Hoka Anacapa 2 Low has the widest of all the forefoot widths at 5 inches, and the Merrell model tied with the Columbia Facet for the second broadest forefoot at 4.75 inches. The Altra Lone Peak 9 Waterproof also has a very wide forefoot with a massively wide toe box, but the sole width doesn't extend as far out beyond the width of the insole. We found it to be stable, particularly when climbing. We also measured the height of the ankle collar (from the footbed to the highest ankle point) to check ankle stability. While ankle protection is more of a thing with hiking boots, we still appreciate a pair of hiking shoes that offers more stability than a typical trail runner.

However, finely tuned models can surprise without needing bulky midsoles. Despite its unassuming trim build, one tester was surprised at how cushy the Katabatic LT Low GTX felt underfoot. We attribute some of this success to its great insole, which we also consider. Some manufacturers view the insole as just an opportunity to add cushioning and improve the fit of the footbed. We appreciate manufacturers that take the insole as an opportunity to add support to the heel and arch. The stiffest insole award goes to the Keen models, while the Salomon and Merrell products also beefed up their insoles by adding a second, more dense layer of foam to the back half of the foot. This extra support does not take away from comfort in the footbed. While many hikers see buying third-party insoles as automatic, hiking shoes are not cheap, and we like included insoles that aren't either.

We also like to consider the stack height of the shoe, as in how tall you are standing above the ground, as this can decrease the feeling of stability unless that height is remedied by a well-designed heel cup, or by the width of the shoe. We found that a model like the Anacapa 2 did a much better job at improving stability despite being quite tall than the Oboz Sawtooth X Low, which did not extend the ankle collar high enough.

Traction

Traction is a fundamental trait to consider in a hiking shoe. The basis for a shoe's traction is the outsole. Made from rubber compounds and molded into different shapes called lugs, the amount of grip the shoe's outsole directly relates to how secure you will feel, whether you're walking the dog on a local trail or scrambling up peaks deep in the backcountry. Depending on your application, you may want a shoe with softer or harder rubber. Soft rubber will conform better to smooth surfaces such as rock slabs, while harder rubber will resist deformation and bite into loose terrain better while also lasting longer. Some companies outsource their rubber selection to well-known companies like Vibram, while others choose an in-house or proprietary rubber blend.

Lug pattern and shape will also impact your shoe's ability to hold on to the terrain you are on. Wide and shallow lugs give more surface area contact, making them more appropriate for packed trails and firm surfaces, while deeper and sharper cut lugs will provide a better grip on loose trails, mud, and snow. Shoes such as the Salomon X Ultra 5 and the Adidas Terrex Free Hiker Gore-Tex 2.0 Low have great traction on various surface conditions.

Midsole inserts made of molded plastic also contribute to a shoe's traction by giving the user a more stable and secure platform to edge upon, making a dime edge seem like a much broader ledge to use as a foothold.

Each model was tested side-by-side on five separate surface types to determine the shoes' overall traction score. We even wore different shoes on each foot to compare them directly when trekking through the test areas. First, we walked up and down dry granite slabs. Most models performed well in these scenarios, with the La Sportiva Spire GTX and Oboz Katabatic LT Low GTX sticking best to the steepest slopes. Both pairs have lugs that allow for lots of surface area contact.

Wet rocks generally produce mediocre results for all shoes, offering some slippage mixed with good traction, there were a couple of standouts and outliers. The Adidas Terrex Free Hiker Gore-Tex 2.0 Low impressed us on wet rock, and gripped very well on a polished, wet granite slab, while the Hoka Speedboat 6 stuck in place nearly as well. The Keen Targhee IV slipped a bit more than we expect, while the Oboz Sawtooth X Low Waterproof slid easily, with one tester facing a near fall off of a talus slope.

In our traction tests, we also hustled up slopes of loose sediment, and the more aggressive tread of the Salomon X Ultra 5 dug in better than the rest. We found a trail covered in mud from the thawing snow on the eastern side of the Sierra in Spring. Again, the X Ultra's deep and multi-directional lugs cut through the mud efficiently, finding hidden rocks or more stable soil to gain purchase. We also chose a smooth granite slab, sprayed it with water and tested each pair of shoes to see how it did on a standardized example of wet rock you might find in the backcountry.

Finally, we walked up and down some gentle snow-covered slopes warmed into a slushy state by the midday sun. The Salomon X Ultra 5 was a champ while kicking in steps in the snow, especially when going up. Coming down, we again loved outsoles with heel brakes, which tended to catch a sliding foot. The Spire GTX also did well in the snow. Overall, the X Ultra 5 showcases the best all-around traction, while the softer Oboz Katabatic LT Low GTX stuck remarkably well to all dry rock, making them quite fun when scrambling over boulders and slabs on high-elevation alpine treks.

Durability

The are many trade-offs when designing hiking footwear, and the cost for a more durable shoe is commonly more weight. When a manufacturer focuses on making lightweight shoes, durability is less of a focus. Full leather uppers tend to be more durable than synthetics but also weigh more. Rubber-covered toe boxes increase durability in that high-wear area but also add to the shoe's weight. Durable, dense rubber soles are also heavier than softer rubber. Your footwear takes more punishment than any other kind of hiking gear you wear, making craft, materials, and design an important part of choosing a pair that will age well.

The hikers we found to be the most durable were the Hoka Anacapa, Keen Targhee IV, and Oboz Sawtooth X Low. These shoes have impressively robust mesh on the upper and a solid interface between the upper and the sole. We experienced zero delamination issues, even after trying hard to beat these things up. Nothing seemed to phase them.

A common point of failure to watch out for in new, especially lightweight options, is the eyelets and lacing system. In an effort to reduce weight — and let's face it, sometimes manufacturing costs — some brands are using fabric eyelets instead of metal, polymers, or leather reinforcements. Fabric eyelets offer new style looks, but they can wear through and break before your soles run out of traction.

If you choose a version that uses fabric eyelets, you can improve their longevity by slowly tightening each section of your laces one at a time instead of yanking on the laces hard to tighten all at once. Why does this work? Lacing slower reduces friction that can fray fabric eyelets prematurely.

Water Resistance

It's no secret dry feet provide more comfort and warmth than wet ones. Moisture and water in the footbed also increase the likelihood of blisters. Often, waterproofing makes hiking shoes less breathable and, therefore, warmer. Plus, the waterproof linings tend to increase the price of the shoe. Most of the shoes we reviewed have waterproof liners except for the Columbia Crestwood, Merrell Moab Speed 2 and Moab 3, and the Hoka Speedgoat 6. If you hike somewhere that doesn't get much precipitation or spring runoff, a non-waterproof shoe might be best for you.

While flood height doesn't account for the whole picture of waterproofing, it is important if you frequent stream crossings. The flood height refers to the level at which water pours in, whether that be the top of the shoe or an opening near the tongue or ankle.

The Spire and Adidas Terrex Free Hiker both have a flood height of 3.50 inches, which is plenty high for shallow streams. The Keen Targhee IV has a flood height of 3.25 inches.

Beyond flood height, we also considered how readily the upper absorbs water and their performance in our waterproof challenge. After a couple of months of hiking, we headed to a small mountain stream in the Eastern Sierra. We checked for leaks and splashed around in water deep enough to cover the forefoot. We walked around and flexed the forefoot to see if the added stress caused any leakage. After five minutes, we removed the shoes to see if any water made it inside. A handful of models emerged from the water on top, including the Salomon X Ultra 5, La Sportiva Spire, On Cloudrock Low Waterproof, Oboz Katabatic LT Low GTX, Keen NXIS EVO Waterproof, and Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX.

Many of the models that we tested come in both standard and “waterproof” options (a designation in the name like “GTX” for Gore-Tex or “Dry” usually gives it away). Popular liners include options from Gore-Tex or eVent, while some manufacturers, like Keen, use a proprietary membrane. We chose to test the waterproof versions as much as possible because the average hiker often encounters wet conditions, from water crossings and muck to slush and precipitation. However, most manufacturers produce waterproof and non-waterproof versions of their hiking shoes. If you don't need the protection, the non-waterproof versions are almost always cooler, more breathable, and cost less.

Waterproofing isn't always necessarily a good thing. If you hike in regions where there isn't much water, you probably don't need a waterproof shoe. While advances in waterproof membranes have improved and are still somewhat breathable, none are as breathable as a non-waterproofed shoe. For warm weather we love the Merrell Moab 3. These are also available in a waterproof version, but we highly recommend considering these if you aren't going to be crossing streams or snow fields.

Weight

Light is right for footwear. One of the benefits of a hiking shoe over a full boot is the significant weight shed from every step while still providing a bit more stability and durability over a trail runner or tennis shoe. To compare the different models accurately, we weigh each one ourselves on a digital scale straight out of the box.

The different pairs in our lineup ranged between 1.34 to 2.66 pounds. That pound and a half difference might not seem like much on paper, but we noticed it underfoot. The Hoka Speedgoat 6.0 is the lightest pair that we tested and manages to provide solid comfort and support, despite the impressively light weight.

The Facet 75 OutDry is also a very light pair, though it's worth noting that it does not have the rugged structure that some of the more supportive models will be able to provide. While our size 14 pair of the new Salomon X Ultra 5 weighed 2.1 lbs, we expect that Salomon's reported weight of 1.68 lbs for a size 11 pair will likely be accurate, too. The Ultra 5s should offer more longevity and stiffer support for most hikers. We think this balance of low weight and support is unmatched in all models we have tested, and a big reason the X Ultra 5 wins so much praise from our testers. On the opposite end, the Keen Targhee IV is the heaviest pair we tested, but it's also incredibly stable and clearly built with longevity in mind.

While weight is an important trait, you do not always have to choose between weight and performance. The Spire GTX weighs a hair over 2 pounds but is among the more comfortable, stable, and supportive options. The Oboz Katabatic LT Low GTX weighs less than 2 pounds, but its trim design remains supportive on technical ground due to this foot-hugging upper and narrower heel that made the shoe feel like part of our feet. Most of our favorite shoes hover right around two pounds. More than two pounds and the shoe will likely boast better durability thanks to heavier, natural materials, as well as improved support thanks to a burlier midsole construction.

How to Choose Hiking Shoes for Men

Types of Hiking Footwear

 

Our testing team carefully evaluated everything from comfort to overall durability of each hiking shoe model in this review. There are a few different types of hiking footwear that is appropriate in different terrain choices. Below we identify the main options as well as their best applications on the trail.

Hiking Shoes: Hiking shoes are built for the trail. They feature midsole construction that helps to resist the jarring impacts of foot strikes while hiking on trails, often employ waterproof membranes to improve their utility in varied environments, and have better traction to deal with the many surface conditions that may be encountered. These shoes will provide much more comfort and protection when hiking on rockier trails, and will give more support for those carrying backpacks up to 25-30 pounds.

Hiking Boots: Hiking boots provide the highest levels of foot protection. They most often feature a shank, or stiffener, to impact more stability to the midsole which is useful in challenging terrain. The materials used in the upper are commonly heavier-duty than one might find in a trail runner or a hiking shoe, so durability is improved. One of the biggest hallmarks of a pair of hiking boots is the tall ankle collar, which provides extra support when carrying big loads (35+ pounds) or when traveling over uneven ground, which can also be beneficial for those with known ankle issues. All this protection comes at a cost, though, as hiking boots are usually much heavier than the average hiking shoe.

Trail Running Shoes: Trail running shoes are essentially beefed up running shoes that are designed to deal with more varied terrain that might be encountered than just running on pavement, yet they have become quite popular as shoes to be worn while just out hiking. They are built with lighter-weight materials and have a midsole that flexes to the shape of the terrain rather than adding stiffness like a more traditional hiking shoe. They may forego waterproofing membranes for greater breathability. For day hiking, or even backpacking with lighter-weight packs, a top-rated trail running shoe is a great option to consider.

Weight and Fit

We recommend ordering a few pairs of shoes that you are interested in with the intention of finding the one that fits the best. While weight is worth considering, a shoe that is comfortable and durable is going to take you much further. Lightweight hiking shoes can offer a ton of energy savings, yet they sacrifice the additional security and protection of a beefy outsole and substantial ankle cuff. Modern technology is allowing for lighter and lighter options that can still offer performance, comfort, and support on the trail; selecting the best support-to-weight ratio can make a huge difference in your hiking experience. Planning on wearing your shoes with thick socks? Sizing up can offer a little more wiggle room for winter socks. This can also help prevent blisters and toe jams that often occur with long downhills.

Waterproof Performance

No one wants to hike for an extended period of time with wet feet. It is important to consider the locations that you'll be hiking in order to properly select a water-resistant shoe over a breathable mesh option. If you're planning to hike in the Pacific Northwest you'll likely want a high-performing waterproof shoe. Planning to hike near the desert at low elevations? You'll likely want to forgo the additional heat provided by a water-resistant design and opt for a more breathable mesh in order to maximize comfort on the trail. Most shoes in this review feature a breathable waterproof membrane or a chemical treatment on the upper that allows water to bead off of the upper. Waterproof membranes can be a great choice for those hiking in colder climates while they can be a disadvantage for those who are seeking breathability in hot and dry climates. Most brands offer the same shoe in both a waterproof and non-waterproof option so that you can select the best option for you.

Conclusion

A good pair of hiking shoes is one of the best things that you can treat yourself to if you want to get out on the trail. We tested each one of these pairs vigorously so that you can have the best information about how to choose the right pair of shoes, and find the ones that are going to match you hiking needs perfectly. Low-cut hiking shoes are our favorite for the days that we don't need a lot of extra support, such as overnight backpacking with lots of weight, or traveling in really gnarly cross-country terrain. We hope that you have found this advice on how to choose the best hiking shoe useful, and be sure to read up on each individual pair so that you can slide your feet into the right shoes for your next adventure.