If you’re here, it means you are looking to buy one the best hiking boots out there. Hiking is a good form of cardio, it helps to lower the risk of heart disease, it improves blood sugar levels and blood pressure and also boosts bone density. So which shoes are the best options for you to gain all these benefits?
We spent weeks researching and looking at the most important features like comfort and cushioning, weight, support, type of material, waterproof, insoles, outsoles and durability among many other factors to determine that Salomon Quest 4D 2 GTX Hiking Boot for men and for women is the best hiking boot to explore the great outdoors. This hiking boot is very comfortable, durable and offers excellent support with toe guard and high quality membrane that is also waterproof. It generally provides more fitting than you might be used to with boots. If you have a wider feet, you might also want to consider the Arc’Teryx Bora 2 Mid GTX instead which is also not lacking anything in quality, functionality, protection and durability but offers more support for those with wider feet. It is also one of the most qualified options for hiking in warmer conditions because its liner is breathable and offers a sock-like fit.
Why You Should Trust Us
Our job is to spend as much time necessary on research, reviews and trying out different items so as to ensure that the products presented to you in our lists are the best that there are.
This is why we spent over 12 weeks researching and gathering data. Putting over 40 hiking boots into consideration, we followed up hiking experts and customers who bought the most recommended and best selling hiking boots; we also tapped from our own pool of experiences to come of with this list of best hiking boots so any of these hiking boots you choose will guarantee you a wonderful time on your next hike.
Best Hiking Boots For Men and Women
- Salomon Quest 4D GTX
- Arc’teryx Bora2 Mid GTX
- Lowa Renegade GTX Mid
- Scarpa R-Evolution GTX
- Vasque St. Elias GTX
- Adidas Terrex Swift R Mid GTX
- Salomon X Ultra Mid 2 GTX
- Lowa Innox GTX Mid
- Merrell Moab Mid Waterproof
- Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II
- Keen Durand Mid WP
- Asolo Fugitive GTX
- Keen Targhee II Mid
- Salewa Mountain Trainer Mid
Salomon Quest 4D 2 GTX Hiking Boot
We gave an honorary mention to this boot in the introductory paragraph of this review for good reason. Simply put, it is one of the best hiking shoes out there….and here’s why:
These hiking boots were inspired by Salomon’s great success with trail running shoes. The Salomon Quest 4D GTX is tough, not too light or too heavy to constitute an extra weight on your feet; they also come with a commendable lacing system. These boots are very durable and predominantly supportive as it holds unto your ankle compared to many others we tested. It is waterproof yet remaining breathable.
While this is a great hiking boot, it is a bit tight for those with wide feet especially if the feet is widest around the ball of the feet however, we have discovered that inserting shoe/boot trees works wonders. It also gets better and stretches with use so if you’re looking for a well built and comfortable boot while hiking and backpacking, this is the pair for you.
Category
Midweight
Weight
2 pounds and 13 ounces
Features:
- Waterproof membrane
- Comfortable lacing system
- Protective rubber heel cap
- 3D mesh lining
- Gore-Tex performance comfort membrane
- Contragrip sole for solid grip
- Nubuck leather and textile upper
- Several color options:
-
- Iguana Green/Asphalt/Dark Titanium
- Detroit/Black/Navajo
- Sage Green/Asphalt/Flashy-X
- Detroit and Collapsing Waterbottle
- Iguana Green and Collapsing Waterbottle.
Pros:
- All round traction
- Exceptional Toe Box Protection
- Waterproof ability
- Comfortable with great ankle support
- Multipurpose Hiking Boots
- Highly durable
- Limited Break In Period
Cons:
- Bulkier than most day hiking boots
- Thin Underfoot
- May not be suitable for those with wide feet
- Breathability could be improved on
If you find the Salomon Quest 4D 2 GTX in your size, these are your best options.
Arc’teryx Bora2 Mid GTX Hiking Boots
Arc’teryx has managed to make one of the most unique hiking shoes in the market despite being relatively new to making footwear. The design concept is completely different from anything you have envisaged from a hiking boot; combining a breathable sock-like interior with a more sturdy exterior.
The Arc’teryx Bora2 Mid GTX strengths are better observed on standard paths than on rough terrains, so that’s a bit of a bummer but the durable outer shell provides great protection on rocky paths.
This pair also provides the comfort of a lightweight boot alongside its grip and protection. It offers excellent traction even on varying terrain.
One major flaw with this however is that the Arc’teryx Bora2 Mid GTX may let in more water than you would expect and it can equally be quite warm and so may not be very appropriate for warmer conditions but they are excellent during colder seasons.
Category:
Midweight
Weight:
2 pounds, 11 Ounces.
Features:
- Breathable inside fit
- Durable Construct
- Commendable lacing system
- Stetchable Gore-Tex Liner
- Seamless, abrasion resistant, one piece upper
- Laminated heel and toe caps
- Traction grooves on outer edges of outsole
- Highly durable EVA foam midsole
Pros:
- Durable
- unique design
- Commendable Outsole
- Excellent lacing system
Cons:
- It can be expensive
- By shoe temperature standard, it is warmer than most.
- Insole quality could be improved on.
Yes, we agree that they are little too pricey but if you are looking for a very unique and durable hiking boot that you will be proud of showing off, you can go for this.
Click Here To See PriceLowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boot Review
This is a pair of mid-weight hiking boots that function perfectly for both women and men and is deserving of a recommendation on our list of best hiking boots for this year.
Like Salomon brand of hiking boots, Lowa is a brand name that will appear on this list more than once. Why? Because they are one of the best in this category.
These waterproof hiking boots are light and comfortable with the look and feel of what you’d come to expect from a hiking boot, they also provide adequate support for the wearer.
While it not as flexible or ultra modern as the Salomon Quest 4D 2 GTX Hiking Boot, it is quite sturdy and planted and is an exceptional choice for rocky and rough terrains.
Because of the insulation it provides from the ground, you can be sure that your feet will be well protected from blisters.
It is also a priority option if you’re considering carrying heavy luggage during your hike as it comes with more underfoot protection than the Salomon Quest 4D GTX, for example and the fact that it weighs less than two and a half pounds is a plus.
The leather used for the upper is considerably thin which helped the weight; however this could present a problem when it comes to durability, especially with those who hike very often.
Category:
Midweight
Weight:
2 pounds and 7 ounces.
Features:
- Leather upper
- Waterproof ability
- Vibram Outsole
- High quality nonslip rubber lugs for traction
- Climate Control Foot-bed
Pros:
- Breathability
- Comfortable
- Excellent Foot control
- Superior traction
- Nice fitting
- Great for load bearing hikes
Cons:
- Durability
- For narrower feet
- Not so flexible
This is a brilliantly designed hiking boot with great comfort, grip and durability making it all worth it.
Scarpa R-Evolution GTX Hiking Boot
These hiking boots are from the Italian company, Scarpa, which is known for producing seriously superior gear for the outdoors So it should not be that surprising that the Scarpa R-Evolution GTX has one of the best hiking boots in the market.
The Scarpa R-Evolution GTX combines a sock like fit with a quality support system and comfort as well. The fabric used for this shoe is not only flexible but was also filled with memory foam before being stitched into these hiking boots upper. This provides ultimate comfort, which cannot be overstated when hiking rougher and rocky terrains. The shoes’ stability is a plus and the grip is impeccable.
You can tighten your shoes laces as much as you want without worrying about that ‘too-tight’ pinchy feeling.
The thing about the laces is that they might be a little flimsy but to be honest, that isn’t much of a problem as they can be easily replaced.
We would say the only downside is the cost, but if you can afford it, why not? And it works for both male and female.
Category:
Midweight
Weight:
2 pounds and 14 ounces
Features:
- Waterproof membrane
- Suede Upper
- Hi-Flex Insole
- Midsole: Revolution EVA
Pros:
- Stable Underfoot
- Comfortable
- Durable
Cons:
- Slightly heavier than most shoes in its category
- Flimsy laces
- Cost
Pricey, yes…but worth every penny. Especially if we excuse its flimsy laces.
Vasque St. Elias GTX Hiking Boot Review
For a durable, waterproof, heavy weight pair of hiking boots that promises support, durability and comfort – you would not go wrong with the Vasque St. Elias GTX.
It may look out of time especially with all the ultra-modern hiking boots coming out these days…but as we know, looks can be deceiving.
While it may not look like it can keep up with trendiest when it comes to design, the Vasque St. Elias GTX will definitely surprise you. The boots are equipped with an impressive support system and are quite comfortable thanks to adequate cushioning it is provided with.
Because of its flexibility, stability and comfort, the Vasque St. Elias GTX is a good option for long distance hikes, even with heavy luggage.
However, one of the best things the Vasque St. Elias GTX has going for it is its solid build. When you consider what all the other boots have to offer including the quality of material used in making it, you will discover that this is one of the best hiking shoes that is affordable not to mention that it is suitable for heavy hikers.
Category:
Heavyweight
Weight:
3 pounds and 1 ounce
Features:
- Leather Upper
- Waterproof Membrane
- Molded Rubber Toe Cap
- Vibram Outsole
- Breathable GORE-TEX Lining
Pros:
- Durable
- Comfortable
- Flexible
- Stableand supportive with a superior Support System
- Affordable
Cons:
- Weight
- Flimsy Laces although this is easily replaceable
See Also: Best Running Shoes for Men
Adidas Outdoor Terrex Swift R Mid GTX Hiking Boot Review
This lightweight, waterproof pair is next up on our list of best hiking boots.
The Adidas boots are a great option for both men and women when hiking maintained paths. It is light and comfortable which is what you can expect from a lightweight shoe made for hiking.
While Adidas may currently not be your top choice when it comes to exploring the great outdoors, the good news is that they are steadily and impressively building their trail running and hiking line to match up with their reputation on active track.
The Adidas Outdoor Terrex Swift R Mid GTX is a good enough boot for hiking long distances with minimal luggage.
It is comfortable, light, flexible which is what you require when you’re covering long distances. Yes, it does look more like an over sized sneaker than a hiking boot but that’s not so bad as some of the users consider it a plus.
Category:
Lightweight
Weight:
1 pound and 12.2 ounce
Features:
- GORE-TEX Lining
- Waterproof Membrane
- Comfortable Midsole
- Mesh and Synthetic Upper
Pros:
- Light
- Affordable
- Comfortable
- Flexible
Cons:
- Weak Shoe Laces
- Appearance (Looks more like a sneaker than a hiking boot)
This is one o fthe lightest hiking boots in the market today which makes it an excellent companion for waking long trails whether rough or smooth
Salomon X Ultra Mid 2 GTX Hiking Boots
We’re just going to say, straight off, that you should really consider the Salomon X Ultra Mid 2 GTX for its affordability and sustainability. Besides that, it’s a ‘Salomon’ product, so you know you’re in great hands.
The Salomon X Ultra Mid 2 GTX is notable for being a one of the best hiking boots there is in the lightweight category. This waterproof hiking boots comes with great ankle support, although the underfoot could have been made to be a little thicker (why it is for lightweight category in the first place).
The Salomon X Ultra Mid 2 GTX is reminiscent of trail running shoe but it comes with added protection, support and flexibility.
Yes, while it is a little more expensive than the Merrell Moab Mid WP, it does offer a better quality. It comes with an impressive grip and adequate toe protection.
The downside is that to maintain the impressive lightweight of the Salomon X Ultra Mid 2 GTX’s, the underfoot protection features had to be trimmed and as with most lightweight shoes, it’s probably not the best option when carrying heavy luggage.
Category:
Lightweight
Weight:
2 pounds
Features:
- Waterproof membrane
- SensiFit Upper
- Protective Rubber Toe Cap
- Comfortable Ortholite Footbed
- Non-marking ContaGrip Sole
- Advanced Chassis Midsole
Pros:
- Great Support
- Good and supportinve Fitting
- Flexible
- Durable
- Comfortable
Cons:
- Too Soft Sole
- Not for carrying heavy luggage
This is one of the best lightweight hiking boots for covering long distances comfortably.
Lowa Innox Mid GTX Hiking Boots For Men and Women
Lowa is a recognizable brand when it comes to hiking boots and for this reason, you can be sure that Lowa Innox Mid GTX lives up to the brand name.
This is premium pair of light weight hiking boots that come with great ankle support. It is waterproof and suitable for both men and women.
While it is very comfortable, it lacks adequate toe protection due to the lack of a rubber toe guard. It also wears a faster than some others on this list however, because of its lightweight, it is appropriate for those who love to move fast.
Its breathable lining is also a plus when it comes to maintaining adequate shoe temperature.
Category:
Lightweight
Weight:
2 pounds and 0.5 ounce.
Features:
- Breathable Upper
- Waterproof lining
- Stabilizing, dual-density polyurethane midsoles
- Rubber Outsoles
Pros:
- Durable
- Light
- Flexible
- Good support
- Comfortable
Cons:
- It can be expensive
- Insufficient rubber toe guard
- Numerous Upper Seams
Merrell Moab Mid WP Hiking Boot Review
The Merrell Moab Mid WP is a waterproof, lightweight pair with the traditional look of a hiking boot at half the weight.
The Merrell Moab Mid WP works best for short hiking trips. This is because they are not as durable as the mid weight boots and heavy weight boots but they are also cheaper, so that’s a plus and we found that they are also insanely popular and are best used when sticking to maintained and smoother trails.
It’s light, comfortable and fits like a glove. However, if you are a very frequent hiker, you may need to get new boots with time.
While Merrell Moab Mid WP does not possess enough support for carrying heavy luggage, it is one of the best options for hiking during the day.
If you require a version without the waterproof membrane which results in a more breathable option then you should consider getting the Merrell Moab Mid Ventilators.
Category:
Lightweight
Weight:
1 pound and 15 ounces
Features:
- Waterproof Leather
- Synthetic Leather Toe Cap
- Air Cushion under the heel
- Vibram Outsole
- Seam sealed inner booties
Pros:
- Affordable
- Light
- Durable
- Comfortable
- Good Traction
Cons:
- Not easy to clean
- Insufficient toe protection
- Insufficient ankle support
These are definitely the best hiking shoes you would find at its cost.
Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Hiking Boot Review
Next up on this list of best hiking boots is the Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II, which is also probably the cheapest boot on this list and here is the female version of this boot.
This waterproof pair is definitely the best you can find at such a cheap price and you can expect an impressive level of comfort from shoes with a remarkable design as this.
However, it offers only a limited support and cannot be considered very ‘breathable’.
Category:
Lightweight
Weight:
2 pounds
Features:
- Waterproof Membrane
- Mesh Upper
- Omni-Grip rubber outsole
- Seam Sealed construction
- Techlite Lightweight Midsole
Pros:
- Affordability
- Sufficient Cushioning
- Comfortable
Cons:
- Limited Support
- Breathability can be impoved upon
This boot is best for short trips and not the kind of boot you’d take on a week-long hike so If you use only maintained trails, then you will enjoy the Columbia Newton Ridge Plus.
Keen Durand Mid WP Hiking Boots Review
Another waterproof, midweight hiking boot that works for both men and for women makes our list of best hiking boots. The Keen Durand Mid WP proves to be very comfortable and it comes at a good price.
Unfortunately, if you intend to go hiking in the summer, this is not the shoe for you as you may find it quite warm inside but besides this, you really have nothing to worry about.
This boot provides good support even though it sits a little lower on the ankle than most of the hiking boots recommended on this list. With its polyurethane midsole and rubber toe cap, it provides adequate protection for rougher and rocky terrains.
The Keen Durand Mid WP hiking boot is highly notable for its durability and great quality. The entire construct of the mid weight pair of shoes is well-designed, even its waterproof liner which is also a Keen product is well-made.
Category:
Midweight
Weight:
2 pounds and 13 ounces
Features:
- Waterproof membrane
- Removable metatomical footbed
- Dual Compound Outsoles
- Integrated Polyurethane heel cushion
Pros:
- Affordable
- Durable
- Comfortable
- Waterproof
- Good Grip
- Overall Good construct
Cons:
- Wide toe box
- Breathability could be improved
- Inadequate lacing system
While, its leather upper may not be as breathable as the others in this class, it is still an overall great choice.
Asolo Fugitive GTX Hiking Boots Review
This is one of few heavyweight shoes to make the list, for good reason.
A lot of the heavy weights are usually heavy and stiff and the Asolo Fugitive GTX is no exception. However, the Asolo Fugitive GTX has a lot of other redeeming qualities, enough to warrant it a spot on this list of best hiking boots.
If you’re looking for high quality durable boots then this waterproof pair might just be what you’re looking for.
The Asolo Fugitive GTX takes the more traditional appearance for hiking boots, boycotting the sleek appeal of modern designs making it stand out among the current design of hiking boots.
Besides that, it is also commended because its thick soles and its stiffness keep the feet safely isolated and away from the rocks but most interestingly is how they combined a stiffer unit to offer stability and anti-pronation qualities with a softer, material for enhanced shock-absorption to increase comfort.
Category:
Heavyweight
Weight:
3 pounds and 0.6 ounces
Features:
- Water resistant Leather
- Reinforced Heels
- Condura Nylon Upper
- DuoAsoflex Midsoles
- Waterproof lining
- Gore-Tex Lining
Pros:
- Secure fit
- Durable
- Comfortable
- Cushioned
- Good protection
- Roomy
- Stable
Cons:
- Cost
- Not for all weathers
- Weighs more than many others on the list
- Lacing can sometimes be a bit tedious
Although it is a bit pricey, the quality its build and the level of support it offers for heavy load is unrivalled. It is a good choice for exploring the outdoors all year round
Keen Targhee II Mid Hiking Boot Review
The Keen Targhee II Mid is an affordable, lightweight, waterproof option that offers adequate ankle protection, good leather upper and a decent toe cap and weighing only 2 pounds and 3 ounces, it is a good option for both men and women.
While this isn’t the premier option for hiking rough trails, you can be assured that is built to provide adequate functionality and support for hiking during the day, especially with light luggage.
While, it may not be as sustainable as the Salomon Quest 4D GTX (for example), it is still a quality pair at a much cheaper price and its leather upper is notably quite durable.
It is an excellent option when hiking an already established trail but not when you’re carrying heavy luggage or hiking rough terrains.
Category:
Lightweight
Weight
2 pounds and 3 ounces
Features:
- Contoured Heel Lock
- Leather Upper
- Multi Directional Lugs
- Torsion stability ESS shank
- Dual density compression-molded EVA midsole
- Non-marking rubber outsole
- DRY ® waterproof breathable membrane
- Removable metatomical dual density EVA footbed
Pros:
- Affordable
- Easy to Clean
- Comfortable
- Good Traction
- Adequate Support
- Durable materials
Cons:
- Low Ankle Shaft Height
- Not the best option for longer backpacking
This hiking boot which is also available for women feels very comfortable (Keen suggests that you should buy at least half a size larger for optimum comfort) alongside adequate grip.
Salewa Mountain Trainer Mid GTX Hiking Boots Review
The Salewa Mountain Trainer Mid GTX is a midweight, waterproof hiking boot that works for both sexes.
The Salewa Mountain Trainer Mid GTX was made for harsh conditions and for rough terrains. This was easy for them to achieve as Salewa is, first and foremost, a climbing and mountaineering company.
It is impressive that for a midweight pair, it provides total isolation from rocks and the other rubble that can be found on rougher trails.
Its lacing system is another impressive feature of the Salewa Mountain Trainer Mid GTX. It gives a comfortable fit and works best on rough trails; but on regular and maintained paths, it tends to feel too stiff and heavy.
Category:
Midweight
Weight:
2 Pounds and 12.4 ounces
Features:
- Ortholite insole
- nylon midsole
- Gore-Tex membrane
- Suede leather upper
- Vibram Alpine Approach sole
- Cleansport NXT odor control
Pros:
- Good Fit
- Good Support
- Durable
- Comfortable
Cons:
- Flexibility could be improved upon.
- It could have been a little bit lighter
It is still one of the best options to go on a hike in all through the four seasons of the year.
Click Here To See PriceWhat You Should Know About Hiking Boots
When going backpacking or hiking, your pair of boots can make or break your entire trip so choosing the right pair matters a lot, knowing when to use light weight, mid weight or heavy weight boots is key.
Lightweight hiking boots work best for day hiking; mid weight boots tend to be best option generally and heavy weights are the best option when it comes to rocky paths and terrain; they are also the best option when it comes to hauling heavy luggage.
Thankfully, the trend now is shifting towards finding ways to create lighter boots with all the features that come in heavyweight boots.
When choosing hiking boots, Flexibility, ankle support, toe protection, comfort, isolation and durability are the key features you should should look out for.
We have included more waterproof hiking boots in this review because they are always the better choice these days as it is now possible to combine waterproof feature with breathability.
It is important to remember that hiking is more than just buying a nice pair of boots but the opportunity to explore the great outdoors in all its glory and any one of these suitable hiking boots you pick will guarantee you an enjoyable hiking experience.
Happy hiking!
