Your choice of hiking boots can make or break your experience. With a long day of hiking, you need to know that your feet are supported and protected. As anyone with a bad fit can tell you, hiking with bad shoes can be intense and can even cause long-term issues later on. Before you hit the trails, make sure you have the best hiking boots for your feet so you can make the most of your adventures!
Hiking boots vs trail runners
Before we can get into the best hiking boots, we need to address the elephant in the room: Is it better to wear hiking boots or trail runners?
People love to go back and forth on what the correct thing is that you should do with your feet. However, when debating footwear, remember: It’s going on your foot. So take advice from other people about what brands they like, etc., but make your final decision based on what works best for you.
Hiking boots
Hiking boots are better suited for colder weather and rough terrain, or for people who want the extra ankle support.
Pros:
- Support and stability
- Durability
- Waterproofing
- Good for tougher terrain
- Good traction
Cons:
- Weight
- Stiffness
- Doesn’t dry quickly
- Unbreathable
- Expensive
Trail runners
Trail runners are lightweight and breathable, making them good for long, hot days or days where you’re fording rivers.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Breathability
- Flexibility
- Dry quickly
- Comfort
- Affordable
Cons
- Less ankle support and protection
- Lack of durability
- Lack of waterproofing
- Traction
Best hiking boots in 2024
Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boots
Specs:
- Over-the-ankle: Yes
- Footwear Closure: Lace-up
- Waterproof: Yes, GORE-TEX waterproof/breathable membrane
- Upper: Nubuck leather
- Lining: Polyester
- Support: Nylon shank
- Outsole: Vibram rubber
- Weight (Pair): 2 lbs. 2 oz.
What I like:
I have strong feelings about my Lowa Renegades. I’ve hiked thousands of miles in them, from sandy deserts, to snow, to ice, to rain, to mountains, to foothills, and everything in between. They’ve been tested and tried, and have come out winning every time. My Lowas have been and will continue to be my first pick for my own feet and my first recommendation to anyone who’s looking for a new pair of hiking boots.
What I don’t like:
As with many boots, they don’t have the greatest arch support. I usually end up buying a pair of Superfeet insoles to prevent my feet from hurting after a long day of hiking and carrying a pack.
Where to buy – Women’s
Where to buy – Men’s
Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots
Specs:
- Over-the-ankle: Yes
- Footwear Closure: Lace-up
- Waterproof: Yes, waterproof membrane
- Upper: Pigskin leather/mesh
- Lining: Recycled mesh
- Support: Molded nylon arch shank
- Outsole: Vibram TC5+
- Weight (Pair): 1 lbs. 13 oz.
What I like:
The Merrell Moabs are one of the go-to hiking boots. They’re affordably priced, built by a quality brand, lightweight, and yet still ankle-supportive. They’re also easy to find and easy to break in when you get a new pair.
What I don’t like:
Common complaints are that the focus on the weight meant that they lack sturdier support along the arch. The waterproofing is on par, but nothing to write home about, and the same can be said about their traction and grip.
Where to buy – Women’s
Where to buy – Men’s
Salomon X Ultra Mid 4 Gore-Tex
Specs:
- Over-the-ankle: Yes
- Footwear Closure: Lace-up
- Waterproof: Yes, GORE-TEX waterproof/breathable laminate
- Upper: PU-coated leather; textile
- Lining: Textile
- Outsole: Rubber
- Weight (Pair): 1 lbs. 10 oz.
What I like:
Anything Salomon is known for being lightweight, flexible, and having great traction. Their hiking boots have the same reputation. One of the lightest shoes on the market, the Salomon is a great choice for hikers who want the ankle support of a boot but the weight and feeling of a trail runner.
What I don’t like:
If you’re comparing hiking boots, the Salomon is less durable than its peers. Additionally, it has a thin sole more on par with a trail runner. Because of this, it’s better for hikers on smoother trails and adventures.
Where to buy – Women’s
Where to buy – Men’s
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