When venturing out on a day hike, light backpacking adventure, or a brisk run along your favorite forest trail, it’s crucial to prioritize foot protection. As the initial point of contact with the terrain, hiking shoes require a harmonious balance between support, comfort, and grip to ensure a satisfying experience.
The 6 Best Hiking Shoes
When it comes to hiking shoes, several brands stand out from the rest. For men, The North Face Ultra 109 GTX Hiking Shoes and KEEN Men’s Targhee II Hiking Shoes are top contenders, with The North Face offering a waterproof and breathable design, while KEEN provides exceptional ankle support. Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Waterproof Hiking Boot Shoes also deserve mention for their rugged construction and water-resistance.
On the women’s side, Merrell Women’s Moab Waterproof Hiking Shoes and Salomon Women’s VAYA Mid GTX Hiking Shoes are clear winners, with Merrell offering superior waterproofing and Salomon providing a comfortable fit and excellent traction. For ladies looking for something more stylish, Ahnu Women’s Sugarpine Hiking Shoes are worth considering.
Our Top Picks for the Best Hiking Shoes
When it comes to the best hiking shoes for men, our top recommendation is the KEEN Men’s Targhee II Hiking Shoes. Whether you’re tackling rugged trails or exploring new territories, this pair offers a perfect blend of comfort, support, and protection. Although they may not provide extensive ankle support, their sturdy construction and high level of cushioning ensure your feet stay safe and secure throughout your hike.
For women, we highly recommend the Salomon Women’s VAYA Mid GTX Hiking Shoes. These shoes are designed to withstand various trail conditions while keeping your feet comfortable and dry. The combination of Salomon’s innovative technology and commitment to creating great hiking gear results in exceptional value for money, plus they look fantastic too.
Hiking Boots vs Hiking Shoes
When venturing into the great outdoors, two primary options exist for hikers to protect their feet: hiking boots and hiking shoes. While both serve a similar purpose, each has its unique characteristics that cater to different needs and preferences.
Hiking Boots
When it comes to tackling challenging trails and inclement weather, having the right footwear is crucial. Hiking boots offer a high level of support and protection, making them an excellent choice for navigating rough terrain and carrying heavy loads. Their sturdy design provides over-the-ankle coverage, keeping your feet dry and secure, even in the most demanding conditions.
Hiking Shoes
As hikers increasingly opt for lighter and more versatile footwear, such as athletic shoes, manufacturers of hiking shoes have responded by creating products that balance lightness with support, durability, and protection. These shoes are available in two primary designs: trail runners and mid-cut options.
Trail runners, designed for fast-paced activity, feature a slimline construction ideal for easy-grade trails and shorter wilderness excursions.
However, some manufacturers have created more rugged versions that can handle medium-level terrain, making them suitable for hikers who need to tackle varied environments.
Consider hiking shoes if you are a seasoned hiker accustomed to carrying heavy loads on longer expeditions or prefer lightweight footwear for everyday use. In contrast, mid-cut design shoes offer increased support and protection, fitting just above the ankle.
They’re well-suited for more challenging environments but may not be as flexible as trail runners for activities like cycling or running.
Ultimately, hiking shoe manufacturers have catered to the evolving needs of hikers by creating a range of options that blend lightness with the support and protection needed for various terrain and activities.
How To Choose the Best Hiking Shoes
When it comes to selecting the ideal hiking shoes for your next outdoor escapade, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the vast array of options available. But fear not! By focusing on the following 5 essential features, you’ll be well-equipped to find the perfect pair that will keep up with your active lifestyle.
Find Your Perfect Shoe Size
The eternal conundrum of finding a perfect shoe size is a frustration many people face. Unfortunately, one-size-fits-all simply doesn’t apply when it comes to footwear. Feet come in all shapes and sizes, with some individuals experiencing issues such as narrow or broad feet, high arches, bunions, and more. For women, the discomfort caused by bunions can be exacerbated if shoes fit too tightly across the toes.
To avoid this problem, it’s essential to understand your foot measurements – specifically, the length, width, and arch size. To do this, visit a shoe store and take advantage of their measuring device. For accurate results, consider visiting in the morning, when feet are typically at their smallest due to lower body temperature and humidity. This will help minimize any swelling that may occur during warmer weather.
Construction
Comprising a blend of leather, suede, and synthetic materials, hiking shoes are engineered to provide sturdy support for your feet. The combination of these materials confers exceptional abrasion resistance, safeguarding your footwear against the rigors of the trail. Moreover, the leather upper provides excellent waterproofing properties, ensuring that your feet remain warm and dry even in wet conditions.
Waterproof and Breathable Membrane
When venturing into the great outdoors, waterproof protection is crucial for your hiking shoes. Whether you’re navigating through wet terrain or facing an unexpected rain shower, a reliable water barrier ensures your feet stay dry and comfortable. To achieve this, many hiking shoes feature a PU membrane sandwiched between the outer layer and lining, allowing moisture to escape while keeping water out.
You may also come across Gore-Tex, a renowned waterproofing technology that provides exceptional protection against the elements. Alternatively, manufacturers might employ their own proprietary waterproofing solutions, such as Omni-shield. When selecting hiking shoes for dry summer conditions, breathable, lightweight options with ample mesh are ideal to keep your feet cool and dry.
Extra Comfort and Support
When searching for the perfect hiking shoe, it’s crucial to consider how your foot feels within the shoe itself. Pay attention to the footbed’s level of support under the midsole – is it providing adequate cushioning and stability? Furthermore, look for shoes with good torsional stability, which enables flexibility while walking on uneven terrain or navigating steep inclines, especially when carrying a heavy backpack.
Shoes with molded EVA Ortholite removable footbeds can conform to the unique shape of your foot, offering enhanced support. However, it’s also essential to consider other factors:
Are the shoes designed for individuals with high arches? Do they provide sufficient insole support for those who experience plantar fasciitis? By taking these aspects into account, you’ll be better equipped to find a shoe that meets your specific needs and reduces fatigue on your feet.
Durability
While no shoe can truly last forever, taking proper care of your hiking shoes can significantly extend their lifespan. This includes applying Seam Grip glue along the single-stitched seam where the leather meets the mesh at the front of the shoe to prevent wear and tear on the seams. By doing so, you’ll be able to enjoy many more adventures without worrying about your shoes falling apart.
The good news is that reputable manufacturers have invested in innovative technologies and high-quality materials to create hiking footwear that prioritizes support, protection, comfortability, and durability. This means that even with heavy use, your shoes will remain steadfast, providing a reliable foundation for your outdoor escapades. Another key consideration is the level of activity you’ll be engaging in.
For low-to-medium-level hikes, shoes are more than sufficient; however, if you plan to tackle more rigorous terrain, it’s best to opt for hiking boots, which offer additional support and protection. Ultimately, choosing the right footwear comes down to balancing comfort, flexibility, and protection – a trifecta that hiking shoes excel at achieving.
6 Best Hiking Shoes – Reviews
The North Face Ultra 109 GTX Hiking Shoes
The North Face’s Ultra 109 GTX hiking shoes are designed to provide superior comfort, protection, and performance for a range of outdoor adventures. The shoe’s strong PU-coated leather upper and GORE-TEX membrane technology work together to shield your feet from wind, water, and rough terrain, while the mesh sections allow for excellent breathability.
Underfoot, the ESS midfoot shank, TPU Snake Plate forefoot protection, and molded EVA midsole combine to provide ample cushioning and support, even on uneven trails. The shoe’s rubber sole features varying lug sizes and depths, delivering exceptional traction on slippery surfaces and ensuring stability throughout your hike. Although the shoes offer excellent water resistance and quick drying capabilities, an additional waterproof spray can be used for extra protection.
The lacing system is secure and adjustable, allowing you to customize the fit to suit your comfort level. Overall, these hiking shoes excel in providing a comfortable and supportive experience on light to medium trails. While they may not be ideal for heavy-duty use or narrow feet, their quality and performance make them a worthwhile investment. With good traction, cushioning, and waterproofing, the Ultra 109 GTX is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable hiking companion.
Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Waterproof Hiking Boot Shoes
When embarking on a casual hike, a leisurely walk in the woods, or tackling tasks around your property, the Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Waterproof Hiking Boot Shoes deliver impressive comfort and protection. Despite their lightweight design, these hiking shoes boast remarkable durability, thanks to the strong PU leather coated with Columbia’s proprietary Omni-shield technology for water and stain resistance.
The seam-sealed construction ensures a warm and dry environment for your feet in wet or cold conditions. The Techlite™ midsole conforms to the shape of your foot, providing superior cushioning, while the 5-inch shaft size from the arch adds to their comfort factor. A rubber cap on the back of the shoe provides additional support when navigating steep inclines, and the Omni-Grip™ non-marking rubber outsoles ensure stable traction on slippery surfaces.
The shoes feature a straightforward hook and loop closure system at the top, making them easy to slip on and off. The padded mesh tongue is soft and breathable, allowing for unobstructed movement during warmer weather. If you’re concerned about fit, know that these shoes are available in a wide range of sizes, but may run slightly narrow. To achieve the best fit, consider purchasing half a size up from your usual shoe size.
In summary, these hiking boots offer excellent value, are lightweight and comfortable, provide good waterproofing, and feature impressive foot support and traction. While they might not be ideal for heavy-duty hiking or those with narrower feet, they’re an excellent choice for casual outdoor activities.
KEEN Men’s Targhee II Hiking Shoes
For those seeking reliable and fashionable hiking shoes that provide adequate support for light to medium-level trekking or backpacking, the KEEN Men’s Targhee II Hiking Shoes are an excellent option. These sturdy shoes boast a range of impressive features that make them suitable for various outdoor activities.
The waterproof Nubuck leather construction ensures comfort and protection in wet conditions, while the dual-density compression-molded EVA midsoles provide ample cushioning and conform to the shape of your foot. The additional feature of an removable insole allows for customized support, particularly beneficial for those with high arches. The shoes’ interior mesh promotes ventilation and moisture-wicking properties, keeping your feet cool and dry.
Furthermore, the thick rubber toe provides protection from sharp objects, while the All-TERRAIN rubber outsole delivers exceptional grip on slippery surfaces. The cushioned collar reduces irritation around the ankle, preventing discomfort during long hikes. The tongue is similarly designed to prevent dirt or debris from entering the shoes. Beyond their impressive features, the KEEN hiking shoes also offer excellent protection, comfort, and support.
With six stylish color options and a range of sizes available, these shoes are suitable for various occasions. However, it’s essential to note that some users have reported discrepancies in shoe sizing, particularly for those with wider feet. To ensure the best fit, consider choosing half a size up. Overall, the KEEN Men’s Targhee II Hiking Shoes offer excellent value for money, combining sturdy construction, comfort, and protection.
Merrell Women’s Moab Waterproof Hiking Shoes
The Merrell Women’s Moab Waterproof Hiking Shoes offer a perfect blend of comfort and support for casual hikers. The combination of durable leather and mesh sections provides excellent breathability, moisture-wicking properties, and a strong construction with waterproof design ensures that your feet stay dry in hot conditions.
Additional features such as the molded nylon arch shank, protective rubber toe cap, contoured EVA footbeds, and air cushions in the heel provide superior support and shock absorption. For stability on various trail surfaces, the Vibram outsole offers excellent traction, with 5mm lugs ensuring slip-free walking. While these shoes may not be suitable for heavy-duty hiking due to limited ankle support, they are extremely lightweight at just 12-ounces, making them perfect for casual walks.
The padded tongue also helps keep debris out of the shoe. With six stylish color options – drizzle/mint, dusty olive, granite, brindle, falcon, and olive – these shoes cater to various tastes. While not ideal for rugged terrain, the pros outweigh the cons: good quality, lightweight, breathable, good padding and support, and attractive colors.
Salomon Women’s VAYA Mid GTX Hiking Shoes
When venturing into the great outdoors, finding the perfect pair of hiking shoes is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. For women who demand both style and substance, the Salomon Women’s VAYA Mid GTX Hiking Shoes are an excellent choice. Designed to provide maximum support, durability, and protection, these waterproof shoes excel in challenging terrain and unpredictable weather conditions.
The combination of sturdy textile uppers, mesh panels, and a breathable GORE-TEX membrane ensures that feet remain warm and dry regardless of the environment. Additionally, Salomon’s Sensifit technology provides a secure fit by molding to the shape of the foot, while the EnergyCell midsole, EVA foam footbed, soft collar, and padded heel support offer superior cushioning, stability, and cradle support.
The rubber toe cap protects toes from rough trail conditions, and the thick Contra-grip rubber outsole provides excellent traction and maneuverability. With these features, you can rely on a comfortable and supportive hiking experience. Available in 11 sizes and two stylish designs, this pair of shoes is suitable for both narrow and broad feet, with the option to choose half a size up or down for the best fit.
While some users may find the laces less durable than expected, the overall pros far outweigh the cons, making these hiking shoes an excellent investment for any outdoor enthusiast.
Ahnu Women’s Sugarpine Hiking Shoes
When it comes to hiking shoes that balance style and substance, the Ahnu Women’s Sugarpine Hiking Shoes are an excellent choice. Designed for performance, these shoes offer a unique blend of breathability, waterproofing, and support, making them suitable for both warm and wet weather conditions. The breathable mesh upper ensures cool comfort on warmer hikes, while the high-quality leather and suede overlays provide warmth and dryness in unpredictable rain showers.
For added support, the dual-density EVA midsoles absorb shock and the integrated nylon shanks offer torsional rigidity and midfoot support. The non-marking Vibram rubber outsoles deliver excellent traction on various terrain. While these shoes excel at supporting multi-day hikes or light backpacking adventures, some users may find that the outsole flexes excessively or lacks sufficient insole support for steep inclines or climbing. To address this, consider adding Dr.
Scholl’s insole inserts for enhanced comfort. The Ahnu hiking shoes provide a snug fit, but may not be suitable for individuals with plantar fasciitis due to the relatively roomy toe box. Those with narrow feet can benefit from purchasing half a size up or wearing thick socks. The shoes come in various stylish designs and colors, offering something for everyone.
On the plus side, these shoes boast good quality, durability, traction, waterproofing, breathability, and great arch support – particularly ideal for those with high arches. However, they may not be the best choice for those seeking ankle support.
Our Top Picks for the Best Hiking Shoes
When it comes to finding the perfect hiking companions for men, our top recommendation is the KEEN Men’s Targhee II Hiking Shoes. Whether you’re exploring new trails or embarking on a global adventure, these shoes excel in providing comfort and support while traversing varied terrain. Although they may not offer extensive ankle support, their sturdiness and exceptional comfortability make them an excellent choice for protecting your feet.
And as an added bonus, the Targhee II hiking shoes are easy to find at a reasonable price on Amazon. For women, our top pick is the Salomon Women’s VAYA Mid GTX Hiking Shoes. These rugged yet stylish walking shoes are designed to withstand the rigors of various trail conditions. With their impressive technical design and focus on creating comfortable hiking footwear, you can expect exceptional value for your investment.
Not only do they provide excellent protection for your feet, but they also boast a sleek appearance that’s sure to turn heads.
