Best Hiking Shoes [Complete Guide]

The best hiking shoes are the ones that fit you well and suit your needs. There is no single “best” shoe, but there are many great options on the market. In this guide, we will discuss some of the factors to consider when choosing a hiking shoe, as well as some of our top picks.

[More: Best outdoor watches for men.]

10 best hiking shoes

When it comes to finding the perfect pair of hiking shoes, there are a few things you need to take into account. First, consider the type of terrain you'll be tackling - different shoes are better suited for different types of terrain.

Second, think about the climate you'll be hiking in - you'll want shoes that can keep your feet warm and dry in colder climates, or cool and comfortable in hotter climates. And finally, make sure to pick a shoe that's comfortable and has the right fit for your foot.

With all that in mind, here are 10 of the best hiking shoes, perfect for any adventure.

1. Salomon Men's X Ultra 3 GTX Hiking Shoes

These shoes from Salomon are perfect for tackling any terrain, thanks to their tough construction and grippy soles. They're also made with Gore-Tex material, so they'll keep your feet dry even in wet conditions.

2. Merrell Men's Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoes

The Moab 2 shoes from Merrell are another great option for all kinds of terrain. They're made with mesh uppers that help keep your feet cool and comfortable, and they have Vibram soles that provide good traction on any surface.

3. Columbia Men's Redmond Waterproof Hiking Shoes

If you're looking for a shoe that can stand up to wet conditions, the Redmond hiking shoes from Columbia are a great choice. They're made with waterproof leather and mesh uppers, and they have a rubber sole that provides good traction in slippery conditions.

4. La Sportiva Men's Nepal EVO GTX Mountaineering Boots

If you're planning on tackling some serious mountain terrain, you'll need a boot that can handle the challenge. The Nepal EVO boots from La Sportiva are up to the task, thanks to their tough construction and their grippy Vibram soles. Plus, they're made with Gore-Tex material to keep your feet dry even in wet conditions.

5. Adidas Outdoor Men's Terrex Swift R2 Hiking Shoes

These shoes from Adidas are perfect for fast-paced hikes or trail runs. They're lightweight and comfortable, and they have a grippy sole that provides good traction on any surface.

6. Keen Men's Targhee II Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots

The Targhee II boots from Keen are a great choice for wetter conditions, thanks to their waterproof construction. They're also made with a contoured footbed that provides support and comfort, and they have a lugged sole that offers good traction on any surface.

7. Salomon Women's X Ultra 3 GTX Hiking Shoes

These shoes from Salomon are designed specifically for women, and they're perfect for tackling any terrain. They're made with Gore-Tex material to keep your feet dry even in wet conditions, and they have a grippy sole that provides good traction on any surface.

8. Merrell Women's Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoes

The Moab 2 shoes from Merrell are another great option for all kinds of terrain. They're made with mesh uppers that help keep your feet cool and comfortable, and they have Vibram soles that provide good traction on any surface.

9. Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Hiking Boot

If you're looking for a boot that can stand up to wet conditions, the Newton Ridge Plus boot from Columbia is a great choice. It's made with waterproof leather and mesh uppers, and it has a rubber sole that provides good traction in slippery conditions.

10. Ahnu Women's Sugarpine Waterproof Hiking Shoe

The Sugarpine hiking shoe from Ahnu is a great choice for wet conditions, thanks to its waterproof construction. It's also made with a cushioned footbed that provides support and comfort, and it has a lugged sole that offers good traction on any surface.

Whether you're looking for a shoe to tackle all kinds of terrain or one that can stand up to wet conditions, there's a hiking shoe on this list that's perfect for you. So, lace up and hit the trail in confidence knowing you've got the right footwear for the job.

[More: Skateboarding video games.]

What are hiking shoes?

Hiking shoes are designed to provide comfort and support while hiking on various types of terrain. They typically have a rugged sole that can grip the ground, as well as a supportive upper that helps keep your foot in place. Hiking shoes also often have features like waterproofing and breathability to keep your feet dry and comfortable during long hikes.

When it comes to choosing a hiking shoe, fit is paramount. A good rule of thumb is to choose a shoe that is about a half size larger than your everyday shoe size. This will allow for plenty of room in the toe box and will help prevent blisters. You should also make sure that the shoe has a good snug fit around the heel without being too tight.

It is also important to consider the type of terrain you will be hiking on when choosing a shoe. If you are planning on doing mostly day hikes on well-maintained trails, a lighter weight trail runner style shoe may be a good option. However, if you are planning on backpacking or doing any off-trail hiking, a heavier duty boot with more support and traction is likely a better choice.

Finally, consider the climate you will be hiking in when selecting a shoe. If you are hiking in warm weather, a ventilated shoe will help keep your feet cool and dry. In cold weather, a waterproof boot will help keep your feet warm and dry.

What is the best footwear should be in hiking?

There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on a variety of factors, such as the terrain you'll be hiking on, the weather conditions, and your own personal preferences. However, there are a few general tips that can help you choose the best footwear for hiking.

In general, it's important to choose shoes or boots that are comfortable and provide good support. If you'll be hiking on rough terrain, it's also important to choose footwear with good traction. And finally, if you'll be hiking in wet or cold conditions, you'll need to make sure your footwear is waterproof and well-insulated.

When it comes to comfort, it's important to choose shoes or boots that fit well and don't rub or chafe. You may want to buy your footwear a half size larger than your usual size to account for the fact that your feet will likely swell during a hike. It's also important to break in your shoes or boots before hitting the trail, so you can avoid blisters and other problems.

For support, it's important to choose shoes or boots with good arch support and a snug fit. If you have high arches, you may want to look for footwear with extra cushioning in the heel area. And if you have flat feet, you'll want to make sure the shoes or boots you choose have enough arch support to prevent foot fatigue.

Finally, when it comes to traction, it's important to choose shoes or boots with a sole that will grip the ground well. If you'll be hiking in mud or snow, you may want to consider footwear with metal studs or spikes for extra traction. And if you'll be hiking on slippery rocks, you may want to look for shoes or boots with deep treads.

Ultimately, the best footwear for hiking is whatever provides the right combination of comfort, support, and traction for your own individual needs. So take some time to experiment with different types of shoes and boots until you find a pair that works best for you.

[More: Best beach coolers.]

Is it okay to hike in sneakers?

There is a lot of debate on whether or not it is okay to hike in sneakers. Some people say that sneakers are the best type of shoe to hike in because they are comfortable and offer good traction. Others say that sneakers are not ideal for hiking because they do not provide enough support and can be slippery on certain surfaces. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide what type of shoe is best for them when hiking. If you are going on a short hike, you may be fine in sneakers. However, if you are planning on doing a longer hike or one that is more difficult, you may want to consider wearing a different type of shoe.

Is it okay to wear running shoes for hiking?

Many people believe that it is perfectly fine to wear running shoes for hiking. However, there are a few things to consider before doing so. First, running shoes are not designed for the same type of impact as hiking boots. They are not as sturdy and may not provide enough support for your feet and ankles, which can be especially important when hiking on uneven or rocky terrain.

Second, running shoes are typically not waterproof, while most hiking boots are. This means that your feet will likely get wet if you wear running shoes in wet or muddy conditions, which can lead to blisters and other problems.

Finally, running shoes tend to be much lighter than hiking boots, which can make them more comfortable to wear in hot weather but also means that they will not provide as much protection from the elements. So, while you can technically wear running shoes for hiking, it is probably not the best idea.

Do I need special shoes to hike?

Hiking shoes are designed to protect your feet and provide traction on uneven terrain. They're usually made from durable materials like leather or synthetic fabric, and they often have a waterproof or water-resistant coating. While you can hike in running shoes, they won't offer the same level of protection or traction. If you're planning on doing any serious hiking, it's worth investing in a good pair of hiking shoes.

[More: Best 2mm wetsuits.]

What is the best shoe for hiking?

There is no definitive answer to this question as the best shoe for hiking depends on a number of factors, including the type of terrain you will be hiking on, the weather conditions, and your own personal preferences. However, there are a few general tips that can help you choose the best shoe for your next hike.

Firstly, consider the type of terrain you'll be hiking on. If you're planning on tackling a rugged trail, then you'll need a shoe that can provide good traction and support. A waterproof shoe is also a good idea if you're likely to encounter any wet or muddy conditions.

Secondly, think about the weather conditions you'll be facing. If you're expecting hot weather, then a shoe with good ventilation is a must. On the other hand, if you're hiking in cold weather, then a shoe that offers good insulation will be ideal.

Finally, it's important to choose a shoe that fits well and is comfortable to wear. This is particularly important if you're planning on doing any long-distance hiking, as you'll be wearing your shoes for extended periods of time. Make sure to try on different shoes and take them for a test walk before making your final decision.

By following these tips, you can be sure to find the best shoe for your next hike.

What are the other types of shoes that can be used for hiking?

As with any type of footwear, there are a few different types of shoes that can be used for hiking. The most common type of shoe is the hiking boot. Hiking boots are designed to provide support and stability on uneven terrain, and they typically have a waterproof or water-resistant exterior to protect your feet from the elements.

Another type of shoe that can be used for hiking is the trail running shoe. Trail running shoes are designed for speed and agility, and they often have a more minimalist design than hiking boots. While they may not provide as much support and stability as hiking boots, they can be a good option for shorter hikes or hikes on well-maintained trails.

Finally, sandals can also be used for hiking in certain situations. Sandals can be a good option for hikes that don't involve much elevation change or tough terrain, and they're often more comfortable in warm weather. However, sandals offer less protection than other types of shoes, so they're not ideal for all hiking conditions.

[More: Hardest skateboard tricks.]

Should I wear good hiking boots?

There is no definitive answer to the question of whether or not you should wear good hiking boots. It depends on a variety of factors, including the terrain you'll be hiking on, the weather conditions, and your personal preferences.

If you're planning on doing any serious hiking, it's generally a good idea to invest in a pair of good quality hiking boots. They will provide support and stability on uneven terrain, and protect your feet from rocks and other debris. In addition, they'll help keep your feet warm and dry in cold or wet weather.

Of course, whether or not you choose to wear hiking boots is ultimately up to you. If you're comfortable walking in sneakers or other shoes, that's fine. Just be aware that you may not have the same level of protection and support as you would with hiking boots.

What are the pros and cons of hiking in sandals?

There are a few pros and cons to hiking in sandals that are worth considering before hitting the trail. On the plus side, sandals are often much lighter and more comfortable than closed-toe shoes, making them ideal for hot weather hikes. They also tend to provide good ventilation, keeping your feet cooler and less susceptible to blisters. On the downside, sandals offer little protection from stones and other materials on the trail, and can be more difficult to keep clean than shoes. Overall, though, if you're comfortable hiking in sandals, they can be a great option for warm weather hikes.

[More: Red Bull.]

Is it possible to hike in flip-flops?

Whether or not you can hike in flip-flops depends on a few factors. First, consider the terrain you'll be hiking on. If it's mostly flat and smooth, you might be able to get away with wearing flip-flops. However, if there are any rocky sections or inclines, you'll probably want to wear something with more support.

Another factor to consider is the weather. If it's hot out, wearing flip-flops may actually be more comfortable than wearing hiking boots. However, if it's wet or muddy, you'll definitely want to wear shoes that will keep your feet dry and protected.

Finally, think about how long you'll be hiking. If it's just a short hike, you might be able to get away with wearing flip-flops. But if you're planning on being out all day, you'll probably want to wear something that will be more comfortable and supportive.

So, can you hike in flip-flops? It depends. Just use your best judgment and be prepared for anything.

What are the best hiking shoes?

There is no such thing as the best hiking shoes, only the best hiking shoes for you. Depending on your individual needs and preferences, you might prefer a certain type of shoe over another. For instance, if you have wide feet, you might find that trail running shoes provide a better fit than hiking boots. Or if you hike in wet conditions often, you might want to invest in a pair of waterproof hiking shoes. Ultimately, it's important to choose a shoe that's comfortable and fits well, as this will help you enjoy your hikes more and prevent injuries.

[More: Trick skateboards.]

Other factors to consider

You’ll want to think about the following as well, if you’re really into the details of the best hiking shoes - unfortunately, we couldn’t possibly fit them all in this article.

-rubber outsole

-insole

-midsole

-ankle support

-break-in period

-waterproof membrane

-excellent traction

-Vibram outsole

-leather upper

-waterproof version / non-waterproof

-low-cut / high-cut

-EVA

-hiking socks

-thru-hiking

-trekking

-approach shoes

-Gore-Tex membrane

-toe cap

Some of the best brands and models of hiking shoes (as well as stores to buy them from) include:

-Backcountry

-REI

-Hoka

-Lugs

-Merrell Moab

-Salomon X Ultra / the Salomon x

-Danner

-Nimble

-Oboz

-Nubuck

-Merrell Moab 2

Day hikers will also want to look for hiking footwear with a solid lacing system, which can handle technical terrain, multi-day trips, backpacking trips, and also provide a secure fit. Amazon alone has a ton of great trail shoes, which differ from walking shoes - but sometimes lightweight shoes (of any kind) are really best.

The best hiking boots are not always the lightest, but a good pair of boots may come in durable suede, or in another iteration entirely. What you purchase, ultimately comes down to personal preference.

The bottom line on the best hiking shoes

When it comes to choosing the best hiking shoes, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, consider the type of terrain you will be hiking on. If you'll be hiking on rough terrain, look for shoes with good traction and support.

Second, think about the climate you'll be hiking in. If you'll be hiking in hot weather, look for shoes that are well-ventilated and quick-drying. Finally, consider your own personal preferences. Do you prefer a more comfortable shoe, or one that is lighter weight? With all of these factors in mind, you're sure to find the perfect pair of hiking shoes for your next hike.