For those looking for a more lightweight and nimble alternative to shoes, we’ve tested and selected the best hiking shoes of the year.
Weight-saving shoes and even trail runners are becoming increasingly popular as hiking footwear, as cumbersome boots lose their appeal in favor of speedier and more comfortable trail runners and lightweight shoes. It is true that you sacrifice some ankle support when carrying a full load or navigating uneven routes, but for many people, the weight savings and feathery feel are well worth it. Below are our top picks for hiking shoes in 2021, ranging from ultralight solutions for quick and light journeys to more supportive models for trips that require you to carry a heavy load. For further information, please view our hiking shoe comparison table and purchase tips, which are located below the selections. For those who like a style that goes over the ankle, check out our post on the finest hiking boots.
- Merrell Men’s Moab 2 MID Waterproof Hiking Boot
9,334 ratings | 192 answered questions
Features:
100% Suede Leather/Mesh
Imported
Synthetic sole
Shaft measures approximately Ankle from arch
M Select DRY seals out water and lets moisture escape so you stay dry when you’re on the move
Performance suede leather and mesh upper
Bellows, closed-cell foam tongue keeps moisture and debris out. Merrell air cushion in the heel absorbs shock and adds stability, 5mm lug depth
Protective rubber toe cap, Breathable mesh lining
Vibram TC5+ sole, 5mm lug depth
Merrell M Select FIT.ECO+ blended EVA contoured footbed with added zonal arch and heel support
Protective rubber toe cap
For more info: Click here
2. Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Plus Ii Suede Waterproof Hiking Shoe
27,725 ratings | 445 answered questions
Features:
- Leather / Suede / Mesh
- Imported
- Rubber sole
- Shaft measures approximately 5″ from arch
- Heel measures approximately 1.5″
- Platform measures approximately 0.50″
- ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY: Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot features our lightweight, durable midsole for long lasting comfort, superior cushioning, and high energy return as well as an advanced traction rubber sole for slip-free movement on rough ground.
- HANDY FEATURES: Treacherous days out on the trail are comfortable and worry-free with this boot’s waterproof full-grain leather and mesh bootie construction and its durable mesh tongue for breathability.
- ADJUSTABLE FEATURES: The Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot features a lace-up closure for an adjustable, secure fit.
- VERSATILE STYLE: This men’s waterproof hiking boot delivers style and durability with its contrasting color combinations and soft mesh exterior.
- OMNI-GRIP: This multi-terrain traction system matches specially formulated compounds and treads to specific environments. A dual-zone winter tread pattern ensures solid footing on surfaces such as ice and snow.
- SURE FOOTED:Responsive, supportive cushioning and super-grippy rubber outsoles are geared for miles over rocks, grass, gravel, and roots.
- Materials:Upper: Leather / Suede / Mesh,Midsole: Techlite EVA,Outsole: Omni-Grip Rubber
For more info: Click Here
3. Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Vent Mid Hiking Boot
5,789 ratings | 129 answered questions
Features:
- 100% suede leather and mesh
- Imported
- Vibram sole
- Removable Insole. Breathable mesh lining
- 5mm lug depth ; Molded nylon arch shank ; Bellows, closed-cell foam tongue keeps moisture and debris out ;Merrell air cushion in the heel absorbs shock and adds stability
- Merrell M Select FIT.ECO+ blended EVA contoured footbed with added zonal arch and heel support
For more info: Click Here
4. Keen Men’s Targhee II WP Mid Wide Hiking Boot
4,121 ratings | 67 answered questions
Features:
- 100% Leather
- Imported
- Rubber sole
- Heel measures approximately 2″
- Platform measures approximately 0.75″
- Removable insole
- Metatomical EVA footbed
- Non-marking rubber outsole
- Care instructions -To treat day to day wear and tear, especially on lighter color leathers, we recommend using a leather cleaner and conditioner, found at most footwear dealers and/or shoe repair shops.
- 4mm multi directional lugs
For more info: Click Here
5. Adidas Terrex Swift R3 Gore-TEX Hiking Shoes
Features:
- Made in USA or Imported
- Rubber sole
- Speed lacing system
- GORE-TEX textile upper
- GORE-TEX textile upper
- EVA midsole and moulded heel cup
- Textile lining and moulded sockliner
For more info: Click Here
6. KEEN Men’s Targhee II Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
4,760 ratings | 135 answered questions
Features:
- 100% Waterproof Nubuck Leather
- Imported
- Rubber sole
- Heel measures approximately 1.5″
- WATERPROOF: The KEEN dry waterproof, breathable membrane keeps your feet dry and comfortable all day long by allowing vapor out without letting water in; All leather is treated with a PFC-free water repellant, so you still get the same protection without the harmful chemicals
- TRACTION & SUPPORT: KEEN All-Terrain rubber outsole provides high-traction grip in all environments; Non-marking rubber outsoles leaves no trace when walking indoors; The Torsion stability External Support Shank (ESS) and mid-cut height adds ankle support and balance; the contoured heel provides a next-level stability
- SUPPORT: The Torsion stability External Support Shank (ESS) and mid-cut height adds ankle support and balance on uneven surfaces; Low-profile upper for secure fit with padded tongue and collar; the contoured heel provides a next-level stability
- FIT & COMFORT: Low-profile upper for comfort and secure fit with padded tongue and collar; The Metatomical Footbed Design provides excellent arch support and cradles to the natural contours of the foot; This style is running a 1/2 size small; We suggest ordering a 1/2 size larger than your usual size
- CARE TIPS: We’ve carefully selected leather uppers designed to last; However, if you’re wearing your KEENs daily, they won’t always be scuff and dirt-free; To treat day to day wear and tear we recommend using a common leather cleaner and conditioner
For more info: Click Here
Comparing hiking shoes and hiking boots is a good idea.
The height difference between hiking shoes and boots is perhaps the most significant: shoes have a low-top fit, whereas boots often sit above the ankle. The best hiking shoes for smooth paths are ones that allow you to move quickly and comfortably while minimizing the risk of rolling your ankles. Hiking shoes are also excellent for individuals who wish to move quickly and comfortably while wearing less on their feet. Hiking boots have long been considered the best option for carrying big loads and navigating hard terrain, and this remains true in the majority of cases today. In combination with laces that tie the shoe tightly around your ankle, the high top height ensures a more secure fit as well as increased stability and protection. When given the option, we prefer hiking shoes because of their lightweight feel, but both are excellent choices for day hikes, backpacking, and non-alpine peak bagging.
Hiking shoes versus hiking boots
The distinction between the hiking shoe and boot categories is expected to become further blurred by 2021 and beyond. However, although some current boots only cover part of the ankle, they will still be distinguished by their height; however, less and less of today’s boots will look like the heavyweight leather clunkers of yesteryear. Among the most notable examples is the over-the-ankle version of our most highly recommended Salomon X Ultra 3. It’s the exact same shoe with the exact same distinguishing characteristics—feathery feel, aggressive stance, and supportive fit—but the “Mid” sits slightly higher on the ankle, weighs a couple of ounces more, offers a little more protection, and may even provide a slight increase in rollover prevention, according to the manufacturer. Because most people stick to well-marked trails, the demand for this type of lightweight, fast footwear will continue to grow in popularity.
Tagging: hiking boots, Hiking shoes, Waterproof Hiking Boot, Waterproof Hiking Shoes, Best Hiking Shoes, Best Hiking Boot
