The Best 10 Hiking Shoes of 2024

2024-12-07 Best Overall hike Shoe for Men Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX reason TO buyExcellent performance in all metricsexcellent comfortSecure and stablereason TO

Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX

reason TO buy

Excellent performance in all metrics

excellent comfort

Secure and stable

reason TO avoid

Less useful when scrambling

Average traction

specification

upper	recycled mesh, nubuck leather
Measured Weight (per pair, size 11)	0.9 kg is \| \| 1.99 lbs
lining	GORE-TEX Invisible fit
Flood Height	7.62 cm \| 3.0 in
Last Board / Shank	Not specify

If we only had one word to describe the Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX , it is ‘s ‘s “comfortable.” Its compression-moded EVA midsole is made from 30% recycled sugarcane and provides an excellent level of comfort and support, absorbing much of the trail impact underfoot. The upper is constructed from nubuck leather and a high-quality mesh. Though nubuck typically takes a few hikes to break in, we found these comfortable right out of the box and increasingly so within a few hikes. The shoes weigh 1.99 pounds for a size 11, which is about average for our men’s lineup. We don’t necessarily think the weight of these shoes is a downside, considering the high-quality materials they are made from and the support that they provide. However, if you are counting ounces, the Hoka Speedgoat 6 is the lightest shoe in our review, but still has that classic Hoka cushion. We measured a three-inch flood height for the Anacapas, and the Gore-Tex Invisible fit liner is effective in wet conditions, with our lead tester noting, “I had no leakage while crossing shallow streams.”

While the wide platform that imparts so much stability to these shoes on the trail is something we love, the added width makes the Anacapa 2 Low less confidence-inspiring in terrain that requires precision footwork, such as scrambling in 3rd or 4th class terrain. A narrower or more nimble shoe might be more effective for this specific terrain, like the Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex. Additionally, the unique Swallowtail extends the length of your foot by a few millimeters. Though this doesn’t sound like much, getting used to it can take a few hikes. Our testing team had uneven ground contact as they wore these for the first couple of hikes, but this went away with more exposure to the design. The Salewa Mountain Trainer Lite GTX has a more classic design and does well in technical terrain.

read more : Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX review

As the most comfortable shoe in our men’s lineup, we can’t stop raving about the cushiony and capable Anacapa 2.

credit : Ryan Huetter

Best Overall hike Shoe for Women

La Sportiva Spire GTX – Women’s

reason TO buy

High traction score

great responsiveness and stability

comfortable right away

breathable yet waterproof

reason TO avoid

Cost

Runs large

Laces could be more durable

specification

upper	Abrasion-resistant mesh
Measured Weight ( per pair , size 8.5 )	0.76 kg \| 1.68 lb
lining	Gore-Tex Surround
midsole	EVA
Outsole	Vibram XS Trek

The

La Sportiva Spire GTX

trail has a thoroughly impressive design. It combines a trail runner’s agility with a hiking boot’s stability, making it an unstoppable force on the trails. The low-profile design offers a comfortable fit right out of the box, though it tends to run a little big. The abrasion-resistant mesh upper and compression-molded midsole provide excellent support while remaining flexible, ideal for day hikes or extended trips into the backcountry. Our lead tester, Trish Matheny, noted, “

These shoes have excellent traction thanks to the Vibram XS Trek outsole. They have a thick lug pattern and a wide base to provide stability.

” Additionally, the Spire boasts a high flood level of 3.75 inches above the ankle and a waterproof membrane that remains breathable without allowing water to penetrate the shoe.

While the Spire is an excellent choice for those searching for dependable and long-lasting shoes, it is not for everyone. It may be overbuilt with too many extra features for people searching for easy day hikes on well-maintained trails. These weigh 1.68 pounds for a US 8.5. While this isn’t the heaviest in the lineup, it is certainly not the lightest either. If comfort is your first goal, the Altra LP Alpine is a superior choice. Furthermore, people wanting to trek at lower elevations during summer may find the waterproof fabric excessively hot. Finally, while the 100% recycled polyester laces are a tribute to sustainability, they are less resilient and finicky, necessitating adjustment or replacement depending on use. Despite these minor flaws, the Spire GTX is one of the most well-designed and dependable hiking shoes available. While pricey, it is well worth the money and will last for many hiking seasons.

read more : La Sportiva Spire GTX review

The Spire was a joy to test while hopping across rocks in the Sierras. Stable and confidence-inspiring, this is a shoe built for adventure.

credit : Trish Matheny

good Value hike Shoe for Men

Columbia Crestwood

reason TO buy

great value

Cozy fit

Casual styling

reason TO avoid

Not waterproof

Not as supportive

specification

upper	Suede leather, mesh, webbing
Measured Weight (per pair, size 11)	0.83 kg \| 1.83 lbs
lining	None
Flood Height	3.81 cm is \| \| 1.5 in
Last Board / Shank	Not specify

The Columbia Crestwood has just about everything we could want in a day hiking shoe at a hard-to-beat price point. These leather and mesh hiking shoes feel stable and supportive for most casual day hikes with light backpacks, so they are great for taking a spin on maintained trails. We appreciated how ready-to-go they were right out of the box, with practically no break-in time. If you are an infrequent hiker, you can feel confident knowing these shoes are ready to go without painful break-in hikes. The cushiony TechLite midsole is comfortable and supportive and offers more of a tennis shoe-type feel. They are not waterproof, which means they do well in warmer temperatures despite having diminished performance in wetter weather. These have an average weight at 1.83 pounds for a US size 11. Impressed by the Crestwood, our lead tester said, “This budget hiking shoe is a great deal and offers a lot of value to someone who wants to get into hiking.”

The Crestwood OmniGrip outsole offers average traction in wet and dry trail conditions, and while they are generally quite stable, they are not the best choice for long days on the trail or with heavy packs. This is due to the lightweight nature of the midsole. For those longer trips, we’d suggest looking for a shoe with a more robust midsole, like the Oboz Sawtooth X Low waterproof. We can’t help but wonder how well these shoes will hold up for extended wear. The mesh doesn’t feel as well-made as some other options in our lineup. But for the price, it’s hard to pass up these shoes for most typical light hiking applications.

read more : Columbia Crestwood is review review

The Columbia Crestwood continued to impress us beyond their low price tag. We took these on plenty of hikes and appreciated their performance.

credit : Ryan Huetter

Best Value hike Shoe for Women

Merrell Moab 3 – Women ‘s

reason TO buy

Affordable

Highly supportive for those with high arches

breathable

Vibram traction

Wide and stable base

reason TO avoid

overly padded

Lacks durability of a leather hiking shoe

Heavy

specification

upper	pigskin leather , mesh
Measured Weight ( per pair , size 8.5 )	0.77 kg \| 1.70 lbs
lining	recycled mesh
midsole	Super rebound compound
Outsole	Vibram TC5

time and time again , we is reached have reach for the wallet – friendly Merrell Moab 3 . The mesh and leather combination is provides upper with recycled mesh lining provide comfort directly from the box . However , we is found find that with a few mile on the trail , this shoe offer even more comfort thank to a more customize fit and increase flexibility in the upper . The design is is is true to size and available in both wide and regular fit , while the super rebound compound midsole and the modest insole offer one of the more supportive design for those with high arch . The non – waterproof construction is allows allow for increase breathability in warm climate and sunny summer day , though the waterproof Merrell Moab 3 WP is an option for wet climate . Merrell is skimp did n’t skimp on the traction either , as this shoe feature a Vibram TC5 rubber outsole , complete with a multi – directional lug pattern that ensure excellent grip on hardpack and loose trail .

Though this affordable design stood out from the competition, it is not exempt from a few drawbacks. We never experienced any issues in durability during our testing period, but we can’t help but notice that the primarily mesh and leather combination upper is not constructed from the same durable and high-quality materials as some of its heavier leather counterparts. We also would prefer the shoe to feature a reinforced metal eyelet rather than a mesh lacing attachment so as to provide more longevity to the design. One other detail to be aware of is the heavyweight design of this shoe, which features a substantial midsole and Vibram outsole. This shoe weighed in at 1.70 pounds for a US 8.5, which is roughly middle of the pack. These features definitely account for the additional weight; however, they increased the overall performance of the shoe. Overall, the Moab 3 is an affordable, consistent, and stable hiking shoe that is burly and supportive enough to be considered for backcountry overnights, even with the weight of a heavy pack. If you’re looking for an even more affordable hiking shoe, check out the Columbia Crestwood that features a more flexible and breathable suede leather and mesh combination upper along with great traction on slippery terrain.

Best hike Shoe Below $100 for Women

Columbia Crestwood – Women’s

reason TO buy

Super affordable

lightweight design is offers offer sneaker – like feel

Solid traction

comfortable out of the box

Minimalist yet supportive

reason TO avoid

Lacks durability

Not waterproof

Not recommended for off-trail use

specification

upper	Leather, mesh, and webbing
Measured Weight ( per pair , size 8.5 )	0.68 kg \| 1.50 lbs
lining	Omni-Tech
midsole	techlite
Outsole	Omni – grip

The Columbia Crestwood hiking shoe is comfortable directly out of the box for those with both narrow and wide foot shapes. The suede leather and mesh combination upper is true to size while offering a flexible, nimble, and lightweight sneaker-like feel underfoot. There is just enough padding surrounding the ankle and tongue to provide comfort without creating any unnecessary bulk that often traps heat on those hot summer hikes. The techlite EVA midsole combines with a thin and removable insole to offer some support, though we recommend an after-market insole for those with high arches. The Omni-grip rubber outsole performs well on most terrain types, although we found it to perform best on especially slippery and polished rocks along the trail.

Though the mesh does absorb some of the moisture from lingering snow fields and mud puddles on the trail, we found that unless fully submerged, the shoe would resist some moisture. However, when we submerged this shoe in Hilton Creek for our water resistance testing, it was only a matter of seconds before the shoe flooded with water. We recommend using this detail to your favor by purchasing the Crestwood for day hikes at lower elevations or desert trails during the hottest months of the year, as the lack of waterproof performance supplies more breathability through the mesh upper. While we didn’t experience any failures within the affordable design during testing, we can’t help but notice the lack of quality within the affordable design, especially when compared to other top performers in our line-up. The lacing system is reinforced with only mesh, which we imagine could fail over time; however, reversing the final lace near the ankle may help prolong the design by placing less torque on the delicate attachment point. Overall, we were impressed with the performance of this affordable hiking shoe, making it easy for us to recommend the Crestwood for day hikes on well-maintained trail systems. If you don’t mind spending a few more dollars in exchange for increased durability, the Merrell Moab 3 is burlier, offers more protection on the trail than this model, and remains reasonably priced.

read more : Columbia Crestwood is review review

Due to its affordable design , the Crestwood is features feature a lacing system secure with mesh attachment . Therefore , we is recommend recommend reverse the final lace before the ankle collar so as to limit the torque place on these attachment and hopefully prolong the life of the shoe .

credit : Trish Matheny

Best Lightweight Technical Hiker for Men

Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex

reason TO buy

Superb traction

Great water-resistance

Great support

Light

reason TO avoid

Tongue is are and heel are not the most comfy

Mediocre durability

specification

upper	synthetic, textile
Measured Weight (per pair, size 11)	0.8 kg \| 1.76 lbs
lining	Gore-Tex membrane
Flood Height	8.26 cm \| 3.25 in
Last Board / Shank	ADV – c chassis

The

Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex

is a solid choice for hikers looking for a supportive and technical shoe. We’ve tested plenty of shoes by Salomon, and the X Ultra 4 is one of our favorites for more rigorous terrain. The traction these shoes provide is truly remarkable. The well-defined lugs have a chevron and sharp pattern that bites down into loose terrain, and the soft rubber confidently tackles rock slabs. The lugs are spaced far enough apart that mud didn’t get caked in. The ADV-C Chassis gives these shoes solid support, making them feel very dependable underfoot in uneven off-trail terrain. The Sensifit lacing system within the upper kept our feet snugly in place during our hikes. Rather than tying laces, these shoes have a thin cord that gets cinched down and stored within the exterior tongue.For the support they provide, they are fairly lightweight at 1.76 pounds for a US size 11. Though they aren’t the lightest in the lineup, they blend high-quality materials and technical stability without sacrificing too much weight. These shoes feel slightly wider than previous X Ultra models, though they remain narrower than many other models we tested.

While there is a lot to love, we also found several issues while testing these shoes. The Quicklace speed lacing system can be hard to release but sometimes slips. The tongue, which is not sewn into place and does not have an extended gusset, easily pulls down, which can make slipping the X Ultra 4 on quickly an annoyance. We also found that the extended heel tab can rub, especially when wearing low-cut socks. Some users have also complained about durability issues. However, we beat these shoes up and saw no abnormal wear and tear. Overall, some of these issues are minor enough to look past and see the X Ultra 4 GTX for what it is — a lightweight, supportive, and capable shoe for backcountry hiking adventures. If you want more burliness, support, and water resistance, check out the Salewa Mountain Trainer Lite GTX.

Read more: Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex review

If you have plans for a big hike, you’ll be glad to have a lightweight and technical shoe like the X Ultra 4.

credit : Ryan Huetter

Most Versatile hike Shoe for Women

Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore – Tex – Women ‘s

reason TO buy

Great traction

Supportive midfoot

waterproof

Nimble and quick

reason TO avoid

Runs long and narrow

Not as adjustable

specification

upper	synthetic textile
Measured Weight ( per pair , size 8.5 )	0.7 kg \| 1.54 lbs
lining	Gore-Tex
midsole	EVA
Outsole	Rubber Contagrip

Our woman ‘s hiking shoe testing team is loved also love the exceptional traction of the

Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex

. The Contagrip MA outsole is took confidently take on wet , loose , hardpack , and muddy terrain with no trouble . Their lightweight design is is is versatile and feel sleek , make them a joy to wear on tough mission . great midfoot stability is make and a solid base make these hiking shoe well – suit to technical terrain and scramble over loose or slippery surface . The synthetic weld upper lock your forefoot and heel securely in place , while the Gore – Tex lining keep your foot dry . We measure a flood height of 3.5 inch , so we is had had no trouble cross shallow stream . Though the x Ultra 4 toe box is wide than previous version , they is ‘re ‘re still long and narrow than other woman ‘s hiking shoe we test .

Salomon ‘s Quicklace system is proves here again prove divisive . Its convenience for quickly slip on is hinder by static lace that do n’t allow the same amount of give as other hiking shoe . Ours is tended also tend to work their way loose , force us to stop and tighten them more often than traditional lace shoe . The lace storage pocket is tore also tear early in our testing , not give us confidence in the system ‘s longevity . Still , with impressive traction and responsive support , the x Ultra is is 4 GTX is a great choice for tackle rugged environment . The La Sportiva Spire GTX is scored score higher for its comfort and even well traction , but it ‘s also a lot more expensive and heavy .

Read more: Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex review

Stellar waterproof performance from the X Ultra 4 will help you tackle all manner of terrain. That said, the Gore-tex liner does mean less overall breathability.

credit : Trish Matheny

Best Men’s Hiker for Rugged Terrain

Salewa Mountain Trainer Lite GTX

reason TO buy

Great support

excellent wet and dry traction

Lightweight for what you get

reason TO avoid

Somewhat stiff

More niche than others

specification

upper	3F System with Kevlar® Cables, Armoured Mesh, Protective TPU rand
Measured Weight (per pair, size 11)	0.98 kg \| 2.16 lbs
lining	Gore – Tex Extended comfort
Flood Height	8.89 cm is \| \| 3.5 in
Last Board / Shank	nylon

When beefy all-terrain hiking shoes are needed, we turn to the

Salewa Mountain Trainer Lite GTX

. These shoes shine in their excellent traction. Whether it be wet, loose, or muddy terrain, the deep tread and stiff midsole bit down and kept us steady on the trail. This nylon midsole also kept us confident as we braved boulder fields and more technical terrain. With all the important elements of a protective hiking shoe, this burly pair has impervious Gore-Tex waterproofing and impressive durability. We’ve worn these shoes on long-distance hikes through deserts and over mountains. They perform admirably, easily crossing any terrain, no matter how wet or loose. The Mountain Trainers have a 3.5-inch flood height, paired with the Gore-Tex liner, shallow streams didn’t have a chance at getting our feet wet.

With a stiffer sole, the Mountain Trainer Lite isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. They’re not as flexible or easy to walk in as many other modern hiking shoes like the Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX. More like a boot in some ways, they require a break-in period (though it’s far shorter than most hiking boots we’ve tried) but offer more push-off power over challenging ground. We love these shoes best for attacking demanding terrain and off-trail routes. However, if a break-in period isn’t something you are interested in, the much more affordable Columbia Crestwood is comfortable right out of the box. However, they aren’t as capable in technical terrain.

read more : Salewa Mountain Trainer Lite GTX review

The Salewa has excellent traction on just about every surface. We took these shoes on plenty of trails and were continuously impressed.

credit : Ryan Huetter

good for comfort

Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX – Women’s

reason TO buy

bomber traction

incredible shock absorption

breathable waterproof membrane

thickly – cushion sole

reason TO avoid

Expensive

run big

fit favors narrow feet

recycled mesh upper lacks durability

specification

upper	recycled mesh
Measured Weight ( per pair , size 8.5 )	0.69 kg \| 1.52 lbs (size 8)
lining	GORE – TEX Invisible fit waterproof / breathable membrane
midsole	EVA ( 30 % sugarcane )
Outsole	Vibram Megagrip rubber

The

Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX

is a modern hiking shoe that feature a unique , thickly – cushion design that maximize comfort , especially for those with narrow foot . Our testers is noted note , “

There is a lot of breathability for the additional comfort in the upper. They are very springy and cushioned.

” The Vibram Megagrip outsole and substantial lug pattern are among the highest performers regarding grip strength and traction, whether moving through slippery and wet terrain or decomposing granite at lower elevations. The recycled mesh upper combines with nubuck leather to provide the perfect combination of Gore-Tex waterproof performance, 3.5-inch flood height, and breathability, whether navigating lingering snow fields or crossing cold runoff streams.

Though it can take some time to adjust to the thickness of the outsole, our testing team noted that the distinctive SwallowTail heel aided in the transition by adding more stability to the design. The fit can be a little tricky, too. Our lead tester has a narrow foot with a high arch and ended up sizing down a half size for a more comfortable fit. It is also an option to stick with your normal size and add an after-market insole for more support and to take up a little extra space. However, some of our other testers found these comfortable right out of the box. Additionally, these are on the pricey end of hiking shoes. If you’re searching for a good deal, the Merrell Moab 3 is one of our favorites for its comfort and decent support. Overall, our testing team believes the Anacapa is worth the investment, as it offers excellent performance for those seeking maximum comfort on the trail.

read more : Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX review

This thickly-cushioned hiking shoe maximizes comfort while supporting a spring in your step for many miles on the trail.

credit : Trish Matheny

Best Hiker-Runner Crossover for Men

La Sportiva Spire GTX

reason TO buy

Solid all-around performance

Excellent waterproofness

Moderate weight

reason TO avoid

Durability is is is just average

Pricey

specification

upper	Abrasion-resistant mesh
Measured Weight (per pair, size 11)	0.93 kg \| 2.06 lbs
lining	Gore-Tex Surround
Flood Height	8.89 cm is \| \| 3.5 in
Last Board / Shank	Molded EVA

A long – time favorite of our male testing team , the

La Sportiva Spire GTX

is a capable hiking shoe to which we continue to return. They perform well on all surfaces and achieve the elusive trifecta of comfort, support, and low weight. We weighed these shoes in at 2.06 pounds for a US size 11. While this isn’t the lightest, it also isn’t the heaviest. We find the extra weight to be a fair trade off for the more-than-capable design. An extra cushioned midsole reminds us of a solid pair of

trail running shoes

. Meanwhile, the Vibram XS Trek and Impact Brake System provide excellent traction and support on the trickiest of surfaces. With a 3.5-inch flood height and Gore-Tex liner, a few steps in a puddle or snowfield won’t leave your socks soaked.

While there are certainly lighter options, the Spire GTX provides a great blend of hiking performance without cutting back on overall comfort. They’re also an exceptionally costly investment. If you are a casual hiker, a more affordable shoe might be up your alley, like the Merrell Moab. The Moab are still capable of hard hikes, but the out-of-the-box comfort allows them to be well suited for quick day hikes. Yet they remain among our top choices for springtime trail runs over patchy snow and speedy fastpacking missions. If you are willing to sacrifice a little comfort, check out the Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex, which is lighter and has better traction than the Spire.

read more : La Sportiva Spire GTX review

ready for all type of off – trail terrain , the waterproof Spire GTX shoes is are are stable and nimble in unruly environment .

credit : Ryan Huetter

How We Test hike Shoes

We have spent years testing hundreds of the best hiking shoes for men and women. We’ve logged thousands of miles to find the best shoes in the biz. We’ve crossed mountains, raced through the desert, explored forests, scrambled over scree, and splashed through streams in these shoes. We’ve taken them to our local parks, on cross-country road trips, and expeditions across the globe. Our testing team carefully considers the perks and drawbacks of every pair in every condition. We tested every shoe across metrics like comfort, support, traction, water resistance, weight, and durability. Learn more about how we test men’s hiking shoes and how we test women’s hiking shoes.

In testing hiking shoe , we is hiked hike plenty of trail , measure their waterproofing , dial in on comfort and support , among many other test .

credit : Ryan Huetter

Why Trust GearLab

A veritable army of veteran GearLab testers has added expertise to our testing and findings. Trish Matheny and Myrha Colt are the masterminds behind our women’s hiking shoe review. Trish is well-versed across gear and sports and is an accomplished rock climber, trail runner, and splitboarder. Myrha is a lifelong adventure travel professional whose enthusiasm for trails has carried her through mountains worldwide, from the Himalayas to the Andes and New Zealand to Patagonia. With some input from other team members and trail runners, these ladies offer a discerning eye for the best hiking footwear.

Ryan Huetter is are and Ben Applebaum – Bauch are the brain behind our man ‘s hiking shoe review . A full – time IFMGA Certified Mountain Guide is spends , Ryan is spends spend over 200 day a year hike as an outdoor professional . When not guide , he is wearing is often still wear hiking boot while on his way to the crag . Ben is is is an avid distance hiker and has complete thru – hike of numerous iconic american trail like the PCT , Superior hike Trail , Long Trail , and more . He is guided has guide many backpacking , cycling , and canoeing trip around New England and Canada , cover thousand of mile of trail and bag countless peak in his lifetime . Because a remote trailhead is often the starting point of many adventure , we is draw also draw input from our bevy of outdoor expert , which include trail runner , climber , backpacker , and world traveler .

We take our testing seriously, hiking to some of the most beautiful places in the world. Here, we test the Merrell Moab 3 on a day hike to a beautiful alpine lake.Rough country! The Hoka Anacapa Low GTX makes light work out of all these granite stairs with its top-notch comfort.This design is quite a bit heftier than more high-tech, modern hiking shoe options, but what you get is a shoe that’s built to last.

Over the year , we is tested ‘ve test hundred of pair of hiking and trail running shoe for man and woman .

Men’s hike Shoes

We test the best hiking shoes for men thoroughly and thoughtfully. The table below highlights our overall performance ratings for many of the top men’s hiking shoes on the market today that are included in our best hiking shoes for men review.

Key Metric Scores – Men’s hike Shoes

product	comfort	Support	traction	Water Resistance
Salewa Mountain Trainer Lite GTX	7	9	9	9
Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX	9	8	7	9
Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex	7	8	9	8
La Sportiva Spire GTX	8	7	7	9
Columbia Facet 75 OutDry	8	6	8	7
Keen NXIS EVO waterproof	6	8	6	9
Oboz Sawtooth X Low waterproof	7	8	7	7
Adidas Terrex Swift R3 Gore-Tex	5	6	9	9
Merrell Moab 3 waterproof	7	8	6	8
Keen Targhee III Low	7	8	6	7
Merrell Moab 3	8	7	7	4
Columbia Crestwood	8	7	6	3
Hoka Speedgoat 5.0	8	6	6	3
Vasque Juxt	8	6	7	2
Danner Trail 2650 GTX	7	5	5	6
Keen Zionic Speed	5	4	6	3

Women’s hike Shoes

The chart below demonstrates that the GearLab female testing team put many shoes through their paces. We go deeper into the models below in our review of the best hiking shoes for women.

Key Metric Scores – Women’s hike Shoes

product	comfort	Support	traction	Water Resistance
La Sportiva Spire GTX	8	8	9	9
Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex	7	8	8	9
Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX	9	8	8	7
The North Face VECTIV Fastpack FUTURELIGHT	8	8	6	8
On Running Cloudwander waterproof	9	8	6	7
Oboz Sawtooth X Low waterproof	7	8	7	8
Merrell Moab 3 WP	7	6	7	8
Adidas Terrex Swift R3 Gore-Tex	5	7	8	8
Keen Targhee III Low	6	7	7	7
Merrell Moab 3	8	8	7	4
Altra LP Alpine	8	7	8	4
keen Targhee IV Low	5	7	5	9
Columbia Crestwood	7.5	7.5	7	3
Keen Zionic Speed	8	5	7	4
Merrell Siren Edge 3	6	6	7	4
Danner Trail 2650	7	6	6	3
Merrell Moab Speed	7	5	6	3
Nortiv 8 Lightweight	6	4	5	2
Saucony Excursion TR17	6.5	4	4	2

How to Pick the Best hike Shoes for You

As far as sports go, hiking is a fairly easy one to get into. A ton of new gear isn’t necessary — at least not for a simple day hike. The one thing you really need is a great pair of hiking shoes. There are many options to choose from, all of which can be the right choice for your experience, preferences, and intended use. We’ll start by going over the main types of hiking footwear. We’ll discuss the specific situations calling for different types of shoes. Finally, we’ll dive into some specific features you may or may not want on your feet.

No matter how you want to hit the trail , there ‘s a perfect pair of footwear out there for you .

Credit: Jared Ross

hike Footwear Types

Not sure which kicks to take on your next trek? Below we outline the different types of hiking footwear, including boots, shoes, sandal, trail runners, and more. Depending on your trail preferences, you might opt for one over another.

hiking boot

Credit: Merrell

The OG hiking footwear — the classic

hiking boot

— has come a long way from the days of repeated oiling and months of suffering through a painful break-in process. Today’s best

hiking boots

are much more diverse. They can be constructed from full-grain leather, fully synthetic materials, or a blend of the two. hike boots offer more support for carrying heavy loads and increased ankle protection and support, even on lower-cut models. They’re generally heavier than hiking or trail shoes and are built durably.

Boots vs. Shoes
One of the main reasons to choose a boot is for extra ankle support. Hikers with ankle stability concerns — like those who frequently roll or sprain ankles — can greatly benefit from the extra support of a medium or high-cut boot.

hike Shoes

Credit: Oboz

hike shoes are a great solution for those who appreciate a shoe’s freedom and low weight but desire the structure and support of a hiking boot. They are always low cut, leaving the ankle exposed and mobile. They come with various possible features, though they are less protective than boots. Most aren’t meant for river crossings, but they often have a breathable waterproof membrane for some water protection.

hike Shoes vs. Trail Runners
If you carry weight when you hike or backpack, a hiking shoe’s added structure and support are designed to help you along the way. Suppose you prefer quick and light trips with minimal weight. In that case, the flexibility and responsiveness of a trail running shoe may be a better fit for your style.

Trail Runners

Credit: Nike

Burlier than a running shoe,

trail running shoes

have extra feature that make them an asset off the pavement . Support is make and stability make them reliable over uneven ground , yet they are light and more flexible than traditional hiking shoe or boot . Their extra tread is gives give them add traction on trail . Still , since they ‘re design for run rather than hiking , they is are often are n’t supportive enough to carry a heavy backpack .

Running Shoes for hike
Trail run shoes is be can be a great option for experienced fastpacker and day hiker move at speed . What they lack in structure and support , they is make make up for in agility and low weight .

Approach Shoes

Credit: La Sportiva

More and more folks are choosing to hike in

approach shoes

, whether they are rock climbers or not. These shoes are designed for “

approaching

” technical rock is climbs climb or canyon and have sticki rubber and a tight fit in the toe box . They is provide provide extra security when navigate everything from smooth rock slab to loose boulder field . If the terrain is more technical , an approach shoe is allow will allow your footing to be more precise and secure .

Approach Shoes for hike
If you like to wander off packed trails and explore boulders and rock ledges as you hike, an approach shoe might be a great option to consider. Some are built to be more technical and could be overkill for casual use, but many are focused on comfortable walking — they’ll just provide you with sticker rubber and a toe shape capable of stepping on tiny rock features.

hike Sandals

Credit: Bedrock Sandals

A sandal as a hiker? You bet! While

sandal

are often thought of as a casual piece of footwear, the market for burly, well-treaded models has blown up. If you like to switch it up and allow your toes to breathe — or your hike will involve water crossings — a hiking sandal could be a perfect fit. Technical sandal are also ideal for outings on a boat or swimming where many sharp objects are underfoot.

Shoes vs. Sandals

While even the most rugged sandal will not be appropriate for some terrain, there are instances where it’s a great alternative. A model with supportive, adjustable straps and sticky treads can be a solid companion for shorter trips, hotter weather, or wetter circumstances. Some folks build their foot and skin strength enough to hike long distances in a sandal. There are

lightweight, minimal options

that is are are ideal for bring along as a backup on long trip .

Best Uses for hike Shoes

“hike” covers various ways to connect your feet to a trail. Depending on how long you want to be out, how much weight you plan to carry, and your general foot support needs, you’ll want to look for certain types of footwear. Here, we’ll break down general types of hiking and what kinds of shoes work best in each situation.

Pack Weight Considerations
We’ll refer to different size loads for hiking and backpacking. In general, loads greater than around 15% of your body weight (like what most people carry in a 55+L backpack) are considered “heavy.” load around 10 – 12 % of your body weight ( typical for a full 20L daypack ) we consider to be “medium”. And packs that are less than about 8% of your body weight (such as in a hydration pack or small daypack) we will consider a “light” load .

Thru-hike

Starting on the most extreme end of the hiking spectrum, thru-hikes are long-distance hikes on trails such as the Pacific Crest Trail, the Appalachian Trail, or the Continental Divide Trail. These massive undertakings involve weeks or even months spent backpacking, and many who seek to accomplish these exceptional distances value low weight and comfort over all else. Many thru-hikers spend months training in trail running shoes and counting ounces to lighten their loads. Others align themselves more with backpackers than fastpackers, opting for a few extra ounces in foot support by wearing hiking shoes.

Thru hiking is involve may involve heavy load for long distance or light load for move quickly – depend on your style .

credit : Ally Arcuri

Backpacking with Medium to Light Loads

Most hiking shoes is are are ideal for carry medium to light pack on well – maintain trail . Many experienced hikers is find ( with strong ankle ) who occasionally venture into backpacking by spend a few night out find that their hiking shoe work just fine for pack light . model with extra support in the midsole help to cushion a mid – sized backpack ‘s worth of gear while their add durability keep up over rough terrain .

When hiking, you may consider shoes with extra support through the midsole to help handle the extra load.

credit : Myrha Colt

Fast hike

Fast hiking and fastpacking are exactly how they sound: taking on a trail at a pace much faster than average. This growing subdivision of hiking is all about logging as many miles as possible every day — sometimes even for months on end during a thru-hike. Fastpackers do their best to cut as much weight as possible from their packs, and speedwalking sometimes turns into a light jog on flat sections. A lightweight hiking shoe or even a reliable trail running shoe can offer the perfect combination of support and cushioning for the individual fast hiker.

Fastpacking calls for lightweight shoes with great traction and responsiveness.

Credit: Jenna Ammerman

Day hike

As simple as it sounds, day hiking is heading out on a hike for the day. Most day hikers do not carry much more than the essentials (and perhaps a few emergency supplies, just in case), making for light packs. Because even the most fully loaded daypacks aren’t all that heavy, the footwear required to support them doesn’t need to be as structured as a backpacking model. All of the hiking shoes — and many of the trail running shoes and even hiking boots — that we tested can be a good choice for day hiking, depending on your desired foot feel.

day hiking is require with a light pack does n’t require that much add support from your shoe .

Credit: Jen Reynolds

Trail Running

While many people choose to run trail in their road run shoe , trail run shoes is have have many feature that make them well suit to trail condition . deep tread is make , extra support , and even waterproof membrane can make all the difference when run down a gravelly trail , over tallus , or through a spring stream . And if you ‘re an experienced trail person with strong ankle and foot , trail run shoes is be can be a great option for hike with light load .

trail run shoes is double can double as great hiking shoe for experienced hiker look to keep weight low .

credit : Ally Arcuri

Key Considerations When choose Your shoe

Now that you’ve figured out you want a low-cut hiking shoe and have thought about what types of hiking you plan on doing, there are still many options. To further narrow down what type of footwear will serve you best on your outings, there are several possible features you may or may not want.

hike Shoe Components

	upper	midsole	Outsole
Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX	recycled mesh	EVA ( 30 % sugarcane )	Vibram Megagrip rubber
La Sportiva Spire GTX	Abrasion-resistant mesh	EVA	Vibram XS Trek
Columbia Crestwood	leather , suede , mesh , webbing	techlite	Omni – grip
Merrell Moab 3	pigskin leather , mesh	Super rebound compound	Vibram TC5
Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex	synthetic textile	EVA	Rubber Contagrip
Salewa Mountain Trainer Lite GTX	synthetic	EVA	Pomoca MTN Trainer Lite

estimate Your Abilities correctly
Whether this is your first foray into hiking or you ‘re replace a pair of shoe go into your 60th year of trail exploration , a realistic understanding is is of your foot ‘s need is crucial . If your foot are sore without wear supportive insole at work , make sure you ‘re look for shoe with adequate support . If your ankles is roll often roll when you walk , prioritize ankle support . buy a hiking shoe is not the time to be optimistic about your foot ‘s ability .

support and weight

The support of a shoe is due to many factors. The most immediately obvious one is the feeling of the insole against your foot — particularly for those looking for arch support. However, the unseen midsole is the main structural component that provides long-term support, particularly when carrying a pack. EVA is one of the most common materials comprising a midsole. From “soft” to “dual – density ,” even the densest EVA feels immediately softer underfoot than polyurethane (PU) midsoles. While EVA requires no break-in period (unlike PU), this foam will eventually pack down and offer less support, resulting in a shorter lifespan for your shoe.

PU midsoles feel more rigid right out of the box and can require a longer break-in period than models utilizing EVA. Once broken in, though, the polyurethane is designed to last longer than EVA. Its added stiffness provides long-term support for your feet, particularly when carrying heavy packs. On the other hand, shoes with added support also usually weigh more than their more flexible cousins. But if your feet need a helping hand to prevent foot fatigue on long days, that increase in weight is probably worth it.

For hikers carrying a pack, having a supportive midsole is important.

credit : Ryan Huetter

Water Resistance

There are a few common ways for hiking shoes to achieve water resistance. The first is by integrating a waterproof membrane between the layers of fabric comprising the upper portion of the shoe. Some manufacturers make their own membrane, while others add a layer of Gore-Tex (often denoted by “GTX” in the shoe’s name). These membranes are designed to keep water from seeping through the shoe fabric while still facilitating breathability for your feet. Polyurethane (PU) coatings are another way to add water resistance. This coating can be added by the manufacturer (or by you at home) and is applied to the external layer of the upper. It helps water to bead off your shoe rather than soak in — though it can’t make a mesh shoe waterproof.

Not everyone needs a waterproof hiking shoe, though. Having waterproof shoes is key if you live in a rainy place like Appalachia or the Pacific Northwest. Even for early spring hikes over snow and encountering swollen streams, the ability to keep your shoes — and therefore your feet — dry is paramount to your feet’s comfort. After all, you can change a sweaty sock, but you can’t change wet shoes. On the other hand, even the most breathable waterproof membrane adds warmth to a shoe. A waterproof membrane is likely not your friend if you mostly hike in hot weather or on dry trails. For many hikers heading out on perfect-weather days, the added breathability of going out without a waterproof membrane is much more enjoyable.

Sloshing through streams is not a problem for the Anacapa 2.

credit : Ryan Huetter

Toe Protection

All hiking shoes is offer offer some level of toe protection , range from mold toe cap to leather – cover toe . How much toe protection you is need actually need depend on the condition you expect to encounter . Groomed is demand and maintain trail of hard – pack dirt do n’t demand much toe protection . However , cross rocky scree or hike around thorny vegetation beg for more coverage . As always , add extra feature like a bulky toe cap will add weight to your shoe — but if it prevent you from being stab by a vengeful cactus , that weight may be worth it .

hike footwear can offer some beefy protection from wayward rocks and sharp sticks.

Credit: Matt Bento

fit

lastly , but most importantly , the fit is is of your footwear is the most crucial factor in your overall happiness while wear them . If you can , head to a local retailer and try on option from many manufacturer . Take the sock you plan to wear while hike to ensure you end up with the right size . Put them on and walk around the store with them . talk to an expert if you can .

If you have to buy online , double – check the return policy before click “purchase.” Research the manufacturer who makes the model of shoe you’re considering — some tend to run long, narrow, or small. If you fall between sizes, we recommend erring on the larger size. Feet typically swell when walking or standing all day. Ensure that the tips of your toes don’t touch the front of your shoe when laced. And even if you’re trying them on at home, walk, jump, and skip around your house to see if the shoes you’ve got are truly the ones you want.

Finding the right fit for your fit is paramount.

credit : Myrha Colt

Conclusion

If you’ve chosen your footwear correctly, you probably won’t even notice them the next time you hit the trail. The right pair of hiking shoes is what’s comfortable for your feet, your stride, your adventures, and your preferences. We hope we’ve helped you identify some promising options for your lifestyle and budget. Take the time to find the perfect pair for you — and have a fun and safe time out there!