11 Best Hiking Shoes, According to Outdoor Gear Editors

ProsGore-Tex Invisible Fit offers best-in-show waterproofingDesign feels more like a trail runnerExcellent breathabilityOboz's legendary durabilityRugged good looksConsOnly three available color optionsOboz’s new Katabatic RT Mid GTX was my favorite hiking shoe of the year in this year’s Men’s Health Outdoor Awards, and it wasn’t even close. It’s been my go-to hiking footwear for nearly every trip this year (hundreds of miles), whether it’s a quick day hike or a longer multi-day trek.The Low version offers nearly all of the same best-in-class features. Most notable is Gore-Tex Invisible Fit that delivers fantastic waterproofing with excellent breathability and minimal stiffness. On my annual spring hike in the White Mountains, the Katabatic RT Mid kept my feet bone-dry amid plenty of muddy, washed-out trails. It also offers balanced comfort thanks to Kinertia EVA cushioning, Oboz’s gender-specific lasts, and more generous than average foot- and toe boxes, so it feels just as comfy after 10 miles or 100 on the trail. And the Vibram Megagrip outsole is extremely tacky in just about any conditions. What I love most, though, is the weight—or lack of it. At 15.2 ounces per shoe, the full pair comes in at less than two pounds. Compared to most other premium waterproof hiking kicks, that’s a notable and very welcome difference.For a more supportive and protective alternative, check out the Katabatic RT Mid GTX.Read More: Best Hiking BootsAvailable HeightsLow, MidWeight (per Shoe)15.2 ouncesWaterproofingGore-Tex Invisible FitProsA versatile, flexible design with sneaker-like comfortGreat for warm-weather hikes with excellent breathabilityNitrogen-infused EnduroFoam midsole is durable and lightweightTrail-runner-inspired aesthetic works for everyday wearRecraftable sole is more wallet- and eco-friendlyConsNot waterproofA little pricey compared to our other recommendationsI've been an unabashed Danner fanboy for as long as I can remember. If I'm outdoors, there's a good chance I'm wearing a pair of Danners on my feet. The company's N45 is a solid testament to why, checking virtually every must-have box I look for in a solid hiking shoe. It's durable and supportive, while maintaining a balanced weight and comfy, sneaker-like feel.At 11 ounces per shoe, it's the lightest shoe in our guide. Coupled with a sneaker-like silhouette and overall design, it's one of the most comfy hiking shoes I personally tested in the last few years. Add to that a Perspair upper that's ultra-breezy and bouncy, energy-absorbing EnduroFoam midsoles, and these are a near-perfect summer hiking shoe. Plus, I love the sneaker-inspired aesthetic that makes this a great option for everyday wear. It works just as well with your favorite jeans as with a pair of convertible hiking pants. This versatile design makes this a great do-it-all travel shoe, too.I'm hard-pressed to find much to complain about, but there are two things worth noting. First is the lack of waterproofing, so you probably won't be wearing these on every hike. The second is that they're a little pricey compared to every other shoe we recommend below. But Danner has always been a premium brand, and I'm a firm believer that you really do get what you pay for.Bonus: Unlike many hiking shoes on the market, the N45 is recraftable. So, when the sole finally gives up the ghost, you don't have to ditch your shoes in a landfill. Simply replace the sole (for a fraction of the price of a brand-new pair) and get back on the trail.Read More: Danner N45 Full ReviewAvailable HeightsLow (ankle)Weight (per Shoe)11 ozWaterproofingNoneAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsIncredible valueWaterproof design is surprisingly breathableLittle to no break-in periodReasonably lightweightVersatile trail-to-town aestheticConsOnly available in three uninspiring colorwaysMost decent hiking shoes are priced north of $150. Newcomer Nortiv 8 isn’t quite a household name, but it’s already setting the standard for what’s possible in a sub-$100 hiker. The no-frills DualStride Armadillo FieldLite is all business (available in just three rather bland colorways), but it more than makes up for its lack of flair with legit trail-ready function. It’s comfortable straight out of the box with a minimal break-in period (even in wide sizes), and the brand’s proprietary cushioning system balances impact absorption with a stable base for reliable trekking. Most notable, though, is the legit breathable waterproofing—a pleasant surprise in any budget hiker.Available HeightsLow, MidWeight (per Shoe)16.6 ouncesWaterproofingProprietaryProsIdeal amount of cushioningToothy Continental rubber outsole grips like a champTrue Gore-Tex waterproofingExcellent breathabilityConsLiner can be awkward and bunch up at times (especially around heel)The latest addition to Adidas’ Terrex line, the Freehiker 3 Low GTX, is a comfort-first hiking sneaker. Powerful and propulsive, tough without being overly bulky, this hiker proved proficient in just about every outing. It’s a dynamic hiking shoe that effortlessly takes to the trail or pretty much anything else you throw its way. The fit is ideal, the grip is mountain goat–esque, and the comfort level is high. Our only gripe is the slightly above median price for this category, but that’s thanks largely to the Adidas branding. Once you get past the initial lace-up and take in the high-functioning and versatile nature of this shoe, we think it’s worth the premium spend and is an admirable addition to the iconic Terrex Freehiker line.Read More: Our Review of the Adidas Terrex Freehiker 3Available HeightsLow, MidWeight (per Shoe)13.12 ouncesWaterproofingGore-TexAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsEnduroFoam Plus midsole is comfy and springyVibram outsole sticks to everythingLow-key aesthetic is versatile enough for everyday wearRugged nubuck leather upperEco-friendly design is resolable and recraftableConsA little priceyHeavy for a hiking shoeDanner hits another home run this year with the MTN45 Low. This understated hiker offers a versatile design with low-key, street-friendly good looks but the DNA of a real hiking shoe. The nitrogen-infused EnduroFoam Plus midsole is soft yet supportive while being lightweight and springy for maximum comfort and energy return. A TPU mudguard and built-in rock plate help protect your foot and the shoe itself. Our only two issues are the heavier-than-average build (at more than a pound per shoe) and the premium price tag thanks entirely to the legendary Danner name. That price does, however, get you a 365-day warranty and a completely resolable/recraftable design that’s likely to save you money in the long run.Available HeightsLowWeight (per Shoe)16.5 ouncesWaterproofingNoneProsExtremely lightweight as a hiking shoeMidsole offers a great balance of comfort and stabilityAnkle cuff keeps out debrisTrue Vibram Megagrip outsole with traction lugsPulls double duty as a trail runner when not hikingConsNot quite as supportive as a true hiking shoeSome heel slippage when not properly locked downIf you prefer the featherweight feel of a trail runner, even while hiking, Nike’s latest ACG Zegama Trail is your man. At 11.8 ounces per shoe, it’s crazy light for a hiking shoe, making it perfect for rapid summit assaults and fast-packing day hikes. Senior Gear and Reviews Editor recently wore the Zegama on a day hike in Muir Woods to much success: “It’s light enough to still push your pace in, but the new foot geometry gives it an incredibly stable base that makes good for hiking speeds on any terrain.”The ZoomX midsole balances comfort and stability and combines perfectly with a Vibram Megagrip outsole with traction lugs for true hiking shoe grip. The upper remains just as lightweight and durable as its predecessor, while an updated stretchy ankle cuff works to keep out dirt and other trail debris.Read More: Best Trail Running ShoesAvailable HeightsLowWeight (per Shoe)11.8 ouncesWaterproofingNoneAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowCredit: Courtesy of RetailerProsRugged leather design is versatile enough for any terrainExcellent waterproofing, even in very wet conditionsComfy, sneaker-like designFoam cushioning is supportive for all-day wearGood balance of rigidity and flexibilityConsLeather upper isn't as breathable as synthetics on long hikesHeavy for a hiking shoeIt's billed as Merrell's most tech-forward hiking shoe ever, and, after testing many of its models over the last decade, I have to agree. The upper blends nubuck leather with synthetics for maximum waterproofing, even in extremely wet conditions. For a fairly beefy and supportive shoe, it feels surprisingly light on the foot despite its nearly 15-ounce weight. I found it to be the brand's most comfy hiking shoe I've ever personally tested.The Vibram TC5+ outsole is insanely grippy, as I found in the slippery, sloppy slush that makes up most of the trails in New Hampshire's White Mountains this time of year. (For a bit more foot protection and ankle support, opt for the taller Mid model.)Available HeightsLow (ankle), MidWeight (per Shoe)15.51 ouncesWaterproofingProprietary membraneProsGreat value in a waterproof hikerBold, sneaker-like good looksComfortable, trail-runner-esque fitFeatherweight constructionGood use of recycled materialsConsLess ankle support than a true hiking shoe/bootHelly Hansen built its brand on extreme wet-weather apparel, and that DNA is evident in the new-for-2026 AWE Hiker. It boasts proprietary Helly Tech waterproofing that holds its own against most of its “true” Gore-Tex competitors while also allowing HH to maintain a more budget-friendly price. Helly’s own Fast Foam midsole and Trail Grip rubber outsole provide solid comfort and stability with the tackiness to keep you surefooted on the gnarliest terrain. The heavy use of recycled materials throughout also makes this more eco-friendly than most hikers at this price point.Brower wore the Mid Boot version of these hiking in Norway earlier this year. On one particular hike, it rained the whole time and there was a little bit of waterfall exploring—yet his feet stayed dry the entire day.Available HeightsLowWeight (per Shoe)12.7 ouncesWaterproofingHelly Tech (proprietary)Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsAgile, relatively lightweight designStiff and stable for hiking fastMore eco-friendly GORE-TEX ePE waterproofingVersatile designDecent priceConsOnly one colorway availableThe new-for-2026 Ribelle Cross 2 GTX is a lightweight hiking shoe that pulls heavy inspiration from Scarpa’s own trail runners. The technical hybrid design blends the agility of a trail runner with the ruggedness of a low-cut hiker. The chassis is stiff and stable for fast summit assaults with built-in support for longer hikes when speed counts. I especially love the use of Gore-Tex ePE in the latest version, providing the most eco-friendly waterproofing on the market. This is easily a $200-plus hiker for less than $200. My one beef? It’s only available in the black/olive colorway shown here.Available HeightsLowWeight (per Shoe)14.8 ouncesWaterproofingGore-Tex ePEProsDurable, abrasion-resistant Matryx upper provides excellent foot protectionGenuine PFC-free Gore-Tex membrane guarantees maximum waterproofnessButtery soft lining with a molded OrthoLite socklinerquickLace system makes for easy-on/easy-offPartially made with recycled materialsThis one from Salomon is surprisingly light at 13 ounces per shoe despite its ultra-techy, tank-like build. The proprietary Matryx upper combines Kevlar and technical yarn, making it durable and highly abrasion-resistant to protect both the shoe and your feet. A molded insert embedded in the sole guarantees extra support while allowing for flexibility, too.I especially love the finishing touches, like a minimalist lacing system with one-pull tightening and a soft breathable liner that helps your feet shed sweat and heat on the trail. It all rides on an all-terrain Contragrip outsole with chunky lugs for serious traction in any terrain.Available HeightsLowWeight (per Shoe)13 ouncesWaterproofingGore-TexAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowCredit: Courtesy of RetailerProsNubuck leather paired with Gore-Tex for maximum waterproofnessMore breathable than its watertight construction should allowUltra-grippy Vibram Megagrip outsoleMade with tons of recycled, ethically sourced materialsConsA little less ankle support than most other hiking shoes we testedHoka brings its considerable trail running footwear design chops to bear on its best-selling Anacapa 2—this time with a focus on premium, ethically sourced, environmentally friendly materials throughout. This ankle-height hiking shoe boasts a Nubuck leather upper paired with Gore-Tex Invisible Fit for a fully waterproof design.And get this: The sugarcane EVA midsole is purpose-built to offer more neutral stability and balanced cushioning than most hiking shoes. Translation: Compared to the other models we recommend, this is the closest thing to a road shoe. The only downside? The low-cut silhouette offers less ankle support than other hiking shoes we’ve tested.Read More: Best Hiking SandalsAvailable HeightsLow (ankle), MidWeight (per Shoe)15.3 ozWaterproofingGore-Tex Invisible FitMike Richard has traveled the world since 2008. He's kayaked in Antarctica, tracked endangered African wild dogs in South Africa, and survived a near-miss great white shark attack in Mexico. His travel advice has appeared on the websites for Forbes, Travel + Leisure, CNET, and National Geographic. He loves the great outdoors and good bourbon, and (usually) calls Tulsa, Oklahoma home. Mike also enjoys speaking in the third person. Ryan Brower is the Senior Gear and Reviews Editor at Men’s Health, where he tests the best products in outdoor gear, tech, running shoes, and more. He has written about the outdoors for nearly two decades and was previously the Managing Editor, Content Performance at Gear Patrol. He holds a B.A. in Sport Management and is a Certified Beer Server, having previously covered the craft beer industry. Ryan currently lives on the water in New Jersey with his wife and their dog.