The majority of our favorite hiking shoes (and almost all modern designs) are made with synthetic materials, which provide a hard-to-beat balance of weight, durability, protection, and breathability. In theory, these shoes should keep your feet dry during creek crossings, surprise rainfall, or if you hit snow on an early-season trek. Bringing the much-loved Moab (below) into the modern era, the Speed Low features a lightweight and cushioned design that will appeal to day hikers and weight-conscious backpackers alike. These are compromises that many day hikers (and well-conditioned backpackers) are willing to put up with for a more nimble, lightweight shoe. The womens options here range from $60 to $399 and run the gamut Salomons hiking lineup is undoubtedly extensive, running the gamut from robust backpacking-ready boots for mileage-heavy objectives to light and responsive low-top offerings for day hiking. Made of full-grain leather but given a brushed finish that has a suede-like feel, nubuck leather is a common sight on heavier-duty hiking shoes. In the end, its a tall order to recommend a single shoe for a range of hikers and hiking venues, but the Speed Low nails the all-around equation and gets our top spot for 2022Read in-depth reviewSee the Merrell Moab Speed Low. Hiking shoes also are great options for folks needing a substantial shoe for daily wearjust be aware that the outsoles will wear faster on pavement. We include some great trail running and hybrid options here, but you can find more of our picks in our article on the best trail running shoes. Your recently viewed items and featured recommendations, Select the department you want to search in. With a hiking-shoe-meets-trail-runner build, the OUTpulse has appeal for everything from long day hikes to shorter trail runs. Last year, they released an update to the much-loved shoe in the X Ultra 4 here. A sticky Vibram sole means you get confidence-inspiring traction on rock, and the generous rubber rand and stiff midsole provide critical protection and stability while boulder hopping or scrambling up slabs. But for easy day hikes or experienced backpackers, it's hard to knock the comfort you get with a flexible build and cushioning underfoot. Depending on the design, midsoles vary from very thin (minimalist trail runner) to stiff and substantial (burly hiking shoe). The X Ultra has held our top spot for years running, but we were forced to reconsider after thoroughly testing the most recent version. But with robust materials, a stable heel cup, and a nylon shank, the Siren Edge is also surprisingly hardwearing, supportive, and protective on the trail. If youre thinking about going with a trail running shoe for hiking, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind. Approach shoes, on the other hand, have exceptional protection with a standard wraparound rubber rand and stiff midsole and outsole. Now in its 16th iteration, the Brooks Cascadia is one of the longest-standing trail runners on the market and particularly popular in the thru-hiking community. Thermoplastic polyurethane, shortened (mercifully) to TPU, is a durable plastic commonly found in performance-oriented hiking shoes. For example, despite having the appearance of a trail runner, the Scarpa Rush Low GTX incorporates a stiff TPU heel frame, along with a burly sole that prioritizes durability and traction on wet terrain. On paper, its a fairly impressive and versatile shoe, and the price is right at just $110 (and $120 for the waterproof version). Exclusions and minimum order values may apply. You get a durable fabric upper with welded reinforcements, burly midsole with EVA foam and TPU reinforcements for cushion and stability (weve found the Rush to be overall stiffer and more cushioned than the X Ultra 4 below), and a sticky outsole with a rockered profile that facilitates quick movements. You get a tailored fit that reduces bulk and looks great for casual use, excellent stability with a nice combination of TPU and EVA foam in the midsole, and a long-lasting and protective nubuck leather upper. The OUTline Low GTX falls in the latter category, combining Portland, Oregon-based Danner is best known for their work boots, but theyve quickly made a name for themselves in the hiking market with a nice assortment of trail-ready offerings. Built as a trail runner, the Speedgoat 5 has been adopted by the thru-hiking community as a durable, capable shoe that can meet the demands of hikers and minimalist backpackers alike. In short, were not huge fans of the 4s fit, which features a narrow midfoot along with a very spacious forefoot. Footwear that features thinner fabrics and a lot of mesh will increase moisture transfer and airflow, which will keep feet less sweaty in hot weather as well as dry out soggy socks far more quickly. Second, while the dotty tread is incredible on rock (and surprisingly snow, too), it doesn't bite as well into dirt or mud as the sharp lugs of a true hiking model. We recommend checking out Superfeet insoles for their wide selection of options and trusted reputation in daily shoes, ski boots, and hiking footwear. 2 oz.Waterproof: No (available)What we like: Light and nimble without sacrificing protection or traction. If you like the look and feel of the TX4 but want something a little different, check out the mesh TX3 and TX Guide, the latter of which features a narrower, more cushioned build with the same climbing-inspired sole Read in-depth reviewSee the La Sportiva TX4. With the Lone Peak, you get a lighter feel and trail-ready features like an integrated stone guard, built-in drainage ports, and gaiter trap. Despite the TX4's approach shoe designation, its a fantastically tough and capable shoe that shines on off-trail terrain and is a favorite among both the hikers and climbers at Switchback Travel. Category: Approach shoeWeight: 1 lb. If a shoe has a poor lacing system that is prone to loosening, youll find yourself having to readjust constantly on the trail. The mesh upper of a trail runner also lacks around-the-foot protection and leaves your feet more vulnerable to roots and rocks. As a result, our pair has already received pretty significant damage from rocky trail use. Thats a winning formula for Adidas and has made the Terrex line quite popular. Because both midsole types have valid applications and TPU is more expensive, its common for a manufacturer to use a TPU frame or heel for stability and toughness and add in EVA underfoot to increase comfort. Further, within this price class, the KEEN contends with more modern designs like the Salomon X Ultra 4 above, which offers a closer fit and better performance overall. If the system itself doesnt secure your heel very well, the up and down walking motion will create hot spots and blisters. If youre wary of outdoor brands shrink it and pink tendencies, the womens-only Oboz Sapphire is a nice solution. Slotting in toward the bottom of our list is the Merrell Siren Edge 3. KEEN's Targhee Vent is a classic hiking shoe that goes head-to-head with designs like Merrell's Moab 3 above. Its also wildly comfortable with Altras trademark zero-drop design and extra wide toe boxin fact, this is the shoe we recommend most for hikers that regularly suffer from hot spots and blisters. The Altras shorter stack height also puts you closer to the trail, which increases stability for many hikers (the Hoka can feel a little tippy and harder to trust on rocky terrain). 4.8 oz.Waterproof: No (available)What we like: Incredibly capable in mountain terrain, including top-notch protection and grip.What we dont: Relatively stiff and clunky; mesh upper retains water. In other words, those with finicky feet that need to fine-tune their laces to be comfortable may be better off avoiding quick-lace designs. Fit is also surprisingly similarboth shoes feature fairly roomy toe boxes that are great for accommodating swollen toes (if your feet are on the narrow side, it might be worth considering the Speedgoat instead). All told, its a robust hiking shoe that offers much of the performance and durability of a leather design in a lighter and more nimble package. Salomon is one brand that doesnt outsource their traction needs. But the Scarpa nevertheless offers some of the best on-trail performance and comfort of any model here Read in-depth reviewSee the Scarpa Rush Low GTX. Over the past decade, one of the most significant advances in hiking shoes has been the move to lighter-weight designs. Nubuck Leather The Anacapa (also available in a mid-height version) features Hokas well-known springy midsole, a rockered shape for a smooth ride on the trail, and a beefed-up construction that includes durable nubuck leather and a Gore-Tex waterproof liner. It all adds up to an impressively capable design that undercuts most of the hiking-specific competition in weight. *Price Promotions - Due to manufacturer restrictions, select new release and other specified products are excluded from price promotions. While the majority of our female friends wear womens shoes, its important to note that some women might be better off opting for a mens model (this is particularly important for those with high-volume feet). 8.6 oz.Waterproof: YesWhat we like: Comfortable and great crossover appeal.What we dont: Stiff and some might find the heel too narrow. Like the Oboz Sapphire above, this shoe is designed specifically with women in mind, and has been a crowd favorite for years (its now in its third iteration). Click For Details. Women with hard-to-please feet will likely appreciate the accommodating toe box of the Sapphire, but the narrow heel wont work for everyone. The version of the Trail 2650 included here isnt waterproof, but Danner also makes a GTX model for $210 and 1 pound 5 ounces per pair, along with a Mid GTX ($220) for those who want more ankle protection. Something went wrong. Adidas has expanded its hiking footwear line substantially in recent years, and the updated Terrex Swift R3 GTX is very capable on the trail. The extra protection that comes with a waterproof and breathable membrane inserted into the shoe is a nice security blanket if you plan to hike in the mountains or in shoulder-season conditions, where wet feet can grow cold quickly. As long as the rest of your gear is equally light, there are very few sacrifices. Finally, it manages to do what most hiking shoes dont: look good in the process. As a result, its common to find a mix of leather and nylon mesh for abrasion resistance and breathability, as seen on the Merrell Moab 3 and KEEN Targhee Vent. Scan the code to downloadthe Kohls App today. See the Hoka Speedgoat 5. Instead, they use their in-house Contagrip for all of their hiking and trail running models. We use affiliate links andmay receive a small commission on purchases. All told, the Aerios is lighter than most hiking shoes, more protective than a trail runner, and more comfortable than the average approach shoe. Lacking any protection on the front of your shoes can lead to a trip-ruining impact when you inevitably look up from the trail to enjoy the scenery. But the Spire isnt for everyone: At $199, its the most expensive pick on this list, even topping the high-end Arcteryx Aerios FL below. If you are using a screen reader and are having problems using this website, please call. In a way that more casual footwear can never match, hiking and trail running footwear are leaps and bounds better when the going gets rocky, slippery, and steep. Combining feminine contours and tailoring with a waterproof, breathable design, the Sapphire holds its own both on and off the mountain. Importantly, the shoe retains the outgoing versions fantastic mix of agility, durability, and protection, and theres enough cushioning underfoot for full days with a loaded pack. Approach shoes are easy to spot: they have a large rubber toe rand, to-the-toe lacing, and a sticky, low-profile rubber compound underfoot for maximum grip on rock (look for shorter and more rounded lugs). Joining the Speedgoat above is another non-traditional hiker: La Sportiva's TX4. Both are very comfortable right out of the box, offer plenty of support and traction for non-technical trails, and can even get the job done on shorter backpacking trips. But until recently, the legendary Canadian brand had yet to release a true hiking shoe. But as with many minimalist options, we've had durability issues with various iterations of the Lone Peak (the rubber toe cap has a tendency to peel away from the upper), and the roomy toe box and zero-drop shape can detract from precision and stability. While nearly all shoes on this list use some sort of EVA, designs can vary from super soft to mildly stiff. If you think the Lone Peak looks more like a trail runner than a hiking shoe, youre not mistaken. Category: Hiking shoeWeight: 1 lb. This is good news for most hikers, who will want the added performance for tricky terrain or while carrying a load. It does fall short in breathability, however, and generally weighs more. Most day hikers will want to look elsewhere, but for backpackers and those frequently traveling off trail or above treeline in areas like the High Sierra or Colorado Rockies, the Spire offers an excellent combination of support, durability, and protection.See the La Sportiva Spire GTX. Thankfully, a good rain jacket can provide a solid layer of defense against the elements. And despite clocking in well under 2 pounds, the Merrell is one of the heaviest shoes here and will feel clunky and cumbersome if youre used to a more trail runner-inspired design. The leather upper and sturdy outsole arent particularly lightweight (especially compared to modern trail runner-inspired designs), but the benefits are excellent stability over rough terrain, great long-term durability, and impressive all-around protection for your foot. Hiking Shoes One thing to keep in mind, however, is that you arent able to adjust the tension between eyelets, so the fit will be equally tight across the entire foot. Further, we found the X Ultra 4 to have an odd combination of stiffness in the heel and flexibility in the midfoot, which can result in sore feet. 5 oz.Waterproof: No (available)What we like: Great on-trail performance in a lightweight build.What we dont: Not the most supportive or durable option. Get instructions now. See the Salomon OUTpulse Low GTX. Category: Trail runnerWeight: 1 lb. Salomons X Ultra has been one of our favorite hiking shoes for years running, offering an exceptional combination of comfort, on-trail performance, and durability for everything from casual day hikes to long overnight missions. 3 oz.Waterproof: NoWhat we like: A classic thru-hiking shoe that offers a bit more stability than the Speedgoat above.What we dont: Fairly dated and fit will be too roomy for some. If were planning on moving quickly on easy trail, softer cushioning is a better bet and commonly found in trail running designs like the Hoka Speedgoat. Category: Hiking shoeWeight: 1 lb. Its also worth noting that the fifth-gen Speedgoat features a softer midsole than the 4, along with a less durable upper (it is lighter and more breathable, however)which benefits runners but isnt necessarily great news for hikers. If youre in the market for a leather hiking shoe, KEEN's Targhee Vent is certainly worth adding to your list. On the other end of the spectrum, the Speed Low feels decidedly firmer and more planted than the even lighter Speedgoat below, although you dont get the Hokas snug and sock-like feel (we noticed a bit of movement at the heel with the Merrells). For high routes, climbing approaches, and peak bagging, the Ultra Raptor gives Sportivas Spire and TX4 shoes above a run for their money in terms of protection, support, and durability. One of the hallmarks of a hiking shoe is good traction on a variety of terrain. However, soft midsoles have a tendency to break down over time, so expect these shoes to pack out more quickly than dedicated hiking shoes. Dont expect a high level of stability from any of the shoes in the Trail 2650 serieswe hesitate to wear them with a heavy packbut for day hiking and ultralight backpacking, theyre solid all-rounders that are built to last Read in-depth reviewSee the Danner Trail 2650. Regardless of whether youre opting for a new-school synthetic model or a more traditional leather hiker, most hiking shoes retain good stability and support thanks to robust uppers and midsoles and relatively rigid soles. 7.3 oz.Waterproof: Yes (non-GTX available)What we like: Great combination of stability and cushion; durable and protective for a synthetic shoe.What we dont: Expensive; low collar limits ankle support. But for most, a lightweight trail runner-inspired shoe is the best choice for day hikes, peak bagging, and quick overnight trips. Note that synthetic materials dont conform to your foot over time as well as leather, but in most cases, the overall fit is still comfortable and snug. Running brand Hoka is no stranger to trail-ready footwear, and their lightweight and cushioned designs have made a recent entrance into the hiking market. 8 oz.Waterproof: YesWhat we like: Extremely comfortable, great lacing system and fit, and smooth ride.What we dont: Some outsole durability issues and polarizing looks. And at only 1 pound 3 ounces for the pair, it wont weigh you down as much as the hiking-specific shoes here. For those that stick to the trail and travel light and fast, the Hoka is definitely worth a look. Hiking shoe upper material is not the most exciting topic, but checking the construction can give helpful insights into the shoes performance. Some shoes have much larger and sharper lugs underfoot for serious grip in mud, while others prioritize sticky rubber for scrambling over rocks. And finally, wed be remiss not to point out that the Hoka aesthetic isnt for everyone. There seems to be a problem serving the request at this time, One stop shop for all things from your favorite brand, {"modules":["unloadOptimization","bandwidthDetection"],"unloadOptimization":{"browsers":{"Firefox":true,"Chrome":true}},"bandwidthDetection":{"url":"https://ir.ebaystatic.com/cr/v/c1/thirtysevens.jpg","maxViews":4,"imgSize":37,"expiry":300000,"timeout":250}}, Size 8 - adidas Terrex Free Hiker Primeblue Pink, Size 4 - adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V2 Israfil, Size 9 - adidas Terrex Free Hiker GTX Beige, Size 6.5 - adidas UltraBoost 5.0 DNA Blue Tint. In addition, theyll keep their shape longer and wont be prone to compressing like EVA. Beyond its sleeker and more modern look, the X Ultra 4 features a revised lacing system and chassis, along with a wider fit in the toe box. Pleaseenable JavaScript in your browser; it's quick and easy! Easily overlooked, lacesas well as the lacing system of hooks and eyeletsplay an essential role in fit and comfort. In the end, the Swift R3 falls a bit short of the competition, but it's nevertheless a capable and time-tested hiker.See the Adidas Terrex Swift R3 GTX. Regardless of the style, most of these shoes offer ample stability, protection, and traction for tackling rough trails with a load by way of stiff midsoles and outsoles, toe caps, and reinforced uppers. Compared to other forms of hiking footwear, boots are epitomized by their mid-height build Now in its fourth iteration, Salomons modern X Ultra line is a popular collection for everything from day hikes to lightweight backpacking trips. The relatively new Cross Hike joins the X Ultra (and plenty of others) in Salomons lineup and slots in as a slightly lighter and nimbler option for those who love to move fast. The shoe felt a bit stiff at firstparticularly under the heelbut it broke in nicely and ended up being comfortable during long days on the trail. For most day hikersand even a good number of backpackers and thru-hikersa hiking shoe that falls just below the ankle is the perfect match. Similar to hiking shoes, most modern hiking boots are built with lightweight materials and nicely balance agility and performance (even the Altra Lone Peak trail runner comes in a mid-height version). Danner originally was known for its work boots, but the long-time footwear brand has made a nice transition to hikers of late. Second, although the Ultra Raptor is built with a mesh upper, it has a tendency to absorb rather than drain water, which makes for a heavy shoe after creek or snow crossings. But in general, these designs are a bit long in the tooth compared to modern synthetic shoes. In 2022, the vast majority of hiking shoes come in both mens and womens versions. After viewing product detail pages, look here to find an easy way to navigate back to pages you are interested in. Scarpas new Rush collection For the best combination of protection and support on the trail, look no further than a hiking boot. Ample cushion makes the shoe comfortable enough to wear all day, and a sock-like construction keeps the foot snug while sealing out trail debris. But were big fans of the OUTpulse for moving quickly on easy trails, and with a low weight and modern looks, it has great crossover appeal as well. Like the Speedgoat and Lone Peak above, this shoe bridges the gap for speed-focused hikers with the support and protection you need for rugged trails alongside a hefty dose of cushioning for long days out. The truth about waterproof liners, even expensive Gore-Tex booties, is that they dont breathe welljust as a waterproof jacket wont be as breathable as a comparable non-waterproof version. For logging serious miles on tougher terrain, we prefer a firm and supportive midsole as opposed to too much cushioning. If you havent yet noticed a trend in our picks, the Salomon Cross Hike should make things abundantly clear. But for folks that dont need cutting-edge performance, the Moab 3 is a wonderful hiking shoe with a long and reputable track record to back it up. Given their increased coverage, boots are able to offer a more secure fit, better stability, and more protection overall. In true Hoka style, the Speedgoat features a super thick midsole that isolates you nicely from uneven terrain, and you still get ample firmness for covering serious ground. To top it off, a Gore-Tex membrane keeps your feet protected from the elements (the shoe is also offered in a non-GTX version). For these reasons, its our favorite pair of Arcteryx hiking footwear to date. And finally, its shallow and rounded lugs dont provide great hold on soft terrain like mud and wet leaves. What we dont: Pricey, on the stiffer side, and runs narrow. Category: Hiking shoeWeight: 1 lb. Thankfully, removing your insoles is super easy, and replacing them with an aftermarket model thats specific to your foot size and shape can remedy most shoe maladies. However, hiking boots still have their place, particularly for rugged terrain and schlepping a heavy multi-day load. Category: Hiking shoeWeight: 1 lb. It's true that the drop in ounces sometimes impacts long-term durability, but there are still a number of compelling options for traditionalists, including the leather Merrell Moab 3 and KEEN Targhee. In terms of trail performance, you get far less protection from rocks and roots, and the flexible build translates to noticeably less stability on uneven ground (especially while carrying a load). Just like with running shoes, the stock insoles that come with nearly every hiking shoe are generally fairly cheap. But while the Targhees nubuck leather upper is a little more durable than the mesh used on the Moab, were not sure its worth the $45 bump. 5.2 oz.Waterproof: YesWhat we like: Light, tough, and extremely well-built. 7.6 oz. Second, with a rather stiff and heavy build (1 lb. This is exemplified in the world of hiking footwear, where, in just a couple short decades, weve gone from 4-pound leather boots being standard issue to the majority of hikers now wearing lightweight hiking shoes or trail runners. The end result is a nimble and responsive shoe that still offers a step up in support and traction from trail runners like the Hoka Speedgoat or Altra Lone Peak above.
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