12 Best Hiking Boots of 2024

By Bryan ListorLast update: 2023-12-21

A pair of fitting hiking boots are essential for your walking activities such as hiking or trekking. To choose the suitable one, please look at the list of hiking boots for men and women considered the best below:

Here are the best hiking boots for men (Mar 2024 Update):

  • Best Overall: Timberland Men's White Ledge Mid Ankle Boot
  • Best For Rugged Terrain: Columbia Mens Newton Ridge Plus II Hiking Boot
  • Best For Day Hikers: Merrell Moab 2 Mid Men
  • Best For Rock Clambering: Skechers Men's Verdict Men's Boot
  • Best For Short Hikes: KEEN Men's Targhee II Mid Hiking Boot
  • Best For Rainy Backpacking: Salomon Men's Quest 4d 3 GTX Backpacking Boots
Top 6 Best Hiking Boots For Men
Best Overall
Timberland Men's White Ledge Mid Ankle Boot
    Read Our Review
    Best For Rugged Terrain
    Columbia Mens Newton Ridge Plus II Hiking Boot
      Read Our Review
      Best For Day Hikers
      Merrell Moab 2 Mid Men
        Read Our Review
        Best For Rock Clambering
        Skechers Men's Verdict Men's Boot
          Read Our Review
          Best For Short Hikes
          KEEN Men's Targhee II Mid Hiking Boot
            Read Our Review
            Best For Rainy Backpacking
            Salomon Men's Quest 4d 3 GTX Backpacking Boots
              Read Our Review

              Best Overall: Timberland Men's White Ledge Mid Ankle Boot

              Top Pick
              Timberland Men's White Ledge Mid Ankle Boot
              Timberland Men's White Ledge Mid Ankle Boot
              Pros
              • Ankle support

              • Lightweight

              • Durable

              • Comfortable

              Cons
              • Traction

              With 100% leather, Timberland Men's White Ledge Mid Ankle Boot can be assured of the durability.

              The product also stands out thank to its seam-sealed waterproof construction. It helps to protect your feet against water; then you can be confident to walk in the wet environment.

              EVA footbed along with EVA midsole promises to bring you great comfort at all times.

              Timberland Men's White Ledge Mid Ankle Boot Specifications

              Color

              Black, Dark Brown, Wheat, Guacho

              Material

              100% Leather

              Ankle Height

              4.75 in

              Waterproof

              Yes

              Weight

              12 ounces

              Highlight Features

              premium full-grain waterproof leather uppers; wide sole; EVA footbed; EVA midsole; seam-sealed construction; solid rubber outsole

              Timberland Men's White Ledge Mid Ankle Boot is the best choice for guys loving walking outdoor.

              Best For Rugged Terrain: Columbia Mens Newton Ridge Plus II Hiking Boot

              Columbia Mens Newton Ridge Plus II Hiking Boot
              Columbia Mens Newton Ridge Plus II Hiking Boot
              Pros
              • Lightweight

              • Durable

              • Breathable

              • Comfortable

              Cons
              • Low-quality sole

              The product from Columbia gives you a host of color choices. You can easily select one matching your clothes.

              More than that, this hiking footgear has a good grip, supporting you stand firm on every type of surface.

              The most outstanding feature of the boots is Techlite lightweight midsole that makes you extremely comfortable while wearing them.

              Columbia Mens Newton Ridge Plus II Hiking Boot Specifications

              Color

              Cordovan, black, Graphite, Dark Brown/Bright Copper, Silver Sage, Dark Banana, Collegiate Navy, Nori, Dark Banana, Mud, Sanguine

              Material

              leather-and-synthetic

              Waterproof

              Yes

              Weight

              4 pounds

              Highlight Features

              Techlite lightweight midsole, good cushioning, waterproof full-grain leather, suede lightweight construction, lace-up closure

              If you want to walk through mountain regions or any rugged terrain, Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Plus II Hiking Boot should be included in your backpack.

              Best For Day Hikers: Merrell Moab 2 Mid Men

              Merrell Moab 2 Mid Men
              Merrell Moab 2 Mid Men
              Pros
              • Lightweight

              • Comfortable

              • Durable

              • Breathable

              Cons
              • Average traction in rock and mud

              You will discover quite a few advantages when taking Merrell Moab 2 Mid Men.

              The product comes with useful properties such as breathable mesh lining, extra padding and closed- cell foam tongue.

              Therefore “super comfortable” is the word many customers use to express their satisfaction when experiencing this product.

              Also, lots of people said that they become surprised at its high level of durability, superior breathability, and waterproof ability.

              The only disadvantage of the shoes is that they provide limited traction in rock and mud.

              Merrell Moab 2 Mid Men Specifications

              Color

              Earth, Granite, Beluga, Brindle, Dusty Olive, Walnut, Olive Blue

              Material

              Suede

              Waterproof

              Yes

              Weight

              12 ounces

              Highlight Features

              Vibram TC5 Outsole, EVA midsole, extra padding, closed-cell foam tongue, breathable mesh lining

              As a day hiker, you should consider buying Merrell Moab 2 Mid Men for the most exciting experience.

              Best For Rock Clambering: Skechers Men's Verdict Men's Boot

              Skechers Men's Verdict Men's Boot
              Skechers Men's Verdict Men's Boot
              Pros
              • 100% Leather

              • Good cushioning

              • Waterproof

              • Durable

              Cons
              • Heavy

              With a cushioned collar and padded tongue, it is sure that you will feel quite pleased with the smoothness the product provides.

              As the water-resistant shoes for hiking, the boots allow you to take a long walk in any places without worrying about water wetting your feet.

              The shoes are also helpful for winter or rainy activities because they are waterproof and warm.

              Skechers Men's Verdict Men's Boot Specifications

              Color

              Dark Brown, Black, Charcoal, Wheat, Black Waterproof Oiled Smooth Leather

              Material

              100% Leather

              Waterproof

              Yes

              Weight

              1 lb 14 oz

              Highlight Features

              good cushioning, waterproof, warm, synthetic lug outsole

              Skechers Men's Verdict Men's Boot is an ideal product for rock clambering.

              Best For Short Hikes: KEEN Men's Targhee II Mid Hiking Boot

              KEEN Men's Targhee II Mid Hiking Boot
              KEEN Men's Targhee II Mid Hiking Boot
              Pros
              • Lightweight

              • Toe protection

              • Breathable

              Cons
              • Not ideal for backpacking

              Thanks to the breathable leather lining and waterproof breathable membrane, the boots keep your feet dry. Meanwhile, ESS shank brings you stability during your journey.

              The product is also well-known for its easy-on heel pull and padded tongue and collar.

              KEEN Men's Targhee II Mid Hiking Boot Specifications

              Color

              Black Olive/Yellow, Raven/Tortoise Shell, Shitake/Brindle, Tan/Brown

              Material

              100% Waterproof Nubuck Leather

              Ankle Height

              Mid-cut height

              Waterproof

              Yes

              Weight

              17.4 oz / 493.3 g

              Highlight Features

              Lugged outsole, breathable leather lining, waterproof breathable membrane, ESS shank

              Looking for the best boots for your short hiking trip, then you should not miss the opportunity to own KEEN Men's Targhee II Mid Hiking Boot.

              Best For Rainy Backpacking: Salomon Men's Quest 4d 3 GTX Backpacking Boots

              Salomon Men's Quest 4d 3 GTX Backpacking Boots
              Salomon Men's Quest 4d 3 GTX Backpacking Boots
              Pros
              • Stable

              • Secure grip

              • Cushioning

              • Lightweight

              • Comfortable

              Cons
              • Not good for the hot weather

              Best for rainy backpacking, weatherproof GORE-Tex, protective rubber toe cap, heel foam, gusseted tongue

              Why should you select Salomon Men's Quest 4d 3 GTX Backpacking Boots for your hike?

              Provided with lots of foot supporting technologies including GORE-Tex and protective rubber toe cap, the product ensures to prevent all possible injuries to your feet.

              Other supportive parts such as heel foam and gusseted tongue contribute to creating a relaxed feeling.

              Salomon Men's Quest 4d 3 GTX Backpacking Boots Specifications

              Color

              Wren/Bungee Cord/Green Sulphur, Phantom/Black, Cathay Spice/Stormy Weather/Pearl Blue, Mallard Blue/Reflecting Pond, Phantom/Black/Quiet Shade

              Material

              Leather and Synthetic

              Waterproof

              Yes

              Weight

              640g

              Highlight Features

              Weatherproof GORE-Tex, protective rubber toe cap, heel foam, gusseted tongue

              If you intend to take part in rainy backpacking, please think about having Salomon Men's Quest 4d 3 GTX Backpacking Boots in your backpack.


              Here are the best hiking boots for women (Mar 2024 Update):

              • Best Overall: Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Plus Hiking Boot
              • Best For Serious Hikers: Hi-Tec Women's Skamania Mid-Rise Hiking Boot
              • Best For Sweat Feet: Clorts Women's Hiking Boots
              • Best For Winter Trails: Manfen Women's Mid-Rise Hiking Boot
              • Most Lightweight: Ahnu Women`s W Montara III Event Hiking Boot
              • Best Waterproof: Timberland Women's Chocorua Trail Boot
              Top 6 Best Hiking Boots For Women
              Best Overall
              Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Plus Hiking Boot
                Read Our Review
                Best For Serious Hikers
                Hi-Tec Women's Skamania Mid-Rise Hiking Boot
                  Read Our Review
                  Best For Sweat Feet
                  Clorts Women's Hiking Boots
                    Read Our Review
                    Best For Winter Trails
                    Manfen Women's Mid-Rise Hiking Boot
                      Read Our Review
                      Most Lightweight
                      Ahnu Women`s W Montara III Event Hiking Boot
                        Read Our Review
                        Best Waterproof
                        Timberland Women's Chocorua Trail Boot
                          Read Our Review

                          Best Overall: Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Plus Hiking Boot, Breathable, High-Traction Grip

                          Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Plus Hiking Boot, Breathable, High-Traction Grip
                          Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Plus Hiking Boot, Breathable, High-Traction Grip
                          Pros
                          • Lightweight, durable midsole

                          • Superior cushioning

                          • Waterproof full-grain leather

                          • Adjustable, secure fit

                          Cons
                          • Underfoot support

                          This stylish product draws the attention of countless customers because of its remarkable features.

                          Made in the USA, the waterproof boots come with superb cushioning and durable midsole that keeps your feet secure and stable on any surface.

                          Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Plus Specifications

                          Color

                          Grey Ash/Riptide, Quarry/Cool Wave, Black/Poppy Red, Cordovan/Crown Jewel, Mud/Eve, Delta/Red Velvet

                          Material

                          Leather, Nylon, Rubber

                          Waterproof

                          Yes

                          Weight

                          3.14 pounds

                          Highlight Features

                          Durable midsole, superior cushioning, multiple colors, and sizes

                          Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Plus Hiking Boot is one of a few boots that can meet all the demands of female hikers.

                          Best For Serious Hikers: Hi-Tec Women's Skamania Mid-Rise Hiking Boot

                          Hi-Tec Women's Skamania Mid-Rise Hiking Boot
                          Hi-Tec Women's Skamania Mid-Rise Hiking Boot
                          Pros
                          • Waterproof membrane keeping your feet dry

                          • A high level of grip

                          • Good cushioning

                          Cons
                          • Laces aren’t made of finest quality

                          The boots almost can fulfill every criterion of a pair of high-quality hiking boots.

                          I must claim that made from Suede and mesh, Hi-Tec Skamania Mid-Rise Hiking Boot is a long-lasting footgear.

                          If you need the shoes protecting your feet in the wet places, this hiking boot with Dri-Tec waterproof membrane was born for you.

                          Some customers are not satisfied with the quality of the laces.

                          Hi-Tec Women's Skamania Mid-Rise Hiking Boot Specifications

                          Color

                          Grey/Viola, Natural/Pink, Taupe/Dune/Violet Ice

                          Material

                          100% Suede and mesh

                          Waterproof

                          Yes

                          Weight

                          3 pounds

                          Highlight Features

                          Dri-Tec waterproof membrane and padded collar, removable molded EVA footbed, EVA midsole, Rubber outsole

                          Best For Sweat Feet: Clorts Women's Hiking Boots

                          Clorts Women's Hiking Boots
                          Clorts Women's Hiking Boots
                          Pros
                          • Breathability

                          • Superb Comfort

                          • Great traction & balance & stability and grips

                          • Waterproofing

                          Cons
                          • Limited color choices

                          Made with Suede leather, Clorts Women's Hiking Boots are breathable, durable and wear-resistant.

                          Another factor making this product distinctive is its anti-fatigue insole. It plays an essential role in fighting against microbes and preventing odor.

                          Uneebtex memxbrane is a marvelous idea by Clorts manufacturer. It helps your feet stay dry when moving through humid areas.

                          Clorts Women's Hiking Boots Specifications

                          Color

                          Classic-purple, Classic-yellow

                          Material

                          Suede leather

                          Waterproof

                          Yes

                          Weight

                          2.95 lbs

                          Highlight Features

                          Breathable mesh upper, waterproof & breathable membrane, one-piece padded tongue, EVA, Slip-resistant outsole

                          Clorts Women's Hiking Boots is a must-have item in case you have sweaty feet.

                          Best For Winter Trails: Manfen Women's Mid-Rise Hiking Boot

                          Manfen Women's Mid-Rise Hiking Boot
                          Manfen Women's Mid-Rise Hiking Boot
                          Pros
                          • Toecap protection

                          • Ankle support

                          • Slip resistance

                          • Waterproofing

                          Cons
                          • Heavy

                          • Not ideal for summer

                          You will be impressed by dozens of benefits Manfen Women's Mid-Rise Hiking Boot offers.

                          The most impressive part of the boot is waterproof and breathable membrane lining that will make you feel as if you put your feet on a smooth cushion.

                          What makes the product extraordinary is 200 gram of Thinsulate insulation which is excellent at keeping your feet warm when you undergo the cold weather.

                          Only one shortcoming is that the boots are a bit heavy and not ideal for summer.

                          Manfen Women's Mid-Rise Hiking Boot Specifications

                          Color

                          Black, Bule, Camo

                          Material

                          Rubber

                          Waterproof

                          Yes

                          Weight

                          2.3 lbs

                          Highlight Features

                          Synthetic upper, TPU Backstay, 200 Grams Of Thinsulate Insulation, waterproof & breathable membrane lining

                          You are highly recommended to bring Manfen Women's Mid-Rise Hiking Boot passing through trails in the upcoming winters.

                          Most Lightweight: Ahnu Women`s W Montara III Event Hiking Boot

                          Ahnu Women`s W Montara III Event Hiking Boot
                          Ahnu Women`s W Montara III Event Hiking Boot
                          Pros
                          • Lightweight

                          • Durability

                          • Water resistance

                          Cons
                          • Not suitable for wide feet

                          • Average ankle support

                          A significant number of people fell in love with the eye-catching design of Ahnu Women`s W Montara III Event Hiking Boot.

                          With super-gripping Vibram outsole, the product makes many hikers satisfied with the slip resistance it provides. Thanks to it, they can easily reach any mountains or trails.

                          The durability is also a plus point for this footgear. It is tough enough to accompany you through every challenge of various hiking trips.

                          Ahnu Women`s W Montara III Event Hiking Boot Specifications

                          Color

                          Blue Spell, Chocolate Chip, Wild Dove, Black

                          Material

                          Leather and Synthetic

                          Waterproof

                          Yes

                          Weight

                          0.75 lbs

                          Highlight Features

                          Waterproof-nubuck upper, waterproof-breathable event membrane, super-gripping Vibram outsole, Ahnu Numentum hike technology

                          Don’t hesitate to get Ahnu Women`s W Montara III Event Hiking Boot for your walking activities.

                          Best Waterproof: Timberland Women's Chocorua Trail Boot

                          Timberland Women's Chocorua Trail Boot
                          Timberland Women's Chocorua Trail Boot
                          Pros
                          • Lightweight

                          • Comfortable

                          • Durable

                          • Good Cushioning

                          • Stable

                          • Usable for all weather types

                          Cons
                          • Limited color choices

                          Timberland Women's Chocorua Trail Boot is a standout with a wide range of useful functions.

                          You will be surprised at great convenience waterproofing given by Gore-Tex membrane, which is considered top-ranking waterproof, breathable technology these days.

                          Thanks to durable rubber outsoles, the footwear gives customers an opportunity to experience superior traction throughout stunning lands.

                          The boot is also usable for all types of weather; therefore, it can together with you experience any outdoor adventures.

                          Timberland Women's Chocorua Trail Boot Specifications

                          Color

                          Brown, Dark Brown, Dark/Brown

                          Material

                          100% Leather and textile

                          Waterproof

                          Yes

                          Weight

                          5 lbs

                          Highlight Features

                          Gore-Tex membrane, trail-ready performance

                          If you desire to have the best waterproof boots for the journey to discover and enjoy the scenery, Timberland Women's Chocorua Trail Boot is an interesting suggestion.

                          How To Choose The Best Hiking Boots For Men And Women?

                          For a safe hike, it is vital to equip yourself with high-quality hiking boots. So how can you select standard boots? You need to consider the following factors to get the best hiking boots:

                          Waterproofing

                          • An important factor in choosing hiking boots is waterproofing.

                          • There are many waterproofing technologies: Gore-Tex is the most widely used; other less popular ones include Sympatex and Comfortex.

                          • Meanwhile, some big names like Columbia use their own waterproof techniques.

                          • But all of these technologies have a common point that they prevent water from going into your feet but still support ventilation.

                          • All hiking boots have a technology label. When buying the shoes, you should see if they use waterproof technology or not.

                          • To choose waterproof hiking boots, you should look at their tongue to check if it connects to body boots.

                          • In case these two pieces are separated from each other, then it is 100% sure that those boots do not provide waterproof properties. In contrast, if they are connected, it is likely that the footwear uses waterproof technology.

                          Slip Resistance

                          • The sole is the most important part of the boot because it relates to the terrain, the road you pass through. It is dangerous if your footgear doesn’t support the slip resistance.

                          • Hiking boot soles are usually made of rubber which is more abrasion resistant, harder, and less resilient than those of regular sports or jogging shoes. But compared to safety shoes, they are much soft and resilient.

                          • To test the slip resistance of hiking boots, put them on a flat surface like a tile floor; then move them forward or backward to see if your boots grip the surface.

                          Inner Lining

                          • The inner lining brings comfort for hikers, but very few customers are aware of it. Most hiking boots are made up of several layers, and the inner layer is usually quite thick and smooth.

                          • Each type of boot offers different inner layers. This difference is often related to climate and temperature when on the go.

                          • You should take the boots with smooth and elastic inner linings, which helps to hug your feet without causing the tightness.

                          • More than that, the thickness and elasticity of the inner layer helps to create flexibility and reduces the swelling in feet when on the move.

                          Which Brands Make The Best Hiking Boots For Men And Women?

                          Timberland

                          • The volunteer who provides outdoor footwear with boot styles and technologies updated every day.

                          Columbia

                          • Omni-Grip is the most outstanding sole technology. Besides, OutDry is regarded as the proprietary waterproof technology of the company

                          Merrell

                          • The leading outdoor footwear brand in America. The Merrell products are highly appreciated due to their waterproof and slip-resistant properties

                          Skechers

                          • A common point between Skechers products is that they are smooth, lightweight and excellent at gripping. The material brings wearers comfortable feelings.

                          KEEN

                          • This brand provides users various products with high durability. Its sole is designed to be anti-microbial. The boot’s grip has considerable improvements to protect hikers from slipping.

                          Salomon

                          • This big French brand offers different boot models to both men and women. The Salomon sole has some new changes to provide better stability and slip resistance.

                          Hi-Tec

                          • the company specializing in providing waterproof hiking boots. Taking Hi-Tec boots, you will be excited about their smoothness, friction, softness, and ventilation.

                          Clorts

                          • With renowned designers from South Korea and the UK, Clorts introduces numerous technologies such as BOA closure system, EVENT waterproof membrane and VIBRAM outsole.

                          FAQs

                          Why do you need hiking boots?

                          Hiking boots are essential for your walking activities for several reasons:

                          • Accompanying hiking boots makes it much easier to conquer mountains, forests, roads, and cliffs.

                          • Hiking boots keep your feet warm when you deal with cold weather.

                          • They protect your feet from obstacles when you are on the go.

                          • For waterproof shoes, they help to keep your feet dry.

                          Do I need waterproof hiking boots?

                          It is necessary to own waterproof hiking boots when you go through wet areas or get caught in sudden heavy rain.

                          Are hiking boots good for snow?

                          A pair of waterproof and stiff hiking boots with insulation will support you a lot when you travel across the snow.

                          Should hiking boots fit tight or loose?

                          Your hiking boots should not be tight at any points of your feet.

                          In case you want to try the shoes for size, you need to wear socks. The boots should have space for your toes to wiggle.

                          For the most appropriate size, it’s best to try the boots on at the end of the day when your feet get swelling.

                          What's the difference between Gore-Tex and waterproof?

                          Can you use a washing machine for your boot?

                          Yes, you can. A washing machine will not cause harm to your boots.

                          Conclusion

                          If you are about to go hiking, it’s time for you to hunt for hiking boots. What are you waiting for? Go and pick the best one for excellent experience right now.


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