Best Men's Hiking Boots For 2023
With the right hiking boots, you can take your outdoor adventures to new heights!
Discover the perfect hiking boot to take your outdoor adventures to the next level!
Are you an outdoor enthusiast who loves nothing more than hitting the trails for a day or overnight hiking, Then you know how essential it is to have the right pair of boots to make sure that your feet are supported and protected.
With so many different types of boots available, finding the right pair for you can be a bit overwhelming. But don't worry, we've got you covered!
Don't miss out on the true joys of hiking because your feet aren't properly supported. The perfect pair of boots are out there and we are here to guide you through the choices.
Start exploring with confidence — find your perfect hiking boots today!
Hiking Boots
Hiking boots are an essential piece of gear for exploring the highest peaks and most beautiful parts of the world. They provide the necessary support and comfort to keep your feet safe and protected while out on the trail. From rocky trails to wet and muddy paths, having the right pair of hiking boots is essential if you want to enjoy your outdoor adventures.
There are a ton of options out there from low hiking shoes to heavy duty mountaineering boots. Matching the footwear to your adventure is crucial. Any hiking trip can have its potential joy and fulfillment minimized simply by not having the correct gear; hiking boots included.
We will cover a few of the options in more detail prior to getting into our recommendations.
Low Rise Hiking Shoes
Low rise hiking shoes are a great option for those who want to enjoy the outdoors without sacrificing comfort. They provide a lightweight and often breathable design that makes them ideal for shorter hikes or for terrain that is not as demanding like dirt roads or well used trails with very few obstacles.
There are two situations where these types of shoes are not recommended for hiking. If you are carrying a backpack weighing over 30 lbs a low hiker will not provide the stability you will need to compensate for the additional weight.
It is not just the weight however, it is also that your center of gravity is higher with a back pack that will require your body to compensate with muscles it may not be accustomed to using. This will tire your muscles and body more rapidly making those adjustments less possible.
Another instance is based on the level of fitness of your legs and ankles. Since part of the issue is how quickly you tire with exertion, being honest with yourself regarding your fitness level is important. Many of us have suffered injuries in the past with ankles or knees. This generally lowers your body’s natural ability to make the adjustments as well. Know yourself when purchasing hiking footwear.
How we choose
If we have totally added to the confusion of buying the best mens outdoor shoes for you, stick with us as we walk through the myriad options. Since you know, without the right type of footwear, you may end up damaging your feet or having a painful experience during your hike. The memories can be memorable for all the wrong reasons…
Our team at Outdoor Verified has poured through the information and reviews of thousands of people to find the best men's hiking boots for 2023 available now on Amazon. We provide an unbiased opinion to help you make the best decision. Follow the article below and make sure you have the perfect pair of shoes for your next outdoor hiking adventure!
What we like
Our choice for the best mens hiking shoes is the Merrell Moab 2 Ventilator. Now, we are not the only one to recognize this shoe in this category. This Merrell shoe was created as one of the early adopters to this style of hiking shoe. It is great for day hiking. If you hit the trails, you will notice the abundance of this shoe out there as a representationa of the best hiking shoes.
As such, it has been refined through constant feedback providing owners with consistent quality and experience. This shoes is great for hiking trails for this category in basically dry areas unless you spring for the step up to waterproof hiking shoes. The big feature of this shoe beyond its proven performance is its Vibram sole that is very durable and slip-resistant typically outlasting the uppers.
More details
- True to size
- Superior grip and durability with Vibram sole, providing maximum traction for any terrain.
- Combination of pigskin leather and mesh upper for breathability and comfort.
- Traditional lace closure with metal hook offers a secure fit that won't let you down.
- Bellows tongue protects your feet from dirt, dust and other debris.
- Protective toe cap shields you from potential injuries while running or walking outdoors.
- Breathable mesh lining keeps your feet cool while the Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable contoured insole cushions your foot for extra comfort.
- Molded nylon
Mid Rise Hiking Boots
The boots do offer some support for your ankles with the upper of the boot coming to the top of the ankle providing some ankle support. If you are hiking easy to moderate trails with a prior injury or a backpack, this is the minimal level of protection recommended. This style is also the most common on the trails.
These will help if a trail is rocky to help keep your foot stabilized and prevent a side roll, but, that is still assuming a certain level of fitness.
Ironically, the Merrell Moab 2 Ventilator is also our choice for the best mid rise hiking boot; since it comes in both. It comes equipped with the same basic heritage and features of the low rise version, but with more ankle protection. Keep in mind, just because these are our recommendation for the “Best”, does not mean they are the most expensive we could find…
More details
- True to size
- Superior grip and durability with Vibram sole, providing maximum traction for any terrain.
- Combination of pigskin leather and mesh upper for breathability and comfort.
- Traditional lace closure with metal hook offers a secure fit that won't let you down.
- Bellows tongue protects your feet from dirt, dust and other debris.
- Protective toe cap shields you from potential injuries while running or walking outdoors.
- Breathable mesh lining keeps your feet cool while the Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable contoured insole cushions your foot for extra comfort.
- Molded nylon
High Rise (top) Hiking Boots
For the most protection hiking boots can give, those with the highest tops are recommended. After all, if protection was not important, no one would read this article and just wear loafers or casual sneakers. This type of boot is the style for mountain climbing, or, mountaineering. Though less in popularity overall, this is due only to the number of people actually climbing mountains.
Consider this boot if you are going hiking on a rough trail with rocks and elevation. When you anticipate your body wearing down due to hiking, this boot will still provide maximum protection. Or, if you are concerned due to prior injuries.
What we like
The Salomon Quest 4 GTX is our choice for the best high rise hiking boot. There we no good options available in this style that we not waterproof. This comes by way of a GORE-TEX® liner in the upper. The sole has both great traction and provides good support. This backpacking boot is truly designed to tackle tough conditions and long expeditions.
It has an updated design that targets sensitive articulations and wraps your foot for extra support with its internal liner. This shoes was derived from the design of trail running shoes for which Salomon is also well known for making.
More details
- Contagrip TD.
- ADV-C 4D Chassis.
- EnergyCell.
- Nubuck leather.
- Water Repellant.
- PFC-Free Mesh and textile lining.
- Formed OrthoLite sole.
- Gusseted tongue.
- Protective toecap.
- SensiFit.
- Protective mudguard.
- GORE-TEX waterproof membrane
- Breathability: 3/6.
- Lightness: 3/6.
- Protection: 6/6.
- Stability: 6/6.
- Weight (g): 655.
- Midsole heel height (mm): 27.5. Midsole toe height (mm): 15.5. Drop (in mm): 12.
Waterproof Hiking Boots
Many years ago, when hiking boots were all leather and often 4-5 lbs each, waterproofing was accomplished by treating the leather. So, many were waterproof. With the rise in popularity of lightweight, leather and nylon combination, hikers in the early 80s, the ability to hit the trails with a lighter weight shoe and lower cost drove many to buy.
The benefit of lightweight hiking boots was compromised due to the lack of waterproofing. Since then, materials like Gore-Tex along with many other proprietary materials provided an alternative to wet and cold feet. Wetness is the main factor in people becoming cold and being put at risk for hypothermia.
What we like
When it comes to waterproof low rise hiking shoes, Merrell also makes our recommended list with the Moab 2 GTX. Based on the design of the Moab 2 Ventilator, this hiking shoe also includes a Gore-Tex waterproof membrane to keep sweat away from your skin and water from outside at bay.
If its not broken, don’t fix it. Just add Gore-Tex.
More details
- True to Size,
- 100% Synthetic/Leather/Mesh
- Vibram sole+B31
- GORE-TEX waterproof membrane, exceptional breathability and waterproof performance
- Synthetic leather and mesh upper
- Bellows, closed-cell foam tongue keeps moisture and debris out
- Molded nylon arch shank
- Vibram TC5+ sole
What we like
Salewa's Mountain Trainer GTX is our choice for the best mid rise hiking boot. This lightweight, men's summer alpine trekking boot has a robust suede leather and fabric upper plus waterproof and breathable. The GORE-TEX membrane ensures your feet stay dry when you come across the inevitable leftover snow or river crossing.
With a Bilight Technology dual-density midsole, you get maximum flexibility and comfort on both ascents and descents. This boot is made for multi-day treks across the mountains. It features a Flex Collar for natural movement and adaptability, a lightweight Vibram WTC sole for superior walkability, and patented 3F System for the ultimate fit and blister-free days.
More details
- Shaft measures ankle to arch
- 1.6 mm suede upper
- 360 degree rubber sheathing
- abrasion resistant
- Gore-Tex comfort technology
- 3F system providing fit out of the box
Now, to our pick for the best mountaineering boot available on Amazon; Salewa's Rapace GTX. This is a lightweight mountaineering boot is made from hard-wearing nubuck and fabric upper and features waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX protection.
Like the Salewa Mountain Trainer, it comes with SALEWA's Blight technology for an ergonomic hold that gives enhanced flexibility and reduced blistering. A key feature of many mountaineering boots is their compatibility with crampons when you come across snow and ice at altitude. These are some hardcore boots!
More details
- 3F system ensures flexibility, a precise fit and good support.
- Climbing Lacing right to the toe for a more precise fit.
- MFF+
- Vibram WTC outsole has an aggressive tread pattern that gives good traction, yet provides a natural feel and secure grip on rock.
- GORE-TEX Performance Comfort lining
- Cleansport NXT
- Patented Flex Collar features an improved rear ankle mobility, 15 mm (Heel Stack Height 31 mm / Toe Stack Height 16 mm)
- Fit: Wide
- Sole segment: Mountaineering - Crampon compatible
- Weight: 740 g
What we like
If you are like us, when descending a trail, it is hard not to jog or run down. This leads us to our pick for the best ultra lightweight hiker; the Adidas Terrex Free Hiker. It combines lightweight cushioning and a flexible, supportive fit, these lightweight boots will keep your feet comfortable and secure on even the longest of hikes.
And, thanks to its durable Primeknit upper and Torsion bar design, you can rest assured that your feet are fully supported with each step. Gore-Tex provides waterproofing for the wet stuff. This boot provides a truly unique hiking experience.
More details
- Regular fit
- Lace closure
- Abrasion-resistant mesh upper with molded toe cap and external heel clip
- GORE-TEX lining
- EVA stabilization frame
- BOOST midsole
- Continental™ Rubber outsole
- Upper contains a minimum of 50% recycled content
- Product color: Pulse Olive / Focus Olive / Impact Orange
What we like
The Columbia Newton Ridge hiking boot is a great option for a waterproof mid rise hiking boot which also happens to be our choice for the best value hiking boot.. With its waterproof suede and leather exterior, advanced traction outsole, and signature lightweight midsole, you'll be prepared for anything nature throws your way without breaking the bank.
These lightweight and responsive boots provide superior cushioning and shock absorption with good grip on any terrain. With its iconic style, premium suede waterproof construction and reliable durability, you'll be ready for many adventures that comes your way.
More details
- Leather and Textile
- Rubber sole
- Lightweight midsole for long-lasting comfort, superior cushioning, and high energy return as well as our high-traction grip outsole
- This boot features a combo of waterproof suede and leather which not only gives it a stylish look, but also provides protection.
- This sturdy and waterproof hiking boot is designed with metal hardware and sealed seams to protect it from rain, dirt, puddles and other conditions.
- This traction system has been designed to give you reliable grip in a variety of terrains. It is constructed with specific compounds and treads for different environments, while a dual-zone winter tread pattern provides superior stability on slick surfaces like ice and snow.
Buyer's Guide and FAQs for Men’s Hiking Boots
Do hiking boots make a difference?
Hiking boots are ideal for navigating challenging terrain, such as rocky trails and rough paths, as they provide ample protection and support for your feet. Additionally, they can be helpful in keeping your feet warm and dry during cold and wet weather conditions.
What is the difference between hiking boots and sneakers?
The materials used for hiking shoes are far more robust than regular sneakers and give you greater protection in outdoor conditions. You may come across hard objects like rocks, stumps and thorns which can cause damage to feet. The strong materials of a hiking boot will guard your feet better and keep them safe during the hike.
Is it OK to walk in hiking boots?
Hiking shoes are designed mainly for rougher terrain, but they can also be used in less intensive environments. This can provide better support and cushioning when walking, though they are usually heavier and bulkier than regular shoes. Ultimately this could mean shorter lifespans if worn regularly in casual settings.
Should I go up a size in hiking boots?
When it comes to hiking shoes and boots, opt for a size bigger than what you normally wear as feet tend to swell during hikes. It is best to buy half a size larger than what you would normally pick.
Can you wear sneakers for hiking?
For basic nature trails that have been paved, regular city sneakers are usually sufficient. However, if you're engaging in more extreme conditions, like cold and wet elements, then investing in a pair of waterproof boots or trail-running shoes might be a better option to provide warmth and protection.
Are heavier hiking boots better?
Heavier boots, constructed from full grain leather or a mix of synthetic and leather, are designed for more challenging terrain and offer greater protection. The additional weight is worth it as the reinforced rands and rubber bands around the uppers help reduce scuffing and abrasion.
What is the difference between trekking and hiking boots?
Hiking shoes are lightweight, made for shorter travels on already formed trails. Trekking shoes, compared to hiking ones, are more robust and best suited for long, more ambitious journeys. Both of these types of shoes provide comfort, support and grip needed when you explore nature.
Why do hiking boots have hooks?
The area around the ankle is secured in the boot with a special lacing system known as 'deep-pull'. This ensures that your heel will stay firmly in place and reduce blistering by preventing slipping.
Our Final Word on Hiking Boots
Those are our thoughts about hiking boots for men along with some suggestions to get you going the right direction. The most important part of any hiking trip is not the gear, it really is safety and the people with whom you spend time. Whether it is family or friends, our goal is to minimize the distractions of either not having the right gear, or the gear malfunctioning so you can focus on what's most important.
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~ Ron
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