Best hiking boots for men in 2025

National Geographic

14-03-2025

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Avid hikers know that finding the right hiking boots can mean the difference between a great adventure and a painful trek. Whether you're scaling mountain trails, braving wet and muddy conditions, or looking for reliable all-day comfort, choosing the right pair is essential—and we're here to help.
There are several key factors to consider when shopping for the best hiking boots, many of which boil down to personal preference and the kind of hiking you plan to do.
'There are very few situations where you would want a hiking boot that doesn't cover your ankles to some degree,' says Peyton Bergmann, a teacher and avid outdoorsman based in Ypsilanti, Michigan.
For some travelers, versatility is also important, especially if a hiking trip mixes less rugged activities. 'I'd look for a hiking boot that's mid or low-cut and has some level of water repellency,' says Chris Hull, a men's product expert based in Park City, Utah. 'I also really like silhouettes I could wear off the trail too.'
Of course, hiking boots would be useless without traction, adds Jack Hill, a product designer based in Los Angeles, California. 'You want something with a good tread on it, and something that's not going to get destroyed when you use it—a boot you won't have a problem getting muddy.'
With this expert insight in mind and hours of product research, we chose the Hoka Kaha 3 GTX as our top overall hiking boot for men. Known for its plush cushioning, exceptional support, and Gore-Tex waterproofing, this men's hiking boot is built for comfort on long hikes with plenty of grip for tackling uneven terrain. It finds its stride in an ideal blend of durability and lightweight performance, making it a favorite among hikers who demand both stability and all-day wearability.
We've got other top picks too—including a budget pair with lots of great features—so you can hit the trails with confidence.
The best men's hiking boots
Choosing the best men's hiking boots depends on where, how, and how often you plan to hike. The right pair balances support, durability, and comfort, while matching the terrain you're tackling. Some level of weatherproofing can also help hiking boots last. Read on to find out how our top picks stack up.
Best hiking boots for men overall: Hoka Kaha 3 GTX
Photograph courtesy Hoka
Hoka Kaha 3 GTX
Buy it now at Hoka
Why we like it: Hoka is known for its cushioned, high-performance footwear, and the Kaha 3 GTX is no exception. Combining durability, waterproof protection, and the brand's signature plush comfort, this boot can go the distance with novice and expert hikers alike.
The Vibram Megagrip outsole is made for superior traction, while the Gore-Tex membrane helps keep feet dry in wet conditions. These boots are also made with a mix of recycled fabric and Leather Working Group Gold-rated leather.
Keep in mind: These boots have a higher profile and may feel bulky for those used to lighter footwear. The thick cushioning provides comfort but may take some time to break in.
Product details: Material: Recycled polyester, 30% sugarcane, according to brand; nubuck leather; Gore-Tex | Waterproof: Yes | Sizes: 7-15 | Colors: 5
( These are 10 of the best Hoka hiking shoes )
Best waterproof hiking boots for men: Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof
Photograph courtesy Merrell
Merrell Men's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof
Buy it now at Merrell
Why we like it: If your hikes often take you through streams, puddles, or unexpected downpours, the Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof is a reliable choice. Featuring a waterproof membrane and a supportive midsole, these boots provide comfort and protection without breaking the bank.
The Vibram TC5+ outsole with five-millimeter lugs helps grab wet, muddy, and uneven terrain, making them a great option for year-round hikes. We also love that this hiking boot is made with recycled materials, according to the brand.
Keep in mind: While waterproof, these boots may not be the most breathable, which could lead to warmth buildup on hot days.
Product details: Material: Suede leather; recycled laces, webbing, and mesh, according to brand | Waterproof: Yes | Sizes: 7-15 | Colors: 7
Best winter hiking boots for men: Salewa Puez Winter Mid Powertex
Photograph courtesy Amazon
Salewa Puez Winter Men's Mid Powertex Boot
Buy it now on Amazon
Why we like it: The Salewa Puez Winter Mid Powertex is built for warmth, waterproofing, and good traction. The 'Powertex' waterproof membrane keeps moisture out while allowing breathability, reducing the risk of sweaty feet in cold weather. A fleece-lined interior provides insulation, trapping heat to help keep feet warm in winter conditions. Meanwhile, the deep-lug outsole with its aggressive tread pattern helps enhance grip on snow, slush, and icy terrain.
Keep in mind: Since these boots are built for winter conditions, they may feel too warm in milder weather.
Product details: Material: Synthetic ripstop upper, Primaloft Gold insulation, hemp midsole | Waterproof: PFAS-free 'Powertex' membrane, according to brand | Sizes: 9-11.5 | Colors: 2
( Here are 6 of the best hiking shoes for women )
Best lightweight hiking boots for men: Salomon X Ultra 360 Mid CSWP
Photograph courtesy Salomon
Salomon X Ultra 360 Mid Climasalomon Waterproof
Buy it now at at Salomon
Why we like it: Ideal for fast hikers or those who prefer a less bulky boot, the Salomon X Ultra 360 Mid CSWP is impressively lightweight at just 14.5 ounces (per shoe, men's size 9)—making it a great choice for covering long distances with less fatigue. Despite its weight, this hiking boot doesn't sacrifice durability, with a rugged synthetic upper and protective toe cap. The 'ClimaSalomon' waterproofing helps keep feet dry, while the advanced chassis helps provide stability on uneven terrain.
Keep in mind: The lightweight design may not offer as much ankle support as heavier boots, making this hiking boot less ideal for technical hikes.
Product details: Material: Synthetic upper | Waterproof: Yes | Sizes: 7-14 | Colors: 3
Most comfortable hiking boots for men: Danner Mountain 600 Evo GTX
Photograph courtesy Zappos
Danner Mountain 600 Evo GTX
Buy it now at Zappos
Why we like it: For all-day wear and long hikes, the Mountain 600 Evo GTX is a top contender. Danner's signature cushioning and Vibram SPE midsole offer excellent shock absorption, which helps reduce fatigue on the trail. We also appreciate that, in addition to providing a cushy step, the OrthoLite Eco footbed is removable.
Keep in mind: The suede upper requires regular care to maintain water resistance and durability.
Product details: Material: Full-grain leather upper, Vibram SPE midsole, Vibram Fuga Traction outsole | Waterproof: Gore-Tex | Sizes: 7-13 | Colors: 2
Best wide toe box hiking boots for men: Keen Voyageur Mid
Photograph courtesy Zappos
Keen Men's Voyageur Mid
Buy it now at Zappos
Why we like it: Hikers needing extra toe room will appreciate the Keen Voyageur Mid. Designed with a spacious, reinforced toe box and excellent breathability, this boot provides comfort on hot-weather hikes while maintaining sturdy support. We also love that this hiking boot is made from Leather Working Group-certified factories and a compression-molded EVA midsole.
Keep in mind: These boots are not fully waterproof, so they may not be ideal for wet conditions.
Product details: Material: Leather and mesh upper | Waterproof: No | Sizes: 7-12 | Colors: 1
( What to wear hiking, from clothing to gear )
Best hiking boots for men with ankle support: Oboz Bridger Mid Waterproof
Photograph courtesy Amazon
Oboz Bridger Mid Waterproof
Buy it now on Amazon
Why we like it: Hikers who need extra ankle support may consider our top choice, the Oboz Bridger Mid Waterproof. With a high-cut design and a supportive molded insole, this boot is ideal for hikers carrying heavy loads or navigating rocky paths.
Keep in mind: These boots provide excellent ankle support but may feel stiff at first and require a break-in period.
Product details: Material: Nubuck leather, molded rubber toe cap and heel | Waterproof: Yes | Sizes: 7-15 (including wide sizes) | Colors: 6
Best budget hiking boots for men: Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II
Photograph courtesy Zappos
Columbia Men's Newton Ridge
Buy it now at Zappos
Why we like it: For hikers on a budget, the Newton Ridge Plus II delivers solid performance for a hundred bucks. It features a waterproof leather upper, sealed seams, cushioned midsole, and an 'Omni-Grip' outsole for grabbing trail. This is a great entry-level hiking boot at a great price for casual adventurers.
Keep in mind: The materials are not as durable as premium models and may wear out faster with heavy use.
Product details: Material: PU-coated leather and mesh | Waterproof: Yes | Sizes: 7-17 | Colors: 6
( Here's why hiking is uniquely beneficial for your body and your brain )
How we chose the best hiking boots for men
To find the best men's hiking boots, we conducted extensive research, drawing from expert insights and consumer reviews. Our goal was to recommend boots that perform well across different terrain and hiking conditions. Here's what we considered:
• Third-party reviews: We analyzed feedback from outdoor gear specialists, professional hikers, and industry publications to assess durability, comfort, and overall performance.
• Real-world testing: Whenever possible, we relied on firsthand experience, evaluating how these boots held up in different environments—from rocky trails to wet and muddy conditions.
• Customer feedback: We examined hundreds of reviews to understand how these boots perform over time, paying attention to recurring praises and complaints.
• Traction and stability: Good grip is essential for navigating uneven terrain, so we prioritized boots with outsoles that provide strong, reliable traction.
• Comfort and fit: A well-designed hiking boot should provide arch support, a secure fit, and cushioning that reduces fatigue over long treks.
• Durability and materials: We assessed construction quality by looking at stitching, sole adhesion, and material longevity.
• Brand reputation: Established brands with a history of making high-quality hiking boots were given special consideration, especially those known for innovation, craftsmanship, and customer service.
• Value: A great hiking boot should be worth the investment. We weighed price with durability and features that enhance the hiking experience.
Tips for buying men's hiking boots
Finding the right hiking boot isn't just about picking the most popular pair—it's about choosing a boot that matches your hiking style, foot shape, and environment. Here are a few key factors to consider before making your purchase:
Prioritize fit and comfort
A well-fitting hiking boot is crucial for avoiding blisters and foot fatigue. Look for a pair that offers a secure yet comfortable fit, with enough room in the toe box to accommodate natural swelling during long hikes. If you have wide feet, consider options like the Keen Voyageur Mid . If you have high arches or need extra support, look for boots with removable insoles to customize your fit.
Choose the right boot height
Hiking boots come in low-, mid-, and high-cut styles, each suited to different types of hikes. Low-cut hiking boots are lightweight and flexible but offer minimal ankle support. These are best for easy trails. Mid-cut boots provide a balance of mobility and protection, while high-cut boots offer the most stability for rugged, uneven terrain. If ankle support is a priority, a boot like the Oboz Bridger Mid Waterproof provides a secure, high-cut design with a molded heel counter that can help prevent rolling on rocky trails.
Focus on traction and outsole grip
A solid grip can make or break your hike. Look for boots with deep lug patterns, such as Vibram outsoles, which can provide better traction than shallower patterns. For instance, the Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof features an aggressive Vibram TC5+ outsole that delivers outstanding traction on wet, muddy trails.
Understand waterproofing and breathability
Waterproof boots (often made with Gore-Tex membranes) are great for wet conditions but can trap heat in warmer climates. If you mostly hike in dry, hot environments, consider a breathable, water-resistant boot instead—it will allow heat to escape, which can help keep feet cool.
Consider the boot's weight and durability
Heavier boots offer more durability and support for long treks involving heavy packs, while lightweight boots reduce fatigue but may wear down faster. Think about how often you hike and what kind of terrain you tackle—occasional hikers may prefer a lighter, more flexible boot, such as the Salomon X Ultra 360 Mid Climasalomon Waterproof . Frequent backpackers should invest in something sturdier.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a hiking boot and a hiking shoe?
Hiking boots offer more ankle support, durability, and protection, making them ideal for rugged terrain and longer treks. Hiking shoes, on the other hand, are lighter and more flexible, best for short hikes on well-maintained trails.
Is it O.K. to wear hiking boots for walking?
Yes, you can wear hiking boots for walking, but they may feel heavier and less flexible than casual walking shoes. If you plan on long walks on paved surfaces or easy trails, a lightweight hiking boot may be a better option. The Salomon X Ultra 360 Mid CSWP , our top lightweight pick, offers a great balance of support and flexibility for both trail and everyday wear.
Is Gore-Tex bad for hiking?
Gore-Tex is excellent for waterproofing but can be less breathable in hot conditions. If you're hiking in dry, warm climates, a more breathable, non-waterproof boot may be a better choice.
Griffin Gonzales is a freelance writer based in Detroit, Michigan, specializing in menswear and American-made products. Previously, he worked in creative marketing for men's lifestyle brands, including Ralph Lauren, Shinola, and Madewell.
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