The Best Men’s Hiking Boots

  • Josh

If you're a hiker, hunter, camper, or the outdoorsy type, you're going to need proper footwear. As anyone who's ever hiked in flip flops already knows, mother nature can really put your feet through the grinder. A quality pair of hiking boots should withstand the wear and tear of trekking trails. But which ones should you get? With so many options available, sifting through them all can take hours. Fortunately, we've done the hard work for you and honed in on a list of the best of the best in men's hiking boots.

Timberland White-Ledge Mid Ankle Boot

A Timeless Classic

Stylish, sturdy, waterproof, and as tough as they come, these boots are the ultimate hiking boot. They're comfortable, true to size, and built to last through and through.
Best Overall

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A timeless boot from a well-known brand, the Timberland White-ledge Mid Ankle Boot is our top choice for hikers and trekkers. This pick hosts all the best qualities you expect from a hiking shoe: waterproof, rubber soles, insulation, and comfort. Better yet, the lower shaft height makes them fashionable even in a non-outdoor setting. Available in multiple colors, you’re sure to be happy with a pair of these Timberlands.

Pros:

  • Waterproof
  • Comfortable
  • Stylish

Cons:

  • Lower shaft height not suited for heavy snow

Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot

A Supremely Comfortable Option

These 100% Suede Leather/Mesh hiking boots have the type of features you'd expect from a sneaker, not a hiking boot. With a Vibram TC5 Outsole and Merrell Air, no expense is spared when it comes to comfort. Don't worry, they're waterproof and extremely sturdy as well.
Most Comfortable

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The Merrell Men’s Moab 2 are as aesthetically pleasing as they are functional. The Suede Leather/Mesh allows your foot to breathe while still maintaining its integrity in bad weather. The Vibram outsole and Merrell air cushions give these boots a sneaker-like feel but with great traction. In addition, the toe cab is rubber which adds protection and helps the boot last longer. The end result is a boot that we rate as the most comfortable. If comfort is your number one priority, these are your number one boot.

Pros:

  • Breathable
  • Extremely Comfortable
  • Stylish

Cons:

  • Not as waterproof as other options

Hi-Tech Bandera Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot

Start Hiking and Save Some Money

A great entry-level hiking boot for the casual trekker, you get a comfortable waterproof hiking boot with great grip and an aesthetic look for an unbeatable price. Available in several colors and sizes, you can get out on the trail in no time and without putting a dent in your wallet.
Best Value

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Not sure hiking is for you, or simply looking to keep your expenses for the month down? The Hi-Tech Bandera Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is a great option for the budget-conscious hiker. However, don’t let the price fool you: these are full-featured hiking boots. They’re as legit as it gets, with a leather construction and a rubber sole. Available in multiple colors, these Banderas help get your outdoor adventure started.

Pros:

  • Low cost so they fit most budgets
  • Waterproof is surprisingly effective
  • 100% Leather

Cons:

  • Laces are relatively low-quality, but you could swap them out easily (and cheaply)
  • Not as durable as some other pairs

SALOMON Men’s Quest 4d 3 GTX Backpacking Boots

An Elite Pair for Enthusiasts

A top-of-the-line weatherproof hiking shoe with the comfort of a sneaker, excellent traction, and stability, this is the perfect pair if money is no object. If you're a hiking enthusiast, you owe yourself and your feet the best level of protection and comfort.
Best High End Option

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If you’re going to go for serious distances, you’re going to need some serious shoes. The Salomon Men’s Quest 4d 3 GTX is a top-of-the-line option for those that hike on a regular basis and in need of extreme comfort and durability. The higher shaft height and lasting waterproofing provide protection in extreme weather. Better yet, the foam cushion in the chassis will let you walk for miles without your feet getting sore. We also found that the traction of these boots was second to none.

Pros:

  • Ankle Support
  • Comfortable
  • Breathable
  • Durable

Cons:

  • Expensive

Frequently Asked Questions

What is ‘Shaft Height’?

Shaft height refers to the height of the boot from the sole to the top of the ankle. The higher the shaft height, the more ankle support and protection from the elements your boot will provide. However, mobility may be more limited.

How Waterproof is a hiking boot really?

While most hiking boots claim to be waterproof, not all boots are created equal. Most boots that claim to be waterproof should be able to tolerate light to moderate rain and the occasional puddle. However, boots made of more breathable materials will usually sacrifice some protection from the elements. Go with boots that explicitly highlight their durability in the face of extreme weather if you plan on hiking in bad weather conditions.

How do I take care of my hiking boots?

Be sure to clean and waterproof your hiking boots with waterproofing treatments and conditioners. Remove the laces prior to cleaning, brush off dust and dirt and then run your boots through water on the hard-to-clean areas. It’s best to apply waterproofing treatments and conditioners after this step when the boots are damp.