Do you love a good hike? I do, too. That said, it’s important to have the proper gear and accessories. Here are the best shoes for hiking for men.
As someone who grew up in California, let me tell you. Hiking was a way of life. Whether at Runyon Canyon or Griffith Park, my friends and I hiked every weekend. Even now that I live in a place with seasons, winter doesn’t stop me from hitting the trails. All that to say, I have a lifetime of experience when it comes to choosing the best hiking shoes for men.
Whether you’re a beginner or advanced, going on a quick hike or an epic one, footwear is essential. Yes, technically, a hike is just a walk. Still, your everyday
Before we get to our choices, and so we’re on the same page, exactly what is a hiking shoe or boot?
What Is a Hiking Shoe or Boot?
Hiking footwear protects your ankles and feet when you’re walking across specific kinds of terrain. Both hiking shoes and boots are designed for comfort, energy return, and grip to prevent foot pain. Compare this to general athletic
A hiking shoe is lighter, more breathable, and more flexible than a hiking boot. They’re perfect for mostly flat trails, often ones that are manicured and maintained. Also, they are ideal for hotter days and when you’re not carrying too much on your person.
Many hiking shoes are a cross between a sports trainer and a traditional hiking boot. Trail runners, for example, are for those who plan on jogging through hiking trails.
Meanwhile, a hiking boot is heavier and offers more support and protection against bumpy, uneven, and jagged topography. This often means much heftier soles and a higher collar. This is especially so for backpacking hiking boots. You wear them to protect yourself from unpredictable terrain and ensure comfort even with heavier carry. Mountain hiking boots focus on ankle support since you’re moving upward.
Hiking Shoe Buying Advice
There’s a lot to consider when finding good hiking shoes for men. Now you know that not all hiking boots and shoes are the same. This is very important. Don’t just pop into Amazon and click the Buy Now button on the first search result.
Here are the most consequential considerations.
Types of Hiking Footwear
I briefly hit upon the fact that there are many different kinds of hiking shoes and boots. Here they are, from lightest to heftiest:
Minimal Hiking Shoes and Barefoot Shoes
Minimal and barefoot shoes are exactly what they sound like. They have a flexible, thin sole meant to mimic being barefoot. You wear them in less rugged terrain, and they provide a more natural relationship with the ground. Brands like Vivobarefoot and Xero specialize in barefoot footwear.
Hiking Sandals
Hiking sandals provide the sole of a hiking shoe or trail runner with an open-worked upper. This makes them ideal for hot days, especially since so many of them are also water-resistant.
Trail Runners
A trail runner is a shoe that combines the features of a hiking shoe and an athletic trainer. It often resembles brawnier
Hiking Shoes
Hiking shoes are similar to trail runners but have thick soles and a stiffer midsole. They’re also like hiking boots with a much lower collar. This allows you to hike on rough terrain while offering more breathability than a traditional hiking boot.
Hiking Boots
Hiking boots are mid-cut shoes, perfect for off-trail hikes. They’re thicker and stronger than hiking shoes but will need more breaking in. You can also go for a high-cut backpacking hiking boot for more ankle support. Either way, traditional hikers are great for rough terrain, cold weather, and carrying heavy loads.
Mountain Boots
For serious mountaineers, mountain boots are extra high-cut for stability and ankle support. They offer maximum motion control, balance, and a stiff sole that can handle the harshest conditions. The steeper an upward hike is, the more likely you’ll need mountain boots. Even more, the heavier your carry is, the more likely you’ll need them.
Weight: How It Affects Your Performance
Remember, light hiking footwear is best for short hikes, clean and maintained trails, lighter carry, and hotter weather. Heavier boots are better for varying, unpredictable terrain, colder weather, and heavier loads.
Typically, your hike will fall somewhere between these two extremes. If you’re doing a rough, mid-length hike on a hot day, you might want a medium-weight boot with a thick sole and breathability. You might want a higher collar and lighter soles if you’re doing a short winter hike.
Support and Stability: Keeping Your Feet Secure
The more varied and unpredictable the topography, the more stability and security you’ll need. I know the idea of having a hefty, thick sole during a long mountain hike sounds uncomfortable. However, once you’ve broken your boot in, it’ll provide both comfort and protection.
No matter how thin the outsole is, it needs to have some grip. Even barefoot shoes protect you from occasional pebbles and ground variance.
If your hike involves ascending and descending, you’ll need ankle support (meaning a higher collar) and motion control. The more ups and downs there are involved, the more of this support you’ll need. This is why mountaineering boots have the tallest collars, with the firmest heel counters, stiffest soles, and substantial arch support.
Waterproofing
Waterproof shoes don’t let water in. If you’ll be stepping into streams or expect heavy rain or snow, these are what you want. Keep in mind that they aren’t always as breathable, though.
Often, brands treat water-resistant shoes so they can repel water. However, they won’t withstand constant and deep soaking. They’re fine for light rain, moderate but brief rain, and stepping into very shallow streams — meaning the water doesn’t go up too far past your soles. You’ll usually want at least some water resistance unless you’re in a reliably dry situation.
Breathability
Remember how I placed the different kinds of hiking shoes above, from lightest to heaviest? Unsurprisingly, the lighter the shoe, the more breathable it is. Of course, you have to consider your trail and the length of your hike.
If it’s hot out, then a slow-to-moderate hike on even trails might call for a minimal hiking shoe or even a trail runner. If you’re running, then you certainly want the latter. For more varied terrain on a hot day, hiking shoes are better than hiking boots, and hiking sandals are ideal for the most sweltering days.
Lacing Systems: Why They Matter
Lacing makes a big difference in a hiking boot’s user experience.
Speed laces secure the shoe without having to tie a knot. In fact, they’re often in a semi-permanent composition that allows you to pop them on and off quite easily. This is ideal for people with dexterity issues. However, they aren’t as stable and customizable as traditional laces.
Traditional laces do take more time. They’re perfect if you’re in between sizes, have extra wide or extra thin feet, or have one foot significantly bigger than the other (it’s common–don’t be ashamed). You can pick the most convenient size, then use the laces to customize each shoe to each foot’s comfort and stability level.
Many hiking boots have hooked eyelets. This makes lacing your boots quicker while also providing a solid aesthetic. However, as they aren’t as close to your foot, so they aren’t as secure as traditionally threading your shoes.
In general, laces also affect heel hold, preventing heel slippages, providing ankle support, and relieving pressure points. You can use your lacing system as a sort of lever to control how much or how little you want of each of these.
Midsole and Cushioning: Impact on Comfort
The midsole is one of the most essential parts of a boot. The thicker and stiffer it is, the more it will protect you from sharp rocks and other unpredictable terrain. For hiking boots, midsoles absorb the brunt of shock and return energy. Often, brands make them with EVA, which is more flexible and lighter than TPU, which is firmer and stronger. Sometimes, you’ll see midsoles with a combination of the two.
Essentially, this extra cushioning is one of the main elements that make the boot a hiking boot. Trail runners have thinner midsoles than traditional hiking boots. You want thinner, more flexible outsoles if you’re moving fast or hiking a relatively straight and predictable path. You want stiffer midsoles if you’re often off-trail or moving upwards and downwards.
Insoles and Arch Support: Finding the Right Fit
While midsoles provide stability, insoles provide comfort. A firm insole is often more supportive than a flat footbed, even if the hiking boot is heavy.
Fortunately, removing the manufacturer’s insole and replacing it with exactly what you need is easy. That being the case, I wouldn’t place too much stock in the insole if everything else about the boot is perfect. Several insole-makers even allow you to customize your own product.
Many insoles provide arch support, which distributes weight and pressure evenly. Typically, the flatter your feet, the more arch support you’ll need.
Top Hiking Shoes for Men
Now that you know how to shop for a good boot, here are some of the best shoes for hiking men edition. Many of these models do have female equivalents. And, of course, you can always convert the sizing if you’re a man with extra small feet. The women’s equivalent might offer your size when the men’s doesn’t.
Today’s focus is indeed on the gents, though. So, here they are in no particular order!
Danner Crater Rim
Advantages
The Danner Crater Rim is one of the best-rated hiking shoes for men. This boot is a tank thanks to its waterproof lining, D-ring hardware, and full leather construction. If you plan on going on truly punishing hikes, you definitely should consider this.
I’ve known serious hikers who’ve worn this for years without wearing it down. Another plus is that Danner makes the shank from fiberglass instead of metal. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a heavy shoe. However, having a fiberglass shank takes some weight off while still offering sturdiness and stability.
Disadvantages
The break-in process is pretty significant and painful. Don’t even consider taking this boot on a hike until you have perfectly broken it in.
Adidas Terrex AX4
Advantages
I consider the Adidas Terrex AX4 one of the most high-value and best walking-type of hiking shoes for men. Since it’s so lightweight and low-profile, though, a bit of sprinting won’t fatigue you. Despite how light it is, the cushioned midsole protects you from rocks. I’d say you can wear this shoe off-trail for light hikes.
Disadvantages
As with so many budget hiking shoes, the insole is flimsy and essentially useless. If you’re going on any real hikes, you’ll need to replace it. It’s also not very water resistant.
Merrell Moab 3
Advantages
If you’re willing to spend just a bit more than you would on the Terrex, you can get the Merrell Moab 3. It offers many of the advantages of the AX4, including lightness, a comfortable low-profile design, and a good midsole. However, it also has a waterproof lining.
The proprietary Merrell Air Cushion heel provides excellent stability and shock absorption. It’s definitely one of the most comfortable hiking shoes you can find right out of the box.
Disadvantages
Many hiking shoes for men reviews claim the design isn’t versatile and is a bit dated. I fully agree with this consensus.
Quechua MH500
Advantages
The Quechua MH500 proves you don’t have to wear heavy boots on mixed terrain. Sometimes, you just want to go on a light walk but stray off the path a bit. These shoes are made out of highly durable synthetic material, feature an adaptable and grippy sole, and they’re even waterproof. You can go from field to stream in these.
Moreover, they’re budget shoes that are perfect for you economic shoppers.
Disadvantages
These shoes are well-built but not beautifully built. Expect to see some stray threads and even glue here and there.
Hoka Speedgoat 6
Advantages
Leave it to the reliable running brand Hoka to create such a springy trail runner. The Speedgoat 6 combines the supportive, thick cushioning and firm midsole of a hiking shoe with a sneaker’s lightness and performance comfort. It’s also pretty grippy, which makes it perfect for moderately uneven trails. If you’re a trail sprinter, this is the shoe for you.
Moreover, there are so many fun variations. From a style perspective, the Speedgoat is one of the best hiking shoes for a man who likes color.
Disadvantages
Though they’re great for running on trails, this hybrid isn’t as durable as a shoe fully dedicated to hiking.
Keen Arroyo II
Advantages
Here’s our local pick for a terrific hiking sandal. With its tough outsole, good midsole, and strong grip, the Keen Arroyo 2 functions like a proper hiking shoe.
Still, the ventilated sandal upper makes it perfect for the hottest summer days. Keen even lines the interior with comfortable neoprene. This is perfect for me because I’m not a socks-with-sandals kind of guy. I also love how the bungee laces basically turn this shoe into a slip-on. It’s too easy.
Disadvantages
Pay no attention to its “waterproof” label. Not only does the open-worked upper allow water in, but they take forever to dry if you do get them wet. Stick to reliably dry environments with these.
Salomon Quest 4 Gore-Tex
Advantages
Going on a long hike in unpredictable and challenging conditions? The Salomon Quest 4 Gore-Tex is a spec-forward strongman of a hiking boot. Salomon reinforced every inch of this shoe. The mix of rubber and leather construction combines long-lasting strength with flexible strength, while the high collar ensures reliable ankle support.
I highly recommend this boot for days-long hikes, when you’re carrying a heavy load, and if you expect a lot of varying, tough terrain.
Disadvantages
This isn’t a versatile boot. Do you enjoy both intense hikes and leisurely ones? Well, if you acquire this boot, you’ll need another dedicated shoe for the latter.
Danner Mountain 600 Evo
Advantages
From general function to style, the Danner Mountain 600 Evo is one of my favorites on the market. It isn’t perfect (what is?), but it gives me everything I need in a hiking boot.
It features a foam midsole that adds spring to the boot’s otherwise thick, strong sole system. The full-grain leather upper is handsome and durable, beautifully complemented by the sole’s trainer-meets-boot aesthetic. The D-ring lacing system runs long, allowing you to customize the tightness while providing a cool look.
Disadvantages
This boot doesn’t have a particularly strong toe guard, so it isn’t ideal for especially rocky and craggy hikes.
Vivobarefoot Tracker Forest Esc
Advantages
Vivobarefoot applies the zero-drop concept to the hiking boot. The Tracker Forest Esc has a thin sole that allows you to feel the exact topography beneath you. This means it will strengthen your feet while protecting you from pain and damage.
It takes getting used to, but eventually, you’ll have a grippy and comfortable shoe. The shoe also has a wide toe box, which allows for more breathability and is perfect for those with wide feet.
Disadvantages
The barefoot sole is a bit jarring at first. Feeling every bump and lump beneath you takes some getting used to.
Altra Lone Peak 8
Advantages
Like the Vivobarefoot, the Altra Lone Peak 8 has a zero-drop design. However, its moderate and strong outsole allows you to walk long distances and maintain a natural stride. This highly comfortable shoe is the best of both worlds.
Disadvantages
This isn’t the right hiking shoe for particularly challenging terrain. Even more, it’s far too wide for narrow-footed hikers.
Keen Targhee IV Vent
Advantages
This classic, by-the-book hiking boot is truly well-built. It’s one of the more durable options on this list, boasting a roomy but not overly wide toe box. Despite its brawny leather construction, the Keen Targhee IV Vent is quite responsive. While it’s not a major survivalist shoe, it’s serious enough, perfect for casual and moderate hikers.
Disadvantages
While it can handle some wetness, the traction gives way in especially wet circumstances.
Hiking Shoe Comparison Table
Now, let’s take a look at those top-rated hiking shoes for men at a glance!
| Model | Material | Price | Waterproof? | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Danner Crater Rim | Leather | $300-400 | Yes | Highly durable, perfect for intense hikes and weather, highly stable thanks to fiberglass shank | Long, painful break-in process |
| Adidas Terrex AX4 | Rubber, synthetics | 450-$100 | No | Lightweight, good for quick springs, effective cushioning, and affordable | Cheap, flimsy insole |
| Merrell Moab 3 | Pigskin leather and mesh | $100-$200 | Yes | Comfortable out of the box, low-profile design, proprietary heel cushion for stability | Dated and non-versatile look |
| Quechua MH500 | Synthetic rubber, vinyl, polyester | $100 | Yes | Light, grippy, and waterproof, allowing you to go on light walks in varying terrain. | Strong but unpolished construction |
| Hoka Speedgoat 6 | Woven textile | $150-$280 | No | Springy, cushioned, and comfortable, grippy, perfect for trail running. Lots of fun color variations | Not as durable as a dedicated hiking shoe |
| Keen Arroyo II | Leather and neoprene | $90-$130 | No | Tough outsole, convenient bungee laces. The sandal design and comfortable interior are perfect for hot weather | Though the materials are technically “waterproof,” the open-worked upper allows water in |
| Salomon Quest 4 Gore-Tex | Leather, rubber | $200-$250 | Yes | Combines long-lasting durability with flexible durability, high collar for ankle support, perfect for heavy loads | Only good for intense hikes |
| Danner Mountain 600 Evo | Leather | $250 | Yes | Attractive, durable leather upper, strong and springy sole system, with a good-looking, flexible D-ring lacing system | Lacks toe protection |
| Vivobarefoot Tracker Forest Esc | Leather | $200-$270 | No | The thin sole provides a more natural, strengthening relationship with the ground. The wide toe box is comfortable and good for wide feet | The zero-drop design takes some getting used to |
| Altra Lone Peak 8 | Synthetic | $100-$140 | No | Wide toe box provides natural movement and comfort even for the most particular feet | Not comfortable for narrow-footed hikers |
| Keen Targhee IV Vent | Leather, rubber | $115-$150 | No | A classic all-rounder with a roomy but not oversized toe box. It’s strong, responsive, and perfect for casual and moderate hikers. | Traction isn’t great on especially wet terrain. |
Final Thoughts: What Are The Best Hiking Shoes for Men?
Now that you’ve seen the best hiking shoes for men remember that not all of these will be perfect for you. Take a look at the list of considerations.
Do you want something lighter? Do you live somewhere dry and hot? Then perhaps the Keen Arroyo II is the right shoe for you. Do you need a serious boot? Then you might want to invest in something like the Danner Crater Rim.
It’s all about considering your surroundings, lifestyle, and what you want to accomplish on that hike!
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