9 Best Hiking Shoes
Joshua Keaton
Even in our day to day lives, our feet are consistently being subjected to a lot of pressure; they carry our weight, they touch the rough ground, they always move as we use them for walking. Because of this, it is best that we invest in shoes that will protect our feet from fatigue and injuries. If the feet feel so much pressure on our daily activities, imagine how much pressure does it have to withstand whenever we participate in a lot of strenuous physical activities like hiking and trekking.
That being said, there are ways that you can protect your feet from these pressures - or at least alleviate a part of it. And all of that is dependent on how practical and ergonomic the shoes we wear are. It has to be understood that shoes are not only worn for fashion, but they are also protective clothing for our feet. In this note, hiking shoes are designed to prevent injuries and protect our feet from more active physical labors like walking for miles and what have you.
In this post, we have curated a list of all the best hiking shoes that are available in the market to help you decide which ones are best for you. We have reviewed them according to the features they offer and how important those features are, so read on!
9 Best Hiking Shoes
1. Adidas Men's Rockadia Trail m Running Shoe
2. Skechers Men's Afterburn Memory-Foam Lace-up Sneaker
3. Vasque Men's Juxt Multi-Sport Shoe
4. New Balance Men's 608v5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer Shoe
5. SIMARI Mens/Womens Water Shoes
6. ASICS Women's Gel-Venture 6 Running-Shoes
7. Merrell Men's Moab 2 Vent Mid Hiking Boot
8. Columbia Men's Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot
9. KEEN Men's Targhee II Hiking Shoe
Adidas Men's Rockadia Trail m Running Shoe
With rugged traction, these men's trail running shoes offer agile off-road performance in a light, comfortable package. Featuring an air mesh upper to keep your feet cool and synthetic overlays for added support. It is made with fabric and rubber sole. The shaft measures about 0-6” from arch and the boot opening measures 6-17 around. The Adidas brand has a long history and deep-rooted connection with sport; everything they do is rooted in sport.
Pros
- Breathable
- Great compression and cushioning
- Comes in different hip styles and colors
Cons
- Sizing can sometimes be an issue
Our Take
When it comes to sports and outerwear, Adidas has already become synonymous to quality and style. It has produced a lot of the most popular shoe models that are still "in" even for the younger generations nowadays. True enough, the Adidas Men's Rockadia Trail m Running Shoe lives up to this tradition. It is one of the brand's shoes design for trail runner. Because of that its soles are fitted with studs-like pattern which improves the grip of the shoe to the ground - allowing for ease of movements. It is very breathable as is it made with high quality fabric and a rubber sole. If you have worn an Adidas runners in the past, you will know that their shoes are very comfortable, especially their insoles. The cushioning is perfect, even for those who have more body eight as it does a good job in alleviating the pressure on the sole of the foot. And because sneakers and runners are very much on trend right now, these shoes can be worn casually. Overall, if you are looking for a young-looking hiking shoes but is designed to protect you and your feet during a hike, then you should check out this pair from Adidas!
Skechers Men's Afterburn Memory-Foam Lace-up Sneaker
Smooth leather, synthetic and mesh fabric upper in a sporty training sneaker with perforated details, stitching and overlay accents. Padded collar and tongue, fabric lining, Memory Foam insole, Articu-Lyte rubber sole and a flexible, high-traction rubber sole. 1 ½ " built-in heel. Imported. Skechers is an award-winning global leader in the lifestyle footwear industry that designs, develops, and markets lifestyle footwear that appeals to trend-savvy men, women and children.
Pros
- Elevated heels
- Memory foam insoles
- Durable and breathable material
Cons
- The soles will come apart from the top part after quite some time
Our Take
Yet from another global leaders in terms of sports shoes, the Afterburn Memory-Foam Lace-up Sneaker from Sketchers is a comfortable and stylish hiking shoes that will not only make sure that your feet will get enough cushioning but will also keep your style in the A game. This sneakers from Sketchers has a memory foam insole. What does that mean? Well, the memory foam will remember the grooves and curves of your feet so when you wear it will be able to hug your feet in its most comfortable angle. Unlike other forms of cushioning, memory foams provides superior comfort as they make sure that your feet is ergonomically placed as it adjusts to your feet.
It is also worth mentioning that this sneakers comes with a slightly elevated heels. The elevated heels allows for more cushioning and padding in your heels so you that it can absorb more pressure. When wearing this sneakers, you will notice that this is less stressful as the elevation is in the right height and angle to encourage proper posture.
Vasque Men's Juxt Multi-Sport Shoe
Vasque’s Off the Grid sole uses a mix of broad surface lugs in the forefoot with smaller, angular lugs along the perimeter for positive traction on everything from slickrock to mud. A depression in the heel allows for natural give at heel strike for added comfort. The molded TPU plate increases midfoot stability and the low profile, molded EVA midsole offers excellent ground feel without sacrificing comfort. It is made of 100% fabric type and 1.6mm suede leather upper. This is a sporty shoe for day hiking with approach-shoe durability, stability and comfort.
Pros
- Molded TPU plate increases stability
- Right fit
- Laces are tunable
Cons
- The laces can easily loosen up while walking
Our Take
Much of the comfort that a hiking shoes offers majorly comes from the stability of its soles. Because of that the Vasque Men's Juxt Multi-Sport Shoe have been designed to improve the stability of the soles through the molded TPU plate that it comes with. This design increases midfoot stability and the low profile, molded EVA midsole offers excellent ground feel without sacrificing comfort.
The lacing system of this shoes is also very thoughtful. It is highly tunable, which means that you can lace up your shoes in a way that works for you. It helps your shoes to hug your feet perfectly, which decreases the incidents of blisters and ankle injuries. It has sufficient room in the toebox. Definitely fits a more snugly through the forefoot than a typical "hiker"; might be more like an approach shoe. The heel pocket is not as narrow as the forefoot. The extra lacing eyes and webbing allow for a very customized fit from toe to ankle. However, you have to look out at the lace every now and then as it is made with "slippery" material, so they are prone to loosen. Make sure to always do a double or triple knot.
New Balance Men's 608v5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer Shoe
It’s easy to be motivated to move when you have the all-day comfort of the 608v5. The newest generation of this classic trainer features an enhanced ABZORB heel pad for premium cushioning and abundant outsole flex grooves for superior flexibility. The material is man-made leather and rubber sole. The shaft measures approximately low-top from arch. It also has a dual density collar foam and injection molded EVA. The 608v5 enhances all day comfort with a larger Abzorb heel crash pad, durable molded pu insert and relaxed fit last to help provide versatile comfort wear after wear. Polyurethane insert provides excellent cushioning for all-day comfort.
Pros
- Has half sizes
- Excellent heel pressure absorption
- Very trendy and stylish
Cons
- Not very durable
Our Take
Most of the pressures when you're walking is absorbed by your heels, that is why a well-padded and excellently cushioned heel of a shoe is very important. This feature is what's best with the 608v5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer Shoe for Men by New Balance. The brand, which has consistently been producing high quality sneakers for the last few decades, has launched an enhanced ABZORB heel pad for this shoes, which is responsible for the premium cushioning and abundant outsole flex grooves. This feature is very helpful especially if you are walking long distances as the sole has more capacity to absorb more pressure, keeping your heels very comfortable. This prevents exhaustion and fatigue, which is what we all want.
On top of that, this shoes is also very trendy as it sports a classic New Balance look, which means it's also very fashionable when you wear it in your day to day life. New Balance also has 1/2 sizes and a wide variety of widths so they fit better than any other running shoe. Perfect, isn't it?
SIMARI Mens/Womens Water Shoes
The soles are made of rubber materials with excellent air permeability and non-slip resistance. Has a nice grip to prevent slips. And the upper is made of breathable and elastic Lycra material with good breath ability and quick drying. Unique sole design, with an ergonomically molded, offer great traction for any surfaces, has a nice grip to prevent slips, different from other shoes, shock absorption performance cushioning separated to protect toe. Fast draining and cross ventilation gives excellent flexibility and comfort, making you feel a great freedom and comfortable in wearing. Easy to carry when you go on vacation, aqua sports,diving, waterpark, water aerobic classes, rafting, through the waterfall, driving, car-washing, etc.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Very flexible soles
- Great traction
Cons
- Not very supportive
Our Take
Aqua shoes are usually perfect when going to the beach, while fishing, or when you are trecking in a trail that has rivers and other bodies of water. However, it is also perfect when hiking as well. The best thing about the SIMARI Men's/Women's Water Shoes, as they are aqua shoes, they have extremely flat and flexible soles. This means that the soles follow the shape of your feet while you walk, which is very comfortable. These shoes are also very lightweight and hugs your feet very well. They're super versatile from hiking mountains to snorkeling. They aren't the most supportive shoes but the traction is definitely great and they dry super fast - preventing your feet from smelling bad!
ASICS Women's Gel-Venture 6 Running-Shoes
Get out and explore in the redesigned GEL-VENTURE 6. Designed to take on rugged terrain, this model comes complete with a trail-specific outsole and high-abrasion rubber for confidence-inspiring traction. It provides superior comfort because of rearfoot and forefoot gel technology cushioning system attenuates shock during impact phase and allows for a smooth transition to midstance. The sockliner can be removed to accommodate a medical orthotic. Reversed lugs provide uphill and downhill traction on all types of terrain. AHAR (ASICS High Abrasion Rubber) is placed in critical areas of the outsole for exceptional durability.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Good gel cushioning
- Perfect fit
Cons
- There's hard plastic under the insole
Our Take
ASICS, much like Adidas, New Balance, and Sketchers, has already made a reputable name in the sportswear industry. That is why you can be guaranteed with high quality in their shoes. The ASICS Women's Gel-Venture 6 Running-Shoes does not veer away from this promise of quality by the brand. It is very comfortable and stylish - perfect for a strong, independent, woman!
These trainers are just wonderful. They have perfect fit. They look good, feel great and do the job! The arch support is not as high as the 5s though. They're also not quite as boxy/sturdy as the 5s, although these could be a good for some who prefers less boxy shoes. One huge plus of the gel ventures over other trail shoes is that you can use them as a road shoe, which is nice. You can also use them as a walking/every day shoe and walk on tile/hardwood. Most other trail shoes you might as well walk on wax paper if you're on tile. All in all, this is a good shoe, especially for beginners!
Merrell Men's Moab 2 Vent Mid Hiking Boot
The same Moab 2 that everybody loves but upgraded for your pleasure with a leather and mesh upper ventilation system that provides breathability and durability on the trail. It has an M Select DRY barrier impermeable membrane that seals out water and lets moisture escape. Its closed-cell foam tongue prevents moisture and debris while having a protective rubber toe cap with a breathable mesh lining. The Merrell M Select FIT.ECO+ blended EVA contoured footbed with enhanced heel and zonal arch structure, and integrated cushion pod gives maximum support while its Merrell Air Cushion in the heel absorbs shock and adds stability. Its midsole is made from EVA foam for stability and a Vibram TC5+ 5mm lug depth.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Durable
- Comfortable
Cons
- The style is old school
Our Take
It is necessary to note that the soles of this versatile pair of shoes are made with a Vibram TC5+ with a 5mm lug depth, this means they do not wear out whether you are hiking mountains or just doing the daily urban hiking. The shoes also feature the M Select Dry technology. You are assured that water is sealed out and that moisture can escape from the inside to keep you dry especially when you're on the move. What is also great is that breaking in was no problem because right off the bat, you get maximum comfort as soon as you put your feet in.
Columbia Men's Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot
A durable, lightweight hiking boot, with coated leather, built for comfort, protection, and style. Featuring waterproof, seam-sealed construction, cushioning, and superior traction outsoles – all geared for miles of terrain in any weather. This men's boot is inspired by classic mountaineering style. Designed for rugged wear with toe and heel barriers and an extended outsole toe overwrap to guard these key wear points. Combining waterproof seam-sealed construction, PU coated leather, suede, mesh and metal hardware upper, your feet will be comfortable, dry, and very happy in this hiking boot. The Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot features our TECHLITE lightweight midsole, for long-lasting comfort with superior cushioning and high energy return. It has a signature Omni-GRIP non-marking traction rubber outsole that provides a high grip across a wide variety of terrain and versatile three-season use.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Techlite lightweight midsole
- Omni-grip outsole
Cons
- Slightly more expensive
Our Take
I love it when shoes give me the floating like feeling, by floating I mean maximum comfort while feeling very light on your feet. Boot often comes in this really thick and heavy body, as expected to provide for heavy-duty use and long-lasting durability. Not for these Columbia Newton Ridge Plus boots.
They truly live up to their lightweight claim. At first look, you'd probably think otherwise, but as soon as you pick them up, you are not going to expect how light it actually is, and not only that, you'd expect that the inner body would feel hard and uncomfortable which isn't the case for these awesome looking boots. Because of the TECH LITE lightweight midsole, you're sure to have long-lasting comfort with superior cushioning and high energy return. Lastly, the shoes feature their signature Omni-GRIP non-marking traction rubber outsole, so no matter what kind of terrain you are hiking on, in any season you are sure to be provided with a high grip.
Go and check out these cool boots from Columbia and expect to have a great time and comfortably light feeling in your next hike.
KEEN Men's Targhee II Hiking Shoe
The Keen Men’s Targhee II hiking shoes is 100% waterproof Nubuck Leather and rubber sole. The leather uppers are carefully selected and designed to last. There is easy-on heel pull and Torsion stability ESS shank. It has a padded tongue and collar, lugged outsole and contoured heel lock. It is designed to keep your feet dry and let them breathe, and the aggressive outsole bites into the terrain. The mid-cut height adds ankle support.
Pros
- Good padding
- Not expensive
- Durable and will last long
Cons
- Not very ergonomic sole
- Sizing could be an issue
Our Take
If you are looking for a hiking shoes that is not only comfortable but one that will last with you for a long time, then you should check out the KEEN Men's Targhee II Hiking Shoe! This shoes is made of 100% waterproof Nubuck Leather and rubber sole that's why you can be assured that it will not easily be damaged by wearing it in every hike you go to. On top of that, it also has excellent padding including its tongue and collar, which makes it very comfortable and plush on the feet. These padding tho serves more purpose than comfort. They are designed to absorb pressure instead of your feet. All in all, this is a very budget-friendly pair of shoes. It may not be a perfect one, but it does the job. Perfect for a hiker with tight budget!
