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It’s safe to say that the hiking industry is booming. Per a recent report published by Fact.MR, sales of hiking footwear reached nearly $2 billion in 2023, and they’re expected to soar well over $25 billion in 10 years’ time. That’s a lot of hikers (and a lot of hiking boots), but the upside is that there are more hiking footwear options than ever before. So finding the best hiking boots for men requires some careful research, which we’ve conducted for you.
A stout, dependable hiking boot is your ticket to the outdoors. It doesn’t matter what you’re doing: Maybe you’re going to climb a mountain or hike to a river to go kayaking. Maybe you’re packing into the wilderness for a two-week hunting trip. Perhaps you’re just out for an afternoon hike with your kids at a local state park.
You need hiking boots for all those experiences. Some experienced hikers use trail running shoes and others use hiking sandals in warm weather, but the best do-it-all footwear for the outdoors remains the hiking boot. Hiking boots provide traction, support, protection, and comfort for long miles (and carrying heavy loads). Walking shoes for men are great for strolls around town, but without a proper hiking boot, a new hiker could set themselves up for a serious ankle injury in no time.
There is a variety of hiking boots for men on the market, from lightweight hiking boots to waterproof hiking boots. Some are ideal for hiking in winter, others in summer. Some are better for scrambling and climbing, others best for trekking in the snow, still others for regions with lots of rain. We’ll cover all of those in this article.
One thing before we dive in: Hiking boots vary widely in price, but they can last quite a long time. (As a full-time outdoor journalist, I’ve put well over 1,000 miles on my current boots, and they’re still in decent shape.) So if you plan to spend a lot of time on the trail, don’t worry about cost as much as you do about quality. A durable, well-built boot is a solid investment that will pay dividends on all your adventures to come. They also make for a great gift for outdoorsmen in your life.
We’ve narrowed down a list of the 10 best hiking boots for men in 2023 based on a combination of personal testing experience, user reviews, and knowledge I’ve gleaned in my years as an outdoor gear writer. Ahead, our top picks, plus more information on the different types of hiking boots for men, tips to find the best men’s hiking boots for your needs, how to break in hiking boots, and a few other frequently asked questions.
Related:
Best Hiking Boots for Women
Colorways: Rust/Oxford Tan, Duffel Bag/Radiant Yellow, Olive Haze/Mercury, Castlerock/Harbor Mist, Blue Coral/Blue Graphite, Black
Materials: EVA midsole, leather upper, Vibram Megagrip outsole
Special Features: Late-stage meta rocker
Backcountry Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Hoka Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.3/5 stars
The elevated ankle cuff provides coverage against abrasion and potential rolling, particularly when carrying heavy loads. The heavy leather construction means these take a bit of time to break in, but once they do, the comfort is unparalleled. The speed hook lacing system is a bit clunky, and they aren’t as breathable as many competitors, but comfort, support, and waterproofing are top-tier.
What testers say: “On my 10th or so pair of Hokas. Best shoes and boots I’ve ever owned. Not cheap at all, but you absolutely get what you pay for. If your work requires you to be on your feet all day, then go for it. Trail runner? Check. Hiker? Check. City walk? Check. European cobblestone, stairs, crowds and uneven pavement vacation? Big check. Your knees, hips and back will thank you.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $239.95
Colorways: Earth, Beluga, Boulder, Olive, Olive/Gum, Avocado, Black/Tangerine, Black/Multi, Bracken
Materials: Performance suede upper, Vibram TC5+ outer, EVA midsole
Special Features: Contoured EVA footbed for arch and heel support, air cushion in the heel
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
REI Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars
Dicks Sporting Goods Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
A toe cap and rock plate offer solid rock protection, and a 100 percent recycled mesh lining offers eco-friendly internal comfort you can feel proud of. All told, this shoe is just as supportive as you’d expect a full-fledged boot to be. The Vibram TC5+ outsole sports aggressive lugs, great for scrambling moderate terrain. Some testers noted drawbacks in weight and durability, but all told, the Merrell Moab Mid III is an affordable and reliable choice for a mid-height hiking boot. It’s particularly recommended for newer hikers.
What testers say: “A good looking ‘shoe’ with tough sole and waterproof. Feels good and fits perfectly. Comfortable to wear all day.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $82.99
Colorways: Black
Materials: Vibram Megagrip outsole, GORE-TEX lining, synthetic upper
Special Features: Integrated sticky rubber toe cap for climbing, SuperFabric micro-plate technology for extreme abrasion resistance
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
I’ve logged probably close to 1,500 miles in the Arc’teryx Acrux TR GTX boots, and they’ve held up well. These aren’t full winter boots, but I’ve taken them on numerous 15,000-foot mountains, and they perform well with crampons and keep my feet warm in the ice and snow. They also have been to the summit of over 50 14,000-foot peaks in the U.S., performing well on the rock. I took them on several long motorcycle trips as well, across countries like Guatemala, Albania, Peru, and Italy, so I can say firsthand that their durability is insanely high.
Overall, the waterproofing on these boots is top-notch, as is the grippy outsole, which is great for scrambling moderate terrain. The boots are also extremely stiff and supportive (they take awhile to break in), though they remain much more lightweight than other boots of this caliber. The downside here is that these boots are not breathable. My feet often become hot and sweaty in warm weather. As a result, I’d say the Acrux TR Gore-Tex boots are a stellar choice for backpacking in wet conditions, during winter, or at high altitudes. However, for moderate summer hikes, they aren’t the best choice. The laces have also frayed over time, but I’ve replaced them with new laces, and those are working well.
What testers say: “I purchased these as I wanted a boot with good ankle support and ability to grip a variety of terrain. I am pleased with my purchase as these boots meet all of my requirement. They are comfortable, great ankle support, awesome grip, waterproof, and they look good.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $250
Colorways: Wonder Beige/Core Black/Semi Impact Orange, Core Black/Core Black/Grey Six, Core Black/Wonder Silver/Semi Flash Aqua, Core Black/Grey Four/Cloud White, Wonder Silver/Wonder Silver/Lucid Lemon
Materials: GTX upper, EVA midsole, rubber outsole
Special Features: GORE-TEX membrane, External heel clip, EVA stabilization frame, abrasion-resistant mesh upper
adidas Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
If you’re tired of the clunky weight of your hiking boots, then the Free Hiker 2.0 is an incredible offering. The main drawback here is in durability. Read my full review of the Free Hiker 2.0 Low for a closer look. That model is lighter and low-cut, offering more of a “shoe” experience than this boot-height model.
What testers say: “Bought these for disc golf and they have been holding up great! Usually after a week I see wear n tear on my disc golf shoes but these have yet to show any signs of tearing on the outer soles.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $138
Colorways: Olive Night/Peat/Safari, Magnet/Black/Quarry, Rubber Black Fiery Red
Materials: GORE-TEX, nubuck leather upper, mesh lining, EVA midsole, OrthoLite footbed, rubber outsole
Special Features: 4D Chassis for stability, EnergyCell absorption tech in midsole
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Backcountry Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
This is a stellar option for an avid trail runner or day hiker who simply can’t imagine giving a hiking boot a chance. It’s also notable for its superb waterproofing. The Quest 4 offers the lightweight, propulsion-focused build of a trail shoe with the support of a boot, which is helpful for overnight trips with full packs. This boot, in my opinion, is the best all-around backpacking boot available on the market right now.
What testers say: “I have worn this style for over 5 years. I’m currently wearing my second pair with a third that will be used once this pair lives its life. I hike with these, work on our property in Northern Minnesota with them and work at a farm/greenhouse prepping for the coming growing season. They stay laced, are truly waterproof, have great traction and fit my feet (I have bunions). The men’s style works best for my feet. I would and do recommend to people that notice or ask about these boots. Comfortable fit right out of the box too!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $172.50
Colorways: Shark/Orange
Materials: Leather upper, EVA midsole, Pro-Fiber insole, GTX lining, rubber outsole
Special Features: Sock-Fit DV construction for snug fit and reduced bulk
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
REI Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars
The Perwanger leather outer, coupled with a Gore-Tex Performance Comfort footwear lining, makes for high water resistance as well. In summary, the only downside here is the price. This boot doesn’t come cheap. But my personal experience and almost unanimous tester approval indicates that once you shell out the cash here, you won’t be disappointed.
What testers say: “Shockingly impressed. Amazing right out of the box. Didn’t need much breaking in (some rubbing on the heel, but I’ve yet to find a boot that doesn’t do that to me).”
Price upon publish date of this article: $297
Colorways: Carbon/Hawaiian Sun, Black/Grey
Materials: Frixion XF 2.0 sole, AirMesh upper, EVA midsole, TPU shank
Special Features: Impact Brake System and Trail Bite heel support and stabilizer for climbs/descents
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
REI Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars
Backcountry Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
What testers say: “I have had an interesting experience with these boots. I bought a pair in the size I usually wear and they felt a bit tight, but seemed serviceable. I wore them on a few short hikes and they bothered my feet a bit but nothing too extreme. I wore them on a 17-mile hike, and by mile 7 my feet had swollen and became quite sore due to the tight fit. By mile 10 I decided I need to cut the boots with my knife on the sides to relieve some of the pressure on my foot in hopes to make it out of the woods easier. These have to be the most durable boots on planet earth. I could barely cut though them with my knife! Long story short, I ordered another pair a size up and they fit wonderfully and are super comfortable. Would recommend these to anyone looking for a good boot.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $149.19
Colorways: Dark Earth, Volcanic Glass
Materials: OrthoLite footbed, Vibram Megagrip Overlook rubber outer, EVA midsole, suede and nylon upper
Special Features: Vintage suede leather/nylon look, GORE-TEX liner, tri-density footbed, trail running-inspired DT6 last with added forefoot width
REI Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars
Backcountry Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
What testers say: “This newly updated version of the Free Spirit is so solid! I have a wider foot and this boot is quite comfortable, no issues whatsoever with any type of sizing restraints … a perfect fit. Construction is lightweight as well as durable for moderate terrain. And, such an aesthetically pleasing boot to look at! Grab ’em before the are all sold out!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $164.96
Colorways: Blue Graphite/Amber Yellow, Black/Black
Materials: Vibram MegaGrip sole, EVA midsole, GORE-TEX membrane
Special Features: Late-stage meta-rocker for increased stability on uneven terrain, multidirectional 5mm lugs
Backcountry Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Hoka Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.3/5 stars
If your biggest priority is weight, then these boots are also a solid buy. They’re some of the lightest hiking boots on the market, weighing just 11.8 ounces. Although marketed as a midlevel hybrid, these boots come closer to a hiking shoe. They’re a great choice for fast trips, but don’t offer much in the way of structure and support. If you’re carrying a heavy pack, you may want a different boot.
What testers say: “I walk seven to 10 miles a day at work. I’ve been doing this for past 20 plus years. I’ve never felt a shoe like this. I will have to see how long they will last.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $179.95
Colorways: Taupe/Clay, Carbon/Chili, Carbon
Materials: Nubuck leather upper, rubber sole, EVA midsole, OrthoLite footbed
Special Features: Vibram Nano XS-Trek sole with impact braking, Nano-Cells membrane
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Finding a comfortable fit when you have wide feet can be a pain, and La Sportiva is known for always making narrow shoes. Luckily, La Sportiva has made a specialized modification to this boot to accommodate wide feet, too.
What testers say: “Bought these after suffering a severe twisted ankle on a hike — they are amazingly comfortable right out of the box! I bought them for hiking but end up wearing them all the time because they’re the most comfortable shoes I own. Would definitely buy again!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $179.19
The Different Types of Hiking Boots for Men
The main divisions between hiking boots relate to how sturdy the boot is and how high above the ankle it stretches. There are three main classes of hiking boots, outlined below.
- Hiking shoes: Hiking shoes run below the ankle and typically feature flexible midsoles and lighter builds. These shoes are a great option for day hikes, particularly on mellow, well-tracked terrain. If you’re carrying an overnight pack, you probably want something that hits above the ankle for more support. However, many experienced backpackers prefer to go backpacking in hiking shoes, or even rugged trail running shoes.
- Hybrids: Hybrids are a blend between backpacking boots and the aforementioned hiking shoes. They may sit just above the ankle, but don’t offer the firm ankle support that true backpacking boots do. These boots generally flex well and are easy to break in, but don’t have the same support or durability in their internal frame that standard hiking boots offer. They’re a great option for day hikes and short backpacking trips with light loads. Hybrid shoes are also generally quite breathable, so many choose to use hybrids on summer hiking trips.
- Backpacking boots: Backpacking boots are probably what you think of when you think of hiking boots. Rugged and hitting above the ankle, these boots feature stout midsoles and uppers that provide support for carrying heavy loads over rough terrain on multiday trips. That said, many backpacking boots work great for day hikes as well. For cold weather hiking, even during day trips, backpacking boots are a great choice — simply because their sturdier, bulkier build means they’re almost always warmer than hybrids or hiking shoes.
- Lightweight hiking boots: Lightweight hiking boots are typically under two pounds, maximum. These are usually best for warmer weather or hiking without a pack (day hikes). Lightweight hiking boots for men are a good choice for either beginner hikers embarking on easy trips or experienced hikers looking to shed weight, and who don’t need the stability and support offered by heavier boots.
- Breathable hiking boots: Breathable hiking boots incorporate mesh uppers and linings to prevent sweating and overheating. They’re great for warm-weather hikes and hiking in arid climates with little rain, because most breathable boots present a drawback in warmth and waterproofing. The desert Southwest, for example, is a great place to use breathable hiking boots.
- Waterproof hiking boots: Waterproof hiking boots typically feature Gore-Tex lining to keep out water. These are a good choice for most long-distance hikes in temperate or maritime climates, where rain is a possibility. They’re also important for winter hiking, as waterproofing and warmth often go hand in hand, especially if snow is on the forecast. The downside of most waterproof boots is that they aren’t very breathable, and can be quite hot and stuffy in warm weather.
What to Look for in the Best Hiking Boots
What you’re looking for in your hiking boots really depends on what purpose you want them to fulfill. Like we discussed above, there’s a variety of hiking boots to fit various outdoor missions. Here are the main components of a hiking boot:
- Upper: The material used to construct the boot upper will play a role in the boot’s weight, water resistance, overall durability, and breathability. Many hiking boots are constructed with leather uppers, whether full-grain, split-grain, or nubuck. Synthetics, like polyester and nylon, are also common upper materials, while many styles employ waterproof membranes like Gore-Tex. Each material has its tradeoffs. Full-grain leather is more durable but less breathable than synthetics, for example.
- Midsole: The shoe midsole provides support and cushion for the bottom of your foot. If you’re hiking on scree or talus, for example, you’ll want a stiffer midsole to absorb the impact. Most midsoles are either EVA or polyurethane. The former is lighter, cushier, and cheaper, while polyurethane is typically a bit more stout and is a common midsole material for backpacking boots.
- Outsole: The outsole is what comes into contact with the trail, so it needs to be rugged and provide adequate grip. Almost all boot outsoles use rubber, though additives like carbon are often included to backpacking boots to make the outsole more firm and durable. Hiking boots also incorporate lugs (small bumps and ridges) on the outsole to provide traction. Thicker, deeper lugs are used on backpacking boots, while hiking shoes will have thinner, smaller lugs. If you’re planning on doing a lot of alpine scrambling or hiking over talus and scree, then a tacky rubber outsole will come in handy. For wetter, muddier terrain, widely spaced lugs can help shed mud more easily.
- Internal structure: The internal structure of your boot is one of the most important aspects. Some styles, like hiking shoes, will feature minimal internal support. Backpacking boots should have sturdy internal support to keep your ankle secure when packing heavy loads on uneven terrain. Inserts like plates and shanks are commonly found in backpacking boots to help keep your foot secure in your shoe. If you’re looking at snow hiking or mountaineering, also consider crampon and microspike compatibility.
How to Break in Hiking Boots
It’s crucial to break in hiking boots before wearing them on a long hike, but break-in periods vary depending on material. Leather boots require a real, sustained break-in period before they become comfortable. Synthetic models are typically much more comfortable without a break-in, but it all varies depending on the model and how your unique foot shape fits the boot.
Breaking in boots is relatively easy. The trick is to start slow. Don’t take your new hiking boots on a 10-mile hike right out of the box. Wear your boots to work, to the grocery, and on short walks around town in short intervals for at least five to 10 miles total before you take them on their first real mission.
Another factor, remember to wear high quality hiking socks. Not all socks for men are designed for high-output activities like hiking, or made with the durability to stand up to daily use without washing on multi-day trips. Your comfort in a boot is dependent on your socks as much as the boot itself. Breathable, comfortable, and moisture-wicking socks are your first line of defense against blisters.
Can You Hike in Running Shoes?
You can hike in running shoes, and some experienced hikers and trail runners overwhelmingly prefer to hike in running shoes, because they’re lighter and more nimble. In most instances, however, a dedicated pair of hiking boots is better than wearing running shoes for hikes, especially for newer hikers.
That’s because trail running shoes are designed primarily with weight in mind, while hiking boots and shoes are designed to offer increased support, protection, and comfort for heavy loads and long miles. There are also some situations where you simply can’t go without a hiking boot — such as treks on snow, steep inclines, or trails that aren’t heavily maintained — where you need that added protection from rocks and brush. In summary, you can hike in running shoes, but it’s not recommended in most situations, particularly as a beginner hiker.
How We Tested and Chose the Best Hiking Boots for Men
For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items.
The 10 hiking boots on this list were tested and evaluated using a variety of methods. I spent many hours scouring the web for customer reviews, touching on expert interviews, researching the market, and comparing customer review quotes. I also selected several of these entries based on my own product testing. Several of the boots on this list I’ve put dozens of miles on, if not hundreds. I primarily tested these boots around the southwestern United States, but have also hiked in some models abroad, in places like Central America, the Balkans, New Zealand, and the Andes. Ultimately, the choices listed here are an amalgam of personal picks and highly rated models I evaluated using my 15-plus years in the outdoors and lifetime career as an outdoor gear journalist. Learn more about us here.
Meet the Author and Tester
Owen Clarke is a lifelong outdoorsman and outdoor sports journalist. In addition to contributing to Footwear News, Owen is an editor-at-large for The Outdoor Journal and Climbing House, and a regular contributor to Backpacker, Climbing, Outside Online, SKI, Iron and Air, Trail Runner, and a variety of other outdoor publications. He also edits for the American Alpine Journal. He is an avid backpacker, climber, and motorcyclist and has logged miles on two feet (and two wheels) in mountain ranges from North Africa to the Andes to the Balkans.
This article was fact checked and reviewed by Leanna Yip, a veteran copy editor with over 12 years of experience, including eight years text editing researched shopping stories and in-depth product guides across several categories, including fashion, beauty, home, footwear, tech, gifts, and more.
