Exploring the outdoors requires footwear that balances comfort, durability, and performance. The right hiking shoes can make the difference between an enjoyable trek and a challenging one, offering support across varied terrain while protecting against the elements. From lightweight designs for fast hikes to more cushioned options for extended journeys, these selections highlight dependable choices tailored to both men and women seeking reliable trail companions.

1. Men’s: Merrell Speed Solo Hiking Shoe

This shoe features waterproof suede leather, mesh construction, and a protective rock plate for demanding trails. Lightweight cushioning adds comfort while Vibram rubber outsoles ensure confident traction on mixed terrain.

Eco-friendly design elements include recycled materials in the laces and webbing. Its versatile style transitions from day hikes to everyday wear, making it a dependable all-round option for active use.

Pros:

• Durable suede and mesh build

• Protective rock plate support

• Lightweight cushioning for comfort

• Versatile design for casual use

• Reliable Vibram outsole traction

Cons:

• May fit wider than expected

• Limited waterproof depth coverage

• Durability concerns over long use

• Fit varies across sizes

• Moderate breathability in heat

2. Women’s: Merrell Moab 3 Bliss Shoe

Eco-conscious touches include recycled laces, webbing, and mesh lining. Vibram EcoStep outsole grips reliably across surfaces, offering dependable performance for both short hikes and extended use.

Pros:

• Durable pig suede upper
• Breathable mesh construction
• Shock-absorbing heel cushioning
• Recycled materials used throughout
• Vibram EcoStep outsole traction

Cons:

• Slightly heavier than light hikers
• May need brief break-in
• Narrow fit for wider feet
• Not fully waterproof
• Limited color range available

3. Men’s: La Sportiva Spire GTX Hiking Shoe

Built for serious hiking, this shoe integrates GORE-TEX SURROUND waterproofing with Nano Cell 2.0 technology for superior airflow. The STB control system adds stability by wrapping the midsole around the upper for secure footing.

Its Vibram XS Trek outsole ensures confident traction on wet and rocky surfaces. Though slightly heavier, it balances protection and breathability for demanding trails and long treks.

Pros:

• Waterproof and breathable construction

• Secure STB stability system

• Vibram outsole multi-surface grip

• Protective upper with Nano Cell

• Comfortable cushioned midsol

Cons:

• Heavier than light trail shoes

• Runs large, size down advised

• Premium price category

• Break-in period recommended

• Limited casual versatility

4. Women’s: Columbia Newton Wander Mid Hiking Shoe

This mid-height shoe pairs waterproof suede leather with an Omni-Tech membrane for breathable protection against wet conditions. TechLite+ cushioning offers a responsive, stable underfoot feel for long hikes.

A recycled insole and Omni-Grip rubber outsole provide eco-friendly design and sure-footed traction on varied terrain. Mid-cut support and durable construction make it a practical choice for outdoor adventure.

Pros:

• Waterproof Omni-Tech membrane

• Cushioned TechLite+ midsole

• Eco-friendly recycled insole

• Reliable Omni-Grip outsole traction

• Supportive mid-height design

Cons:

• Slightly heavier build

• Bulkier than low-cut shoes

• Moderate arch support only

• Limited style versatility

• May feel stiff at first

5. Men’s: Scarpa Rush TRK LT GTX Hiking Boot

Designed for fast hiking and light backpacking, this boot uses ripstop fabric and GORE-TEX Extended Comfort for breathable waterproofing. The 3D Auto-Fit collar supports the ankle without restricting mobility.

Dual-density EVA midsoles cushion while maintaining stability, and the PRESA TRK-01 outsole delivers traction across rocky and mixed terrain. Its lightweight build makes it a strong choice for quicker treks.

Pros:

• Lightweight mid-cut design

• Waterproof GORE-TEX membrane

• Comfortable dual-density midsole

• 3D Auto-Fit ankle collar

• Grippy PRESA TRK-01 outsole

Cons:

• Mid-cut restricts some flexibility

• Narrow fit for wider feet

• Premium price range

• Limited casual styling

• Short break-in required

6. Men’s: Salomon X Ultra 360 GTX Hiking Shoe

This shoe features a GORE-TEX membrane for waterproofing and Sensifit overlays that secure the midfoot during dynamic movement. EnergyCell+ cushioning delivers springy responsiveness, while a protective rubber toe cap guards against terrain impacts.

Its Contagrip MA outsole offers confident traction across mixed surfaces, and the quick-lace system allows for one-handed adjustment—ideal when agility and ease are priorities.

Pros:

• Waterproof GORE-TEX protection

• Supportive Sensifit midfoot wrap

• Responsive EnergyCell+ cushioning

• Durable mixed-terrain grip

• One-handed quick-lace system

Cons:

• Narrow forefoot fit

• Quick-lace laces snag easily

• Higher price bracket

• Moderate breathability in heat

• Limited color variety

7. Women’s: La Sportiva Spire GTX Hiking Shoe

Offering GORE-TEX Surround technology, this women’s model delivers complete waterproofing and ventilation from below. The STB control system stabilizes the midfoot wrapping comfortably around it, while Nano-Cell 2.0 midsoles provide a balance of cushioning and responsiveness.

Constructed with a durable leather and mesh upper paired with a Vibram XS Trek outsole, this shoe provides reliable traction and protection for extended trail use.

Pros:

• Full waterproof and aero-ventilation

• Secure stability wrap system

• Supportive Nano-Cell cushioning

• Durable mixed-material upper

• Sticky Vibram outsole traction

Cons:

• Runs slightly large

• Heavier than trail runners

• Premium price point

• Requires break-in period

• Limited color choices

8. Men’s: New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro Mid Hiking Boot

Designed for support and comfort, this mid-height boot uses Fresh Foam X cushioning for a plush underfoot feel. Synthetic overlays reinforce the upper for structure and abrasion resistance, and the AT Grip outsole offers durable traction across slippery surfaces.

With enhanced ankle support and a reinforced toe cap, this model suits hikers seeking comfort, stability, and durability in one versatile package.

Pros:

• Plush Fresh Foam X cushioning

• Mid-cut ankle support

• Durable synthetic overlay

• Rugged AT Grip outsole

• Reinforced toe cap protection

Cons:

• Slightly heavy feel

• Narrow fit for some

• Less breathable upper

• Break-in required

• Limited design options

9. Women’s: Altra Lone Peak 9 Hiking Shoe

This model embraces Altra’s FootShape toe box and Zero Drop platform, promoting natural foot positioning and even weight distribution. The upper blends breathable yet protective materials suited for rugged trails.

The MaxTrac outsole, coupled with multi-directional lugs, delivers solid traction on varied terrain. It’s well suited to hikers prioritizing foot comfort and trail feedback

Pros:

• Wide toe box comfort

• Natural zero-drop stance

• Breathable lightweight upper

• Multi-directional lug grip

• Strong ground sensation

Cons:

• Minimal arch support

• No waterproof protection

• Heel fit may be narrow

• Less cushioning on long days

• Limited ankle support

10. Men’s: Hoka Challenger ATR 7 GTX Trail Running Shoe

Rebranded here for hiking adaptability, the Challenger ATR 7 GTX features GORE-TEX waterproofing in a trail-specific, cushioned platform with early-stage Meta-Rocker geometry for efficient gait. The midsole offers ample softness and energy return for long efforts.

With a confident outsole tread and breathable upper, this shoe suits hikers looking for running shoe-like responsiveness with hiking-grade comfort and weather resistance.

Pros:

• Waterproof GORE-TEX lining

• Soft, energy-return cushioning

• Efficient rocker-guided stride

• Trail-ready outsole grip

• Lightweight hiking feel

Cons:

• Not aggressively supportive

• Higher price for shoes

• Less rugged outsole

• Narrow toe box for some

• Break-in for comfort