10 Best Hiking Boots for Every Adventure: Find Your Perfect Pair

When it comes to hiking, your footwear can either be your buddy or your worst enemy. But whatever you’re planning (you’re going on a short trail or a multi-day trek), to enjoy your time in the wilderness to the max, you need the best hiking boots to make you comfy, safe and happy out there. There’s such a number of options, you can feel overwhelmed when choosing what pair to pick. As such, here we have compiled a list of the 10 best hiking boots for a well informed decision for your next hike.

Since durability, comfort, waterproofing, tread and support are all used to decide on these hiking boots, these factors were considered. Which is why we have it all in one place so that whether it’s rugged mountains, muddy trails, scenic forests, or even just an occasional jaunt with the dog, you know you’ll be in the best shoes for your hiking adventure.

1. Salomon Quest 4 GTX

If you’re looking for a hiking boot that has the right combination of performance and comfort, you should be keeping a look out for the Salomon Quest 4 GTX Hiking Boots. These boots are for your feet are also known for their robust build and, of course, advanced features thanks to the Gore-Tex waterproofing which makes sure your feet will not get wet even in the wettest of it. A great hiking boot if you’ve got rugged trails on your mind, the boots provide excellent ankle support and a durable outsole that grips on different terrains.

• Waterproof Gore-Tex lining
• Proven advanced traction for those challenging terrains.
• Long hike responsive cushioning
• Supportive and durable design

If you need a boot for rough conditions, these boots are ideal for long distance hikers, and especially useful for everybody else. They thrive in mountain and rocky terrains — your feet are safe and sound during your hike.

2. Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof

Merrell has put together a great reputation among the outdoor gear subcategory, their Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots are no exception. As an easy going personal choice, these are extremely comfortable right out of the box. Part of Merrell’s M Select DRY technology, these boots feature the technology to keep your feet dry and comfortable in wet conditions. The Vibram® outsoles on the boot’s boot are one of the best hiking boots for beginners and experienced hikers.

• M Select™ DRY waterproofing
• Traction on Vibram® outsoles
• Breathable mesh lining
• Cushioned to the taste through EVA midsole

The Merrell Moab 3 will keep you steady on your feet, whether you’re hiking in the rain or across wet, slippery rocks and it’s one of the best hiking boots for any weather I can currently think of.

3. Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II 20” Waterproof

Exercise in style is what the Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boots bring to the table. Grippy, supportive, and protective, these boots make for a superior hiking boot for those who don’t want a super-comfy but bulky boot. These boots are comfortable, light, breathable, and waterproof made of a combination of leather and mesh and are suitable for day hikes, short treks. The Omni-Grip™ rubber outsoles are exceptional traction, and they may be one of the best of the best hiking boots if you’re looking for moderately challenging trails.

• Waterproof leather and mesh upper
• Superior grip with our Omni-Grip™ traction
• Lightweight design
• Comfortable mid sole cushioning

The Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II is one of the best hiking boots for those wanting a solid, reliable boot that’s good on moderate trails.

4. Nucleo High GTX Hiking Boots La Sportiva

The La Sportiva Nucleo High GTX Hiking Boots are just what the doctor ordered for those who want speed and stability. These boots are designed with high performance hikers in mind, using a lightweight construction that doesn’t compromise on durability. With balled Vibram® outsoles, their Gore-Tex lining keeps you warm and dry, and the breathability’s not a bad thing either. One of the best all around hiking boots for fast adventures are the La Sportiva Nucleo High GTX.

• Breathable protection Gore-Tex waterproofing
• Vibram® outsoles for tread
• For the best traction outsoles
• Very lightweight and very flexible construction
• Added ergonomic design for better comfort

Whether you are tackling challenging terrains or striving for a more technical hike, the La Sportiva Nucleo High GTX will do the job of you propelling yourself into the trail without the feeling of fatigue which puts it at the top of the best hiking boots for the serious outdoors enthusiast.

5. Keen Targhee III Waterproof

If value for money is what you’re after, few can compete with the Keen Targhee III Waterproof Hiking Boots. They fit comfortably with a supportive and cushioned insole which absorbs shock with every step. Waterproof membrane keeps feet dry, rubber outsole creates best in class traction amongst rock or mud. If you are a hiker seeking comfort and durability in one hiking boot, then Keen Targhee III is a truly worthy of consideration.

• Waterproof KEEN.DRY membrane
• Torsional stability ESS shank
• Better traction lugs in multi-direction
• Additional comfort, cushioned midsole

The Keen Targhee III is a reliable and affordable hiking boot that is good for a fulfilling all day hiking experience no matter the condition or terrain.

6. Arc’teryx Bora AR

Born out of Arc’teryx, the Bora AR Hiking Boots is a premium brand known for high quality gear. Featuring RotoGlide™ ankle cuff system, these boots believe in an innovative design that sets its focus on freely allowing the ankle move naturally while out for a stride. High cut design in the boot provides exceptional ankle support while the Bora AR is designed with maximum performance in the most extreme environments. It’s one of the best hiking boots if you want top tier craftsmanship and performance.

• Increased mobility with RotoGlide™ ankle cuff
• Waterproof protection from GORE-TEX
• 3 string wave sole for superior traction, Vibram® Megagrip outsoles
• Extreme conditions design with high performance

If you’re a hardcore hiker venturing into challenging, technical environments then the Arc’teryx Bora AR is one of the best hiking boots in the market.

7. Lowa Renegade GTX Mid

If you’re shopping for a boot that can get through long distances while maintaining maximum comfort and foot control then consider the Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boots. They have a Gore-Tex membrane for waterproofing, an ergonomic design for better comfort while prolonged hiking, and for their durability and support. The Vibram® outsole offers great traction on wet and dry surfaces making the Renegade GTX Mid one of the best hiking shoes to use on long hikes.

• Gore-Tex waterproof lining
• Vibram® outsole for best traction.
• Supportive fit comfortable.
• Durable leather upper

Support and protection might be two words that are hard to find in other hiking boots, but the supportive and protective nature of these boots makes them one of the best hiking boots for both rough terrains and muddy pathways.

8. Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX

If you’re a serious hiker who needs some agility and durability, the Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX Hiking Boots are a great choice. From rough mountain climbs to uneven terrain, these boots are meant to be supremely supportive and light but with exceedingly tough construction. Waterproof protection is provided by the Gore-Tex lining and the outsole is gripped by the Vibram®. That is why the Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX is one of the best hiking boots for all round hikers.

• Gore-Tex waterproofing
• Maximum traction from outsoles of Vibram®
• Durable construction, yet lightweight
• Comfortable for all-day wear

The Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX is also a great hiking boot for fast paced hikers and tough expeditions.

9. Bridger B-Dry Hiking Boots from Oboz

Hiking footwear top of the line and worthy of being called in the world of hiking footwear is that we just mentioned: Oboz Bridger B-Dry Hiking Boots. Oboz has outfitted these boots with an abrasion resistant waterproof membrane and solid rubber outsole that will keep your feet both dry and plenty of traction on slippery surface. The extra ankle support comes from the high cut design of the boots also making them one of the best hiking boots for rough, uneven terrains.

• B-Dry waterproof membrane
• Traction durable rubber outsoles
• EVA midsole for cushioning
• High cut design for ankle support.

If you are a hiker who’s looking for a durable boot that has durable protection and long lasting comfort on rocky and uneven trail surface, Oboz Bridger B-Dry is one of the best hiking boot out there.

10. VASQUE: Vasque Breeze AT GTX

Of all of the hiking boots I tested last, Vasque Breeze AT GTX Hiking Boots have the best combination of durability, breathability, waterproof protection, and everything else I had needed. Being lightweight, but supportive, these boots are great for warm weather hiking. The Vasque Breeze AT GTX is one of the best hiking boots for hiking over variable conditions and on all types of terrain, thanks to a Gore-Tex membrane and aggressive outsole.

• Waterproof protection with Gore-Tex
• Breathable mesh for comfort
• Aggressive rubber outsoles
• Lightweight and flexible

If you’re after a boot that will keep its feet dry in the rain, but also allow for plenty of breathability, Vasque’s Breeze AT GTX will do the trick.

Best Hiking Boot Selection Process

Selecting the right hiking boots will either help you make the most of your hike or ruin it. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting the perfect pair for your adventures:

Fit and Comfort

Comfort, and no blisters thanks to your hiking boots, depends on the fit. Your boots should be snug around and on your heel but allow some wiggle room for your toes. You want to be able to comfortably hike for long periods without getting uncomfortable.

Terrain and Terrain Type

There is different types of boots for different terrain. If you’re hiking on rocky or technical trails look for boots with solid ankle support and quality outsole. If you want easier, flatter trails then perhaps a lightweight and flexible boot might be better.

Waterproofing

If you’re hiking in wet or rainy, then waterproofing is important. The waterproof boots with Gore-Tex or an equivalent waterproof membrane dry your feet even in the wet, which makes them one of the best hiking boots for wet areas.

Ankle Support

When you need to work uneven terrain, higher cut boots with more ankle support help protect from twisting or injury. If you’re leading long hikes lasting several days, or should be carrying a heavy backpack, look for additional ankle protection.

Weight

Day hikes and warmer climate hiking works well with lighter boots. On the other hand, if you plan for a long distance hike you want something more cushioning, support as well as durability so you will need heavier boots.

Breathability

If you plan to hike in warm or hot weather, look for boots that don’t trap heat and barely breath because wet feet will turn you into an iced tea bag. This way will prevent overheating and moisture, which can be very uncomfortable for your feet and cause blisters and discomfort.

Durability

Buy durable work boots made from genuine full grain leather or tough synthetic material. If you’re going to be hiking often, you want to make sure you’re investing in a durable pair of hiking boots because you will be exposed to the roughness of nature.

Traction

A lot of grip and stability is based on the outsole’s tread pattern. If you’re hiking on loose or slippery surfaces, pick boots with aggressive lugs. When you’re hiking on rocky terrain or muddy paths, the best hiking boots have the traction you need.

Cushioning and Support

Absorbing the shock from hard surfaces helps minimize accumulation of fatigue while you’re on the move for a long time. If you are doing multi day hikes and carrying a heavy pack look for boots with adequate arch support and cushioning in the midsole.

Budget

Of course, it’s tempting to go for cheap boots, but buying expensive well made boots will pay off in the long run. Hiking boots are an investment in your comfort and safety, and will help keep you safe when you’re exploring the outdoors.

Final Thoughts on the Best Hiking Boots

Your personal preferences and a style of hiking will determine the best hiking boots, however any of the products described above will deliver reliable comfort, support and protection to your adventures. You want to pick a pair which fits well, has the right features for any conditions you are going to encounter on your hike, and that matches your needs. Happy hiking!

Zntus

FAQs

• So, how do I pick my hiking boots for me?
  Hiking boots you choose depend on terrain, how long you are hiking, and weather. If you are looking for a shoe for hiking, think of waterproofing, cushioning, and ankle support.
• I can hike wearing regular shoes right?
  In the event that you’re planning short, easy hikes, regular shoes can get the job done, but they simply won’t give you the support, durability or traction required for arduous terrain. The money that you invest in the best hiking boots will guarantee you a comfortable, safe and confident foot while hiking.