In these modern times, people have become so acquisitive that they often forget to keep track of their precious health. Actually, people are failing to remember that ‘health is wealth’ and not vice versa. Like it or not, putting too much pressure on your lives could lead to severe health degradation and can cause mental and physical breakdowns. That being said, it is advisable that you take a break from your busy schedule sometimes and seek help from nature to regenerate your mind and body.
Take a soothing activity to start with, like hiking. Hiking is the best way to unplug yourself from the so-called technological world. It helps rejuvenate your mind and body and gives you the luxury of interacting with nature. Luckily, hiking comes at an affordable cost. You need to lace up first and then think about conquering the rough terrains. Remember, if a backpack is bread then hiking boot is the butter.
It’s important that you always protect your feet and muscles while on a pursuit such as hiking. Most times, trekkers complain about stiff and burly shoes playing the spoilsport. Without a good hiking shoe, blisters and muscle strain will gladly ruin your entire trip.
Keeping comfort and durability as top priorities, we have picked some of the best hiking boots that are hugely favored and recommended by seasoned hikers. So buckle up and take a closer look at the eight best-hiking boots and shoes for men.
Our Top 8 Picks
1. Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
Seasoned hikers know what it is like to put on Merrel Moab boots for hiking and trail running. Truly versatile in every form, the Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot delivers ultimate comfort and performance for all outdoor enthusiasts. This hiking boot features a 100% suede leather and mesh uppers with protective rubber toe caps, that considerably reduces sore contact between the shoe and your skin, while its compression-molded EVA midsoles ensures maximum stability and comfort.
Featuring Vibram TC5 Outsole with Gore-Tex lining, this all-season boot is slip-resistant and offers insane traction and durability even on slippery grounds.
The M-Select FIT.ECO along with EVA contoured footbeds offers customised cushioning for a more apt and secure fit while the M-Select Dry technology layered with waterproof and breathable membrane seals out water and allow moisture to escape, thus ensuring a cool and dry feet. Also, the shock-absorbing Merrell air cushion in the heel adds unmatched stability. Another distinctive feature is the boot’s bellows foam tongue that rids off moisture and knocks debris out of your way.
Overall, the Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is budget-friendly and could be an ideal choice for those who don’t have problem hiking through challenging terrains.
Specifications:
- Brand: Merrell
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
- Suitable for: Hiking.
Features:
- Lightweight 100% suede leather and mesh upper
- Breathable mesh linings
- Protective rubber toe caps
- EVA midsole for stability and comfort
- M-Select FIT.ECO+EVA contoured foodbed
- Bellowed foam tongues to keep moisture and debris out
- Molded nylon arch shank
- M-Select Dry with an impermeable membrane seal out water and let moisture escape
- M-Select FRESH with anti-microbial agents
- Aggressive Vibram TC5 Outsole with 5mm lug depth for grip and slip-resistance.
Why you should buy:
- Comfortable fit
- Very breathable
- Superb looks
- No odor
- Very durable product.
Why you should avoid:
- Not entirely waterproof.
2. Timberland Men’s Chocorua Trail Mid Waterproof
The Chocorua Trail waterproof boot is best suited for hikers who doesn’t keep a check on weather. Designed with full-grain leather uppers, this hiking boot remains rock solid even after long hours of contact with rough surfaces. The boot features Timber-Dry Waterproof Technology(made from recycled plastic bottles) with Gore-Tex waterproof membrane that is expert in sealing off water and keeping your feet dry and comfortable.
The boot also features a shock-absorbing EVA midsole that offers ample cushioning while the removable contoured sock liner adds extra underfoot comfort. With an adjustable speed lacing system and a fully gusseted tongue, the boot delivers a more customized fit and keeps moisture and debris out. Its multi-directional rubber lug outsole secures your foothold with exceptional grip and rugged traction on any terrain.
All in all, the Chocorua Trail is a pair of hiking boots that is robust, rugged, and extremely durable. Besides, it is highly reliable, so you won’t have the need to visit another shoe store for quite some time.
Specification:
- Brand: Timberland
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
- Suitable for: Hiking, trail running, normal outdoor use.
Features:
- Built with full-grain waterproof leather uppers
- Timber-Dry impermeable membrane for waterproofing and breathability
- Rustproof and adjustable speed lacing system for a customized fit
- EVA midsole for shock absorption and all-day cushioning
- Anti-fatigue removable footbeds
- Padded Collar and Fully gusseted tongue
- Removable contoured sockliner for additional underfoot comfort
- Multi-directional rubber lug outsole for superior traction.
Why you should buy:
- Value for money
- Can be used for multiple purposes
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Water-resistant
- Very breathable.
Why you should avoid:
- Some user complaint of the hard toe box
- Poor quality eyelets.
3. Danner Men’s Mountain 600 Hiking Boot
Designed to withstand hostile climate and terrain, Danner Mountain 600 4.5 inch Hiking boot carries all the crucial qualities of a premium hiking boot. With a simple classic design yet unparalleled in performance, the Mountain 600 hiking boot is a remarkable blend of style and versatility. It is lightweight, comfortable, and extremely responsive.
With Mountain 600 on your feet, it is very unlikely that rain would dampen your spirits, thanks to its rich suede leather upper and waterproof Danner Dry liner. The boot features a removable Ortholite footbed that provides underfoot support while ensuring optimum air circulation for a cooler and drier feet.
Another impressive feature is the shock-absorbing Vibram SPE midsole that offers exceptional cushioning and responsiveness even after long hours of running and trampling. Equipped with a flexible Vibram Fuga outsole, this boot comes with self-adapting lugs and MegaGrip compounds that provide ultimate stability and traction while traversing across challenging terrain.
Surely, when it comes to comfort and durability, nothing is better than a good pair of Danner boots.
Specification:
- Brand: Danner
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
- Suitable for: Hiking, road running, general outdoor use.
Features:
- Low-profile hiking boot with waterproof suede upper
- Danner Dry waterproof liner for wicking moisture off the foot
- Removable polyurethane Ortholite footbed for shock absorption and underfoot comfort
- TPU heel frame for additional support and stability
- Vibram SPE midsole for stability, rebound, and comfort
- Vibram Fuga outsole with MegaGrip compound for aggressive traction on wet and dry surfaces.
Why you should buy:
- Super comfortable
- Nice looks
- Very responsive
- It’s lightweight and durable
- The grip is insane.
Why you should avoid:
- Not entirely waterproof
- Lacks breathability.
4. Salomon Men’s Quest 4D 3 GTX Backpacking Boots
Cross all limits and boundaries with the Salomon Quest 4D 3GTX backpacking boots, crafted to break the toughest of runs. This rugged-looking pair of boot comes with a 4D Advanced Chassis design that enables great foot flexibility and smoother ride with every step. The molded Ortholite footbed renders unmatched stability and foot comfort while its midsole is made of high performance EVA foam that absorbs shock and reduces vibration.
Connecting its gusseted tongue to both sides of the upper, this backpacking boot hardly picks up dirt and debris, meanwhile a soft, breathable mesh lining promotes overall comfort to the foot. The boot is aided with GORE-TEX waterproof membrane, so it can be worn efficiently on wet surfaces without getting drenched on the inside, meaning the boot has A-grade waterproofing.
For maximum grip and traction, the boot uses High Traction Contagrip TD outsole combined with wide, aggressive rubber lugs, that not only makes it slip-resistant but also lets dirt to fall off easily. Also, a protective rubber cap at the toe area protects your foot against rocky grounds.
With good ankle support and stability, the Quest 4D 3 GTX hiking boot comes with anti-fatigue technology and could be your next top pick for extreme adventures.
Specification:
- Brand: Salomon
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
- Suitable for: Hiking, trekking, and backpacking.
Features:
- Full-grain leather material for longer wear and durability
- 4D Advanced Chassis design for forefoot flexion and smoother ride
- Mesh and textile lining for extreme comfort
- Gusseted tongue connected with upper on both sides to keep debris away
- Protective rubber cap for toe protection
- Ortholite insole for cushioning, comfort, and breathability
- High-performance EVA midsole for shock absorption
- GORE-TEX membrane provides A-Grade waterproofing
- Contagrip TD outsole with aggressive rubber lugs for maximum grip and traction.
Why you should buy:
- Outstanding looks
- Nice ankle support
- Fantastic grip
- Waterproof
- Durable.
Why you should avoid:
- Very expensive
- Not an ideal choice for a warmer climate.
5. Asolo Fugitive GTX Men’s Waterproof Hiking Boot
A perfect combination of style, lightweight and comfort, the Fugitive GTX Hiking boot from Asolo is the real deal for those who want to keep it light and simple. Beautifully crafted with the finest materials, the Fugitive GTX hiking boots features water-resistant split-grain leather and Cordura nylon uppers that attributes to its lightweight and breathable nature. The tough Gore-Tex lining ensures that you keep your feet well ventilated and dry even in wet conditions.
With reinforced rubber heels and toe boxes, the boot provides maximum protection and balance to your feet. This hiking boot also features Asoflex thermoplastic torsional support for bruise prevention and other injuries during rock climbing or hours of trail running.
Its midsole is made from resilient polyurethane which primarily offers cushioning and underfoot stability and works incredibly well in absorbing shock and vibration, while the Syncro outsole is made from bi-density polyurethane that has multi-directional lugs designed to provide unmatched traction on uneven surfaces or rough terrain. Another impressive feature of Fugitive GTX hiking boot is its capability to resole.
Specification:
- Brand: Asolo
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
- Suitable for: Hiking and trekking
Features:
- Full-grain Italian leather and waterproof Gore-Tex membrane
- Cordula nylon uppers for lightweight and breathability
- Reinforced rubber heels and toe box
- Asoflex torsional support for bruise prevention
- Light polyurethane midsole for shock absorption and cushioning
- Syncro outsole with bi-density polyurethane
- Multi-directional aggressive lugs for grip and traction
Why you should buy:
- Stylish look
- Nice ankle support
- Lightweight and waterproof
- Fits easily
- Incredible grip
- Value for money
Why you should avoid:
- Poor outer sole
6. Danner Men’s Mountain Light 2 Hiking Boot
Crafted for avid hikers and trekkers, the Mountain Light 2 from Danner is a treat to the eyes of a vintage lover. Stylish and bold in appearance, this hiking boot’s upper features a time-tested full-grain leather that ensures the strongest and most durable form of leather. For waterproofing and breathability, a tough Gore-Tex liner protects your feet from getting wet by wicking off sweats and moisture in and out.
With a craftable stitch-down construction and resoling capability, the Mountain Light 2 hiking boot comes equipped with a half-length Airthotic instep that provides stability by cupping your heels while a fiberglass shank support the arches by providing firm stand and underfoot comfort.
Its EVA midsole absorb shock and provides superb cushioning while the Vibram Kletterlift outsole offers sturdy grip and traction on any grounds, from wet surfaces to rock-strewn terrain.
Specification:
- Brand: Danner
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
- Suitable for: Hiking, backpacking, general outdoor use.
Features:
- Classic vintage designs with 100% full-grain leather uppers
- Gore-Tex membrane for waterproofing and breathability
- Fiberglass shanks for arch support and underfoot comfort
- EVA midsole for shock absorption and cushioning
- Vibram Kletterlift outsole for strong grip and traction
- Recraftable stitch-down construction for resoling.
Why you should buy:
- Tip-top look
- Very comfortable
- Water-resistant
- Very durable
- Great traction
- Value for money.
Why you should avoid:
- Some users complained of a narrow fit.
7. Timberland Men’s Mt. Maddsen Slip On Hiking Shoe
Sometimes, lacing up a pair of shoes when you’re in a hurry could be frustrating. But with Maddsen Slip-on hiking shoe from Timberland, you will have zero hassle and will get you going in the blink of an eye. The shoe is designed for fast and easy outdoor use with a lace-free design. Featuring premium full-grain synthetic leather uppers, this ready-to-use hiking shoe is extremely durable and offers a rugged-clean look.
This hiking shoe also features a removable footbed that works marvellously well by keeping your feet dry and cool even after long hours of trampling on rough terrain.
Using Anti-fatigue technology in the midsole for shock absorption, the shoe provides exceptional foot control, stability and comfort while the outsole comes with tough rubber lugs that provides perfect grip and traction on wet or uneven grounds.
If you’re looking for a hiking shoe that offers easy-breezy features with top-notch comfort, then the Maddsen Slip-on Hiking Shoe could be your ideal target.
Specification:
- Brand: Timberland
- Closure Type: Slip-On style
- Suitable for: Light hiking and trekking, general outdoor use.
Features:
- Premium full-grain and synthetic leather uppers
- Slip-On style for fast and easy use
- Removable footbeds for underfoot comfort and cushioning
- Grippy outsoles with tough rubber lugs
- Sleek design for easy blending with different clothing
Why you should buy:
- Elegant looks
- Extremely comfortable
- Hassle-free use
- Great fit
- Very responsive
Why you should avoid:
- Not the best shoes for steep and difficult terrain.
8. Nike Men’s Manoa Leather Hiking Boot
Carefully crafted to the core, the Nike Manoa has all it takes to protect your feet from the harsh elements of nature. Made from premium Nubuck leather, this handsome pair of boots is an ideal choice for those who love hiking during cold and chilly days. The boot showcase a simple design yet is a pure blend of reliability and versatility.
The boot features waterproof mesh uppers that boast inimitable comfort and breathability. Its padded ankle collar helps minimize irritation by keeping a seal against your ankle and enables functionality and flexibility. It has a gusseted tongue that exceptionally works well in keeping debris away while its durable metal eyelets help secure a locked-down fit. Another distinctive feature is that the boot comes with a rear pull tap that allows an easy on and off system.
The Nike Manoa also features a Phylon midsole that offers comfort and lightweight cushioning all-day long while its durable outsole rigged with rubber lugs provides extreme grip and traction on wet or slippery grounds.
Specification:
- Brand: Nike
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
- Suitable for: Hiking, trail running, casual wear.
Features:
- Waterproof mesh in the upper for comfort and breathability
- Padded collar ankle and rear pull tap
- Gusseted tongue helps keep debris out and provide added comfort
- Durable metal eyelets help secure a locked-down fit
- Phylon midsole for lightweight cushioning and all-day comfort
- Durable outsole with rubber lugs for enhanced grip and traction.
Why you should buy:
- Extremely comfortable
- Superb looks
- Waterproof and very breathable
- Sturdy fit
- Perfect for winter
- Grippy sole.
Why you should avoid:
- Some user complained of a narrow fit
- Some users doubted its durability.
How to choose the best hiking shoes and boots:
With the market flooded with different types of hiking shoes and boots, you might find it difficult to find the perfect pair. As the demand soars up, so does the competition among shoe companies. Nowadays, shoe makers experiment with different materials to outclass its rival and deliver the best possible product. Sometimes you will find it hard to pick the best because each one of them looks pretty convincing to the eyes. So if you seriously need a good boot that can carry you for a pretty good amount of time, you need to first get yourself acquainted with some basic shoe-info.
Here are some tips you must consider when shopping for a hiking shoe:
Fit
Know your foot shape and size. Don’t let blisters, stubbed toes, and sprained arches play the spoilsport. It’s important that you measure your foot length to get the correct size. Also, remember to give them a test run with socks.
Consider Lighter Boots
It’s hill climbing and trail running, not your wedding day. Pick boots that are lightweight. It will help you in the long run. The heavier the boot, the sooner you will feel dead on your feet. But if you’re an experienced hiker, you can go for technical hiking boots which are a little heavier than regular hiking boots.
Check Waterproofing
Blisters and fungal infections are every hiker’s nightmare. If you compare full-grain leather with split-grain leather, the former has better waterproofing. Keeping your feet dry is important. So go for boots that block or wick off the water.
Check Arch Support
Proper support is necessary to keep your feet away from pain. With bad arch support, your feet will eventually flatten out under pressure and the pain will kick in.
Padded Collar
Shoes with padded collars provide added comfort and ankle support when on a trail.
The Midsole
Midsoles provide stability and flexibility. EVA midsoles come in two types, i.e. compression-molded and injection-molded. They are lightweight but Polyurethane midsoles are slightly better when it comes to cushioning and shock absorption.
The Traction
Climbing wet or rocky grounds isn’t an easy task. Boots with durable rubber lugs in the outsole works fine even on slippery surfaces.
We hope that you found our recommendation helpful and informative. Good luck to you in finding your perfect pair of hiking boots.
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