We've Tested Dozens of Hiking Boots. These Four Stand Out.

• Support vs. agility: Consider the terrain you’ll be tackling. Rugged hikes with heavy backpacks call for ankle-supporting boots, while lighter trails might favor a more agile, low-cut boot.
• Waterproofing vs. breathability: Will you be conquering wet or snowy conditions? Opt for a waterproof liner. Prioritizing hot-weather comfort? Breathability is key.
• Weight and durability: Heavier boots offer more protection but tire you out faster. Lighter options prioritize agility but may not be as durable.
• Fit and break-in: Try boots on with the socks you’ll hike in. They should be snug but not constricting. Some boots require a break-in period, while others feel comfy from the start.
• How often you hike: If you only hike once or twice per year, you don’t need to shell out the big bucks on a pair of hiking boots – opt for lighter and more basic options.
• Hiking terrain: If you live in the desert, your boots will encounter different obstacles than someone who lives in the Pacific Northwest. Consider the type of terrain you will do most of your hiking in, and read the brand’s description of where the boot is best used.
• Your very special feet: Do you have wide feet? Need extra cushioning? Maybe a bunion? Consider special features that cater to your specific needs and preferences.

We hope you love the hiking boots we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to make a purchase. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

• Lowa Renegade GTX Mid hiking boots
• Merrell Moab Speed 2 Mid GTX
• Xero Shoes Ridgeway hiking boots
• Oboz Cottonwood Mid Waterproof hiking boots

Best hiking boots: A rundown of top options

Lowa Renegade GTX Mid	Merrell Moab Speed II GTX	Xero Ridgway	Oboz Bozeman II
Price: $280	Price: $185	Price:  $160	Price:  $145
Great for backpacking	Great for casual hikers	Stylish, looks good at happy hour	Great for jog/hike combos and around town
Forms to your foot after break-in period	Easy to break in and feel comfortable	Good for varied trail types	Some recycled material
Good for wet climates	Waterproof and breathable	Minimalist design	Excellent grip and lightyl cushioned

Best for backpacking: Lowa Renegade GTX Mid hiking boots

Lowa Renegade GTX Mid hiking boots are known for their excellent ankle support, durability, and comfort. They’re a popular choice for backpackers and hikers who tackle moderate to challenging trails. The boots feature a nubuck leather upper that’s both water-resistant and tough enough to withstand scrapes and dings on the trail. A Gore-Tex liner adds a layer of waterproof protection and breathability to keep your feet dry and comfortable in all weather conditions. The mid-cut design offers additional stability and ankle support, especially when carrying a heavy backpack.

Despite its weight, which some reviewers find substantial, the Renegade GTX Mid is known for its comfortable fit and impressive shock absorption. This makes them a good option for long hikes where you’ll be on your feet for extended periods. The Vibram sole provides excellent traction on a variety of terrain, including loose rock, dirt, and wet surfaces. These boots led the pack because multiple Matador editors and writers use them regularly .

Here’s why these boots stand out:

Break-in Period: Unlike some hiking boots, the Lowa Renegade GTX Mid is known to require a break-in period before they feel comfortable. This can involve wearing them for short hikes or walks for a few days or weeks to allow the leather upper to conform to your feet. A few sessions should do it and once broken in, they’re set to last for years.

Sizing and Fit: These boots come in a wide variety of sizes, including wide and narrow widths, to accommodate different foot shapes. However, some users report that they run a bit small and recommend ordering a half size larger than usual.

Great for damp climates: While the boots are generally praised for their quality and performance, they can be heavy compared to some other hiking boots, and some users find the lacing system to be cumbersome. Additionally, the breathability can be limited due to the Gore-Tex liner, so they might not be ideal for very hot climates.

Check out Matador’s detailed review of the Lowa Renegade GTX Mid hiking boot

Price: $280

Show Now – Men’s

Shop Now – Women’s

Best for casual hikers: Merrell Moab Speed 2 Mid GTX hiking boots

Hikers seeking a balance between agility and support on the trails should consider the Merrell Moab Speed 2 Mid GTX. This versatile boot lives up to its name, offering a lightweight and streamlined design for faster hikes without sacrificing stability. The upper is crafted from breathable mesh with synthetic overlays for durability, keeping your feet cool while providing protection from trail debris.

The Moab Speed 2 Mid GTX prioritizes comfort for long days on the move. A fuel cell midsole absorbs shock with each step, reducing fatigue on uneven terrain. Merrell’s signature M Select grip+ outsole offers reliable traction on various surfaces, wet or dry, giving you confidence to navigate technical sections with ease. Additionally, a Gore-Tex waterproof lining keeps your feet dry when encountering puddles or light rain.

Here’s why these boots stand out:

Waterproofing and Breathability: The boot uses a Gore-Tex liner, a reliable material that offers both waterproofing and breathability. This is ideal for keeping your feet dry in wet conditions while allowing moisture vapor to escape, preventing overheating. However, some users have reported that the breathability might not be sufficient for very hot climates.

Fit and Sizing: The Moab Speed 2 Mid GTX is known for its comfortable, out-of-the-box fit. Unlike some hiking boots that require a break-in period, these should feel good on your feet from the start. They come in various men’s and women’s sizes with a standard width option. However, if you have wider feet, you might want to consider going up a half size for better comfort.

Check out Matador’s detailed review of the Merrell Moab Speed 2 Mid GTX hiking boots

Price: $185

Shop Now – Men’s

Shop Now – Women’s

 

Best for trail and city life: Xero Shoes Ridgeway hiking boots

Hikers who crave a barefoot feel on the trail can look to the Xero Shoes Ridgeway hiking boots. These minimalist boots prioritize a close-to-the-ground experience, allowing for increased flexibility and agility compared to traditional hiking boots. The upper is crafted from water-resistant leather that provides some protection from the elements while remaining surprisingly flexible. A thin, puncture-resistant sole offers enough protection for most trails without compromising on ground feel. A lacing system with ankle lock allows for a secure and customized fit.

Despite their minimalist design, the Ridgeways are surprisingly adept at handling varied terrain. The grippy FeelTrue® sole provides good traction on loose rock, dirt, and even some light snow. Additionally, a removable 2mm insole offers a touch of extra cushioning for those who prefer it. However, it’s important to note that these boots are not designed for heavy backpacking or very technical hikes due to the minimal structure and support.

Here’s why these boots stand out:

Suitability and Break-in: Since the Ridgeways are minimalist boots, they’re best suited for experienced hikers who are comfortable with a close-to-the-ground feel. They might not be ideal for beginners or those who need a lot of ankle support. Also, due to the minimal sole and upper, a break-in period is less necessary compared to traditional hiking boots. However, it’s still recommended to wear them for shorter hikes or walks initially to allow your feet to adjust to the barefoot feel.

Sizing and Care: Xero Shoes Ridgeways are known to fit true to size and come in both men’s and women’s sizes. They are wider than most traditional hiking boots to accommodate a natural toe spread. For care, the water-resistant leather upper can be spot-cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap. Since the sole is thin, it’s wise to avoid overly rocky or technical terrain that could lead to punctures.

Check out Matador’s detailed review of the Xero Shoes Ridgeways hiking boots

Price: $160

Shop Now – Women’s

Shop Now – Men’s

Best low-top hiking shoe: Oboz Bozeman II

A dependable pair of low-rise hiking shoes is essential for those . As a gear tester and editor at Matador, I’ve worn many a pair of hiking boots — and I’ve never found a better pair that’s better out of the box than the Oboz Bozeman II. The first time I wore them I began the trek with a light jog across a flat stretch, then a steep pitch with a few hundred feet of gain. The Bozemans hadn’t been broken in at all (I literally took them from the box to my feet at the trailhead) yet I was as comfortable as I’d ever been on this stretch of trail. They’re super comfortable and easy to take on and off.

Overall, the Oboz Cottonwood Bozeman IIs have become the pair I keep at my coworking space and bring with me for “after-workers” or “before-workers.”  Here’s where they really stand out:

Light trail jogging: The Oboz Bozeman IIs aren’t trail runners but I frequently get out for hikes on the Lunch Loops in Grand Junction, Colorado, where I jog the flat stretches and walk the uphills and downhills. These shoes are incredible for this with the 8 mm drop and the light cushioning.

Comfort: No other pair of hiking shoes I’ve worn has fit so well nor been as comfortable straight out of the box. They required no “break in” period, and crushed their first hike straightaway.’

We’ve come to trust Oboz. For more, check out Matador’s detailed review of the Oboz Cottonwood Mid Waterproof hiking boots

Price: $145

Shop Now – Men’s