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Best Hiking Shoes in 2024

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Are you ready to hit the trails in 2024 and conquer new heights? The best hiking shoes in 2024 are here to accompany you on your journey towards belonging in the great outdoors. With their responsive support and excellent traction, these shoes will keep you comfortable and confident every step of the way.

Whether you’re a man or a woman, on a budget, or seeking maximum support, we’ve got you covered. Our expert team of hikers has done extensive research to ensure that you make the perfect choice for your next outdoor escapade.

Best hiking shoes in 2024

8. NORTIV 8 Men’s Waterproof Hiking Shoes

NORTIV 8 Men's Waterproof Hiking Shoes

  Get it now on Amazon.com

When it comes to the best hiking shoes in 2024, you can rely on the NORTIV 8 Men’s Waterproof Hiking Shoes for their exceptional waterproofing capabilities. These shoes are designed to keep your feet dry and comfortable, even in wet and challenging conditions. The shoes feature a waterproof membrane that prevents water from seeping in, while still allowing your feet to breathe. This ensures that you can hike with confidence, knowing that your feet will stay dry and comfortable throughout your adventure.

The NORTIV 8 Men’s Waterproof Hiking Shoes also offer a great fit and comfort. With their wide toe box and cushioned insoles, these shoes provide a comfortable and supportive fit, even for those with wider feet. They’re built to last, with durable construction that can withstand hard use. The shoes also come with an extra pair of shoelaces, providing added convenience and versatility.

Pros:

  • Exceptional waterproofing capabilities
  • Comfortable fit, especially for wider feet
  • Durable construction
Cons:

  • Shoes may feel a bit clunky and heavy compared to other brands
  • Short shoelaces may not allow for a double-knot
  • Some users may find the toe box slightly narrow

7. NORTIV 8 Women’s Hiking Shoes

NORTIV 8 Women's Hiking Shoes

  Get it now on Amazon.com

For the best hiking shoes in 2024, look no further than the NORTIV 8 Women’s Hiking Shoes. These shoes are known for their reliable traction on any terrain. They have received positive reviews and have proven to be sturdy, light, and comfortable, making them perfect for all-day use. The well-padded and roomy design ensures that your feet won’t ache even after hours of walking. The NORTIV 8 Women’s Hiking Shoes also offer good tread and look great, providing both functionality and style.

However, there are some concerns regarding the quality of the insoles and the lack of support on the sides. Additionally, while they aren’t completely waterproof, they’re still suitable for general wanders and walks. Overall, the NORTIV 8 Women’s Hiking Shoes offer great value for the money and are a reliable choice for your hiking adventures.

Pros:

  • Reliable traction on any terrain
  • Sturdy, light, and comfortable
  • Well-padded and roomy design
Cons:

  • Insoles could be more robust
  • Lack of support on the sides
  • Not completely waterproof

6. Skechers Men’s GOrun Altitude-Trail

Skechers Men's GOrun Altitude-Trail

  Get it now on Amazon.com

Experience the ultimate comfort and durability of Skechers Men’s GOrun Altitude-Trail hiking shoes in 2024. These trail running and hiking shoes are designed to provide you with the best performance on any terrain.

With their lightweight and responsive Ultra Light cushioning, you’ll feel like you’re walking on clouds. The lace-up training shoe design ensures a secure fit, while the Skechers Air Cooled Goga Mat breathable insole adds extra cushioning. The underfoot foam enhances the overall comfort, making these shoes ideal for long walks and light hiking.

The breathable athletic mesh upper keeps your feet cool and dry, while the water-repellent feature ensures your feet stay protected.

Pros:

  • Lightweight and responsive cushioning
  • Breathable and water-repellent upper
  • Durable traction and stability
Cons:

  • Some customers found the shoe to be roomy
  • A slight blue tinge and lack of breathability were mentioned by some customers
  • Not completely waterproof

5. Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge

Columbia Men's Newton Ridge

  Get it now on Amazon.com

Get ready for the best hiking experience in 2024 with the Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge, a trail-ready hiking shoe designed to provide unmatched comfort and durability.

These hiking shoes are expertly crafted with high-quality materials, featuring a waterproof mesh and leather exterior that will keep your feet dry in any weather condition. The advanced traction outsole ensures excellent grip on uneven terrain, giving you the confidence to tackle challenging hikes.

Despite its rugged construction, the Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge is surprisingly lightweight and versatile, making it a great choice for both short day hikes and longer backpacking trips. The signature lightweight midsole offers exceptional comfort and cushioning, allowing you to hike for hours without discomfort. Available in multiple colors and sizes, you can find the perfect pair to suit your style and fit.

Pros:

  • Waterproof mesh and leather exterior keep your feet dry
  • Advanced traction outsole for excellent grip on uneven terrain
  • Lightweight and versatile design for all types of hikes
Cons:

  • Some users found the arch support to be lacking
  • Not insulated for winter hikes
  • A break-in period may be required for optimal comfort.

4. Columbia Men’s Crestwood Hiking Shoe

Columbia Men's Crestwood Hiking Shoe

  Get it now on Amazon.com

When looking for the best hiking shoes in 2024, you’ll be impressed by the Columbia Men’s Crestwood Hiking Shoe. These lightweight leather hikers feature durable construction and a Techlite cushioned midsole for maximum comfort on the trails. The super-grippy outsole provides excellent traction, while the suede leather upper and breathable mesh webbing ensures a comfortable and breathable fit. With its Omni-Grip traction rubber outsole, these shoes offer reliable grip on various terrains. Available in multiple colors and with a true-to-size fit, the Columbia Men’s Crestwood Hiking Shoe is a top choice for hikers of all levels.

Pros:

  • Lightweight and durable construction
  • Comfortable and breathable fit
  • Excellent traction on various terrains
Cons:

  • Some wear and tear after extended use
  • Possible seepage when fully immersed in water
  • The insole may need to be changed for optimal comfort

3. KEEN Men’s Targhee 2 Low Height Waterproof Hiking Shoes

KEEN Men's Targhee 2 Low Height Waterproof Hiking Shoes

  Get it now on Amazon.com

For the best hiking shoes in 2024, you can’t go wrong with the KEEN Men’s Targhee 2 Low-Height Waterproof Hiking Shoes. These shoes are known for their exceptional waterproofing, designed to keep your feet dry even in the most challenging weather conditions. The waterproof membrane ensures that no water seeps through, allowing you to confidently tackle any wet terrain you encounter on your hike.

Additionally, the low-height design provides excellent ankle support without sacrificing flexibility, allowing for a comfortable and secure fit. The durable construction of these shoes means they can withstand the rigors of hiking, providing you with a reliable pair of shoes that will last for years to come.

Pros:

  • Exceptional waterproofing
  • Low-height design for ankle support and flexibility
  • Durable construction for long-lasting performance
Cons:

  • Sizing may run small, so consider ordering a half-size larger
  • Some users may find them to be a bit snug
  • Limited color options

2. Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoe

Merrell Men's Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoe

  Get it now on Amazon.com

The Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoe offers exceptional ventilation for maximum comfort on your hikes. This ventilated hiker is made with durable leather and features a supportive footbed for added stability. The Vibram traction ensures a secure grip on any terrain, making it a versatile choice for all your outdoor adventures.

Customers have raved about the comfort, ruggedness, and traction of the Merrell Moab 2 Vent. Many have mentioned that the shoe fits as expected and offers consistent quality and fit. The shoe has gained a loyal customer base, with repeat purchases and high recommendations.

In terms of performance and durability, the Moab 2 Vent has been used for hiking, yard work, walking, and everyday use. It can withstand 50 miles of hiking and its rigid and durable soles protect jagged rocks. Overall, it’s considered a durable and long-lasting shoe.

The comfort and fit of the Moab 2 Vent have been praised by customers. It’s comfortable for both hiking and city wandering, with a fit similar to previous models. However, some users have reported comfort issues after long distances or prolonged use, so it may be more suitable for shorter day hikes.

Pros:

  • Exceptional ventilation for maximum comfort
  • Durable leathers and supportive footbed
  • Vibram traction for a secure grip
Cons:

  • Some users experienced comfort issues after long distances or prolonged use
  • More suitable for shorter day hikes
  • Slightly harder sole compared to other hiking shoes

1. Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge

Columbia Men's Newton Ridge

  Get it now on Amazon.com

Get ready to experience the ultimate hiking shoe in 2024 with the Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge, featuring unrivaled durability and comfort. Designed for rigorous days on the trail, these boots are expertly crafted using superior materials to provide you with the best hiking experience possible.

The suede and leather waterproof exterior ensures that your feet stay dry even in wet conditions, while the high traction outsole gives you stability and grip on any terrain. The lightweight midsole offers comfort and cushioning, allowing you to go the distance without any discomfort. With its stylish design and multiple color options, the Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge is the perfect combination of functionality and fashion.

Pros:

  • Unrivaled durability
  • Superior comfort
  • Waterproof exterior
  • High traction outsole
  • Lightweight midsole
  • Stylish design
  • Multiple color options
Cons:

  • Maybe on the pricier side
  • Some users reported issues with sizing
  • Limited availability in certain sizes and colors

How to choose Best hiking shoes

best Hiking Shoes

Type of hiking

Consideration of hiking terrain is crucial when selecting the best hiking shoes for your outdoor adventures. Different types of hiking require different features in a shoe to ensure optimal performance and comfort.

For example, if you’re planning on tackling rugged and rocky trails, you’ll want a shoe with sturdy construction, excellent traction, and a supportive midsole. On the other hand, if you’re going for a leisurely hike on well-maintained trails, a lighter and more flexible shoe may be sufficient.

Additionally, if you’re planning on hiking in wet conditions or crossing streams, it’s important to choose a shoe with waterproof or water-resistant properties.

Traction

To ensure optimal performance and comfort on different types of hiking terrain, it’s important to consider the traction capabilities of the hiking shoes you choose.

Traction refers to the shoe’s ability to grip the ground and provide stability while walking on uneven surfaces, slippery rocks, or muddy trails. When selecting hiking shoes, look for outsoles that feature deep lugs or multidirectional patterns, as these provide better traction and prevent slips.

Additionally, consider the material of the outsole. Vibram rubber is a popular choice due to its durability and excellent traction properties. Remember that the right amount of traction depends on the type of hiking you plan to do, so be sure to choose shoes that are appropriate for your specific needs.

Breathability

To ensure the best hiking shoe for your needs, prioritize breathability by selecting a shoe that allows air to circulate and your feet to stay cool and comfortable.

Breathability is crucial for a comfortable hiking experience, especially in warm weather or during strenuous activities. When choosing hiking shoes, look for features that promote breathability, such as mesh panels or perforations in the upper material. These allow air to flow in and out of the shoe, preventing excessive heat and moisture buildup.

Additionally, consider shoes with moisture-wicking linings or insoles that can help keep your feet dry and comfortable. Good breathability not only enhances your overall hiking experience but also helps prevent discomfort, blisters, and odors caused by trapped moisture.

Fit

When choosing the best hiking shoes for your outdoor adventures, it’s important to focus on finding the right fit. Hiking shoes that fit well will provide you with the comfort and support you need to tackle the trails with confidence.

To ensure a proper fit, start by measuring your feet and considering any specific foot conditions or needs you may have. Look for shoes that offer a snug, yet comfortable fit, with enough room in the toe box to wiggle your toes. Pay attention to the arch support and cushioning to ensure optimal comfort and stability.

It’s also important to try on the shoes and walk around in them to test their fit and feel. Remember, finding the right fit is crucial for an enjoyable hiking experience.

Waterproofing

Choose hiking shoes with reliable waterproofing to keep your feet dry and comfortable during your outdoor adventures. When selecting the best hiking shoes, it’s important to consider the waterproofing capabilities to ensure your feet stay protected from wet conditions.

Look for shoes that feature a waterproof membrane, such as Gore-Tex, which provides excellent protection against moisture while allowing your feet to breathe. Additionally, check for sealed seams and water-resistant materials to enhance the shoe’s ability to repel water. Some hiking shoes also come with a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating on the exterior, which helps to shed water and prevent it from seeping into the shoe.

Ankle support

For optimal ankle support while hiking, prioritize hiking shoes that provide sturdy reinforcement around the ankles. Ankle support is crucial to prevent injuries and provide stability on uneven terrain.

Look for hiking shoes that have a higher collar or ankle cuff, as they provide added support and protection. These shoes should also have a secure lacing system that allows you to tighten the shoe around your ankle for a snug fit.

Additionally, consider the materials used in the construction of the shoe. Look for shoes that have durable and rigid materials around the ankle area, such as synthetic overlays or leather. These materials will provide the necessary support and prevent your ankles from rolling or twisting during hikes.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a man or a woman, on a budget or looking for maximum support, there’s a perfect option for you. Remember, when choosing your hiking shoes, it’s important to consider factors like comfort, support, and waterproofing. So lace up and hit the trails with confidence, because with these top picks, you’ll be hiking in style and comfort.