The 10 Best Hiking Boots and Trail-Running Shoes (2024)

As many trail runners already know, hiking not only allows you to enjoy some quality time with nature but provides strength training for muscles that you may not be getting from road running. Instead of doing some squats or lunges in the gym, head out into the great outdoors for some natural challenges like climbing rock beds and jumping across streams. We’ve researched the best footwear for any excursion, whether you’re new to trails, a serious backpacker headed to the Appalachian Trail, or a casual day hiker.

Check out quick reviews below of the top five hiking boots, then scroll deeper for more buying advice and full reviews of these models plus other high-ranking options.

Hiking as Strength Training

If you’re not already a trail runner or regular hiker, it can take time to get used to the climbs and rougher terrain. But hiking can be a great form of cross training to test your agility, balance, and lateral muscles.

Nicole DeBoom, former professional triathlete and founder of Skirt Sports, explains how her and her husband (Tim DeBoom, Ironman Hawaii World Champion) hit the trails for cross training to break up their running routines and prevent injury. She says: “Tim is a firm believer that the uneven surfaces and conscientious footing encourages our bodies to use different support muscles, tendons, and ligaments. A good hike can ‘turn on’ muscles that have been ignored through repetitive run training.”

Hiking Boots vs. Trail Shoes

For some expeditions, old running shoes just won’t cut it. How you plan to hike will impact what kind of boots or shoes you need to keep your feet comfortable and protected. Generally, hiking boots tend to be more stable, durable, and grippy than trail-running shoes, though you can still find breathable, flexible, and lightweight models. Ultimately, select the type of footwear that’s most comfortable to you.

Day-hiking boots: Ranging from mid- to high-cut, these boots are intended for day hikes or short trips with light loads and usually require little to no breaking in.
Backpacking boots: Typically high cut for more ankle support, backpacking boots are stiffer and more supportive for longer backpacking trips with heavier loads, and especially good for off-trail travel.
Hiking shoes: These shoes have some of the flexibility and support of day-hiking boots but with a lower cut for more breathability and less weight.
Trail runners: Intended as running shoes, trail runners don’t tend to have the best traction at a slower hiking pace. More rigid shoes with deep lugs are better for rugged trails and day hiking, while others are more lightweight for even trails and ultra distances.

How We Rated Them

We researched 18 expert sources and 3,000 consumer reviews to select the top 10 hiking boots and shoes for 2020. To determine our Total Expert Score, we calculate the ratings from expert review sites, such as Outdoor Gear Lab, Mountain IQ, Gear We Are, and Wirecutter and convert them to a 100-point scale to make it easier for you to weigh the best options. Our Consumer Score represents the percentage of consumers who rated the product at least four out of five stars on retail sites like Amazon, REI, Zappos, and Backcountry.

—MIDWEIGHT BOOT—

Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX

Total Expert Score: 94/100 | Consumer Score: 87% give it 4 stars or more
Salomon packs comfort, support, and protection into the best backpacking or hiking boot.

Height: High | Weight: 22.6 oz. (M), 20.3 oz. (W) | Upper: Textile | Waterproof: Yes

The Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX is a midweight boot with a tall ankle and class-leading support that makes the few extra ounces worth it on more demanding trails, whether you’re backpacking or just day hiking.

This Quest boot appeared on 11 out of 18 expert lists for best hiking boots, and it is or has been the top choice of Mountain IQ, Switchback Travel, and Wirecutter. Outdoor Gear Lab also awarded it their Editors’ Choice, claiming that “Salomon has crafted a midweight hiking model that builds upon the successes of their popular trail runners but remains exceptionally comfortable and supportive.”

Expert reviewers and users alike commented on its stability from the Contagrip sole to the high, 6.5-inch ankle collar. After having bought only Salomon sneakers, one Amazon reviewer said: “These are my first Salomon boots. I haven’t backpacked with them, but have worn them on four 2-4 mile hikes. No break in required. Nice snug fit on the ankles when tied up. They are 100 percent waterproof.”

—LIGHTWEIGHT BOOT—

Merrell Moab 2 Mid Ventilator

Total Expert Score: 80/100 | Consumer Score: 91% give it 4 stars or more

A hiking kick for warm summer days, the Moab is light on your feet and your wallet.

Height: Mid | Weight: 17 oz. (M), 15 oz. (W) | Upper: Suede leather and mesh | Waterproof: No

Although the Moab 2 Mid Ventilator isn’t water resistant, its mesh design allows it to be breathable and light for hot summer hikes. (Plus, if you do really need that water resistance or a different style, Merrell also offers the Moab 2 in low shoe, waterproof, and wide models.) There’s a reason Merrell calls the Moab the “mother-of-all-boots”—12 out of 18 expert sources commended it as one of the best lightweight hiking boots.

At about half the cost of many other high-ranking hiking boots, this Merrell is a popular choice and averages 4.7 stars from over 3,000 Amazon reviews. One commenter wrote, “I have tried athletic shoes which were almost the same price, they did not provide anywhere near the support and comfort that these Merrell Moab 2s provided.”

—BACKPACKING BOOT—

Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX

Total Expert Score: 89/100 | Consumer Score: 78% give it 4 stars or more
Scarpa has made a stable boot for serious backpacking—no matter the weather.

Height: High | Weight: 19.2 oz (M), 16 oz (W) | Upper: Suede Perwanger | Waterproof: Yes

For a heavy-duty backpacking boot, the Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX is light and well-ventilated. Recommended by many mountain climbers, according to Gear Patrol, it’s a versatile hiking boot that’s also good for mountaineering at higher altitudes.

However, it may not be a good fit for casual hikers. Wirecutter says, “These boots are a good fit for hikers who a plan to tackle challenging terrains often, but most people won’t find their extra stability or foot protection necessary.”

But if you are part of the population who needs a boot to endure all kinds of weather conditions and terrains, the Zodiac Plus GTX is highly regarded among those who’ve tried it. “I have put mileage on them in ugly weather and my feet have stayed dry,” one Amazon reviewer wrote. “They give you a lot of support on rough terrain.”

—HIKING SHOE—

Salomon X Ultra 3 GTX

Total Expert Score: 93/100 | Consumer Score: 75% give it 4 stars or more

Salomon’s hiker will put a spring in your step through wet weather or on rough descents.

Height: Low | Weight: 13.4 oz. (M), 11.6 oz. (W) | Upper: Textile, Synthetic Leather | Waterproof: Yes

This below-the-ankle hiking shoe offers the best compromise between a high boot and trail runner. It’s cushioned and comfortable, yet stable and protective for just about any condition. Switchback Travel ranks the X Ultra 3 GTX as the #1 lightweight hiking shoe of the year, recommending it “for day hikes, quick summits, and even lightweight backpacking.”

Most wearers felt that they were comfortable for all kinds of uses, though those with wide feet should be aware of its smaller sizing before ordering. One REI reviewer concluded that these shoes are best for short hikes, describing them as “breathable, light, comfortable, and sturdy,” but that they “rubbed and created hot spots on the inside of my heels” on long hikes.

—TRAIL RUNNER—

Altra Lone Peak 4.5

Total Expert Score: 90/100 | Consumer Score: 88% give it 4 stars or more

This Altra shoe—with its cushion, traction, and a wide toe box—is for trailblazers.

Height: Low/Mid | Weight: 10.8 oz. (M), 8.9 oz. (W) | Upper Material: Mesh | Waterproof: No

Trail runners and hikers both love the Lone Peak for many of the same reasons, including the thick, cushioned midsole and protective toe cap. The grippy tread can rival any hiking boot, but one of the best things it has going for it is the comfort from the spacious toe box, which will accommodate your foot better as it swells at the end of a long hiking day.

Though the Lone Peak 4.5’s sole is harder than previous models, one of Runner’s World testers confirmed, “It has enough cushion to be kind to the feet without losing the feel of the ground under you.” Similarly, one long-time tester reported that even on rocky, muddy terrain: “It gripped and grabbed better than any other shoe I’ve tried. The low profile and wide toe box offer a great stable feel, and the lacing really locks in your foot.”In addition to the low-cut model designed for trail runners, Altra also offers a mid-cut size that more closely resembles a boot.

More High-Ranking Options to Consider

Keen Targhee II GTX

Total Expert Score: 82/100 | Consumer Score: 84% give it 4 stars or more
An affordable backpacking boot that’s lightweight and supportive

Height: Mid | Weight: 17.4 oz. (M), 14.2 oz. (W) | Upper: Nubuck Leather | Waterproof: Yes

In addition to its hardy sandals, Keen makes a pretty good hiking boot. The Targhee II GTX provides enough support and protection for rugged outdoor activities.

Appearing on 12 out of 18 experts’ lists of the best hiking boots, it’s an excellent option for casual backpackers who may need wide sizing options. In a previous version of its review, Digital Trends wrote that it’s a good value, with a waterproof and breathable eVent insert, supportive mid-cut height, and a dual-density compression-molded midsole.

Despite some Amazon buyers writing that this boot was less durable than they had hoped, the Targhee II still averages 4.3 stars from over 2,000 reviews. “I love them and they feel so very comfortable,” one wrote. “I do find that the back heel gets worn down really fast when I walk with them in my neighborhood.”

Lowa Renegade GTX Mid

Total Expert Score: 83/100 | Consumer Score: 83% give it 4 stars or more
A three-season hiking boot available in many colors and size options for a customized fit

Height: Mid | Weight: 19.5 oz. (M), 15.4 oz. (W) | Upper: Nubuck Leather | Waterproof: Yes

The Lowa Renegade GTX Mid is another popular mid-height boot that provides adequate support, cushioning, breathability, and water resistance. The shoe is also customizable to fit your needs, offered in regular, narrow, and wide options.

Very Well Fit selected the Lowa Renegade as the best waterproof boot, and REI has awarded it the best long-distance boot for women. One REI staffer wrote: “The PU sole works great to absorb shock, and supports your foot for a long day hike or backpacking trip in any weather. I broke mine in on the Mist Trail in Yosemite National Park. Even straight up all those wet stairs, I felt secure, with no blisters.”

Amazon reviewers loved its light weight and comfortable design, though some experienced issues with the boot’s longevity. One buyer who got a pair for summer day hikes said, “While these are not as light or breathable as the Vasque Breeze and Merrill Moab, I found that they felt much more durable, comfortable, supportive and roomy in the toe box,” with no breaking in required.

Merrell Zion Mid Waterproof

Total Expert Score: 86/100 | Consumer Score: 80% give it 4 stars or more
A stylish and affordable mid-cut hiker that will keep your toes warm and dry

Height: Mid | Weight: 14.5 oz. (M), 12.5 oz. (W) | Upper: Mesh and leather | Waterproof: Yes

It’s tough for a hiking boot to look cool, but the Zion manages with its sharp, sneaker-like styling. Though don’t let the appearance fool you—this boot has real outdoor chops. The Vibram Megagrip sole afforded supreme traction, and the supple and flexible molded-EVA midsole kept our feet feeling light, as if we were wearing nothing more than running shoes. We even found ourselves stepping into a light jog while going downhill. Yet the Zion still has the support of a traditional boot: The high cuff lent confidence, even on trails in the Tetons strewn with loose, basketball-size rocks. We did find the Zion a bit hot, especially in the toe box where leather and rubber give increased protection but limit venting. We were willing to overlook it, though, because the boot sloughed off all the water we stomped through. The upper was easy to tie to the perfect tightness, and, even when loose, the gusseted tongue kept trail debris out. But the sneaker-esque construction and forgiving fit of the upper might not be best for heavy loads or weak ankles.

Timberland Mt. Maddsen Mid

Total Expert Score: 87/100 | Consumer Score: 89% give it 4 stars or more
This comfy and cushy eco-friendly design performs without breaking the bank.

Height: Mid | Weight: 18 oz. (M), 16 oz. (W) | Upper: Full-grain leather | Waterproof: Yes

Comfortable right out of the box, the Mt. Maddsen combines day-hiking performance and style at an incredible price. Both in the field and during our waterproofing test, the boot’s TimberDry membrane, which is made with 50 percent PET from recycled water bottles, successfully repelled moisture. The outsole is also made with some recycled material, and the hefty lugs offered good traction on wet, rocky, and steep sections of trail. We loved the look of the full-grain leather upper, which made the boots fit in at casual events. Although the Mt. Maddsen is heavy, we didn’t feel like we had bricks strapped to our feet thanks to the spongy EVA midsole. The TPU shank lent support, but for rocky trails or backpacking trips, you’ll want a boot with a stiffer ankle. We also noticed the tongue is slightly narrow. In order for it to lay underneath the ankle cuff, we had to continuously adjust it as we laced up. Luckily, if you don’t get it just right, the gusseted design will keep debris out.

Salomon Ultra Pro

Total Expert Score: 83/100 | Consumer Score: 87% give it 4 stars or more
Another Salomon shoe that boasts all-terrain traction and lightweight comfort for ultrarunners

Height: Low | Weight: 10.9 oz. (M), 9.6 oz. (W) | Upper: 3D Stretch Air Mesh | Waterproof: No

Our testers found that the Salomon Ultra Pro’s traction held even on slippery rocks and its cushioning provided all-day comfort and support. “The Ultra Pro is one of the best all-terrain trail shoes I have worn,” said one.

Even if you don’t have plans to complete an ultra marathon in this shoe, other reviewers loved wearing these for other outdoor activities as well. On Zappos, one said: “They are super comfortable and just hug my feet. The lace system is super fast and easy.”