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What are the best hiking shoes for men? These 8 get our vote
Hit the trails with ease with the best and most comfortable hiking shoes by your side.
Hiking is a fantastic way to explore the great outdoors, but it requires the right gear.
One of the most critical pieces of equipment is a good pair of hiking shoes so your feet are protected from the elements
So, if you’re in need of a new pair, you’re in the right place.
We’ve done the research and rounded up the best hiking shoes for men who love hitting the trails and jumping into a new outdoor adventure. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a beginner, you'll find a shoe that suits your needs for your next trip.
Read more: Shop casual shoes for men
Top trekking shoes
For traction
Specifications
Material: Leather and mesh upper
Size range: 7 to 15
The Men's Moab 3 hiking boot from Merrell is your all-terrain companion, designed to withstand rigorous trails while keeping you comfortable and secure.
Equipped with a leather and mesh upper and EVA midsole, this boot offers breathability and flexibility, letting you navigate complex terrains with ease, whether you're in windy mountains or humid jungles.
But that’s not all.
The VibramTC5+ outsole is designed to provide excellent traction in both dry and wet conditions, meaning less slippage, more grip and ultimate safety.
Top waterproof pick
Specifications
Material: Synthetic
Size range: 7 to 14
Salomon's updated X ULTRA 4 GORE-TEX offers a unique blend of agility and robustness that any dynamic hiker would appreciate.
Designed to tackle any uneven terrain, it boasts the speediness of a trail-running shoe coupled with the stability, grip and waterproof protection of a traditional hiking shoe.
Its GORE-TEX material also offers unprecedented levels of waterproofing, ensuring every step you take is dry. Plus, the unmatched grip will keep you steady even when your path becomes less predictable. So, if you're a hiking enthusiast aiming to conquer various ascents and descents on your next adventure, this hiking shoe emerges as an unbeatable choice.
Top lightweight shoe
Specifications
Material: Synthetic
Size range: 7 to 14
Designed with a focus on comfort and durability, these shoes are surprisingly lightweight, making them ideal for fast-paced, single-day missions. Made from synthetic materials that are both durable and breathable, these hiking shoes ensure your feet stay dry and comfortable no matter what the weather throws at you. Plus, the water-resistant feature makes them suitable for all conditions, providing an added layer of protection against unexpected showers or damp terrain. But one of the standout features of these trail shoes is their cushioned, rockered midsoles. This design maximizes energy return, propelling you forward with every step and reducing the impact on your feet.
Whether you're tackling an intense uphill climb or navigating rocky paths, these shoes will help you move efficiently and comfortably.
Designed for long-distance
Specifications
Material: Synthetic mesh
Size range: 7 to 15
The Caldera 6 men's long-distance trail-running shoe from Brooks Running is designed to keep you comfortable and confident throughout your trail adventures.
With its reliable traction and plush cushioning, tackling rugged terrains becomes a more approachable task, whether you're a seasoned trail runner or new to the game.
Since it’s made with synthetic mesh material, it also provides breathability and durability, ensuring a cool and comfortable fit for the long haul.
Whether you're logging miles on a well-trodden path or exploring new terrains, the Caldera 6 is built to support your journey.
Best for style
Specifications
Material: Synthetic upper with rubber sole
Size range: 7 to 14
With a design that seamlessly bridges the gap between street style and rugged mountain gear, the Cloudtrax hiking boots are truly a game-changer.
Built for both urban jungles and rocky peaks, these boots offer the perfect blend of comfort and performance.
Its secret? Its special features!
It’s got a dual-layer midsole for stability, an easy lace system for a fast yet secure fit and a mission-grip outsole with multiple traction patterns for extra stability as you hit the trails. Its blend of style and functionality makes it a worthy investment for outdoor enthusiasts and city dwellers alike.
Suitable for different climates
Specifications
Material: Partially recycled materials
Size range: 6.5 to 15
The Terrex AX4 Mid Gore-Tex Hiking Shoes by Adidas are the perfect companion for your outdoor exploration journeys.
Made in part with recycled materials, these waterproof shoes let you take on diverse terrains, from damp forest paths to craggy mountain tracks. With its eco-conscious design, the Terrex AX4 not only helps you efficiently tread low valleys and ascend high peaks, but it also lets you contribute towards preserving those natural landscapes. Imagine encountering an unforeseen downpour during your ascent. With these hiking shoes, there's no need to turn back. Developed with Gore-Tex technology famous for its water-repelling properties, your pair of robust Terrex can conquer moisture like a pro.
Ideal for staying dry
Specifications
Material: Synthetic leather and polyester mesh
Size range: 7 to 13.5
The Maverick Mid GTX Hiking Boot for men is a perfect blend of agility, stability and comfort for all your hiking adventures.
With its lightweight design, this boot won't weigh you down on those long treks. It features synthetic leather and polyester mesh materials that are not only vegan-friendly but also incredibly durable to withstand rigorous trails. But the standout feature is its GORE-TEX Extended Comfort membrane. This advanced technology ensures your feet stay dry by sealing out external moisture. And it doesn't stop there – it simultaneously allows internal moisture vapor to escape, keeping your feet comfortable and fresh.
For cushioning
Specifications
Material: Gore-Tex
Size range: 7 to 14
The Elixir Gore-Tex Hiking Shoe for men is a dream come true for adventurous souls who crave long-distance hiking.
With its hyper-cushioned design, this shoe promises exceptional comfort that can make your journey less tiresome and more enjoyable. The EnergyFOAM used in the shoe combines EVA and Olefin, which not only provides cushioning but also enhances energy return, so you put in less effort with each step. The Elixir Gore-Tex Hiking Shoe, though not machine washable, is made of durable Gore-Tex material that's designed to withstand harsh outdoor elements, ensuring that they last as long as your adventures.
FAQs
What type of footwear is best for hiking?
Are men's hiking shoes better than trainers?
Should hiking shoes be light or heavy?
What are the best hiking shoes for men?
Still shopping for the perfect fit? We can help.
The Men's Moab 3 offers a robust blend of durability and functionality, making it an excellent choice for any terrain.
The X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex Hiking Shoes, on the other hand, combines the speediness of a trail-running shoe with the stability and grip of traditional men's hiking shoes, making it ideal for dynamic hikers.
Investing in a good pair of men's hiking shoes is essential for a comfortable and safe hiking experience. Choose wisely and happy hiking!
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Prices updated on 12/05/2023. We are not responsible for any changes to the prices mentioned above.
A self-proclaimed ‘obsessed TikTok user,’ Lauren Pascal uses her knowledge to help readers shop for trendy new products. Lauren is also an experienced travel writer and recently wrote informative pieces for travellers during the pandemic.