10 Best Hiking Boots
Taylor Gomes
Emergency Paramedic
Quick Jump Guide
Hiking boots are an essential piece of equipment for every outdoorsman or woman. As a wildland fireline paramedic, I have a different pair of boots for pretty much every scenario. From my 10″ high Whites Smokejumper boots to my trail running shoes, every environment and adventure requires a specific boot.
I have put together a brief list of 10 boots that I think make a well-rounded list. When it comes to most hiking boots, you can spend so much money. I attempted to advertise a couple expensive men’s hiking boots, but mostly boots that are more midrange price-wise. These boots get my stamp of approval. Enjoy.
Here We Go
The Salomon Quest 4D 4 GTX is designed for long expeditions and tough conditions. The QUEST is grippy and supportive. We’ve updated the chassis to target sensitive articulations and wrap the foot for extra support, while also keeping your stride fluid. No matter how tired you are or how heavy your pack, the QUEST 4 GORE-TEX ensures a stable yet smooth ride on any backpacking trip.
- While these boots are pricey, the return on investment is well worth it. You won’t be disappointed in these boots.
Rating: 9.5/10
Cost: $226.71
Featuring:
GORE-TEX: Keeps your feet dry—from the outside as well as from the inside.
Contagrip TD: For maximum traction on mixed terrain and extended durability, Contagrip TD combines a deep, aggressive lug pattern with our most durable compound.
ADV-C 4D Chassis: This chassis helps keep outer ankle articulations safe and protected, while also bringing the right level of stability and extra heel support when carrying a heavier load.
TOMORROW IS YOURS: Whether you are into trail running, hiking, backpacking, or mountaineering, Salomon has shoes and gear for kids, men and women to help you conquer a new distance, personal record, or event
SINCE 1947 Salomon has created innovative outdoor sports gear; From running and hiking to backpacking trips, skiing and more, our shoes, boots, bags, apparel and accessories help make any path your own.
Reviews:
Reviewed in the United States on January 11, 2024
Reviewed in the United States on December 26, 2023
The Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof, a budget-friendly option, is a great all around boot.
Experience out-of the-box comfort with durable leathers, a supportive footbed, and Vibram traction, all in a versatile package. You won’t doubt why Moab stands for MOTHER OF ALL BOOTS.
Rating: 8.5/10
Cost: $109.95
Features:
- Performance suede leather and mesh upper
- Bellows and closed-cell foam tongue keep moisture and debris out
- Merrell air cushion in the heel absorbs shock and adds stability
- Protective rubber toe cap, Breathable mesh lining
- 10 x 15 x 6 inches; 1.2 Pounds
- Vibram TC5+ sole, 5mm lug depth
Reviews:
Reviewed in the United States on February 6, 2024
Reviewed in Canada on January 25, 2024
As technical, mid-cut, waterproof leather boots, La Sportiva TX4 Mid GTX approach boots are designed to excel in technical mountain terrain with the help of Vibram® Megagrip grippy outsoles.
Even with a bit of a higher price tag, the La Sportiva TX4 makes up for it with aggressive tread. This boot has a tech approach and covers the spectrum of hiking boot needs. With their aggressive tread, they are also on the heavier side.
Rating: 9/10
Cost: $208.95
Features:
Weight: 16.20oz / 460g
Laces: 100% Recycled Polyester
Upper: Leather / 1.5mm PU TechLite rand / Rubber toe cap
Lining: Gore-Tex® Extended Comfort
Insole: OrthoLite Hybrid with 5% recycled rubber + 15% production waste foam
Midsole: Traverse injection MEMlex / STB™ Control System
Sole: Vibram® Mega-Grip™ Traverse with Impact Brake System™
- Gore-Tex lining for maximum breathability, water resistance and comfort
- Uber-sticky Vibram Mega-Grip rubber outsole with Impact Brake System for increased traction
- STB Control System upper wraps the midsole in the medial zone, increasing stability on traverse routes and wrapping the foot for a comfortable and precise fit
Reviews:
Reviewed in the United States on December 12, 2017
The Keen Targhee III Mid Waterproof is an iconic hiking boot for men. Keen brings an updated look to all-terrain adventures. They carried over the fit, durability, and performance of our award-winning Targhee waterproof boot and took its rugged looks to a new dimension. If you are looking for mid waterproof hiking boots, look no further.
This boot is a staple for many hikers, proven time and again to hold up against Mother Nature. Keen’s updated Targhee III Mid Waterproof is setting the standard for a great all-around boot.
Rating: 8.8/10
Cost: $88.92
Features:
WATERPROOF & PROTECTION: Keen.dry breathable membrane keep feet dry and comfortable by allowing vapor out without letting water in. Bruise plate for protection on uneven surfaces; high-abrasion rubber toe guard for added durability and underfoot protection.
MATERIAL & CONSCIOUSLY CREATED: Durable premium leather and breathable performance mesh; quick dry lining for active use; Keen sources hides from leather working group certified tanneries; environmentally friendly DWR helps keep leather from drying out.
TRACTION: Keen all-terrain rubber provides high traction grip in muddy environments and on rocky surfaces; 4mm multi direction lugs provide optimal traction for sure footing. Non marking rubber outsoles leave no imprints when walking indoors.
SUPPORT & COMFORT: External Support Shank and mid-cut heights add balance and ankle support. Heel cradle for stability; Removable footbed with arch support cradles to the foot’s shape; Resilient cushioning doesn’t compress quickly after extended use.
FIT & CARE: Keen original fit gives generous space for toes to spread out; gently brush leather with a soft bristle brush or hand towel to remove loose dirt and debris; tough stains may require a leather cleaner.
Affordability: Its affordable price makes it a steal, but individuals with narrower feet might find it a bit too roomy. A reliable and budget-friendly option for diverse hiking adventures.
Reviews:
Reviewed in the United States on January 12, 2024
Reviewed in the United States on February 9, 2024
With Salomon X Ultra Mid 4 GTX, get ready to power through steep trails, uphills, and descents with this mid-cut GORE-TEX version of the updated X-ULTRA 4. It is as agile as a trail-running shoe, but with all the stability, grip, and waterproof protection you need to tackle technical terrain. Equipped with a new chassis, the shoe is even better at protecting sensitive articulations without compromising freedom of movement.
Get ready to power through uphills and descents with this mid-cut GORE-TEX version of the updated X-ULTRA 4. It is as agile as a trail-running shoe, but with all the stability, grip, and waterproof toe protection you need to tackle technical terrain. Equipped with a new chassis, the shoe is even better at protecting sensitive articulations without compromising freedom of movement.
Rating: 9.4/10
Cost: $175
Featuring:
Waterproof Hiking Shoes: Power through uphills and descents with the mid height X Ultra 4 GTX; It has the agility of a trail running shoe with the stability, grip, and waterproof protection you need for technical hikes.
All Terrain Grip: Equipped with a new chassis, this waterproof hiking shoe protects sensitive articulations without compromising movement; The Contagrip MA outsole grabs the terrain, even when it’s wet or slippery.
Adventure Awaits: Whether you love a local day hike or hitting the trails for a multi-day adventure, Salomon makes innovative hiking and backpacking shoes and boots for men and women to help you go the distance.
Time To Play: Whether you are into trail running, hiking, backpacking, or mountaineering, Salomon has shoes and gear for kids, men, and women to help you conquer a new distance, personal record, or event.
Since 1947, Salomon has created innovative outdoor sports gear; From running and hiking to backpacking, skiing, and more, our shoes, boots, bags, apparel, and accessories help make any path your own.
Reviews:
Reviewed in the United States on February 16, 2024
Reviewed in the United States on September 27, 2023
Vasque Breeze LT Mid GTX features a lightweight design, Vibram LiteBase outsole, and GORE-TEX protection.
Challenging trails and fickle forecasts ahead? Not a problem if you’re wearing Vasque Breeze AT Mid GTX hiking boots. These grippy, waterproof hikers help you enjoy whatever your route has in store.
Rating: 8.7/10
Cost: $ 150
Features:
- Vasque-exclusive outsoles combine Vibram® Megagrip with Vibram Lightbase technology, providing sure footing across varying surfaces and saving 25% in weight.
- GORE-TEX® construction with extended comfort technology provides waterproof protection and lasting comfort for long hikes.
- Uppers made with abrasion-resistant, microfiber mesh deliver an athletic, responsive ride that’s purpose-built for efficient trail miles.
- Moisture-wicking materials reduce sweat buildup
- Anatomic, high-rebound footbeds offer support and shock absorption
- EnduraLast midsoles are made with dual-density, compression-molded EVA to provide cushioning
Reviewed in the United States on May 25, 2023
The Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof combines a durable leather upper, Omni-Grip traction, and Techlite cushioning.
Finally, a stylish waterproof hiking boot with the comfort and traction you need for tough trails, easy walks, and every adventure in between. The Newton Ridge™ Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Boot is made from high-quality materials, quality assembly, and strong stitching. It’s a rugged, trail-ready boot designed for long-lasting hiking wear. Lace up and go. These hiking boots feature waterproof seam-sealed construction combined with a full-grain leather and suede upper, a mesh tongue, a scratch-resistant rubber heel, and outdoor lace hardware. This is the secure and stable traditional hiking boot you want on long treks over uneven and rugged terrain. Columbia offers these lightweight hiking boots now in several color versions with true-to-fit sizing.
Rating: 8.4/10
Cost: $75
Features:
ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY: The Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Boot features a seam-sealed leather construction, combined with our TECHLITE lightweight midsole, for long-lasting comfort with superior cushioning and high energy return.
DURABLE HIKING BOOT: This women’s lightweight hiking boot is inspired by classic mountaineering boots. A durable, mid-cut waterproof hiker that provides great traction and comfort. This classic Columbia hiking boot will deliver years of comfortable service.
ALL TERRAIN TRACTION: Our signature Omni-GRIP non-marking traction rubber outsole provides high grip across a wide variety of terrain and versatile three-season use.
HANDY FEATURES: Treacherous days out on the trail are comfortable and worry-free with this hiking boot’s waterproof combination of supportive leather and suede construction.
REINFORCED TOE AND HEEL CONSTRUCTION: Designed for extended years of use, we’ve reinforced the toe and heel barriers and extended the outsole toe overwrap to guard these key wear points.
Reviews:
Reviewed in the United States on February 15, 2024
These are the best waterproof boots! I know this because I accidentally stepped in a lake 10 minutes after this picture was taken, and my feet were completely dry! I cannot hype these boots up enough.
Reviewed in the United States on February 25, 2024
Danner Mountain 600 features a full-grain leather upper, Vibram SPE midsole, and Danner Dry waterproofing.
Explore Beyond the Familiar!
Inspired by decades of legendary hiking boots, we partnered with Vibram to forge a new path in wearing hiking boots for men and women. The Mountain 600 defines a new category of hiking boots we call Performance Heritage, combining our classic styling with lightweight innovation. Explore beyond the familiar.
Rating: 9/10
Cost: $209.95
Features:
Vibram SPE Midsole
The Danner Mountain 600 features the Vibram SPE (Specialized Performance Elastomer) midsole, an all-new, technical compound engineered to deliver greater comfort and flexibility. Created with a unique co-polymer blend of synthetic natural rubber and EVA, this midsole improves resiliency, cushioning, and durability, while minimizing weight.
Waterproof Protection
Drawing from years spent building durable full leather hiking boots, we selected a specific suede for the Mountain 600, knowing that its lighter weight, waterproofing, and superior abrasion-resistant qualities would hold up to the rugged Pacific Northwest. We designed the lightweight boot to have minimal seams and lined it with Danner Dry to ensure it could withstand the wettest conditions.
Vibram Fuga Outsole with MegaGrip
By combining the SPE midsole with the Vibram Fuga outsole, we were able to achieve the perfect balance between flexibility and traction. The pliable SPE midsole and flex lines of the Fuga outsole allow your foot to expand to a wider surface, while the unique self-adaptive lug pattern grips at multiple angles. This combination provides ultimate stability when traversing rocky terrain or scree. The entire outsole is injected with Vibram’s Megagrip rubber technology for ultimate hold on wet and dry terrain.
With Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2 Gore-Tex your hiking will go to the next level. These shoes blend a sleek design with rugged performance. Conquer any terrain with unique style and unparalleled performance.
Hike further. Explore more. Enjoy the view. From thru-hikes to weekend explorations, these lightweight hiking shoes offer next-level comfort and support to extend your range in the mountains.
Rating: 9.5/10
Cost: $183.95
Featuring:
A BOOST midsole brings energy to every step to keep you moving on hikes long and short. A GORE-TEX membrane seals out wet conditions while letting your feet breathe as they warm up. The soft, supportive upper and gusseted tongue hug your foot with form-fitting comfort that seals out trail debris.
An internal frame and heel support add the stability to move with confidence over rocky uneven terrain and uneven ground, and the Continental Rubber outsole maintains confident traction whether it’s wet or dry.
Reviews:
Reviewed in the United States on December 28, 2023
Reviewed in Australia on February 8, 2024
With our updated Terradora waterproof hiking boots, we kept all the things women love about the original and added more performance, more comfort, and more traction—so you can go even further and stay out there longer.
Made with waterproof, lightweight mesh, the KEEN Women’s Terradora 2 Mid-Height Waterproof Hiking Boot is built off a woman’s specific foot shape and form for a narrower fit.
KEEN products are consciously created using a natural, pesticide-free probiotic-based technology called Eco Anti-Odor for breaking down odor in sweat, PFC-free water repellent (in applicable styles), and leather sourced from Leather Working Group (LWG)-certified tanneries.
KEEN makes shoes to make a difference. From the products it makes to the actions it takes, KEEN inspires people to live and work monumentally every day. As a brand born for life outside, KEEN has a responsibility to protect and conserve the places where all people live, play, and work.
Rating: 8.9/10
Cost: $65
Features:
KEEN.DRY waterproof breathable membrane keeps your feet dry and comfortable all day long by allowing vapor out without letting water in
TRACTION & PROTECTION: 4mm multi directional lugs for increased traction on and off the trails; KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole for higher traction grip when you need it
COMFORT: Breathable mesh lining; Removable dual density footbed with arch support offers long lasting cushioning
SUPPORT: KEEN’s KonnectFit heel capture system for a locked in feel; Built on a women’s specific foot form for a more narrow and precise fit; Stability shank delivers lightweight support on uneven surfaces
FIT: Built on a women’s specific foot form for a more narrow and precise fit
Reviews:
Reviewed in the United States on January 17, 2024
Reviewed in the United States on January 11, 2024
As we arrive at the end of our list, that is not to say there are other fantastic boots out there. We hope to continue to provide updated information with new and improved products.
Picking your boots can be a frustrating and even daunting task, but once you find your pair, you’ll buy them over and over again. Research and just plain trying them out sometimes are necessary.
Whether you are a serious long-distance and multi-day backpacker or a stroll around the park, there is an option for everyone, even the ladies. We have highlighted the features, reviews, ratings, and recommendations for these great products. We hope you have enjoyed it. Check out our social media to stay current with Rugged Solutions. Thanks for reading.
Stay Rugged!
-Rugged Solutions
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