Hiking is a great way to explore the outdoors and stay active. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or just starting, having the right gear is essential. One of the most important pieces of gear is a good pair of hiking shoes. Hiking shoes are designed to provide support, protection, and comfort while you are on the trail.
When looking for the best hiking shoes, there are a few critical things to consider. The first is the type of hiking you will be doing. Different types of hiking require different types of shoes. For example, if you will be doing mostly day hikes on well-maintained trails, you may want a lightweight shoe with good traction. However, if you will be doing more rugged terrain or backpacking, you will want a shoe with more support and durability.
Another important factor to consider is fit. Hiking shoes should fit snugly but not be too tight. You should be able to wiggle your toes and have some room in the toe box. It's also a good idea to try on hiking shoes with the socks you will be wearing on the trail to ensure a proper fit.
We spent countless hours researching and testing hiking shoes to identify the five best options on the market. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned hiker, these shoes will provide the support, protection, and comfort you need on the trail.
Best Hiking Shoes
We know how important it is to have the right gear for any outdoor activity, especially hiking. That's why we've researched and tested various hiking shoes to bring you our top picks for the best hiking shoes on the market. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just starting out, our list has something for everyone. So, without further ado, let's dive into our top 5 picks for the best hiking shoes.
Salomon Men's Speedcross 5 Trail Running Shoes
If you're looking for a reliable and durable hiking shoe, the Salomon Men's Speedcross 5 Trail Running Shoes might be the right choice for you.
Pros
- The shoes offer excellent grip and traction, which makes them ideal for hiking on uneven terrain.
- The dynamic upper of the shoes provides a great fit and support for your feet.
- They are made of high-quality synthetic materials, which makes them durable and long-lasting.
Cons
- Some users reported that the shoes are not suitable for people with wide feet.
- The shoes are a bit expensive compared to other hiking shoes on the market.
- The shoes require some break-in time before they become comfortable to wear.
We've tested the Salomon Men's Speedcross 5 Trail Running Shoes on various hiking trails, and we were impressed with their performance. The shoes offer excellent grip and traction, which made us feel confident and secure while hiking on rocky and slippery terrain. The dynamic upper of the shoes provided a snug fit and support for our feet, which prevented any blisters or discomfort.
The shoes are made of high-quality synthetic materials, which makes them durable and long-lasting. We've used them for several months, and they still look and feel like new. However, some users reported that the shoes are not suitable for people with wide feet, so make sure to try them on before purchasing.
The Salomon Men's Speedcross 5 Trail Running Shoes are a bit expensive compared to other hiking shoes on the market. However, we believe that the quality and performance of the shoes justify the price. They require some break-in time before they become comfortable to wear, but once they do, they are one of the most comfortable hiking shoes we've ever worn.
In conclusion, if you're looking for a reliable and durable hiking shoe that offers excellent grip and traction, the Salomon Men's Speedcross 5 Trail Running Shoes are definitely worth considering.
Salomon Women's Alphacross 4
If you're looking for a versatile hiking shoe that provides great traction and comfort, the Salomon Women's Alphacross 4 W Hiking Shoe is a great option.
Pros
- The shoe has deep, aggressive lugs that provide excellent traction on a variety of terrains.
- The midsole compound is soft, making the shoe comfortable to wear.
- The shoe has a more generous fit and soft lining, which further increase comfort.
Cons
- The shoe is not waterproof, so it's not the best option for wet conditions.
We recently took the Salomon Women's Alphacross 4 W Hiking Shoe on a hike through some rocky terrain, and we were impressed with its performance. The deep lugs provided excellent traction, even on slippery rocks, and the soft midsole made the shoe comfortable to wear for the entire hike.
One thing to keep in mind is that the shoe is not waterproof, so it's not the best option for wet conditions. However, we didn't encounter any issues with water during our hike, so it wasn't a problem for us.
Overall, we would recommend the Salomon Women's Alphacross 4 W Hiking Shoe to anyone looking for a comfortable and versatile hiking shoe. Just be sure to try them on before purchasing to ensure a proper fit.
ALTRA Women's Superior 5 Trail Running Shoe
We highly recommend the ALTRA Women's Superior 5 Trail Running Shoe for anyone looking for a comfortable and lightweight hiking shoe.
Highlights:
- The FootShape™ comfort toe box provides ample space for your toes to relax and sit naturally, even after hours of hiking.
- The Balanced Cushioning™ platform encourages better alignment and form, making for a low impact landing.
- The Grippy MaxTrac™ outsole provides the perfect combination of grip, traction, and durability on all types of terrain.
We found the ALTRA Women's Superior 5 Trail Running Shoe to be incredibly comfortable and lightweight, making it an excellent choice for long hikes. The FootShape™ comfort toe box is a standout feature, providing ample space for your toes to relax and sit naturally. We also appreciated the Balanced Cushioning™ platform, which encourages proper alignment and form, resulting in a low impact landing. Additionally, the Grippy MaxTrac™ outsole provided excellent traction and durability on all types of terrain.
While some may find the sizing to be slightly off, we recommend trying on a few sizes before purchasing. Additionally, the lack of padding in this particular model may not be suitable for those with sensitive feet. Finally, it's worth noting that the shoes may not be as waterproof as some other hiking shoes on the market. Overall, we highly recommend the ALTRA Women's Superior 5 Trail Running Shoe for anyone looking for a comfortable and lightweight hiking shoe.
Salomon Women's Speedcross 5 Gore-tex Trail Running Shoes
We highly recommend the Salomon Women's Speedcross 5 Gore-tex Trail Running Shoes for anyone who enjoys hiking or trail running in wet conditions.
Pros
- Excellent water resistance
- Comfortable fit
- Durable construction
Cons
- Slightly heavier than some other hiking shoes
- May require a break-in period
- Not ideal for hot weather
We were impressed by the water resistance of these shoes, which kept our feet dry even during a light rain. The fit was comfortable, though it did take a few wears to break them in completely. The construction of the shoes is sturdy and durable, making them a reliable choice for frequent hikers.
The only downside we found was that the shoes are slightly heavier than some other hiking shoes we've tried. Additionally, they may not be the best choice for hot weather as they can be quite warm. Overall, we believe the Salomon Women's Speedcross 5 Gore-tex Trail Running Shoes are an excellent choice for anyone in need of a reliable, water-resistant hiking shoe.
Columbia Women's Trailstorm Peak Mid Hiking Shoe
If you're looking for a comfortable and durable hiking shoe that can handle a variety of terrains, the Columbia Women's Trailstorm Peak Mid Hiking Shoe is a great option.
Pros
- The stain and water-resistant upper construction keeps your feet dry and protected in wet conditions.
- The ultra-cushioned Techlite+ midsole provides excellent support and comfort for long hikes.
- The Adapt Trax outsole offers exceptional grip on both wet and dry surfaces, so you can feel confident on any trail.
Cons
- The shoe may not be as breathable as some other hiking shoes.
We recently took these shoes on a 10-mile hike through rugged terrain, and we were impressed with their performance. The shoes provided excellent support and cushioning, and the Adapt Trax outsole gave us great traction on both wet and dry surfaces. We also appreciated the stain and water-resistant upper construction, which kept our feet dry and protected in the rain.
One potential downside of these shoes is that the laces can get caught in the hooks, causing them to trip. We also noticed that the toe cap is made of molded no-sew TPU, which may not provide as much protection as a traditional leather toe cap. Finally, the shoe may not be as breathable as some other hiking shoes, which could lead to sweaty feet on hot days.
Overall, we would recommend the Columbia Women's Trailstorm Peak Mid Hiking Shoe to anyone looking for a comfortable and durable hiking shoe that can handle a variety of terrains.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying hiking shoes, there are a few key features to look out for to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the perfect pair of hiking shoes:
Comfort
Comfort should be your top priority when selecting hiking shoes. Look for shoes that fit well and have ample cushioning to protect your feet from impact. Make sure the shoes have enough room in the toe box to prevent blisters and other foot injuries.
Durability
Hiking shoes should be built to last. Look for shoes made from high-quality materials that can withstand the wear and tear of hiking trails. Shoes with reinforced toe caps and sturdy soles are a good option for those who plan to hike frequently.
Traction
Traction is crucial when hiking on uneven terrain. Look for shoes with a strong grip that can handle slippery or rocky surfaces. Shoes with deep lugs on the sole are ideal for providing maximum traction.
Breathability
Hiking shoes should be breathable to prevent your feet from getting too hot and sweaty. Look for shoes made from breathable materials that allow air to circulate around your feet.
Weight
The weight of your hiking shoes can make a big difference in your overall comfort and performance. Look for shoes that are lightweight and won't weigh you down on the trail.
By considering these factors, you can select a pair of hiking shoes that will provide the comfort, durability, traction, breathability, and weight you need to enjoy your hiking adventures to the fullest.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best waterproof hiking shoes for men?
The best waterproof hiking shoes for men are those that offer both comfort and durability. Some of the top-rated waterproof hiking shoes for men include Merrell Moab 2 Waterproof, Salomon Men's X Ultra 3 GTX, and KEEN Targhee III Waterproof.
What are the best hiking shoes for beginners?
For beginners, it's important to choose hiking shoes that offer good support and comfort. Some of the best hiking shoes for beginners include Merrell Moab 2 Ventilator, Salomon X Ultra 3, and KEEN Targhee III.
What are the best hiking shoes for women?
The best hiking shoes for women are those that offer a comfortable fit and good support. Some of the top-rated hiking shoes for women include Merrell Moab 2 Waterproof, Salomon Women's X Ultra 3 GTX, and KEEN Targhee III Waterproof.
What is the difference between trail shoes and hiking shoes?
Trail shoes are designed for running on trails, while hiking shoes are designed for hiking on rough terrain. Hiking shoes are more durable and offer better support for the feet and ankles, while trail shoes are lighter and more flexible.
What shoes are best for mountains?
For hiking in the mountains, it's important to choose shoes that offer good support and traction. Some of the best shoes for hiking in the mountains include Salomon Men's X Ultra 3 GTX, Merrell Moab 2 Waterproof, and KEEN Targhee III Waterproof.
Can I wear running shoes for hiking?
While running shoes are designed for running on flat surfaces, hiking shoes are designed for hiking on rough terrain. Running shoes do not offer the same level of support and traction as hiking shoes, so it's not recommended to wear them for hiking.
