11 Best Hiking Shoes For Men

Hiking shoes for men are one of the most important gear decisions you’ll make the hiking shoes to buy. Choosing a hiking shoe for men paired with the correct blend of comfort, traction, lightness, and longevity will greatly impact the trail. Our team spent investigating, fitting in, and trail testing many hiking shoes to offer you this list of the best hiking shoes. 

Quick Recommendations

If you’re in a rush, check out this fast list of hiking shoes for men or keep scrolling to see our detailed reviews:

• The best waterproof hiking shoes for comfort, traction, and durability: Salomon X Ultra 4 Low GTX.
• The finest non-waterproof hiking shoes for traction, weight, & comfort: Saucony Peregrine 12.
• The finest lightweight hiking shoe with plenty of cushioning: HOKA ONE ONE Speedgoat 4.
•  A lightweight hiking shoe with a natural shape: Altra Lone Peak 6.
• Affordable hiking shoe: The Merrell Moab 2 WP Low.
• Hiking shoe that is light, flexible, and waterproof: Vasque Breeze LT Low GTX.
• A rugged and durable waterproof hiking shoe:  La Sportiva Spire GTX.
• Hiking shoes for a day of hikers at a great price: Keen Targhee III Low WP.
• Grippy hiking shoes that are especially good in rainy weather:  Salomon XA Pro 3D V8 GTX.
•  Hiking shoes are tough and supportive for traditional trekkers: Oboz Firebrand II BDry.
• Best waterproof, cushioned, and comfortable hiking shoes: Vasque Breeze AT Low GTX Hiking Shoes.

Things To Consider While Looking For Hiking Shoes For Men: 

Comfort & Fit:

Because fitness is personal, what works once per person may not be the ideal choice for another. Choosing comfortable shoes means allowing your toes to stretch out, having padding to support your foot form, and flexing the upper to move with your foot.

A few examples of the most Comfortable hiking shoes are given below:

•  Comfortable hiking shoes: Salomon X Ultra 4 Low GTX, HOKA ONE ONE Speedgoat 4, Saucony Peregrine 12, and Altra Lone Peak 6.
• Best hiking shoes with a wide fit: Merrell Moab 2 WP Low, Keen Targhee III Low WP, and Altra Lone Peak 6.

Price:

We are ready to pay a little extra for high-quality footwear because we feel that having happy and healthy toes is essential to the success of our excursions. In our opinion, comfort and fit transcend cost, but our best recommendations below provide high-quality solutions at various pricing points.

A few examples are given below:

• Affordable hiking shoes: Saucony Peregrine 12 and Merrell Moab 2 WP Low Salomon X Ultra 4 Low GTX, Altra Lone Peak 6, and HOKA ONE ONE Speedgoat 4.
•  Best quality hiking shoes: Vasque Breeze LT Low GTX, La Sportive Spire GTX, and Salomon XA Pro 3D V8 GTX.

Weight:

Weight carried on your feet consumes approximately 5 times as much energy as the weight carried on your back. That isn’t to argue that wearing heavier shoes is a terrible idea. However, if you do a lot of off-trail hiking or carry a heavy load, a much more durable and reliable shoe is more appropriate.

A few examples are given below:

• Best lightweight hiking shoes: HOKA ONE ONE Speedgoat 4, Altra Lone Peak 6, Saucony Peregrine 12, and Vasque Breeze LT Low GTX.
• Best heavy-weighted hiking shoes: Merrell Moab 2 WP Low, Keen Targhee III Low WP, and Oboz Firebrand II BDry.

Durability & Material

Hiking shoes are expensive, so finding a pair that will last will assist you in getting the most out of your money. Generally, traditional leather shoes always are considered more durable than lightweight hiking shoes. However, if weight concerns you, look for shoes with nylon reinforcements to get the balance of a durable and weight pair.

A few examples are given below:

• Durable hiking shoes: Salomon X Ultra 4 Low GTX, Merrell Moab 2 WP Low, and Oboz Firebrand II BDry.
• Trekking trail runners: HOKA ONE Speedgoat 4, Saucony Peregrine 12, and Altra Lone Peak 6.

Waterproof Vs. Non-Waterproof: 

Waterproof shoes are not considered very breathable during hot days and do not dry quickly. Besides, non-waterproof shoes are more flexible and lighter, and even if they become wet, they dry relatively fast.

A few examples are given below:

• Men’s Waterproof Hiking Shoes: Salomon X Ultra 4 Low GTX, Merrell Moab 2 WP Low, Vasque Breeze LT Low GTX, and Salomon XA Pro 3D V8 GTX.
•  Non-waterproof hiking shoes: HOKA ONE ONE Speedgoat 4, Saucony Peregrine 12, and Altra Lone Peak 6

Footwear’s Additional Critical Considerations For Hiking Shoes For Men: 

Boots Vs. Shoes Vs. Trail Runner.

Hiking footwear is a very personal choice, and opinions on which type of shoe is ideal for hiking are frequently divided. 

Sizing

Because feet swell after spending days on the trail, it’s a great idea to select hiking shoes half a size larger than other shoes. First, release all the laces, and position your foot to touch your toes to the toe box. Then check if you have a gap to position your finger between your heel and the rear of the shoe to check the size. On downhill portions of the trail, this will prevent your toes from sliding forward and touching the toe box. When picking a size, keep in mind which socks you’ll be using and if you’ll be using aftermarket insoles. It’s preferable to have a little more room in your shoes than too small.

Traction

One of the most important features of camping and hiking footwear is traction. Your footwear will carry you across rocky mountain ridges, through slick river crossings, and loose scree fields. It’s critical to know that your footwear will prevent slipping, especially on washed-out or exposed trail parts. All of our hiking shoe recommendations have a strong emphasis on traction.

Insoles

Aftermarket insoles can assist with a variety of trail shoe aches and pains. Swapping insoles might be the answer if you have plantar fasciitis or simply need additional comfort and support in a tight shoe. If you’re in between sizes, insoles might help take up a little more space in your shoes for a more tailored fit.

Break-In-Period

You’ll be walking thousands of steps on your hiking trip, so be sure your hiking shoe is comfortable and won’t create burns. We advise purchasing your hiking shoes a few weeks before your hiking trips and wearing them as much as possible. It will allow your new shoes to break in and ensure you feel comfortable wearing your shoes. In addition, it’ll be easier to fix if you identify any problems before heading into the backcountry.

Top 11 Recommendations For Best Hiking Shoes For Men

1. Salomon X Ultra 4 Low Hiking Shoes For Men

The best waterproof hiking shoes for men for comfort, traction, and durability.

Short description:

MRP: $150

WEIGHT (SIZE 13): 2 lb. 0.9 oz.

ALSO AVAILABLE IN: Non-waterproof

PROS: Comfortable right out of the box, lightweight for how robust and supportive, stable, good traction, and a secure fit.

CONS: Quicklace requires some practice.

FEATURES:

• These hikers are light and agile, drawing on Salomon’s trail-running experience to keep you nimble on difficult terrain.
• It cradles your feet, giving a safe, tight, and fits all-around your feet.
• The ADV-C chassis optimizes stability by focusing on articulations on the foot’s outer side while it keeps the shoes’ front side flexible.
• The outsoles are durable outsoles and can handle a broad range of terrain. The geometry and rubber composition are balanced to provide confidence on every type of surface.

With the men’s Salomon X Ultra 4 Low hiking shoes, you may explore every angle of freedom. To help you push over uphills and descents, they combine anatomic design with solid platforms and gripping outsoles.

2. Saucony Peregrine 12 Hiking Shoes For Men

The finest non-waterproof hiking shoes for traction, weight, & comfort.

Short description:

MRP: $130

WEIGHT (SIZE 12): 1 lb. 8.1 oz.

ALSO AVAILABLE IN: Waterproof

PROS: Good traction, breathable, lightweight, solid fit, rock plate (improved protection and durability in the sole), low price

CONS: These shoes aren’t as durable as regular hiking boots.

FEATURES:

• Uppers have been updated with a lightweight, strong top layer that adds toughness to the comfortable air mesh bootie, ensuring that nothing gets in the way of your speed.
• The PWRRUN cushioning gives you a responsive feeling.
• Additional protection provided by the rock plate allows you to push uphill confidently and drive downhill.
• PWRTRAC tacky rubber aggressive lugs adapt to dig in and securely grip various terrain Imported.

The Saucony Peregrine 11 hiking shoes for men provide speed and grip. In addition, thanks to redesigned uppers, they provide an aggressive, responsive ride for going quickly over difficult terrain.

3. HOKA ONE ONE Speedgoat 4 Hiking Shoes

Finest lightweight hiking shoe with plenty of cushioning.

Short description:

MRP: $145

WEIGHT (SIZE 12): 1 lb. 10.5 oz.

ALSO AVAILABLE IN: Waterproof

PROS: Supportive, big toe box, comfortable, super soft soles, good traction

CONS: Not as sturdy as traditional hiking shoes and not as protective as some others.

FEATURES:

• New mesh uppers are lightweight but durable, and 3D-printed overlays improve midfoot support and lockdown for a more secure fit.
• The midsoles have been redesigned with lighter foam for a comfortable ride.
• The broader forefoot design and updated toe boxes give a more accommodating fit for increased comfort and stability.
• Gusseted tongues include strategically placed cutouts for increased ventilation.
• Eye rows are linked with a little winged component to achieve a secure fit.

The men’s HOKA ONE ONE Speedgoat 4 trial hiking shoes make rapid work of tough terrain. They’ve revised its design with a more secure feel and added forefoot support for the fleet of foot off-road pleasure.

4. Altra Lone Peak 6 Hiking Shoes For Men

Lightweight hiking shoe.

Short description:

MRP: $140

WEIGHT (SIZE 12.5): 1 lb. 9.7 oz.

ALSO AVAILABLE IN: Waterproof

PROS: Wide leg box, good traction, low weight, comfy, built-in gaiter connection, breathable, rock plate (increased protection and durability insole)

CONS: These shoes aren’t as robust as typical hiking boots.

FEATURE:

• StoneGuardTM has been updated to provide extra protection from rocks underfoot.
• Uppers made of fast-dry Air Mesh with laser-cut perforations enable speedy drainage after crossing creeks.
• FootShapeTM toe boxes allow the toes to relax and stretch out naturally.
• The multidirectional lug design on the MaxTracTM outsoles provides sticky traction on a range of surfaces Imported.

The men’s revised Altra Lone Peak 6 shoes will improve your trail-running experience by protecting you from underfoot rocks as you cross new and familiar paths.

5. Merrell Moab 2 Low WP Hiking Shoes

Best cheap hiking shoes.

Short description:

MRP: $125

WEIGHT (SIZE 12): 2 lb. 1 oz.

ALSO AVAILABLE IN: Non-Waterproof

PROS: Affordably priced, comfortable right out of the box, sturdy, breathable, and has decent traction.

CONS: The broad fit isn’t for everyone, and the heavy, high heel-to-toe drop isn’t for everyone.

FEATURE:

• Protective rubber toe caps are included on the suede leather and mesh uppers.
• Waterproof breathable membranes shield your feet from the elements, while breathable mesh linings keep your feet cool.
• Merrell M Select Fit has bellowed, closed-cell foam tongues that keep moisture and debris out.
• In the heels, the Merrell Air Cushion absorbs stress and offers stability.
• EVA midsoles provide stability and comfort.
• Nylon arch shanks that have been molded increase stability.
• The Vibram TC5+ outsoles offer a 5mm lug depth for increased traction.

Moab stands for Mother-Of-All-Boots for Merrell. The Merrell Moab 2 Men’s waterproof  hiking shoes provide out-of-the-box comfort with leather construction, comfortable footbeds, and exceptional traction.

6. Vasque Breeze LT Low GTX Hiking Shoes For Men

These hiking shoes are light, flexible, and waterproof.

Short description:

MRP: $159.95

WEIGHT (SIZE 13): 1 lb. 13 oz.

ALSO AVAILABLE IN: AT Low (more supportive)

PROS: Lightweight, comfortable right out of the box, great grip, breathable, secure lacing, plush soles, and arch-supporting support.

CONS: Not as long-lasting as some other shoes, and the arch support is a touch too harsh.

FEATURE:

• Outsoles combine Vibram® Megagrip with Vibram Light base technology to provide secure footing on various surfaces while reducing weight by 25%.
• Uppers composed of abrasion-resistant microfiber mesh provide an athletic, responsive ride designed for long trail miles.
• Moisture-wicking fabrics help to keep sweat at bay.
• To offer cushion, the last midsoles are dual-density, compression-molded EVA.

The men’s Vasque Breeze LT Low GTX hiking boots are lightweight, protective, and comfortable, giving you the support you need to trek as far as your legs can take you.

7. La Sportiva Spire GTX Men’s Hiking Shoes

Rugged and durable waterproof hiking shoes.

Short description:

MRP: $190

WEIGHT (SIZE 12): 2 lb. 2.3 oz.

PROS: Secure fit, breathable, comfortable right out of the box, outstanding traction, and long-lasting

CONS: Expensive and stiff soles

FEATURES:

• Uppers made of the abrasion-resistant mesh provide long-lasting protection, while the Nano Cell 2.0 structure allows maximum breathability.
• The STB Control System incorporates ventilation openings into the midsoles, which provide structure and torsional stability for comfort, stability, and a secure fit.
• Outsoles offers excellent traction.

The La Sportiva Spire GTX men’s shoes include welded uppers and revolutionary midsoles, thus waterproof, low-cut hiking boots. In addition, GORE-TEX® SURROUND® membranes protect your feet while allowing you to breathe freely.

8. Keen Targhee III Low WP Hiking Shoes For Men

Hiking shoes for a day of hikers at a great price.

Short description:

MRP: $164.95

WEIGHT (SIZE 13): 2 lb. 5.7 oz.

ALSO AVAILABLE IN: Non-waterproof

PROS: Good price, good stability, good traction, large toe box, safe lacing system

CONS: They’re heavy and stiff, taking a long time to break in. You can feel the rocks through it.

FEATURES:

• Waterproof breathable membranes from KEEN.DRYTM keeps feet dry while allowing sweat to escape.
• Mud shields provide additional protection and longevity.
• The dual-density EVA footbeds are removable and soften your stride.
• While hiking, the injected TPU heel-capture mechanism offers stability.
• Cleansport NXTTM is a natural odor control treatment.
• The 4mm multidirectional lugs on KEEN’s all-terrain rubber outsoles offer excellent traction.

The men’s KEEN Targhee III Waterproof hiking shoes are lean, durable, and ready for the mud. They still retain the Targhee fit, durability, and performance that have gained a worldwide reputation.

9. Salomon XA Pro 3D V8 Hiking Shoes

Grippy hiking shoes that are especially good in rainy weather.

Short description:

MRP: $160

WEIGHT (SIZE 12.5): 1 lb. 15.6 oz.

ALSO AVAILABLE IN: Non-waterproof

PROS: Stable, supportive, good traction, long-lasting rock plate (increased protection and durability).

CONS: Quicklace takes a little getting used to, and it’s pricey.

FEATURES:

• The combination of seamed SensiFitTM uppers, molded OrthoLite® footbeds, and thin, soft materials creates the ideal lightweight comfort and performance mix.
• The 3D chassis and EnergyCell midsoles deliver cushioned stability and comfort for a stable ride.
• Thanks to premium wet-traction outsoles and waterproof GORE-TEX membranes, you can disregard the weather underfoot and focus on the route ahead.

Salomon XA Pro 3D V8 GTX shoes feature Contagrip® premium outsoles and GORE-TEX® waterproof protection for stability, cushioning, and grip on tough terrain.

10. Oboz Firebrand II BDry Men’s Hiking Shoes

Hiking shoes are tough and supportive for traditional trekkers.

Short description:

MRP: $140

WEIGHT (SIZE 12): 2 lb. 8.8 oz.

PROS: Comfortable, long-lasting, secure lacing, and superb traction

CONS: Stiff, heavy soles may take longer to a break-in, and the arch support is a touch forceful.

FEATURES:

• Oboz, in collaboration with Trees for the Future, plants a tree for every pair of shoes sold.
• Uppers are waterproof nubuck leather with abrasion-resistant nylon mesh panels for the perfect balance of breathability and protection.
• B-DRY waterproof/breathable membranes keep moisture out while allowing water vapor to escape, keeping your feet cool and dry.
• Nylon mesh linings absorb sweat, dry rapidly, and further improve breathability.
• Rubber outsoles with high friction, and no markings grip well in all directions.

The men’s Oboz Firebrand II waterproof hiking shoes are rigid and weather-resistant, with a supportive design that keeps you comfortable mile after mile.

11. Vasque Breeze AT Low GTX Hiking Shoes

Best waterproof, cushioned, and comfortable hiking shoes.

Short description:

MRP: $160

WEIGHT (SIZE 12): 2 lb. 11 oz.

FEATURES:

•  Vasque-exclusive Vibram® Contact Grip™ with Megagrip compound outsoles provide traction on varied terrain
•  Thermoplastic polyurethane shanks lend stability and support
•  Made on an Arc Tempo last

The men’s Vasque Breeze AT Low GTX hiking shoes for men combines waterproof protection, gripping traction, and cushioned comfort to let you confidently tackle demanding routes and changeable predictions.

Conclusion

The best hiking shoes for men must have a healthy shape and proportions for the wearer. It’s a difficult task to make mass-produced hiking boots that fit well. You should wear well-ventilated shoes to keep your feet dry. In cold weather, this keeps the feet warm and comfy; in hot weather, it keeps the feet cool and comfortable. When choosing hiking footwear, the shoe’s weight is an essential factor to consider. Many experienced travelers favor lightweight hiking shoes like the Salomon XA Pro 3D for this reason.