10 Best Hiking Boots In 2022

Last updated 23. June 2022

Widely touted as one of the best outdoor exercises for your overall health and wellness, hiking is becoming more and more accessible these days. There are tons of trails all around the world that allow you to see scenery that literally takes your breath away. With so many people taking to the trails, new technology that allows us more comfort and performance on the trails is emerging.

We now have access to top of the line, rain resistant gear that keeps us warm and dry on cold days and cools on hot days. Trail maps are always evolving and becoming more detailed so we know exactly where we are and where we need to go. And of course, hiking boots are being made better, lighter, and more stylish all the time.

Hiking boots are one of the most important pieces of hiking equipment. Any long-time hiker will tell you that without the support, grip, and protection that a good pair of hiking boots give you, the hike just isn’t the same. Without hiking boots, you may find yourself sliding on rocks, rolling your ankle, and taking on water or mud when you don’t necessarily want to. But what really makes a good pair of hiking boots? We’ll talk about that later. First, we’re going to take a look at some of our favorite hiking boots.

Hiking boots come in many shapes, sizes, and capabilities. It is the type of thing that you want to get right because if you are on a long hike with the wrong pair of boots, it can be really painful. Here, we are going to talk about the 10 best-hiking boots in 2021 followed by our buyers guide to breakdown each factor.

View The Best Hiking Boots Below

1. Timberland Men’s White Ledge Mid

Timberland Men's White Ledge Mid

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This Timberland waterproof hiking boot has a stylish minimalist design and a strong outer layer that keeps the elements out. This is a good pair of hiking boots that are designed for men to wear. The boot is made of pure leather and is perfectly sealed to create a waterproof barrier between your feet and the elements.

The durable rubber sole has bulky treads which offer fantastic grip even on slippery surfaces. This is a mid-ankle hiking boot so you will still keep the majority of your ankles cool while enjoying the stability of the ankles being well protected. The shaft raises 4.75″ from the arch and will be fitting for most men’s feet and ankles. The hardware is rust proof and is designed to help you lace up your boots quickly for when break time is over.

Pros:
+ Fully waterproof
+ Grippy soles
+ Rustproof hardware
+ Mid ankle support
+ Warm and comfortable

Why We Like It- You get everything you need with this pair of hiking boots. Good grip, waterproofing, comfort, and style.


2. Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge

Columbia Women's Newton Ridge

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Number 2 on our list features a reliable and comfortable pair of women’s hiking boots. The shaft raises 5.25″ from the arch of the boot, providing a great deal of support for your upper foot and ankle. The boot is made entirely of rubber, leather and mesh lining. They are designed to have a super lightweight midsole and a durable shell to keep them completely waterproof. The boot is breathable with the mesh tongue to allow air to flow in and give your feet a sigh of fresh relief.

You can choose how high to lace up the boots to give you a little more or less room on the ankle. If you want the extra support, lace up the next holster. If you want a little more flexibility, you can go down a notch. They are designed for women and have a stylish look to them that will go well with the rest of your hiking attire. Choose your color to customize the look.

Pros:
+ Designed for women
+ Durable
+ Waterproof
+ High ankle support
+ Customizable fit

Why We Like It – This pair of hiking boots go great with all of your hiking attire. The grip will keep you from falling down and will provide the necessary ankle support to protect the ankles.


3. NORTIV 8 Men’s Ankle High Waterproof

NORTIV 8 Men's Ankle High Waterproof

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Not all hikes are in the sunshine of the summer. Sometimes, you find yourself trekking through the elements when the weather is frightful and the fire is nowhere to be seen. The NORTIV men’s hiking boots are designed to handle the harshest of winters with a -25-degree temperature rating. The whole boot is waterproof to keep water and snow from freezing your toes on a cold hike. The sole is made of durable leather and has multi-directional lugs which offer fantastic traction on varying terrain.

This is a very comfortable pair of hiking boots too. The footbed is a cushioned EVA material which is super soft and forgiving on hard ground. It is outfitted with a waterproof upper and it slip-resistant on water and oil. No more ankle breakers. You will have all the support you need from ankle to toe with the high ankle support. This boot is designed to keep you safe and warm through any possible storm.

Pros:
+ Cold weather resistant
+ Waterproof
+ High Ankle support
+ Superior grip
+ Comfortable design

Why We Like It – They have a superior comfort to them and are quite resistant to harsh weather conditions. You can take these boots up to the highest peak and you won’t have to worry about ruining them or your feet.


4. Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Mid Waterproof

Merrell Men's Moab 2 Mid Waterproof

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The Merrell Moab hiking boots are really well made and stand up to all kinds of different elements. They are designed with performance leather, suede and mesh upper to keep moisture out and to offer comfort and flexibility. They are waterproof and come built with closed cell tops to fully sealed out the water. The breathable mesh lining will keep excess weight off the boots and allows for more comfortable long term wear.

They have been outfitted with an air-cushion in the heel to accent comfort and provide extra stability. On the bottom, you can count on Vibram traction which will offer you the fullest amount of grip you will need on any type of terrain. This is a men’s mid boot so it will provide a medium level of ankle support for intermediate to difficult hikes.

Pros:
+ Superior comfort
+ Fully waterproof
+ Breathable mesh lining
+ High traction sole
+ Mid ankle support

Why We Like It – This is a great pair of versatile mid ankle hiking boots. They are great on any style of terrain and offer a ton of comfort for any length of the hike. You won’t get tired of having these boots on your feet even after 25 km.


5. Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge

Columbia Men's Newton Ridge

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This will be a great hiking shoe for people who tend to get a little more speed going on their hikes. It is not big on support or bulkiness, but that’s because the focus with these hiking shoes is lightweight durability. The material used is PU coated leather with mesh and suede on the upper with metal hardware which prevents rust and decay. It has been effectively seaming sealed to keep out any moisture, water, mud, or snow.

No matter where you’re trekking, whether its grass, dirt, mud, or rocks, you will have fantastic comfort and support. They have been designed to be super comfortable and responsive with high grip soles on the bottom to prevent slips and slides. If you’re a trail runner, this may be the hiking shoe for you.

Pros:
+ Lightweight
+ Waterproof
+ PU Leather coating
+ Metal hardware
+ Designed for comfort

Why We Like It – These shoes feel like clouds on your feet compared to some of the bulkier styles of boots. You can really get your feet moving while not needing to worry about moisture ruining your day


6. Hi-Tec Men’s Bandera Mid Waterproof

Hi-Tec Men's Bandera Mid Waterproof

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Outdoor enthusiasts have been appreciating the craftsmanship of Hi-Tec for over 40 years. Now you can too. They have been equipped with everything you want and need out of a reliable hiking boot. They have a breathable but waterproof outer layer to keep your feet dry. You will have no trouble standing up to the elements with the rustproof hardware on the upper.

It comes with a steel shank right in the middle of the arch which gains the hiker more stability on rocky terrain. And, just like with any effective hiking boot, the sole is durable and offers a high degree of traction. The shaft rises up to the mid-ankle to provide ample leg support, and the boots weigh just under two pounds which will allow you to have a comfortable walk no matter how far you go.

Pros:
+ Mid ankle support
+ High traction
+ Steel shank
+ 40 years of expertise
+ Breathable and waterproof

Why We Like It – The craftsmanship in these hiking boots is quite impressive and stands up to the outdoor elements. They are comfortable and keep the water out where it belongs.


7. NORTIV 8 Men’s Low Top Waterproof Hiking

NORTIV 8 Men's Low Top Waterproof Hiking

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This is a sort of hybrid between a bulky pair of shoes, and a lightweight pair of hiking boots. They’ve got a low rise shaft which doesn’t give you a ton of ankle support, but the foot support and grip are nothing to scoff at. The sole is made of high grip rubber and is great on all terrain. They are waterproof and outfitted with leather and mesh lining which has been fully sealed. Unlike many hiking boots, they have a microfibre and heat reflective lining which will help keep your feet dry and cool on hot days.

They are made flexible and offer all-day comfort to the hiker. You’ll also be able to find these boots in a variety of colors to match your favorite hiking attire and have you looking like a million bucks on the trail.

Pros:
+ Lightweight
+ Versatile uses
+ Heat reflective lining
+ Various styles
+ All-day comfort

Why We Like It – These are awesome for shorter hikes that are not too difficult with lots of roots and rocks. When you don’t need that extra support its nice to have the breathability and flexibility of a low rise hiking shoe.


8. Clorts Men’s Hiking Boots Waterproof

Clorts Men's Hiking Boots Waterproof

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Built with suede leather and waterproof nanofiber membrane, these hiking boots will keep you dry and flexible on the trail. This also allows for wonderful air breathability to give you a little more relief from excess sweat in your boots. The insole, arch, and tongue have all been carefully designed with specific padding to give you the greatest deal of comfort.

The lining on the inside hugs your feet tight and cuts down on the amount of rubbing and staves of blisters. They’ve got a deep shank and high-traction anti slip lugs on the sole which does not encourage maneuverability on slippery terrain. The support comes up to the lower mid ankle so it gives you a good amount of support without smothering your legs and causing that extra uncomfortable sweat.

Pros:
+ Nanofiber membrane
+ Mid ankle support
+ High degree of comfort
+ Anti-slip soles

Why We Like It – The comfort is really what stands out with these boots. You don’t get any rubbing which is awesome because everyone hates blisters, especially when you’re in the middle of a long hike.


9. KEEN Men’s Targhee II Mid Waterproof

KEEN Men's Targhee II Mid Waterproof

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All of the best hiking boots share numerous things in common. They are waterproof, comfortable, breathable, provide good grip and ankle support. These boots do all that, but they have a little extra behind the scenes. All of their leather is produced using practices that cut down on the number of chemicals produced by tanning leather. The boots they make are created with environmentalism in mind. These boots bite into the terrain, keep your feet dry and give you the comfort you need for an all-day hike.

You don’t need to worry about using chemicals to treat your sweaty foot odor either. The insoles are made with probiotic technology which helps to keep away the odor without using harmful chemicals to the shoes. Also, the chemicals they use to create the waterproofing is as harm-free as our technology will grant in our modern times.

Pros:
+ Environmentally friendly
+ Waterproof
+ Comfortable
+ High Grip
+ Mid ankle support

Why We Like It – Along with being a high-performance pair of hiking boots, they are sourced in the most ethical way possible. They are conscious of the leather industry’s strain on the environment and seek to alleviate their stressors


10. Keen Women’s Terradora Mid

Keen Women's Terradora Mid

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These women’s specific hiking shoes are not made with leather, but rather are housed by a synthetic material. This allows them to be much lighter and maneuverable while still giving you the performance that you want in a good hiking shoe. The sole is made of high-traction rubber, and the shaft reaches up to the ankle from the mid arch.

The lightweight mesh material is super breathable and cuts down on sweat as much as a pair of hiking shoes can. They are still waterproof so you don’t need to worry about getting wet feet. And, they are quite versatile, so whether you’re on the trail or having a high-intensity urban workout, they will be there to take you to the finish line.

Pros:
+ Breathable
+ Mesh lining
+ Lightweight
+ Comfortable
+ Versatile

Why We Like It – These are wonderfully lightweight and comfortable and are great for any trail. If you don’t need a ton of heavy-duty support, they will be a comfortable set of foot companions for any hiker.


Hiking Boots Buyers Guide

How to find the right hiking boots for You

It is important that you find the right pair of hiking boots for you. What works for one person may not work for someone else. As we noted earlier, if you are wearing a pair of boots that don’t fit your needs, then you will find yourself in an uncomfortable situation at a time when you don’t want to be uncomfortable. Here are some of the factors to pay attention to when you are looking for a pair of hiking boots.

What is the difference between low, mid, and High?

This will simply refer to the amount of support you will receive from your hiking boots. A high ankle will totally encapsulate your ankle bones and give you a lot of support. This will help keep your ankles from rolling if you accidentally step on a route or a rock. They can be a lifesaver if you’re on a remote hike which is hard to access via roadways. If you break an ankle on a remote hike, it could take a long time for help to get to you. So, if you plan on doing a lot of long-distance remote hikes, then get a mid to high ankle support hiking boot.

Mid-ankle support boots are a happy medium. They give you a little more support but also allow you to have some flexibility and comfort. It can add some piece of mind when you’re doing more difficult hikes to know that there is a bit of extra support there, but it may not always be necessary.

Low ankle support shoes are just that. Shoes with low ankle support. You will mostly want to stick to these kinds of hiking shoes if you are on flat terrain where the goal is to move quickly. Going over lots of uneven terrain with low ankle shoes leaves you more prone to ankle twists. If you’re not going out on longer hikes, low ankle support shoes will do just fine.

What does waterproofing really Mean?

We see waterproof as a staple spec for the best hiking boots on the market. But how waterproof are they actually? If they are properly sealed and in new or good condition, then as long as the water doesn’t get above your ankle upper, then you can bet that the water will stay out of your hiking boots. However, if you start walking through super deep water that comes up past your ankle, don’t expect your feet to stay dry, although, that is just common sense.

Do I really need hiking Boots?

This is a question that gets asked a lot, and it is a fair one. If you’ve never hiked using boots that are specifically meant for hiking, then you won’t know the difference. Yes, you can hike long and short term, on flat or rocky trails in your running shoes. The difference will be the performance and comfort level.

Hiking shoes have extra grip, extra support, and stand up to a long time use much better. If you are climbing slanted rock faces, going downhill and need a grip, or accidentally slip your foot off the side of a rock or a root, then having that extra support and grip really does make a huge difference. It can protect you against injury, discomfort, and wet feet. Hiking boots really do exactly what they are designed to do.

What are some basic rules of thumb?

If you’re looking online, or if you go into a store to check out some hiking boots, you’ll notice a plethora of options. And, they come in a wide range of prices. Don’t be fooled by the “more expensive is better” mindset. This is not always the case. Just keep these few things in mind when you are buying hiking boots.

1. You don’t need to spend a ton of money to experience the benefits of hiking boots. Sure the more expensive ones may actually be better but in a marginal way. Most people can tell the difference between a $10 bottle of wine and an $80 bottle of wine. But it becomes much harder to tell the difference between an $80 and an $800 dollar bottle.

It is similar to hiking boots. Go for a pair that isn’t scraping the bottom of the barrel but will leave some money in your pocket. The quality will be good enough to start out with and if you want to upgrade and take it more seriously later, you can.

2. Lighter is usually better. They say that an ounce off your feet is a pound off of your back. And trust us, you want as many pounds off your back as possible. Lightweight shoes will not drag you down over the course of a long hiking day and will help you stay comfortable and motivated. So if you have the choice between two types of hiking boots and you can’t decide, pick the lighter pair if it ticks all your other boxes.

3. This is an investment. Taking your foot comfort and your ankle support seriously is a good idea. You will thank yourself later when you are on the trail and you’ve spent the money. It may seem like a bit price tag, but a couple of hundred bucks for a crucial piece of hiking equipment that will really make your experience better is totally worth it.

Conclusion

You should have all the info you need now. Get ready to pull the trigger on your hiking boot purchase and enjoy the great outdoors the way they are meant to be enjoyed.

Expert Tip

Treat your waterproof boots properly. Putting on the necessary solution after they’ve been through a tough hike will preserve the integrity of the waterproofing longer. If you don’t treat your boots, you’ll find that the waterproofing doesn’t work quite as well.

Did you know?

Canada has one of the longest trails in the world. You can walk across Canada on one continuous trail that winds through lakes, meadows, mountains, and small towns. It would be a great way to experience the north. It could take about 8 months though.

Amazon Recommends:

Bestseller No. 1
Columbia womens Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Boot,...
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Bestseller No. 2
Timberland Men's White Ledge Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot, Medium Brown,...
  • Our White Ledge Men's Hiking Boots have premium full-grain waterproof...
  • LOOK NO FURTHER for trail-ready performance and style. Our selection of...
  • TIMBERLAND HAS YOU COVERED whether you're looking for men's boots, women's...
Bestseller No. 3
NORTIV 8 Men's Hiking Boots Waterproof Work Outdoor Trekking...
  • Comfortableness: NORTIV 8 Men's Waterproof Hiking Boots certainly delivers...
  • Lightweight and Flexible EVA midsoles: reduce foot fatigue. They are...
  • Non-slip & Durable: High-quality rubber soles are fully slip-proof and...

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