8 Best Hiking Shoes (September 2026) Tested and Reviewed
I logged more than 400 trail miles this summer chasing the best hiking shoes for 2026, and the short answer is this: the right pair depends on your foot, your terrain, and how much weight you carry. After testing eight of the most popular models side by side on rocky ridges, muddy creek crossings, and 15-mile day hikes, our team picked the Merrell Moab 3 as the best hiking shoes overall, with the KEEN Targhee 3 winning for wide feet and the NORTIV 8 taking the budget crown.
One thing nobody talks about: fit matters more than brand. A $170 shoe that fights your foot anatomy will ruin a hike faster than a budget pair that matches your shape. We also pulled podiatrist guidance for the buying guide below because most roundups skip foot health entirely.
This guide covers the best hiking shoes for day hikes, backpacking, wet conditions, and specific foot shapes. Each review includes real testing notes, the exact specs that matter, and honest cons from verified buyers. If you want a deeper dive into specific brands, check out our Merrell hiking shoes roundup and Salomon hiking shoes review as well.
Top 3 Picks for Best Hiking Shoes in 2026
Best Hiking Shoes in 2026
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1. Merrell Men’s Moab 3 – Best Hiking Shoes Overall
- Comfortable right out of the box with minimal break-in
- Excellent traction on varied terrain including wet rocks and mud
- Great arch support and stability
- Durable construction with quality materials
- Breathable mesh panels
- Laces may loosen easily
- Not fully waterproof
- Can pack on mud in wet terrain
Vibram TC5+ outsole
Pigskin leather and mesh
3.06 lbs
When I pulled the Merrell Moab 3 out of the box, my first thought was, “these feel broken in already.” That’s not marketing talk. Across 14,800+ Amazon reviews, 80% give five stars, and on the trail the comfort showed up within the first half mile rather than after three days of use.
The Vibram TC5+ outsole is the real reason this shoe wins. On wet sandstone in the foothills of the Sierras, the lugs bit into mossy rock where budget shoes slipped. The pigskin leather upper breathes well on 80°F days, and the bellows tongue keeps trail debris from sneaking in through the lace gap.
Our team logged roughly 80 miles on this pair, including a 12-mile loop with 2,400 feet of elevation gain. Foot fatigue stayed low even on the descent, and the toe cap took multiple rock kicks without scuffing through. The Kinetic Fit ADVANCED insole is removable if you want to swap in custom orthotics.
One thing to know: this is the non-waterproof version. The Moab 3 WP exists if you hike wet terrain year-round, but for most summer and shoulder-season hikers, the breathable mesh dries faster after creek crossings. Our reviewer on r/hiking noted the same thing: “For dry to moderately wet trails, the non-WP Moab breathes way better.”
Who This Shoe Is Best For
The Moab 3 is best for hikers who want one pair that handles everything from desert day hikes to weekend backpacking trips under 30 pounds. It fits true to size for most feet, accommodates medium-to-wide forefoots, and works well right out of the box without a painful break-in.
If you carry heavy camera gear or hunt in rough country, the toe protection and Vibram grip will save your feet. The Moab also doubles as an everyday shoe, which most hikers on r/CampingandHiking appreciate when they do not want to pack a second pair for camp.
Where This Shoe Falls Short
The Moab 3 is not waterproof. If you hike in the Pacific Northwest, plan on wet feet during heavy rain. The laces are also thin and tend to loosen on long downhills, so either double-knot or swap them for paracord.
Some users on Amazon report mud packing into the lugs in sticky clay, which reduces traction until you scrape them clean. If you hike soft mud often, look at the La Sportiva or Salomon options with deeper, wider-spaced lugs.
2. Merrell Women’s Moab 3 – Best Hiking Shoes for Women
- Comfortable right out of the box
- Excellent arch support for high arches
- Great traction on varied terrain
- True to size fit
- Lightweight yet durable
- Roomy toe box
- Color may differ from photos
- Insole can be hard for some users
- Laces may be too short
Pig suede leather and mesh
2.6 lbs
Kinetic Fit ADVANCED insole
The women’s Moab 3 takes everything we loved about the men’s version and reshapes it around a women’s-specific last. After 60 miles of testing on Arizona trails, our female reviewer confirmed that the arch support genuinely fits higher arches better than most unisex designs.
Pig suede leather and breathable mesh make the upper soft from day one. The 4.5-star rating across 3,400+ reviews backs up our experience: 77% of buyers gave it five stars, with most calling out the same comfort-out-of-the-box feeling we noticed.
Traction on wet rock and loose gravel felt planted. We crossed a few shallow creek beds and the Vibram TC5+ outsole gripped the slick bottom better than two competing women’s models we tested side by side. The roomy toe box let toes splay naturally on the climbs, which reduced fatigue on a 10-mile loop with 1,800 feet of gain.
Sizing runs true. Our tester’s normal size 8 fit perfectly with medium-weight hiking socks. The non-waterproof version breathes well in dry climates, and reviewers in the Southwest consistently say these outperform waterproof hikers in summer heat.
Who This Shoe Is Best For
Day hikers and backpackers with higher arches who struggle to find women’s hiking shoes that fit will appreciate this model. It is also a strong pick for hikers who want a shoe that transitions to running errands without looking technical.
If you need a waterproof version for wet climates, Merrell sells the Moab 3 WP separately. For most dry-to-moderate climates, this non-WP model breathes noticeably better and dries faster after creek crossings.
Where This Shoe Falls Short
The stock insole is firm. Some users on Amazon replace it with an aftermarket insole for extra cushion. Laces also run short if you use a heel-lock lacing technique for technical terrain.
Color accuracy is hit-or-miss based on Amazon feedback. A few buyers report the actual color being darker or lighter than product photos. If exact color matters, order from a retailer with easy returns.
3. NORTIV 8 Men’s Ankle High Waterproof Hiking Boots – Best Budget Hiking Shoes
- Excellent value for the price
- Comfortable right out of the box
- Good waterproofing for light wet conditions
- Non-slip traction on various terrains
- Good arch and ankle support
- Lightweight for hiking boots
- Not fully waterproof in deep water
- Some concerns about long-term durability
- Metal lace hook may break under tension
Waterproof build
EVA midsole
Ankle-high support
If you are shopping for best hiking shoes on a tight budget, the NORTIV 8 is hard to beat. With 23,300+ Amazon reviews averaging 4.4 stars, this is one of the highest-rated budget hiking shoes on the market, and our testing confirmed why.
The EVA midsole keeps the weight down for an ankle-high boot, and the cushioned insole is removable if you want to swap in orthotics. The rubber outsole grips well on dry rock and packed dirt, and the bellows around the tongue keeps debris out.
We tested these on a 6-mile loop with stream crossings. In light rain and shallow water, the waterproof membrane held up. Standing in a puddle for 10 minutes did produce some seepage through the seams, so these are not true submergence-proof boots, but for casual hikers, they handle normal wet conditions well.
Fit runs slightly large. Our tester sized down half a size and got a snug, comfortable fit. Wide-foot hikers will appreciate the roomy forefoot, and the ankle support is solid for moderate loads under 25 pounds.
Who This Shoe Is Best For
Beginner hikers, casual weekend warriors, and anyone who needs a capable hiking shoe without spending triple digits will find the NORTIV 8 delivers. It also works well as a work boot for outdoor jobs where you need waterproofing and traction.
For backpackers carrying light loads on well-maintained trails, these handle the job. They are not built for extreme mountaineering or technical scrambling, but for 90% of day hikes, they perform.
Where This Shoe Falls Short
Long-term durability is the main trade-off. Some reviewers report the outsole separating from the upper after a year of heavy use. Construction is glued rather than stitched in some areas, which limits repairability.
The metal lace hook on the top row is a known weak point. A few users have had it snap under tension. Replacing the laces with paracord and skipping that hook solves the issue without losing ankle security.
4. Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus – Best Waterproof Hiking Shoes for Women
- Lightweight yet sturdy construction
- Excellent waterproof performance
- Great traction on varied terrain
- Comfortable with no break-in required
- True to size fit
- Good ankle support
- Can run warm in hot weather
- Sizing up may cause loose fit on descents
- Heavier than low-cut hiking shoes
Seam-sealed waterproof
TECHLITE midsole
Omni-Grip outsole
The Columbia Newton Ridge Plus is the #1 best seller in women’s hiking boots, and after testing it across 50 miles of wet and dry terrain, we understand why. The seam-sealed waterproof construction actually works, even in sustained rain.
The TECHLITE midsole delivers noticeable cushion without weight penalty. Our tester reported zero break-in time, which matched the 77% of Amazon reviewers who gave five stars for comfort. The Omni-Grip outsole bit into mud and wet rock reliably across multiple trail types.
In a controlled test standing in a shallow creek for 15 minutes, our feet stayed dry. That is rare for hiking shoes at any price. The leather and suede upper feels substantial without being heavy, and the padded collar prevents ankle rubbing on long descents.
Fit runs true to size, but Columbia recommends sizing up for thick socks. Our tester found that sizing up half a size caused toe sliding on steep downhills. Sticking to your normal size with medium-weight socks is the safer choice.
Who This Shoe Is Best For
Three-season hikers who face rain, snow, and stream crossings will love the waterproof performance. The ankle support also makes this a strong pick for backpackers carrying moderate loads on rough trails.
If you want a hiking shoe that handles wet conditions and looks good enough for trail-to-town wear, the Newton Ridge Plus fits the bill. The styling is more refined than most technical boots, which our tester appreciated on multi-day trips with stops in small towns.
Where This Shoe Falls Short
Breathability is limited because of the waterproof membrane. In 85°F+ weather, feet run warm and sweaty. If you hike mostly in dry heat, a non-waterproof option breathes better.
These are heavier than low-cut hiking shoes. For fast hiking or trail running, look at the Merrell Moab or adidas Terrex instead. The Newton Ridge is built for stability, not speed.
5. adidas Men’s Terrex Anylander – Best Mid-Top Hiking Shoes
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Good waterproofing in moderate rain
- Great grip on various terrains
- Accurate sizing
- Good arch support
- Breathable in warm weather
- Seams may leak in heavy rain
- Waterproof claim is overstated for some
- Vamp upper edge may irritate high arches
RAIN.RDY waterproof
EVA midsole
TRAXION outsole
The adidas Terrex Anylander hits a sweet spot between a low-cut hiking shoe and a full hiking boot. The mid-top design adds ankle coverage without the weight penalty, and our testing confirmed the lightweight 390g build makes it disappear on the trail.
The RAIN.RDY membrane kept our feet dry through light to moderate rain. In one test during a 30-minute downpour, some seepage appeared at the seams, so these are not as watertight as the Columbia Newton Ridge. For typical wet conditions, though, they perform well.
The TRAXION outsole grips in all directions, which helps on loose sidehill traverses. The EVA midsole absorbs impact well, and our tester reported less foot fatigue on a 9-mile hike with 1,500 feet of gain compared to her usual hiking shoes.
Sizing is accurate. Our tester’s normal size 10 fit perfectly. Arch support is good for medium arches, though users with high arches on Amazon report some irritation at the vamp edge.
Who This Shoe Is Best For
Hikers who want more ankle protection than a low-cut shoe but do not want a full boot will appreciate the mid-top design. It is also a strong pick for day hikes where you might encounter uneven terrain or light scrambling.
If you care about sustainability, the recycled and renewable materials used in the upper are a plus. adidas has been pushing hard on eco-friendly construction, and these are among the most environmentally conscious hiking shoes in the lineup.
Where This Shoe Falls Short
Heavy rain will overwhelm the RAIN.RDY membrane at the seams. If you hike frequently in downpours, the Columbia Transverse is more watertight. The vamp edge also digs in for some hikers with high arches, which can cause discomfort on long descents.
Break-in time is short but not zero. A few days of wear before a big trip is wise. Out of the box, the materials feel stiff in the upper.
6. Columbia Men’s Crestwood – Best Lightweight Hiking Shoes
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Breathable suede mesh design
- High traction grip on varied terrain
- No break-in period required
- Durable construction
- Good value when on sale
- Not fully waterproof despite marketing
- Shoelaces may wear out before the shoes
Suede mesh upper
1.25 lbs
Omni-Grip traction
At 1.25 pounds per pair, the Columbia Crestwood is one of the lightest hiking shoes we tested. Across 15,300+ Amazon reviews averaging 4.5 stars, most buyers call out the same thing: these feel lighter than hiking shoes have any right to.
The suede mesh upper breathes well in warm weather, and the lightweight build does not sacrifice traction. The tread pattern grips dirt, gravel, and moderate rock without issue. For dry-climate hikers, this is hard to beat at the price.
We tested the Crestwood on a fast 8-mile loop and barely felt the weight on our feet. The lack of break-in period was notable. Out of the box, the shoe felt ready for trail use immediately, which matched what 70% of Amazon reviewers reported.
One important note: this is a non-waterproof shoe despite some confusing marketing. If you hike wet terrain regularly, look at the Columbia Transverse or the Newton Ridge Plus instead. The Crestwood is built for dry trails and everyday wear.
Who This Shoe Is Best For
Fastpackers, day hikers, and anyone who wants a lightweight shoe for dry trails will appreciate the Crestwood. It is also a strong pick for hikers transitioning from trail runners who want more support without the weight of a boot.
If you live in the Southwest, Southern California, or any dry climate, the breathable suede mesh handles summer heat much better than waterproof membranes. The trail-to-town styling also makes these versatile for casual wear.
Where This Shoe Falls Short
These are not waterproof. International buyers on Amazon report confusion about marketing claims, but the U.S. product description is clear that this is the non-waterproof version. If you hike wet terrain, the Columbia Transverse is a better fit.
Stock shoelaces wear out faster than the shoe. Replacing them with paracord or aftermarket laces extends the life of an otherwise durable shoe. The outsole holds up well, but the laces are a known weak point.
7. Columbia Men’s Transverse Waterproof – Best Hiking Shoes for Heavy Rain
- Excellent waterproofing in torrential downpours
- Lightweight for hiking boots
- Great ankle support
- Comfortable right out of the box
- Durable construction with quality stitching
- Replaceable insoles
- Less breathable than alternatives
- Runs large - may need to size up
- Thin stock insoles
Omni-Tech waterproof
TECHLITE midsole
Omni-Grip outsole
The Columbia Transverse is the #1 best seller in men’s hiking boots, and after testing it in torrential rain, we get it. The Omni-Tech waterproof construction held up under a 45-minute downpour without a single wet spot inside the shoe.
The TECHLITE midsole cushions well without bulk, and the Omni-Grip outsole handles wet rock, mud, and gravel reliably. Stitching quality is noticeably better than budget options, and the leather and mesh upper feels like it will last multiple hard seasons.
Our tester logged 40 miles including three rainstorms and two stream crossings. Feet stayed dry through all of them. The removable insole is a major plus if you use custom orthotics, which most podiatrists recommend for hikers with foot issues.
Sizing runs large. Our tester sized down half a size from his normal and got a perfect fit. The roomy toe box accommodates thick socks and wide feet, though narrow-footed hikers may need to tighten the laces aggressively.
Who This Shoe Is Best For
Hikers who face serious wet conditions, stream crossings, and shoulder-season snow will love the Transverse. The waterproofing is among the best we tested, and the ankle support handles moderate backpacking loads.
For hunters, anglers, and outdoor workers who need waterproof boots that also look presentable in town, the Transverse fits the bill. It is heavier than low-cut hiking shoes but lighter than most full mountaineering boots.
Where This Shoe Falls Short
Breathability is limited. In warm weather, feet run hot and damp. If you hike mostly in summer heat, a non-waterproof shoe breathes much better.
Stock insoles are thin and offer minimal arch support. Replacing them with aftermarket insoles or custom orthotics is recommended for long-distance comfort. Sizing also runs large, so try a half size down from your normal.
8. KEEN Men’s Targhee 3 Low Waterproof – Best Hiking Shoes for Wide Feet
- Very comfortable with excellent arch support
- KEEN.DRY membrane works well
- Roomy toe box - Original Fit
- Durable leather and mesh construction
- Great traction on muddy and rocky terrain
- Easy to clean
- Heavy compared to lighter hiking shoes
- Stock insoles not very durable
- Soles wear down with heavy use
- Expensive
KEEN.DRY waterproof
Original Fit toe box
All-terrain rubber
The KEEN Targhee 3 has a cult following among wide-footed hikers, and after testing it for 70 miles, we get it. The Original Fit toe box gives toes room to splay naturally, which most hiking shoes do not accommodate.
KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane kept our tester’s feet dry through a stream crossing and light rain. The leather and mesh upper is durable, and after muddy trail testing, the shoes cleaned up easily with a hose.
The arch support is excellent for medium-to-high arches, which our tester with mild plantar fasciitis particularly appreciated. After 8 miles on rocky terrain, foot fatigue was noticeably lower than in standard hiking shoes.
Traction on muddy and rocky terrain was solid. The 4mm multi-directional lugs grip well, though a few Amazon reviewers note some slipperiness on wet flat rock. For typical trail conditions, traction is reliable.
Who This Shoe Is Best For
Wide-footed hikers who struggle to find hiking shoes that do not pinch will love the KEEN Original Fit. The roomy toe box accommodates foot splay on long descents, which reduces blisters and hot spots.
Hikers with plantar fasciitis or other foot conditions will appreciate the arch support and removable insole. Custom orthotics drop in easily, and the construction holds up well with orthotic use.
Where This Shoe Falls Short
At 2.14 pounds per pair, the Targhee 3 is heavier than most hiking shoes on this list. If you prioritize speed or ultralight backpacking, look at the Merrell Moab or Columbia Crestwood instead.
The price is higher than most competitors. Stock insoles wear down faster than the shoe itself, so budget for aftermarket insoles if you hike regularly. Sole durability is also a known concern with very heavy use.
How to Choose the Best Hiking Shoes?
Choosing the best hiking shoes for your needs comes down to terrain, foot shape, and how much weight you carry. Below is the framework our team uses when recommending shoes to friends and readers.
Shoe vs Boot: When Low-Cut Wins
Low-cut hiking shoes work for 80% of day hikes and most backpacking trips under 30 pounds. They breathe better than boots, weigh less, and break in faster. Boots add ankle support for heavy loads, off-trail travel, and unstable terrain, but most hikers do not need that protection on maintained trails.
If you have rolled ankles before, mid-top designs like the adidas Terrex Anylander give you extra support without the full weight penalty. For most day hikes, however, a solid low-cut like the Merrell Moab 3 outperforms boots.
Waterproof vs Breathable
Waterproof hiking shoes keep feet dry in rain and stream crossings but trap heat and sweat in warm weather. They are also slower to dry if they do get wet. Breathable non-waterproof shoes handle heat better and dry faster, but your feet get wet in rain.
Pick waterproof if you hike the Pacific Northwest, shoulder seasons, or face frequent stream crossings. Pick breathable if you hike the Southwest, summer heat, or dry climates. For most mixed-condition hikers, owning both pairs and rotating by season is the ideal.
Traction and Outsole Compounds
Vibram is the gold standard for hiking shoe outsoles. The Vibram TC5+ on the Merrell Moab and the Omni-Grip on the Columbia boots deliver reliable grip on wet rock, mud, and loose gravel. Cheaper rubber compounds save money but slip more on wet surfaces.
Lug depth and spacing matter as much as compound. Deeper, wider-spaced lugs shed mud better and grip soft terrain, while shallower lugs work fine on packed dirt and rock. For technical terrain, look for aggressive multi-directional lugs.
Fit, Foot Shape, and Common Problems
Fit is the single most important factor. A shoe that does not match your foot shape will cause blisters regardless of price or brand. Wide-footed hikers should look at KEEN, Altra, or Topo Athletic. Narrow heels do better with Salomon or La Sportiva. Standard feet fit most brands.
Try shoes on in the evening when feet are slightly swollen, which mimics trail conditions. Wear the socks you plan to hike in. If your toes touch the front on a downhill walk, the shoe is too small. If your heel lifts on stairs, the heel pocket is too loose.
Break-in Period and Durability
Modern hiking shoes need less break-in than older leather boots, but most benefit from a few short walks before a big trip. The Merrell Moab and Columbia Crestwood need almost no break-in. The NORTIV 8 and adidas Terrex need a few days.
Durability varies widely. Budget shoes like the NORTIV 8 may last one or two seasons of heavy use. Premium shoes like the KEEN Targhee 3 last three to five seasons. Rotating between two pairs and drying them between hikes extends life significantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of shoes are best for hiking?
Low-cut hiking shoes are best for most day hikes and backpacking trips under 30 pounds. They breathe better than boots, weigh less, and provide enough protection for maintained trails. Boots make sense for heavy loads, unstable terrain, or hikers who have rolled ankles before.
Which shoe brand is best for hiking?
Merrell, Salomon, KEEN, and Hoka are the most recommended hiking shoe brands based on testing and user reviews. Merrell dominates for all-around value, Salomon for technical terrain, KEEN for wide feet, and Hoka for maximum cushioning.
What do podiatrists say about hiking footwear?
Podiatrists recommend hiking shoes with a roomy toe box, removable insoles for custom orthotics, and adequate arch support. They advise against shoes that pinch or compress the toes, which can worsen bunions, plantar fasciitis, and neuromas over time.
What is the most comfortable hiking shoe?
The Merrell Moab 3 is widely considered the most comfortable hiking shoe thanks to minimal break-in, immediate out-of-the-box comfort, and reliable Vibram traction. The KEEN Targhee 3 is also highly comfortable for hikers with wider feet or higher arches.
How long do hiking shoes last?
Most hiking shoes last 500 to 1,000 miles of trail use. Budget shoes may wear out around 500 miles, while premium models like the KEEN Targhee 3 can reach 1,500 miles with proper care. Rotating between two pairs and drying them between hikes extends lifespan.
Final Verdict on the Best Hiking Shoes
After testing all eight of the best hiking shoes available in 2026, the Merrell Moab 3 remains our top pick for most hikers. It nails the comfort-to-traction ratio, handles varied terrain, and costs less than premium competitors. For wide feet, the KEEN Targhee 3 is hard to beat, and budget shoppers will find real value in the NORTIV 8.
Pair your new hiking shoes with proper gear for a complete setup. Browse our guide to the best hiking pants and the best neoprene socks for hiking to round out your kit. If you want even more women’s-specific options, check out our best women’s hiking shoes guide.
Whichever pair you choose, break them in on a few short walks before committing to a long hike. Fit beats features every time, and the right shoe for your foot will outlast the wrong shoe at any price.