10 Best Hiking Shoes 2025 in the United States

The Merrell Men's Moab 3 hiking shoes are designed with both durability and comfort in mind. Featuring a robust combination of suede leather and mesh, these shoes promise good breathability and long-lasting wear, which is crucial for those long hiking trips. The use of 100% recycled materials in the laces, lining, and webbing is a positive aspect for eco-conscious hikers. One of the standout features is the Kinetic Fit ADVANCED contoured footbed that includes an air cushion in the heel, offering enhanced comfort and support, which can reduce fatigue during extended hikes.

The Vibram TC5+ outsole with 5mm lugs provides impressive traction, making these shoes suitable for various terrains, whether rocky, wet, or uneven. The lace-up closure ensures a secure fit to keep your feet stable during hikes. However, the shoes are medium in weight, which might not appeal to those looking for ultra-light footwear.

The Merrell Men's Moab 3 is a solid choice for hikers looking for a reliable shoe that offers comfort and good traction across different surfaces. It's best suited for moderate hikes in varied conditions, but may not be the top pick for extreme wet environments or those needing advanced ankle support.

The Merrell Boys' Trail Chaser Hiking Sneaker is designed for young hikers, offering a secure and comfortable fit with its hook and loop closure system. The suede and mesh upper ensures breathability and durability, making it suitable for various hiking conditions. The EVA removable footbed adds to the comfort, providing additional support for long hikes.

This shoe features a low-top design, which may limit ankle support compared to mid-top or high-top hiking shoes. Nonetheless, the non-marking rubber outsole equipped with M Select GRIP technology offers excellent traction, ensuring stability on different terrains. Given its lightweight nature, it should be easy for young hikers to wear without feeling weighed down.

This hiking sneaker is ideal for boys who need reliable footwear for light to moderate hiking activities, though it may not be suitable for more demanding trails requiring advanced waterproofing or ankle support.

The Columbia Men's Crestwood Hiking Shoe is designed to offer a blend of functionality and performance for outdoor enthusiasts. Its construction features a combination of suede leather, mesh, and webbing, providing durability that can last for multiple seasons. The shoe's TechLite midsole ensures all-day comfort with superior cushioning and energy return, making it suitable for long hikes.

The Omni-Grip rubber outsole is another highlight, offering excellent traction on various terrains without leaving marks, which is beneficial for both outdoor and indoor use. However, the shoe is a low-top model, which limits ankle support and may not be ideal for hikes requiring more ankle stability. The material makeup includes leather and textile, but it doesn’t specify waterproofing capabilities, which could be a drawback for wet conditions.

The shoe is lightweight, making it suitable for those who prioritize ease of movement. The Columbia Men's Crestwood Hiking Shoe is a reliable option for hikers looking for comfort, durability, and good traction, though it may not be the best choice for challenging terrains requiring significant ankle support and waterproofing.