10 Best Budget Hiking Shoes 2025 in the United States

The Merrell Men's Moab 3 Hiking Shoe in Walnut offers a combination of comfort and durability, making it a solid choice for budget-conscious hikers. The pigskin leather and mesh upper provide a good balance between durability and breathability, while the 100% recycled materials used in the laces and webbing are a nice eco-friendly touch. The protective toe cap and bellows tongue are practical features that help keep debris out, adding to the comfort during hikes.

The Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable insole and molded nylon arch shank offer medium support, which is suitable for most moderate trails. The Merrell Air Cushion in the heel is designed to absorb shock and add stability, making it comfortable for extended wear. The lightweight EVA foam midsole contributes to comfort and stability, although it might not provide the same level of cushioning as some higher-end models. The Vibram TC5+ rubber sole ensures reliable traction on various terrains, which is crucial for hiking safety.

However, the shoe lacks specific waterproof features, which could be a drawback for hikers who frequently encounter wet conditions. Despite this, the breathability is decent, thanks to the mesh lining, which helps keep feet cool during long hikes. With its modest weight, this shoe won't weigh you down, making it easier to cover longer distances. In terms of durability, the materials and construction suggest it will hold up well under regular use, though extreme conditions might test its limits. These shoes are best suited for hikers looking for an affordable option that covers most essential needs without breaking the bank.

The Merrell Women's Moab 3 Hiking Shoe is a solid choice for budget-conscious hikers who want a dependable and comfortable shoe. It offers a good fit with a contoured, removable insole and a reinforced heel that supports medium levels of activity, making it comfortable for moderate hikes. Support is enhanced through a molded nylon arch shank and the Merrell Air Cushion in the heel, which provides shock absorption and stability on uneven terrain.

Traction is another strong point thanks to the Vibram TC5+ rubber sole, known for gripping well on various surfaces, including rocky and wet trails. While the shoe uses a pigskin leather and mesh upper combined with a bellows tongue to keep out debris, it isn’t fully waterproof, so it may not be ideal for very wet conditions but offers decent breathability for warmer weather. The lightweight EVA foam midsole helps keep the shoe relatively light at around 3.5 pounds, which is reasonable for hiking shoes but might feel a bit heavy compared to trail runners.

Durability is good, with quality materials like pigskin leather and a protective toe cap to handle rough use. However, some may find the 1-inch block heel less ideal for intense uphill climbs. This shoe fits well for casual to moderate hiking, offering comfort, decent support, and reliable traction, but it falls short if you need full waterproofing or ultra-lightweight performance.

The Columbia Mens Transverse Waterproof Hiking Boot is a solid choice for those seeking affordable hiking shoes with dependable performance. It offers a comfortable fit with a wide option, making it suitable for those who need extra room. The boot provides good support thanks to its cushioned collar and TECHLITE midsole, which helps absorb impact and adds comfort on varied trails.

Traction is strong with Columbia’s OMNI-GRIP outsole, designed to handle wet and dry surfaces like rock, dirt, and gravel, which is important for safe footing on different terrains. Waterproofing is a key strength here; the OMNI-TECH membrane keeps feet dry during moderate rain and snow while still allowing breathability, so your feet won’t feel too hot or sweaty. The boot uses durable materials like leather and mesh, combined with expert stitching and metal hardware, which suggests it should hold up well over time.

On the downside, the boot’s ankle height and 1-inch shaft circumference might feel a bit low or restrictive for hikers wanting more ankle protection or freedom. Also, while TECHLITE cushioning adds comfort, the boot might be a bit heavier compared to ultra-lightweight models, which could matter on longer treks. This hiking boot fits well within the budget category by balancing durability, waterproofing, and traction, making it a practical option for casual hikers or those new to hiking who want reliable footwear without splurging.