10 Best Cheap Hiking Boots 2026 in the United States

The NORTIV 8 Men's Ankle High Waterproof Hiking Boots offer a solid option for budget-conscious hikers looking for comfort and performance on the trails. One of its standout features is the cushioned insoles, which provide excellent support and comfort, making them suitable for long hikes. The lightweight EVA midsoles help reduce foot fatigue, allowing you to keep going without feeling weighed down. Additionally, the rubber soles are designed for superior traction, ensuring you maintain stability on various terrains, including wet and muddy surfaces.

In terms of fit, the boots are designed to offer a snug yet comfortable feel, which is essential for outdoor activities. However, some users may find that the sizing runs a bit small, so trying them on or checking specific size recommendations might be wise.

These boots are also waterproof, which is a significant advantage for those who hike in rainy or damp conditions. The combination of breathable materials may help with moisture control, but some users have reported that the breathability could be improved, particularly during warmer weather. On the downside, the NORTIV 8 boots are primarily made with synthetic materials, which may not provide the same durability as higher-end, leather hiking boots. While they are designed for various outdoor activities, those seeking heavy-duty hiking boots might find these lacking in long-term robustness.

The Columbia Mens Transverse Waterproof Hiking Boot is a solid choice for someone looking for a budget-friendly hiking boot that still offers good protection and comfort. It uses Columbia’s Omni-Tech waterproof technology, which keeps your feet dry during moderate rain and snow while still allowing breathability. This is great for unpredictable weather and adds comfort during long hikes. The mix of leather and mesh in the upper provides a good balance of durability and ventilation, helping to keep your feet from overheating.

The Techlite midsole offers lightweight cushioning that absorbs impact well, making it easier on your feet when walking on uneven surfaces. For traction, the Omni-Grip rubber sole is designed to provide grip on various terrains like rock, dirt, and gravel, both wet and dry. This means you can expect decent stability, though it might not perform as well on very technical or slippery trails compared to higher-end boots. The boot is relatively lightweight for a waterproof model, which helps reduce foot fatigue. It also features a padded collar and sturdy metal eyelets, adding to comfort and support around the ankle.

The ankle height shaft is only about 1 inch in circumference, so if you need higher or wider ankle support, this might be somewhat limited. If you want a dependable, comfortable, waterproof hiking boot that won’t break the bank and works well on moderate trails, this Columbia boot fits the bill. For very rugged, technical hiking or heavy backpacking, you may want to explore options with more robust ankle support and specialized traction.

The KEEN Men's Targhee 4 Mid Height Hiking Boots offer a solid choice for those looking for affordable hiking footwear. Comfort is a notable strength, with a removable Luftcell footbed that supports the arch and cradles the contours of the feet, complemented by a padded tongue and collar for added ease. Fit is generally good, with a generous space for toes to spread out, which can be essential for long hikes.

The boots excel in terms of waterproofing, thanks to the KEEN.DRY membrane that keeps feet dry by allowing moisture out without letting water in, making them suitable for various weather conditions. Traction is another highlight, featuring an all-terrain rubber outsole that grips well on muddy and rocky surfaces, enhancing stability during hikes.

In terms of materials, these boots use a combination of recycled PET laces and a breathable mesh lining, which keeps them light and environmentally conscious. The direct-attach construction is designed for durability and to prevent the footwear from separating over time, which is crucial for longevity. However, while these boots are designed to be light, they might not be the lightest option available, potentially leading to some fatigue on longer trails. Additionally, while the breathability is enhanced by the mesh lining, it may not be as airy as some other models, which could be a concern in hotter climates.

Support and stability are decent, aided by a bruise plate for protection on uneven surfaces and a high abrasion rubber toe guard for durability. Yet, the ankle-high design might not offer the same level of support compared to higher-cut boots for those who need extra ankle stability.

In summary, the KEEN Men's Targhee 4 provides good value with a balance of comfort, traction, and waterproofing, making them a viable option for budget-conscious hikers who need reliable performance on various terrains.