10 Best Hiking Boots 2025 in the United States

The Merrell MOAB 3 MID WATERPROOF is a solid choice for hikers who need reliable footwear that handles wet conditions well. Its waterproof membrane effectively keeps water out while allowing sweat to escape, which helps keep your feet dry and comfortable during long hikes. The upper combines pig suede leather with breathable mesh, offering a nice balance of durability and ventilation.

Comfort-wise, the boot includes an Air Cushion in the heel that absorbs shock and adds stability, making walking on uneven surfaces easier on your feet. The Super Rebound Compound midsole further cushions your steps and helps reduce twisting forces, promoting a smoother foot movement. With a Vibram TC5+ outsole, these boots provide excellent grip on various terrains, which is essential for safety and confidence on trails. The mid-height ankle support is enough for most moderate hikes, helping protect against twists without feeling too restrictive.

At about 11.7 ounces, they are relatively lightweight and won't weigh you down much. The shaft circumference and height are fairly standard, so those with wider calves or needing more ankle protection might find it less suitable. These boots offer great shock absorption and waterproofing but may require some breaking in before they feel fully comfortable. The Merrell MOAB 3 MID WATERPROOF is well-suited for casual to moderately challenging hikes, especially if you value waterproofing and grip without needing heavy-duty mountaineering boots.

The Timberland Men's Mt. Maddsen Waterproof Hiking Boots are designed for casual to moderate hiking, especially in wet conditions. Their upper combines premium leather and durable CORDURA fabric, offering a sturdy and water-resistant build that helps keep your feet dry. The boots have a rubber sole with lug patterns that provide good traction on various terrains, which is important for safety and stability.

Inside, an anti-fatigue removable footbed and compression-molded EVA midsole improve comfort and help reduce foot tiredness during long walks. Weighing about 3 pounds, these boots have a solid feel without being overly heavy, which balances support and mobility. The ankle-high design offers moderate support, suitable for trails that don’t require heavy-duty ankle protection.

These boots are a good choice for hikers looking for reliable waterproof footwear with decent cushioning and grip, ideal for everyday hiking and outdoor activities that don’t push extreme limits. The medium fit is typical, but some users may need to try different sizes to ensure the best comfort, especially if they have wider feet.

The Merrell Men's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof hiking boot is designed to offer solid performance for outdoor adventures, especially for moderate hiking. Its pigskin leather and mesh upper provide a durable yet breathable structure, while the waterproof membrane effectively keeps water out and allows moisture to escape, helping feet stay dry in wet conditions. The boot offers a comfortable fit with the Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable insole and reinforced heel cushioning, which provide medium support suitable for average hikers.

The molded nylon arch shank and lightweight EVA foam midsole enhance stability and cushioning, making it easier to handle uneven terrain. Traction is strong thanks to the Vibram TC5+ rubber sole, known for good grip on various surfaces. The Merrell Air Cushion in the heel also helps absorb shocks and improve stability on rough trails. On the downside, the boot weighs around 11.7 ounces, which is relatively lightweight but some might find it less protective for very rugged or technical hikes. Also, its medium support fit may not satisfy those needing extra ankle support for extended or challenging hikes.

The bellows tongue keeps debris out, but the mid-height shaft provides moderate ankle coverage, not full protection. This boot suits casual to moderate hikers looking for comfort, dependable waterproofing, and good traction without the bulk of heavier boots.