10 Best Hiking Boots For Men 2026 in the United States

The Merrell Men's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is designed to offer solid protection and comfort for hiking enthusiasts. Its pigskin leather and mesh upper provide durability and breathability, while the waterproof membrane effectively keeps your feet dry by sealing out water but still allowing moisture to escape. The boot features a protective toe cap and a bellows tongue to keep out debris, which is great for rough trails.

Comfort is enhanced with a contoured, removable insole that provides medium support and extra cushioning in the heel, plus a lightweight EVA midsole for stability. The Vibram TC5+ rubber sole delivers reliable traction on various surfaces, and the Merrell Air Cushion in the heel helps absorb shocks and adds stability on uneven terrain. Ankle support is moderate, suited to those who prefer mid-height boots that allow decent mobility without sacrificing protection. Weighing about 11.7 ounces (likely per shoe), it is relatively lightweight for a boot of this type, which helps reduce fatigue on longer hikes.

Some users might find the fit a bit narrow depending on their foot shape, and while the boot is comfortable for medium support, hikers needing maximum ankle protection or very heavy-duty boots might want to explore more specialized options. This boot serves as an excellent choice for casual to intermediate hikers seeking a reliable, waterproof, and comfortable mid-height boot that balances support, protection, and breathability.

The NORTIV 8 Men's Ankle High Waterproof Hiking Boots are designed to be lightweight and comfortable for various outdoor activities, including hiking. They feature a fabric-and-synthetic material construction with a cushioned, removable insole that helps reduce foot fatigue and offers good shock absorption. The EVA midsole adds flexibility and cushioning, which is great for long hikes.

These boots have a decent ankle height providing moderate support, suitable for trails that don't require heavy-duty ankle protection. The rubber outsole is slip-resistant with solid traction, making them reliable on wet or muddy surfaces, which is important for hiking safety. While described as waterproof, the boots do not specify a dedicated waterproof membrane, so they may perform best in light to moderate wet conditions rather than heavy rain or deep water. They are fairly lightweight, enhancing comfort over long distances.

These boots are a good fit for casual hikers or outdoor enthusiasts seeking a comfortable, versatile boot for various activities without the bulk of heavier mountaineering boots. For those needing maximum ankle support or guaranteed waterproofing for extreme conditions, other options might be more suitable.

The Columbia Mens Transverse Waterproof Hiking Boot is a solid choice for men seeking reliable footwear for hiking in various weather conditions. Thanks to its Omni-Tech waterproofing, it does a good job keeping feet dry even in moderate rain or snow, while still allowing breathability to avoid overheating inside the boot. The boot’s upper is made from a durable combination of leather and mesh, providing good protection and some flexibility. Comfort is enhanced by Techlite cushioning, which absorbs impact and offers long-lasting support on uneven trails.

Traction is handled by Omni-Grip rubber soles that work well on different surfaces like rock, dirt, and gravel whether wet or dry, which is important for safe footing. The ankle-height design offers decent ankle support for most casual to moderate hikes, though it may not be enough for very rugged terrain or heavy backpacking. The boot is fairly lightweight for its class, which helps reduce fatigue over longer walks. A minor downside could be that the ankle collar is cushioned but not heavily padded, so if you need extra ankle protection, you might want more robust boots.

This boot balances durability, comfort, and weather resistance well, making it suitable for hikers who want dependable footwear for day hikes or light multi-day trips without breaking the bank.