10 Best Hiking Shoes 2025 in the United States

The Timberland Men's White Ledge Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is a solid choice for outdoor enthusiasts looking for durability and comfort. With its waterproof Premium Timberland Leather upper, it effectively keeps your feet dry, making it ideal for wet conditions. The gusseted tongue adds to its waterproof capabilities by preventing debris from entering the boot. Its rustproof speed lace hardware ensures a secure fit, which is a great feature for hiking over uneven terrain.

Comfort is another strong point, thanks to the EVA footbed and midsole, providing cushioning for long walks. The rubber sole offers good traction, allowing you to confidently navigate various surfaces, from rocky paths to muddy trails. The ankle support is adequate, offering a nice balance between flexibility and stability, which is particularly beneficial for those undertaking moderate hikes.

These boots are well-suited for casual hikers who value comfort, waterproofing, and traction. Serious backcountry trekkers might want to look for options with more aggressive ankle support and lighter materials, but for day hikes and moderate outings, the Timberland White Ledge Mid makes a reliable companion.

The Timberland White Ledge Mid Waterproof Hiking Shoe is designed for outdoor enthusiasts who need reliable footwear for hiking trails. Its mid-height shaft offers decent ankle coverage, providing moderate support on uneven terrain. Made from 100% leather with an oiled finish, the shoe promises good durability and resistance to wear, though the natural scuff marks on leather may affect appearance over time. The rubber sole is built to deliver solid traction, which is important for maintaining grip on various surfaces.

Water resistance is a highlight here—the shoe is waterproof, making it suitable for wet conditions and stream crossings while still allowing some breathability, although leather can limit airflow compared to synthetic materials. Weighing just over a pound, it strikes a good balance between sturdiness and not being too heavy for longer hikes.

Regarding fit and sizing, Timberland shoes generally run true to size with a comfortable mid-width, but as with most leather boots, there might be a break-in period before they feel fully comfortable. Cushioning and support are adequate for moderate trail use but may not be enough for very rough or technical hikes that demand extra padding or stability. This shoe is a solid choice for casual to moderate hikers looking for durable, waterproof footwear that combines decent comfort and grip, while those needing more advanced support or breathability for intense hiking conditions might want to explore other options.

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.