10 Best Hiking Shoes 2026 in the United States

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.

The Merrell Men’s Moab 3 Hiking Shoe is a solid choice for hikers looking for a reliable and comfortable shoe. It features a pigskin leather and mesh upper, which offers a good balance of durability and breathability, helping your feet stay comfortable on the trail. The shoe includes a protective toe cap and a bellows tongue to keep out dirt and debris, which is useful when hiking on rough or dusty paths. Its fit is supported by the Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable insole with reinforced heel cushioning, providing medium-level support that should suit most casual to moderate hikers.

The lightweight EVA foam midsole and Merrell Air Cushion in the heel help absorb shock and add stability, making longer walks less tiring. Traction comes from the Vibram TC5+ rubber sole, known for good grip on varied terrain, which adds confidence on slippery or uneven surfaces. At just under 2 pounds, the shoe is not too heavy, striking a nice balance for day hikes.

The shoe does not advertise specific waterproofing, so it might not be the best option for very wet conditions or stream crossings. While durable materials are used, very heavy or technical hiking could eventually show wear. This shoe is best suited for casual hikers or those tackling moderate trails who want comfort, decent support, and good traction without going into heavy-duty hiking boots.

The Columbia Womens Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped hiking boots are a solid choice for women looking for reliable footwear for varied outdoor adventures. These boots feature a waterproof leather and suede upper with seam-sealed construction, which keeps your feet dry during wet conditions while still offering decent breathability. The mid-cut design provides good ankle support without being too bulky, making them comfortable for longer hikes.

Thanks to the Techlite midsole, these boots offer lightweight cushioning that helps absorb impact and return energy, reducing foot fatigue. The outsole uses Columbia’s Omni-GRIP rubber, which provides strong traction on different surfaces, helping you maintain stability on rocky or slippery trails. Reinforced toe and heel areas add durability, protecting the boots against wear in high-impact zones, so they should hold up well over time.

These boots are designed to be lightweight but are not the lightest option available, which may be noticeable if you prefer very minimal footwear. Some hikers with wider feet may find the fit a bit narrow, so checking sizing carefully is recommended. They are well suited for day hikers or casual trail users who want dependable waterproof protection, solid support, and good grip without sacrificing comfort.