10 Best Hiking Shoes 2025 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 KEEN Men's Targhee 2 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots are an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable companion for hiking adventures. These boots are designed with a KEEN.DRY breathable membrane, ensuring your feet remain dry by blocking water from entering while allowing moisture vapor to escape. This feature is particularly useful for hiking in wet conditions. The boots are crafted from durable premium leather and breathable mesh, making them both tough and comfortable for long-term use. An environmentally friendly DWR treatment helps the leather maintain its quality over time.

For traction, the KEEN ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole offers a firm grip on muddy or rocky surfaces, thanks to its 4mm multi-directional lugs, which enhance stability on varied terrains. This makes these boots particularly suitable for challenging hiking trails. The high abrasion rubber toe guard provides extra durability, protecting your feet against rough environments.

In terms of support, the external support shank and mid-cut height provide ample ankle support and balance, crucial for safety during hikes. The boots feature a contoured heel and removable footbed with arch support, which molds to your foot's shape for additional comfort, ensuring that your feet aren't fatigued after a long day. The KEEN Original Fit, with generous toe space, caters well to those needing a wider fit, though some might find them bulkier, weighing around 1.12 pounds each. While these boots hit many marks for hiking needs, potential buyers should note that they are on the heavier side, which might not appeal to those preferring lightweight footwear. Nonetheless, their durability, superior traction, and waterproof features make them a solid investment for enthusiastic hikers needing dependable footwear.

The KEEN Men's Targhee 4 Mid Height Hiking Boots offer several attractive features ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. These boots are designed for durability and comfort, with a KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane that ensures your feet stay dry while allowing them to breathe. The direct-attach construction enhances longevity, reducing the risk of the boot separating over time, making it a dependable choice for long-term use. The rubber outsole with KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN technology provides strong traction on various surfaces, including muddy paths and rocky terrains. This makes the boots particularly suitable for different hiking conditions.

In terms of comfort, the removable Luftcell footbed offers excellent arch support and adapts to the natural contours of the foot, combined with a padded tongue and collar for additional cushioning. The fit is generous around the toes, giving them room to spread out, and a high abrasion rubber toe guard adds to the durability and protection on uneven surfaces. However, as these boots are on the heavier side, they might not be the best option for those who prioritize lightweight footwear.

The ankle support is solid, thanks to the ankle-high shaft, providing stability on challenging trails. Eco-conscious users will appreciate the 100% recycled PET laces and breathable mesh lining. These boots are well-suited for hikers looking for a comfortable, durable, and highly protective option, though the added weight may be a consideration for some.