10 Best Hiking Shoes 2026 in the United States

The KEEN Men's Targhee 2 Mid Height Hiking Boots are solid options for hikers needing durable, supportive footwear. They use a waterproof KEEN.DRY membrane that keeps feet dry while allowing breathability, which is great for wet or variable weather. The boots offer good ankle support thanks to a mid-height cut and an external support shank, helping with stability on uneven trails. Traction is reliable too, with KEEN's all-terrain rubber outsole and 4mm multi-directional lugs that help grip muddy or rocky surfaces well.

The leather upper is premium and durable, featuring a protective bruise plate and rubber toe guard for extra foot protection. The fit is roomy, especially in the toe box, allowing toes to spread comfortably, but that might feel less snug if you prefer tighter shoes. Cushioned insoles provide lasting comfort, though the boots weigh around 4 pounds, which is on the heavier side and might tire your feet on longer hikes. Care for these boots requires some attention to keep the leather clean and conditioned.

These boots are well-suited for hikers looking for waterproof, sturdy footwear with good support and traction, especially in rugged or wet conditions, although they might feel a bit heavy for those prioritizing lightweight shoes.

The Columbia Men's Strata Trail Low is designed as a low-cut hiking shoe, which is great if you want ankle mobility on trails without the bulk of a boot. It uses Omni-Grip rubber for traction, providing reliable grip on various surfaces, which is essential for hiking safety. The lace-up closure and synthetic leather overlays help secure your foot well, while the mesh and suede upper balance support and breathability.

Its Omni-Tech waterproof breathable membrane means you can expect good water resistance to keep your feet dry, but still enough airflow to avoid overheating. The Techlite midsole is lightweight and offers solid cushioning and energy return, making longer walks more comfortable. While the shoe is built with durable materials and features like a gusseted tongue to keep debris out, it might be a bit heavier than trail runners, but that's typical for shoes with waterproofing and leather parts.

This shoe is ideal for hikers seeking a comfortable, supportive, water-resistant option that performs well on varied trails without the weight or stiffness of a full hiking boot.

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.