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 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 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.