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 Columbia Men's Crestwood Hiking Shoe is designed to offer a blend of functionality and performance for outdoor enthusiasts. Its construction features a combination of suede leather, mesh, and webbing, providing durability that can last for multiple seasons. The shoe's TechLite midsole ensures all-day comfort with superior cushioning and energy return, making it suitable for long hikes.

The Omni-Grip rubber outsole is another highlight, offering excellent traction on various terrains without leaving marks, which is beneficial for both outdoor and indoor use. However, the shoe is a low-top model, which limits ankle support and may not be ideal for hikes requiring more ankle stability. The material makeup includes leather and textile, but it doesn’t specify waterproofing capabilities, which could be a drawback for wet conditions.

The shoe is lightweight, making it suitable for those who prioritize ease of movement. The Columbia Men's Crestwood Hiking Shoe is a reliable option for hikers looking for comfort, durability, and good traction, though it may not be the best choice for challenging terrains requiring significant ankle support and waterproofing.

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.