10 Best Hiking Shoes For Men 2026 in the United States

The Merrell Men's Moab 3 Hiking Shoe is designed as a sturdy and comfortable choice for men who enjoy hiking on moderate trails. Its pigskin leather and mesh upper provide breathability and durability, while the use of recycled materials like the laces and mesh lining adds an eco-friendly touch. The shoe offers good cushioning and support with a Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable insole and a molded nylon arch shank, helping to keep your feet comfortable over longer walks.

The Merrell Air Cushion in the heel absorbs shock and improves stability, which is especially helpful on uneven surfaces. The Vibram TC5+ rubber sole is known for solid traction, giving confidence on slippery or rocky terrain. Weighing just under 2 pounds, these shoes are relatively lightweight for hiking footwear, making them less tiring to wear. They might not be the best choice for very wet conditions or muddy trails due to the lack of waterproofing, and since they are hiking shoes—not boots—they provide limited ankle support, which could be a drawback if you need extra protection on rough or steep paths.

These shoes provide a comfortable and reliable option for casual to moderate hiking adventures, especially if you prioritize breathability and traction over waterproofing and high ankle support.

The KEEN Men's Targhee 3 Low Height Waterproof Hiking Shoes are designed for hikers who want a balance of comfort, protection, and durability. These shoes are made with premium leather and breathable mesh, which helps keep your feet dry and comfortable, thanks to the KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane that blocks water but lets sweat escape. The shoes offer good ankle support with a mid-cut height and an external support shank, making them stable on uneven trails. The removable footbed with arch support adds to comfort, especially on longer hikes.

For traction, the KEEN all-terrain rubber outsole with multi-directional lugs grips well on muddy and rocky surfaces, helping to prevent slips. They also have a protective rubber toe cap and bruise plate to guard against rough terrain. The fit is roomy in the toe area, which is good if you want extra space, but people with narrower feet might find the shoe a bit wide.

While the shoe emphasizes durability and comfort, its weight is a bit heavier compared to ultra-light hiking shoes, so it might not be ideal if you prioritize minimal weight for fast hiking. These shoes represent a solid choice for outdoor enthusiasts looking for waterproof, supportive hiking footwear that holds up well on various trails.

The Merrell Men's Moab 3 Hiking Shoe stands out as a reliable choice for general hiking needs. With its pigskin leather and mesh upper, it balances durability and breathability, making it suitable for varied trails. The shoe's Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable contoured insole and Merrell Air Cushion in the heel offer medium support and shock absorption, contributing to a comfortable hiking experience over longer distances. However, while the shoe offers good stability and comfort, its weight might be on the heavier side, which could be noticeable on extended hikes.

The rubber sole with Vibram TC5+ outsole ensures excellent traction, especially on rough terrains, which enhances safety and grip. The inclusion of a bellows tongue is a thoughtful addition to keep out debris, which hikers will find useful on gravel paths. Despite these positives, the shoe may not provide substantial ankle support as it leans more towards a low-cut design, which may not be ideal for those who require additional support on uneven trails.

On the sustainability front, the shoe features 100% recycled laces and webbing, and recycled mesh lining, which is an environmentally friendly attribute. The Merrell Moab 3 is well-suited for hikers who value comfort and grip on moderate trails. It may not be the best option for those needing high ankle support, but for average hikes, it remains a strong contender.