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 Columbia Mens Transverse Waterproof Hiking Boot is a solid choice for men seeking reliable hiking shoes with ankle support. These boots are designed as ankle-high hiking footwear, offering a combination of leather and mesh materials that balance durability with breathability. The Omni-Tech waterproofing ensures your feet stay dry during moderate rain or snow, while still allowing moisture to escape, helping keep comfort in varied weather.

For cushioning, the Techlite midsole adds lightweight impact absorption, making walks on rocky or uneven paths easier on your feet. The Omni-Grip sole provides strong traction across multiple surfaces including dirt, gravel, and wet conditions, which is essential for safe hikes on different terrains. The boot's ankle height and padded collar offer support and comfort, though the shaft circumference is quite narrow, which might feel tight for some users.

These boots are built to last with quality stitching and materials, but they may be heavier than trail runners, which could impact longer hikes if you prioritize light footwear. They are well suited for hikers who want durable, waterproof footwear with good grip and ankle support, especially for moderate weather and mixed terrain conditions.

The Merrell Men's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot in Earth color and size 11.5 is a solid choice for hikers looking for reliable footwear. With a waterproof membrane, these boots keep your feet dry while allowing moisture to escape, which is crucial for long hikes. The combination of pigskin leather and mesh in the upper provides both durability and breathability, while the protective toe cap adds an extra layer of security against rocks and other trail hazards.

The boots feature 100% recycled laces and webbing, reflecting an eco-friendly approach. Comfort is well addressed with the Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable contoured insole that offers reinforced heel cushioning for medium support. The molded nylon arch shank and lightweight EVA foam midsole contribute to stability and comfort, making these boots suitable for extended wear. The Vibram TC5+ rubber sole ensures excellent traction on varied terrain, reducing the risk of slips and falls.

At 11.68 ounces, they are relatively lightweight for mid-height boots, which helps in reducing fatigue over long distances. The ankle-height shaft offers good support without being overly restrictive, ideal for maintaining balance on uneven surfaces. However, some might find the mid-height shaft less supportive compared to full-height boots, especially on very rugged trails. The Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot combines performance, comfort, and eco-conscious design, making it a great option for day hikes and moderate backpacking trips.