10 Best Hiking Shoes Men 2026 in the United States

The Merrell Men's Moab 3 in Beluga is a solid choice for men looking for reliable hiking shoes. One of the product's standout features is its durable suede leather and mesh upper, which offers both sturdiness and breathability. This combination is beneficial for those who hike in varied climates, as it provides some airflow without compromising on durability. Its use of 100% recycled materials in laces and lining adds an environmentally friendly touch, appealing to eco-conscious hikers.

Comfort is a key factor in hiking footwear, and the Moab 3 doesn't disappoint. With a removable Kinetic Fit ADVANCED contoured footbed and an air cushion in the heel, it promises good shock absorption and comfort over long hikes. The Vibram TC5+ outsole with 5mm lugs is excellent for traction, making it suitable for rough and slippery terrains. However, while it offers good grip, it may not be the lightest option available, which could be a consideration for those who prioritize weight in their hiking gear.

In summary, the Merrell Moab 3 is well-suited for hikers who value comfort, durability, and traction, especially under dry and mixed terrains. However, those hiking in very wet conditions or needing more ankle support might want to consider other options.

The Merrell Men's Moab 3 Hiking Shoe is designed as a durable and comfortable option for day hiking. Its upper is made from pigskin leather combined with mesh, offering breathability and some protection. The shoe includes a bellows tongue to keep out debris, which is handy on trails. While it doesn’t specifically mention waterproofing, the materials suggest it’s more suited for dry or mildly damp conditions rather than heavy wet environments. Weighing about 1.78 pounds, it feels reasonably lightweight, helping reduce fatigue on longer walks.

The shoe features a Vibram TC5+ rubber sole, known for solid grip and traction on various terrain, making it reliable on rocky or uneven paths. Ankle support is moderate since this is a low-cut shoe, so it might not be ideal if you need extra protection for rough or steep trails. Comfort-wise, the Kinetic Fit ADVANCED insole with reinforced heel cushioning and an EVA foam midsole provide good shock absorption and stability. The molded nylon arch shank also helps support your foot arch during hikes. Sustainable touches like recycled laces and mesh lining are a nice bonus.

If you want a well-built, breathable hiking shoe with good traction and moderate foot support for everyday trails, this shoe fits well. For those requiring waterproofing or strong ankle support for more rugged conditions, other models might be more suitable.

The Merrell Men’s Moab 3 Waterproof Hiking Shoe is a solid choice for hikers who want reliable performance with comfort. It’s a low-top shoe, making it lighter and easier to move in compared to heavy boots, but this means it offers moderate ankle support rather than full protection. The shoe uses a combination of pigskin leather and mesh, which provides a good balance of durability and breathability, while the waterproof membrane ensures your feet stay dry without trapping sweat.

It features a Vibram TC5+ rubber sole known for excellent traction on various terrains, helping you maintain grip on slippery or rough trails. Comfort-wise, it has a cushioned heel with shock absorption and a removable contoured insole for medium arch support, so it’s good for moderate hikes and daily wear. The lightweight EVA midsole adds stability without weighing you down, and the bellows tongue helps keep debris out.

One drawback is the shoe weighs just under 2 pounds, which is average but might feel a bit heavy if you're looking for ultra-lightweight hiking shoes. Also, the low-top design means less ankle protection, so it’s better suited for well-maintained trails rather than rugged, uneven terrain. This makes the Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof a dependable hiking shoe offering waterproof comfort and solid traction, ideal for casual to moderate hiking and those who want eco-friendly materials like recycled laces and mesh. If you need high ankle support or the lightest weight possible, you might want to explore other options.