10 Best Hiking Shoes Men 2026 in the United States

The Merrell Men's Moab 3 Hiking Shoe is designed for those serious about hiking, offering a blend of comfort, durability, and stability. It's an ankle-height shoe that provides good support without restricting movement. The upper is made from pigskin leather and mesh, ensuring breathability and durability while also featuring 100% recycled laces and webbing, which is a plus for environmentally conscious hikers. The bellows tongue effectively keeps out debris, making it suitable for varied terrains.

The insole is designed for medium support with reinforced heel cushioning, which should provide comfort during longer hikes. The EVA foam midsole aids in stability and comfort, reducing strain on the feet. The Vibram TC5+ rubber sole is praised for excellent traction, making it reliable for different surfaces. The shoe is relatively lightweight, which is beneficial for long-distance hiking, but it might lack the robustness needed for extreme terrain conditions.

The ankle support is good due to its shaft height but may not be adequate for those needing higher support. The Merrell Air Cushion in the heel adds to the shock absorption and stability, enhancing comfort. It’s a solid choice for hikers looking for a comfortable, eco-friendly shoe with good traction and support, although it may not be ideal for very wet environments or extreme terrains.

The Salomon Men’s XA PRO 3D Gore-Tex shoes are designed as rugged hiking shoes well-suited for challenging outdoor trails. They feature a waterproof Gore-Tex membrane that keeps your feet dry and protected from wind, while still allowing breathability for comfort throughout the day. The advanced 3D chassis between the sole layers provides solid stability and cushioning, which helps when walking on uneven or rocky terrain.

Their Contagrip rubber outsole offers strong grip on various surfaces, including loose gravel, making these shoes reliable on mixed trails. The reinforced toe cap adds extra protection against bumps and scrapes, which is a plus for rough environments. The materials combine synthetic and textile fabrics, balancing durability with flexibility. The low-profile design suggests moderate ankle stability rather than high support like hiking boots.

These shoes are ideal if you want waterproof, comfortable, and stable footwear for active trail hiking or fast-paced trekking where rugged traction is important. If you need heavy-duty ankle protection for very steep or technical terrain, you might want to consider higher-cut boots. The shoes provide a strong mix of comfort, protection, and grip suitable for most hiking adventures.

The KEEN Men's Targhee 3 Low Waterproof Hiking Shoes offer a solid choice for hikers who want reliable protection and comfort on a variety of trails. These shoes feature a waterproof KEEN.DRY membrane that keeps your feet dry by letting sweat escape while blocking water from outside. Made with durable leather and breathable mesh, they balance toughness with ventilation, making them suitable for active use. The shoes have a protective rubber toe guard and a bruise plate underneath, which helps shield your feet from rough terrain.

Traction is strong thanks to KEEN’s all-terrain rubber outsole with 4mm multi-directional lugs, providing good grip on muddy or rocky paths. Ankle support is moderate, with a mid-cut height and an external support shank that add stability without restricting movement too much. The fit is roomy, especially around the toes, which is great if you want a bit more space for comfort during long hikes. The removable footbed offers arch support and cushioning that holds up well over time. One thing to keep in mind is that these shoes are a bit on the heavier side compared to trail runners, so they might feel bulkier if you prefer very lightweight footwear.

Also, while the leather is durable, it requires some care like brushing and occasional cleaning to keep it looking good. These hiking shoes are well-suited for those who need dependable waterproof shoes with good traction and comfort for day hikes or moderate trails.