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 Under Armour Men's Charged Valsetz Mid hiking shoe is designed for those seeking a lightweight yet durable option for moderate hikes or outdoor activities. Featuring a synthetic upper with protective overlays, the shoe is breathable and reinforced in high-wear areas to enhance durability. Weighing 15.6 ounces, it remains light enough to prevent fatigue during long walks.

With a 6-inch height, it provides good ankle support without excessive bulk, making it suitable for trails that range from easy to moderately rough terrain. The Vibram XS Trek outsole delivers reliable grip and flexibility, especially on wet or uneven surfaces, which enhances safety and stability. Comfort is enhanced by the Charged Cushioning midsole and anti-fatigue footbeds that absorb shock and reduce foot tiredness.

One consideration is that the shoe does not explicitly feature waterproofing, which may be a drawback for those frequently hiking in wet or muddy conditions. Additionally, while the fit includes pull loops for easier wearing, the standard laces may not offer the fastest adjustment compared to quick-lace systems. This shoe is a versatile choice for hikers prioritizing lightweight comfort and reliable traction, though it may not meet needs where waterproofing is essential.

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.