10 Best Hiking Shoes Men 2025 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 Columbia Men's Newton Ridge Plus II hiking boot is a solid choice for men looking for reliable footwear on trails. It’s a mid-height hiking boot made from waterproof suede and leather, giving it a sturdy yet stylish look. The waterproof and seam-sealed design helps keep your feet dry in wet conditions, which is great if you hike through rain or puddles. The boot uses Columbia’s lightweight midsole, offering good cushioning and comfort for longer walks without feeling heavy.

One of its standout features is the Omni-Grip outsole with multi-terrain traction, which includes a special tread pattern designed to handle slippery surfaces like ice and snow. This makes it suitable for various environments and seasons. The lace-up closure lets you adjust the fit for better support and security around your feet. However, the ankle support is moderate—it provides some stability but might not be enough for very rugged or steep terrains where higher boots are preferred.

The boot’s materials and metal hardware contribute to durability, but being made of leather and suede means it requires some care to keep it in good shape over time. This boot is well suited for casual to moderate hiking and outdoor activities, especially if you need waterproof protection and reliable grip in diverse conditions. For very harsh environments or if strong ankle support is required, more specialized hiking boots might be a better option.

The KEEN Men's Targhee II Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is a solid choice for hikers who want a durable and supportive mid-height boot. It features a waterproof KEEN.DRY membrane that keeps your feet dry while allowing moisture to escape, which is great for wet or muddy trails. The boot uses premium leather combined with breathable mesh, so it balances durability with comfort. Its leather comes from environmentally certified tanneries, making it a more eco-friendly option. With a mid-cut design and an external support shank, it offers good ankle support and stability on uneven ground. The removable footbed provides arch support and cushioning that holds up well over long hikes.

Traction is a strong point here, thanks to KEEN’s all-terrain rubber sole with multi-directional lugs that grip well on slippery or rocky surfaces. The fit is roomy around the toes, allowing natural movement, which many hikers appreciate for comfort during long walks. On the downside, the boot weighs around 4 pounds, which is a bit on the heavier side compared to lighter hiking shoes, so it might feel bulky for those who prefer a lighter style. Also, while the leather is tough and protective, it requires some care like gentle cleaning and conditioning to keep it in good shape. This boot suits hikers looking for a rugged, protective, and waterproof shoe with good ankle support, especially if you tackle varied terrain and need reliable traction and durability.