10 Best Men Hiking Shoe 2026 in the United States

The Merrell Men's Moab 3 Hiking Shoe in Black Night, size 10, offers a blend of leather, mesh, and nylon materials, providing a good balance of durability and breathability. The shoe's rubber sole and Vibram TC5+ rubber outsole are designed to provide excellent traction, making this shoe suitable for various terrains.

The Merrell Air Cushion in the heel and the lightweight EVA foam midsole contribute to a comfortable and stable hiking experience by absorbing shock and providing support. The inclusion of a removable contoured insole and a molded nylon arch shank suggests that it offers decent support and stability for medium hikes. The shoe also features a pigskin leather and mesh upper with 100% recycled laces and webbing, which is a plus for eco-conscious consumers.

The Bellows tongue helps keep debris out, and the protective toe cap adds an extra layer of safety. This shoe appears to be a solid choice for day hikes or medium-intensity trails, especially for users who prioritize comfort, stability, and eco-friendly materials.

The KEEN Men's Targhee 4 Low Height Hiking Shoes are tailored for those who need durable and comfortable footwear for outdoor activities. They are highly waterproof, thanks to the KEEN.DRY breathable membrane, ensuring your feet stay dry in wet conditions. The direct-attach construction enhances durability by preventing separation over time, making these shoes a long-lasting choice. For those navigating muddy or rocky terrains, the KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole provides strong traction, which is vital for maintaining stability and safety.

The shoes are also environmentally conscious, featuring 100% recycled PET laces and a breathable mesh lining for added comfort and reduced environmental impact. In terms of comfort, the removable Luftcell footbed supports the arch well and adjusts to the natural shape of your foot. The padded tongue and collar add to the comfort, making them suitable for extended wear. The KEEN Original Fit allows ample room for toes, reducing the risk of blisters and discomfort. Additionally, the shoes have a high abrasion rubber toe guard and a bruise plate that offer extra protection on uneven surfaces.

However, these shoes might be a bit on the heavier side due to their robust construction. Despite their lace-up closure offering a secure fit, it might not be as convenient as quick-lace systems available in some other hiking shoes. Also, while the leather outer material provides durability, it might require some break-in time and regular maintenance to keep it in top shape. These shoes are ideal for avid hikers needing reliable footwear that performs well in various terrains and weather conditions.

The Merrell Men's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is a solid choice for hikers looking for a reliable, comfortable boot that can handle wet conditions. It features a waterproof membrane that keeps water out while allowing sweat to escape, making it great for damp trails. The combination of pigskin leather and mesh offers durability and breathability, and the boot includes a protective toe cap to shield feet from rocks or roots. Comfort is enhanced with a removable insole that provides medium support and reinforced heel cushioning, plus a shock-absorbing air cushion in the heel adds extra stability on uneven terrain.

The Vibram TC5+ rubber sole delivers good traction, which helps prevent slipping on various surfaces. Being a mid-height boot, it offers some ankle support without feeling too bulky. However, it weighs about 11.7 ounces, which is moderate—not the lightest option for those wanting very lightweight shoes for long hikes. While it provides decent arch support and stability, it may not be enough for hikers needing extra strong ankle protection or those tackling very rugged trails. The use of recycled materials like laces and mesh lining is a nice eco-friendly touch.

This boot is well-suited for casual to moderate hikers who want a dependable, waterproof shoe with good comfort and grip, but serious backpackers or those on very challenging terrain might look for something more specialized.