10 Best Mens Hiking Boots 2026 in the United States

The Merrell Men's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is a solid choice for hikers looking for reliable waterproof protection and comfort. Its waterproof membrane effectively keeps water out while allowing sweat to escape, which helps keep your feet dry on wet trails. The combination of pig suede leather and breathable mesh offers durability and airflow, balancing toughness with ventilation.

Support-wise, it features a Merrell Air Cushion in the heel and a Super Rebound Compound midsole. These work together to absorb shock and reduce strain on your feet, promoting stability during long hikes. Traction is one of this boot’s strong suits; the Vibram TC5+ outsole is specially designed to provide excellent grip on various outdoor surfaces, making it safer on slippery or uneven terrain. The mid-height design offers good ankle support without feeling too heavy.

Speaking of weight, it is relatively lightweight for a hiking boot, which helps reduce fatigue during extended wear. However, some users might find the fit a bit narrow, so trying them on or ordering a size up might be wise if you have wider feet. While it excels in comfort and protection, the materials may require some breaking in before they feel truly soft. This boot suits casual hikers or those tackling moderate trails who want dependable waterproofing, good cushioning, and solid traction without extra weight.

The NORTIV 8 Men's Ankle High Waterproof Hiking Boots are a solid choice for hikers looking for lightweight and comfortable footwear. They feature cushioned, shock-absorbent insoles that can be removed, providing good foot support and helping reduce fatigue during long hikes. The EVA midsoles add flexibility and cushioning, which is great for comfort on various terrains. Their rubber soles offer excellent traction and slip resistance, making them reliable on wet or muddy paths.

The boots are also waterproof, which helps keep your feet dry in damp conditions. Being ankle-high, they provide decent support without restricting movement, suitable for moderate trails and everyday outdoor activities. On the downside, while the fabric-and-synthetic material keeps the boots lightweight, it might not be as durable as full leather options for very rugged or extended backpacking trips. Also, sizing can vary, so trying them on if possible is recommended to ensure a good fit.

These boots suit casual hikers or those who need versatile outdoor shoes for various activities like camping, trekking, or light mountaineering.

The Danner Mountain 600 boots are a solid choice for men looking for durable, waterproof hiking boots. They use full-grain leather for strength and long-lasting wear, and the Gore-Tex lining ensures your feet stay dry while allowing breathability. Comfort is well addressed with a triple-density OrthoLite ECO footbed that cushions and supports your feet, plus a Vibram SPE midsole that absorbs shock to reduce fatigue on long hikes.

Traction is another strong point, thanks to a Vibram Fuga outsole with self-adapting lugs and Megagrip compound, providing reliable grip on both wet and dry surfaces. Weighing about 1.2 pounds per boot, they strike a good balance between sturdy and reasonably lightweight. One nice extra is the inclusion of two lace options for a customizable fit. The boots are built to be recraftable, meaning they can be repaired rather than replaced, which is great for long-term use.

The fit can be somewhat narrow, so it's important to try them on if you have wider feet. These boots may feel a bit stiff initially but tend to break in after some use. These boots are ideal for hikers seeking a dependable, waterproof boot with strong support and traction for varied trail conditions.