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 Columbia Men's Newton Ridge Plus II is a solid choice for hikers looking for a durable and waterproof boot. Made from leather and suede, it offers a protective layer against wet conditions thanks to its seam-sealed construction. The waterproof feature combined with the Omni-Grip outsole ensures good traction on various surfaces, including slippery snow and ice, which makes it suitable for multi-terrain hikes.

The lightweight midsole provides cushioning and energy return, helping your feet stay comfortable during long walks. The lace-up design allows you to adjust the fit, which is helpful if you need a snug feel for better support. On the downside, while the boot is well-built and durable—complete with metal hardware—it might feel a bit stiff initially and could require some break-in time. It also weighs more than some lighter hiking shoes, which might matter if you prefer something ultra-light for speed or longer hikes.

The fit generally runs true to size, but trying them on before buying is a good idea, especially if you have wider feet. These boots provide a dependable option for casual to moderate hiking, especially in wet or mixed conditions, delivering a good balance of comfort, protection, and grip.

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.