10 Best Mens Hiking Shoes 2025 in the United States

The Merrell Men's Moab 3 Hiking Shoe is designed with durability and comfort in mind, featuring a pig suede leather and breathable mesh upper that balances protection with ventilation. Its use of recycled materials, like laces and mesh lining, adds an eco-friendly touch. Comfort is enhanced through a removable, contoured footbed with reinforced heel cushioning and a molded nylon arch shank, making it suitable for medium support needs.

The Air Cushion in the heel helps absorb shocks and improve stability on uneven terrain. Traction is strong thanks to the Vibram TC5+ outsole, known for reliable grip across various outdoor surfaces. While the shoe offers protective rubber caps at the heel and toe, it is not explicitly waterproof, which means it may not be ideal for very wet conditions. The weight is moderate at around 3.5 pounds per pair, which is reasonable for hiking shoes and should not cause fatigue on longer walks.

Ankle support is limited since it is a low-cut shoe, so it suits hikers looking for flexibility rather than rigid ankle protection. The Moab 3 serves as a solid choice for those seeking a comfortable, well-ventilated daily hiking shoe with good traction and moderate support, especially in dry to mildly damp environments.

The NORTIV 8 Men's Ankle High Waterproof Hiking Boots are designed primarily for outdoor enthusiasts who want reliable and comfortable footwear for various activities like hiking, camping, and trekking. These boots offer a good ankle height of 6 inches, which provides decent ankle support suitable for moderate trails. They are lightweight thanks to EVA midsoles that boost flexibility and reduce foot fatigue, making them comfortable for long days on the trail. The removable cushioned insoles add extra shock absorption, enhancing all-day comfort. The combination of fabric and synthetic materials helps keep the boots breathable yet sturdy.

Waterproofing is a key feature here, helping to keep your feet dry in wet conditions, which is essential for outdoor adventures. The rubber sole is designed with strong traction that grips well on wet or slippery surfaces, reducing the risk of slips and falls. These boots are versatile for many outdoor uses, with ankle support and sole design better suited for moderate rather than highly technical or rugged terrain.

If you are looking for heavy-duty mountaineering boots, you might want something with more rigid support. For everyday hiking and outdoor activities, these boots provide a good balance of comfort, protection, and durability.

The Merrell Men's Moab 3 Hiking Shoe, in Black Night, size 10, is a well-rounded choice for outdoor enthusiasts. Its combination of leather, mesh, and nylon materials ensures durability and breathability. The shoe features a pigskin leather and mesh upper, which offers a good balance between sturdiness and ventilation, while the 100% recycled laces and webbing add an eco-friendly touch. The Bellows tongue design helps keep out debris, making it suitable for rugged terrains. The protective toe cap provides an extra layer of safety against potential bumps and scrapes on the trail.

Comfort is a strong point for the Moab 3, with a Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable contoured insole and Merrell Air Cushion in the heel, which absorbs shock and enhances stability. Additionally, the lightweight EVA foam midsole contributes to comfort and support during long hikes. The Vibram TC5+ rubber sole is designed to offer excellent traction, ensuring a firm grip on various surfaces, which is crucial for preventing slips and falls.

However, it's worth noting that the product specifications do not mention waterproofing. If you plan to hike in wet conditions, you might need to consider additional waterproofing measures or another model with built-in waterproofing features. Another potential drawback is the ankle support; while the shoe offers medium support, those requiring higher ankle support might need to look for a different option. The shoe is relatively lightweight, which is beneficial for long-distance hiking as it reduces fatigue. With a heel height of 1 inch and a molded nylon arch shank, the shoe provides decent arch support and stability. The Merrell Moab 3 is a solid choice for hikers who prioritize comfort, durability, and traction but might not be the best fit for those needing waterproofing or high ankle support.