10 Best Mens Hiking Shoes 2025 in the United States

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 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 Merrell Men's Moab 3 Hiking Shoe is a solid choice for hikers looking for comfort and performance. The blend of pigskin leather and mesh in the upper offers durability and breathability, which is essential for long hikes. The shoe features a bellows tongue that helps keep out debris, making it ideal for rugged terrains.

Comfort is a standout feature, thanks to the Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable insole providing medium support and cushioning. This is complemented by the Merrell Air Cushion in the heel, which absorbs shock and enhances stability - great for varied landscapes. The lightweight EVA foam midsole adds to the comfort, allowing for extended wear without excessive fatigue.

In terms of traction, the Vibram TC5+ rubber sole is designed to provide a strong grip, which is vital for hiking on slippery or uneven surfaces. This feature makes the shoe suitable for a variety of conditions, from wet trails to rocky paths. While the shoe does offer decent ankle support, it isn't a high-top design, which may be a drawback for those seeking extra stability for strenuous hikes or uneven ground. Additionally, while the shoe is marketed as waterproof, some users have reported that it may not hold up well in very wet conditions. These shoes balance lightness with durability, but heavier hikers might feel the need for a more robust option. The Merrell Moab 3 is a well-rounded shoe for casual to moderate hikers who prioritize comfort and traction, but those requiring maximum ankle support or extreme waterproofing might want to explore other options.