There's no doubt about it: if you’re partial to a walk in the great outdoors, good quality hiking boots are a vital piece of kit. A trusty pair is the difference between bliss and blisters, and once you’ve got the ones, you’ll be gliding down the trials smiling like a Cheshire cat.
When it comes to selecting the right hiking boots, you mustn’t get too caught up on looks. Yes, no-one wants to feel like they look silly, but these babies are all about substance over style. Instead, you’ll want to be taking into account important specifications like their soles and whether they're waterproof. Beginner or pro, our picks from Amazon, eBay and John Lewis will soon get you sorted.
Quick List - Top Hiking Boots for Men
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Table of Contents
Choosing the right boots is like finding the right mate – your interests have to align and they must complement where and how you like to trek. So, like an open-air, shopping cupid, we’re going to help you find your perfect match.
The first thing you’ll need to consider is the type of boot you that will suit you best. While there are an intimidating array of styles out there, we’ve narrowed it down to the three most common.
These beasts are designed for multi-day trips out in the country carrying heavy loads. They tend to have a high cut that completely covers the ankles, and therefore offer excellent support. They're made to be supremely durable and are capable of tackling on- or off-trail trips.
You’ll need to be committed to purchase these though, as they’re often the most expensive of the options. They’ll also require a longer period of breaking in, which could see that you aren’t able to get out in the open air as soon as you’d possibly like.
While technically not a boot, shoe-boots are certainly worth considering. This style has been growing in popularity over the last decade and are suited to casual hikers.
They’re closer in looks to typical trainers, so they could cross over into your day-to-day life more easily. Generally these shoes are lighter, smaller (and therefore easy to pack) and don’t require breaking in.
They do have their downsides though, the main one being that they offer less in terms of ankle support, so you’ll want to watch your step. They’re also less durable, so may not be the best choice if you like to get out a couple of times a week.
Day hiking boots could be considered the middle ground between a lightweight hiking shoe and a more cumbersome backpacking boot. They come in a variety of sizes from mid- to high-cut models and are meant for long day hikes or short backpacking trips.
They’re often rather flexible (especially compared to bigger boots) and thanks to this adaptability they require little time to break in. This style of boot will offer more support than a shoe, but not as much as a sturdier set.
Now to the materials used in the boots. First up we’re going to look at the sole, because what's the first thing everyone does when they pick up some hiking boots? Check out the lugs.
In case you don’t know, lugs are the bumps and rivets on the sole which provide traction when you’re out and about. Choosing the right sole depends on the terrain you plan to walk on. Deeper, thicker lugs are best used on muddy and wetter hikes, whereas shallower lugs are better suited to stony, rocky landscapes.
Another factor of the sole you’ll want to consider is the material. More often than not these will be made of rubber. The best and most popular boots will often have Vibram outsoles, as these have long been the standard by which all other rubber soles have had to match.
Next up is the midsole. As the name suggests, this part of the shoe sits between the insole and the outsole. The midsole's job is to cushion and protect your feet by acting as a shock absorber.
This part of the shoe will also largely determine its stiffness, and although initially that may not sound great, if you’re walking on rocky, uneven terrain it can be a godsend.
The majority of midsoles use either EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) or TPU (thermal polyurethane). TPU is stiffer and more durable, so it is more likely to be found in chunkier backpacking-style boots.
EVA is a bit cosier and lighter, and often makes for a cheaper boot. However, the density of EVA can vary from brand to brand as it depends on where they think the support is needed.
Next up you’ll want to consider the outer, or the upper, of the boot. This is everything on the outside above the midsoles. A variety of different materials and fabrics can be used, though again, we haven’t mentioned all of them, just the ones you're more likely to come across.
A classic walking boot material, full leather offers brilliant durability, good water-resistance and is tough enough to withstand lots of wear and tear. This material is more likely to be used on day or backpacking boots than hiking shoes.
However, leather boots can be heavy and not very airy, so they’re not ideal if you’re planning on taking hiking trips in warmer climates. This material will also require plenty of breaking in time before you can think about extended trips.
Nubuck is, of course, a type of leather, only it has been treated and buffed and actually looks more like suede. This gives the leather better breathability as well as making the boot more flexible.
While these types of boots still require some breaking in, it will be less than with standard leather pairs. Plus, even with this, they still retain the best characteristics of traditional leather: their durability and water-resistance.
Synthetic hiking boots can be made from polyester, nylon, synthetic leathers or even canvas. These are often found in more modern boots, which are lighter, more breathable, quicker to dry and require little to no break-in time. They're more economical, too.
However, the only issue is that this material is just not as durable as the others, so they may wear down sooner if you’re getting out there often.
Last but not least, you’ll want to check if your hiking boots come with a liner. This will more than likely be waterproof and allows you to comfortably walk in the rain without getting the dreaded soggy socks.
Brands can use their own waterproof material lining, or they can outsource and bring in brands such as Gore-Tex, which are widely known for their impermeability.
It’s worth mentioning, though, that these linings can compromise breathability, so for hot weather walking you could choose a boot with no liner.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Inov8 Roclite 345 Gore-Tex Trial Walking Boots | ![]() | Intuitive Tech That Nudges Them Above the Competition | |
2 | Hanwag Banks SF Extra GTX | ![]() | Elite Craftsmanship for Hiking Enthusiasts | |
3 | Danner Men's Trail Sneakers|2650 | ![]() | A Super Summer Hiking Shoe | |
4 | Adidas Terrex Free Hiker | ![]() | A Beautifully Comfortable Outer That Ensures No Blisters | |
5 | Salomon Men's Quest 4D 3 GTX | ![]() | Big and Supportive Yet Breathable Enough for the Summer Months | |
6 | Salewa MS Wildfire Low Rise Hiking Shoes | ![]() | A Precise and Receptive Set of Hiking Shoes | |
7 | Merrell Moab Adventure Mid-Rise Hiking Boots | ![]() | Embrace the Adventure | |
8 | Mammut Kento High GTX | ![]() | A Surprisingly Lightweight Pair of Big Boots | |
9 | Keen Venture Waterproof Walking Shoes | ![]() | Shoes That Give the Illusion of Wearing Boots | |
10 | Keen Innate Boots | ![]() | Great Choice for Those With Wider Feet |
Identifying a number 1 was difficult, but these boots had some tech up their sleeve that nudged them ahead of the competition. The outsoles are Graphene-infused, which adds strength and flexibility and results in longer-lasting wear. And it's not just marketing mumbo-jumbo, as many athletes who take on outdoor challenges swear by these infused soles.
Other than phenomenal grip, they have a cushiony and adjustable midsole that absorbs 10% more of all shocks and a Gore-Tex liner that will keep the feet completely dry. If that isn't enough, the weight is at an absolute minimum, so you'll barely even notice you're wearing them.
This classic-looking pair give you almost everything you could want from a durable hiking boot. They're on the expensive side, but they do their job exceptionally, not to mention they're one of the better-looking pairs out there.
You can rest assured that all the materials and features are top-notch – from the ankle cuffs that provide plenty of support to the Gore-Tex lining that will keep you dry, and even the cast-metal lace hooks that ensure you'll always be able to comfortably tie your laces. This really is an elite shoe for hiking enthusiasts.
The first thing to learn about these shoes is that they're specifically designed with summer in mind. So there is no waterproofing as the manufacturer, Danner, wanted them to be as lightweight and breathable as possible.
Nonetheless, there is plenty to celebrate, such as the real out-of-the-box comfort which means you're won't have to worry about a breaking-in period. The Vibram soles are also fantastic and ensure a sturdy grip to rocky and gravel paths. Plus, the shoes provide a surprising amount of support and protection given their lower profile.
When Adidas announced they were going to release hiking boots, we think it's fair to say a few eyebrows were raised. But that scepticism was quickly dispelled, and since then they've been making some fantastic products. This latest release is no exception.
The Primekint material feels glorious on foot and wraps so you can rest assured there'll be no blisters. Plus, at 400 grams, these are light. However, you don't have to worry as the shoe is stiffened up by a sturdy EVA midsole that will provide you with the support you require.
These powerful, waterproof backpacking boots will see you through your trek come rain or shine. They offer plenty of support, making them perfect for those carrying heavy loads, and thanks to the EVA midsole you'll see that foot fatigue is reduced over long walks.
While being large, the pair are surprisingly lightweight and are known to have enough breathability that you could even wear them in the summer months if you required full support.
This offering from Salewa have a narrow profile and are flexible where they need to be, which makes them precise and receptive when climbing. The shoes have a sticky-yet-soft Vibram sole that anchors you to the floor, no matter the terrain or the weather.
However, the shallow tread means they may be somewhat limited for use in the UK. Plus, while the narrow fit helps keep the profile of the shoe down, it does mean that they'll be a little uncomfortable for those that have wider feet.
The Merrell Moab's are made for adventure, which is probably where they get the name from. The traction is top class thanks to the Vibram sole, and the EVA midsole allows for that extra bit of cushioning when you're on those full-day hikes.
Many users have also commented on the excellent build quality of the shoes, although they do have one issue. They're known to get a little wet due to the waterproof lining being compromised at the tongue, so you'll want to pick up some waterproof socks.
The most surprising feature of these big boots is how incredibly low in weight they are! Regardless, they are still nice and sturdy thanks to their TPU midsole, and even hardy enough to accommodate some strap-on crampons if that is something you'd be interested in doing.
The nubuck leather outer is robust and capable of taking the hits from sharp rocks without passing on any damage. The sizing can be quite tricky to get right though, so you might want to visit the brand's website and look at the sizing guide before hitting purchase.
With their trusty 4 mm lugs, these hiking shoes should keep you sturdy on most terrains. They have the feel of a boot about them, but instead are flexible and lightweight, making them ideal for nimbly making your way up uneven paths.
Furthermore, there are eight different colours to choose from, so you can find one that suits your style. Some buyers have found that these shoes can be rather noisy and squeaky, particularly when they first bought them, so you might want to prepare your walking buddy.
The first thing to note about these boots from Keen is that they're known to have quite a wide fit, particularly in the forefoot. But, while being generous, you shouldn't have to worry about them slipping around.
They're a predominately leather boot, which we know makes them long-lasting and durable. Our only concern is that they're on the heavy side, and the weight is only going to increase if they become caked in mud.
We believe that if you thoughtfully consider the factors discussed in the buying guide and apply them to your regular hiking situation, you'll no doubt find a perfect match. So, that'll be one less thing to worry about when your enjoying the great outdoors – now you just have to remember where you parked the car!
Author: Lewis Clark
No. 1: Inov8|Roclite 345 Gore-Tex Trial Walking Boots
No. 2: Hanwag|Banks SF Extra GTX
No. 3: Danner|Men's Trail Sneakers|2650
No. 4: Adidas|Terrex Free Hiker
No. 5: Salomon|Men's Quest 4D 3 GTX
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