Best Hiking Boots of 2022 – Find the Right Pair for You

• Best Day Hiking Boots: Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX / (Women's)
• Best for Ankle Support: Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX / (Women's)
• Best for Flat Feet: Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX / (Women's)
• Best for Wide Feet: Keen Targhee III Mid / (Women's)
• Best Budget Hiking Boot: Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof / (Women's)
• Best Trail Runners: Salomon S Lab Ultra 2
• Best Hiking Shoes: Arc'teryx Aerios FL GTX Shoe / (Women's)

Jump to: Reviews / Buying Guide

Specifications:

• Category: Mid-top
• Upper: Leather/Textile
• Sole: Contagrip Rubber
• Weight: 1.9lb (895.8g)
• Waterproof: Yes

Pros:

• Fully waterproof construction
• Great high traction outsole
• Underfoot stabilization system

Cons:

• Insole is thin and offers minimal support

The award-winning Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX is a fan-favorite for day hikes because of its great mix of weight savings and wet terrain performance.

Featuring a burly Contagrip rubber outsole, these boots are designed for situations where ample traction is of the utmost importance. The thick lugs on this outsole provide excellent grip on wet and muddy terrain. Meanwhile, rubber toe caps offer much-needed protection for your feet against debris on the trail.

For added stability as you hike, Salomon crafted these boots with an advanced chassis system. As a result, they have a thick layer of foam cushioning underfoot to stabilize and cushion your heels.

The mid-top design of the X Ultra 3 Mid GTX means it provides a decent amount of ankle support without the weight. A set of injection-molded EVA midsoles also helps to stabilize the foot on rugged terrain.

When it comes to waterproofing, these boots don't disappoint. They have a full-coverage Gore-Tex waterproof bootie that allows for a good mix of water-resistance and breathability. Additionally, they have a gusseted tongue that helps block out rocks and other debris from entering the boot.

To minimize the chances of sweaty feet on hot days, Salomon also designed these boots with a soft textile lining. This lining wicks away moisture so it can evaporate through the Gore-Tex membrane for added comfort as you hike.

That being said, one area where the Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX doesn't quite dazzle is in its somewhat flimsy insole. As a result, it doesn't provide as much arch support as you might expect from a boot of this caliber and price point. However, insoles are easy enough to swap out with a custom orthotic or an aftermarket option.

Ultimately, where this boot shines is its ability to combine stability, traction, and weight savings into one neat package.

Recommended Alternative: La Sportiva TX4 Mid GTX

For a day hiking boot that's just about the same weight but that offers even more traction on tricky terrain, the La Sportiva TX4 Mid GTX is a reliable option.

These boots provide the same waterproofing, durability, and comfort of the Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX. However, they are much more flexible and pliable, which makes them ideal for hikers that want a mid-top boot's stability without the stiffness that often comes with it. Learn more about the La Sportiva TX4 in our in-depth review.

Specifications:

• Category: High top
• Upper: Suede Leather
• Sole: Vibram Drumlin Rubber
• Weight: 2.4lbs (1.1kg)
• Waterproof: Yes

Pros:

• Excellent ankle support and stability
• Extra-rugged design for durability
• Thick lugged outsole provides quality traction

Cons: 

• Fairly heavy even for a high top boot

Thanks to their high-top design, the Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX boots provide the structure that many hikers need while cruising over challenging trails, especially in the alpine. 

The Zodiac Plus GTX's suede Perwanger leather upper fabric also offers minimal stretch, even after being broken in, so you can get the same excellent ankle support throughout the boot's lifetime.

Their asymmetric lace system also helps tighten the boot around the foot for a more precise fit throughout the day. When combined with Scarpa's proprietary Sock-Fit construction, which cuts down on bulk, this lacing system helps ensure the snug, secure fit necessary for enhanced ankle support.

When it comes to cushioning for your weary feet after a long hiking day, Scarpa designed these boots with a triple-density polyurethane EVA midsole. This midsole offers an excellent compromise between weight optimization and performance. It also provides enough cushion to absorb shock on downhill sections of the trail effectively.

See our full in-depth review.

Although these boots are on the heavy side, this is because of quality materials that are designed to last, rather than an inefficient construction. 

Moreover, they have an extra thick Vibram Drumlin rubber outsole with large lugs for extra traction. These outsoles' stiffness also allows for good edging when scrambling on rocks in the alpine or the desert. Plus, the Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX is designed to be resoled repeatedly for long-term use in the outdoors.

Also Check out: La Sportiva Trango Tech GTX (Women's)

When ankle support is your top concern, the La Sportiva Trango Tech GTX will answer the call.

Although technically considered a summerweight mountaineering boot, the Trango Tech's versatility makes it an excellent choice for use even in a hiking context.

While you'll sacrifice a bit of sole flexibility and weight with these boots, they offer unrivaled stability for your feet in the mountains in terms of ankle support.

Specifications:

• Category: High top
• Upper: Nubuck Leather & Textile
• Sole: Contagrip rubber
• Weight: 2.8lbs (1.3kg)
• Waterproof: Yes

Pros:

• Great ankle support
• Waterproof and breathable construction
• Excellent traction and underfoot stability

Cons: 

• Heavy for a hiking boot

The Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX feature dual-density EVA midsoles, which provide plenty of underfoot cushioning with each step. Meanwhile, their 4D Advanced Chassis system offers just enough flexion in the forefoot so your feet can roll more naturally within your stride.

The Quest 4D 3 GTX's nubuck leather and textile uppers offer ankle support and whole-foot stability to support your arches on the trail for folks with flat feet. Plus, the boots' engineered lace system helps ensure a better fit and less foot slippage as you hike.

When it comes to weather protection, the Quest 4D 3 GTX offers some of the best in the business. It has a seam-sealed Gore-Tex membrane liner that keeps water and snow out, while simultaneously allowing sweat to escape.

Plus, the padded, gusseted tongue on these boots provides a contoured instep fit. It will do double duty as the first layer of defense against debris and moisture. Inside the boots, a polyester liner also helps to wick away sweat for reduced friction and happier feet throughout a long hiking day. Check out our in-depth review to learn more. 

Recommended Alternative: Vasque Breeze III GTX / (Women's)

If you love all the benefits of the Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX but not the price tag, the Vasque Breeze III GTX is a reliable alternative.

It features a waterproof Gore-Tex liner for wet environments and similarly durable nubuck leather and textile upper. The sole on these boots are even made with an exclusive Vasque Vibram Contact Grip rubber for improved traction on wet ground.

Specifications:

• Category: Mid top
• Upper: Suede leather and mesh
• Sole: Vibram TC5+
• Weight: 2lbs 4oz (1.02kg)
• Waterproof: Yes

Pros:

• Highly breathable
• Very Comfortable
• Outsole provides great traction

Cons: 

• Not very waterproof

The Merrell Moab 2 didn’t become one of the most popular hiking boots in the world by being uncomfortable. As far as comfort goes, the Moab 2 often makes it feel like you’re walking on a pillow, even at the end of a long hiking day.

Of course, your feet will still hurt once in a while. But these boots have a lot of underfoot padding, which is helpful on long downhill sections of the trail.

The best part? The Moab 2 doesn't need weeks-long break-in time. They are comfortable right out of the box.

Since the Moab 2 has an upper with large mesh panels, they’re highly breathable. Even after long days of hiking in the summer heat, they keep your feet happy and well ventilated.

But, since these boots have a waterproof breathable membrane, it won’t be as breathable as a non-waterproof model.

So, if breathability is your top concern, we’d recommend the Moab 2 Ventilator Mid boot instead.

The Moab 2 has large 5mm lug soles and Vibram TC5+ rubber. In particular, the lug soles offer fantastic traction on slippery terrain. They can provide a great grip on mud and wet rock. 

Even though they have a mid-top design, the Moab 2 doesn't offer a lot of ankle support. Of course, you can’t expect a mid-top boot to have as much support as a high-top model. But, even then, they don't do much for ankle stability.

The Moab 2 WP comes with a waterproof breathable liner. Yet, it provides surprisingly little water-resistance. Sure, if you step into a small puddle, your feet will likely stay dry. 

But, if it starts to rain heavily, you’ll find that you have wet feet after an hour or so. Since they are a mid-top boot, water tends to pour in around the ankle. However, this is true of any mid-top boot, and not a fault against the Moab.

To learn more, check out our in-depth review.

Specifications:

• Category: Trail runner
• Upper: Mesh
• Sole: Contagrip MA rubber
• Weight: 10oz (283.5g)
• Waterproof: No

Pros:

• Very lightweight
• Great cushioning underfoot
• Quick lace system for convenience

Cons: 

• Not waterproof

Sleek and durable, the Salomon S Lab Ultra 2 is a trail running shoe designed to go the extra mile in terms of comfort in the mountains.

Developed initially with legendary ultrarunner François D'Haene at the helm of the design efforts, this shoe was crafted to provide long-distance runners with the comfort they need. It has an 8mm drop, which is perfect for runners with a heel strike that needs extra support on the trail.

The upper of the S Lab Ultra 2 is made with a sturdy mesh fabric that boasts SensiFit technology. SensiFit provides a comfortable cradle around the foot for added support and reduced fatigue on long runs. Additionally, these shoes have an EndoFit internal sleeve, which helps ensure a snug fit for added security in tricky terrain.

Underfoot, Salomon built the S Lab Ultra 2 with a set of Energy Cell+ midsoles. These molded midsoles allow for high energy return on every strike to increase efficiency in your stride. Moreover, the midsole's Energy Save PU foam offers even more cushioning on those long-distance runs.

When cruising through exposed terrain, these shoes also provide an enviable amount of traction, thanks to their Contagrip MA outsoles. Salomon included their trademark chevron-style lug pattern, which allows for excellent grip on nearly any surface, whether dry, wet, firm or loose.

Finally, the Salomon S Lab Ultra 2's QuickLace closure system makes tying your shoes a no-brainer. This advanced lacing system also helps to pull the shoes' uppers tightly around your foot for a superior fit with minimal effort.

While these shoes come with a high price tag, they're genuinely in a league of their own for high-end performance on extended trail runs.

Recommended Alternative: Salomon Speedcross 5

For a more affordable option that takes the word "traction" to the next level, the Salomon Speedcross 5 is a great alternative. These award-winning shoes feature one of the burliest outsoles ever crafted for trail running shoes, thanks to their extra-large lugs and streamlined geometry. Plus, the Speedcross 5 cradles the heel's back, helping to ensure a better stride with less ankle rolling on the trail.

Specifications:

• Category: Shoe
• Upper: Cordura mesh
• Sole: Vibram MegaGrip rubber
• Weight: 1.5lbs (690g)
• Waterproof: Yes

Pros:

• Very lightweight
• Highly breathable and fully waterproof
• Superior traction and grip

Cons: 

• Minimal cushioning underfoot

Boasting a minuscule weight of just 1.5lbs (690g), the Aerios FL is a lightweight option for quick jaunts in the mountains and long-distance thru-hikes alike. 

Its upper fabric is a Cordura mesh, which provides ample breathability on hot days. Meanwhile, Cordura is one of the burliest fabrics around, so these shoes are also strong enough to withstand frequent use in rugged terrain.

To help increase stability underfoot, Arc'teryx built these shoes with an integrated TPU shank. This offers a much-needed structure to the shoes for performance in steep terrain without adding weight or bulk.

While the compressed EVA foam midsole in the Aerios FL leaves a little to be desired in terms of underfoot cushioning, the 4mm thick OrthoLite 3D molded insert helps pick up some of the slack.

Additionally, the Aerios FL has an extra grippy Vibram Megagrip outsole with large lugs underfoot. This allows the shoes to get superior traction on wet ground without compromising their ability on bare rock.

Plus, unlike many other low-top hiking shoes, the Aerios FL features a full-coverage Gore-Tex liner. As a result, they offer excellent waterproofing in small streams and puddles that you might have to cross on the trail.

Finally, like all Arc'teryx gear, the company didn't compromise on style with the Aerios FL. When it comes to combining lightweight, maximum traction, breathability, durability, and style that works just as well on the trail as it does in town, the Aerios FL is hard to beat. However, that does mean you'll have to pay a bit of a premium for these shoes. 

Recommended Alternative: La Sportiva Spire GTX (Women's)

Suppose you're on the lookout for a pair of hiking shoes that are slightly lighter than the Arc'teryx Aerios FL but that offer more in terms of underfoot cushioning. In that case, the La Sportiva Spire GTX is a sure bet.

They have a thick molded EVA midsole and a 5mm thick Ortholite insole for added cushioning. While they are a bit more expensive, the Spire GTX is also slightly better for very muddy conditions. This is thanks to its dual-rubber outsole and Impact Brake System.

What to Consider When Selecting Hiking Boots

You will wear your hiking boots on your feet for hours and hours on end, over countless miles, and endless mountain passes. You'll want to be sure that you’re picking the right model for your needs.

Here are some of the top factors to consider when selecting your next pair of hiking boots:

Purpose

Before you jump too far down the rabbit hole in the world of hiking boots, First, ask yourself: What exactly do I plan to use my hiking boots for? Are you more of a weekend warrior that prefers day hikes, or do you enjoy longer multi-night trips?

Ultimately, the kind of hiking boots you need will dictate by the type of hiking you like to do. For an ultralight backpacker, most prefer lightweight hiking shoes or trail runners. While more traditional hikers might consider a sturdy pair of backpacking boots. They are better suited for their adventures.

Likely Terrain

It’s important to consider the terrain you’re likely to find yourself in when you’re outside. Your needs living in the desert Southwest will be different than elsewhere. Compare this to someone living in the temperate rainforest of the Pacific Northwest.

While shopping, you need to consider whether you’ll be spending a lot of time at lower elevations or in the alpine. For instance, you think you'll find yourself more up in the mountains. This means you'll want boots sturdy enough for hiking through summertime snowpack.

Unless your local mountains are home to large boulder fields or lots of desert slickrock, for this, you may want hiking boots that are great for climbing and scrambling.   For example, the La Sportiva TX4 Mid GTX hiking boots. Check out our in-depth review for more information.

Finally, you need to think about whether you spend most of your time hiking on-trail or off-trail. Factoring that off-trail travel tends to be more laborious. You may want higher-top boots that are a bit more robust than someone who hikes on maintained trails.

Weight

It's easy to see why weight is important in hiking boots. It's the fact that you lift your boots off of the ground with every step you take.

These days people are looking to cut more weight in their hiking gear. Thus, lightweight boots are becoming more and more popular. Remember that lightweight boots offer less ankle support. This means less stability, especially when compared to heavier, traditional backpacking models.

Plus, lightweight boots tend to use less durable materials. As a result, you'll replace them more often.

Price

While we all wish that we had unlimited resources to spend on hiking gear, most of us are on a budget. The good news is that price doesn’t always correlate with quality when it comes to hiking boots.

It’s possible to get a good pair of boots without spending your life’s savings. For example, check out the well-priced Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof.  Check out our in-depth review for more information.

In reality, it’s more important that you find a pair of boots that are comfortable and that fit you well.

Types of Hiking Boots

There are many different types of hiking boots out there - each with their specific purpose. Here are some of the most common types:

Backpacking Boots

Backpacking boots are high-top, ultra-supportive boots. They are for trips where you’re carrying a lot of weight on your back.

They're made of very durable leather, including a burly outsole that provides more support than any other option. In our expert opinion, the Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX is the best backpacking boot currently on the market.  Learn more in our in-depth review.

Hiking Boots

Hiking boots are generally mid-top footwear. They are for on- and off-trail travel in backcountry terrain.

They are usually lighter and more breathable than backpacking boots. But offer less support for your ankles as you hike, so they’re not ideal for carrying very heavy packs. The Opt Outdoor team swear by the Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid for day hikes.

Hiking Shoes

Hiking shoes are a type of low-top hiking footwear. They resemble a standard walking shoe.  Check out our best pick - Arc'teryx Aerios FL GTX Shoe, to see what we mean.

They often have a burly outsole like what you find on a hiking boot. The downside to hiking shoes is that they offer minimal if any, ankle support.

Trail Runners

Trail running shoes, or trail runners, are a type of running shoe. They are for use on non-paved surfaces. They generally have outsoles that have lots of traction on the trail but don’t provide any ankle support. 

Trail runners are very popular in the ultralight backpacking community. They're very lightweight and give ample comfort. For a good quality, durable, supportive trail running boot, check out the Salomon S Lab Ultra 2.

Now that you know what to look for in hiking boots, check out our other backpacking how-to guides:

• Best Hiking Backpacks Buying Guide & Reviews 
  
• Best Tents Buying Guide & Reviews
• How to Choose the Best Hiking Jacket