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Best Hiking Shoes For Men

Editorial Team
Last modified at August 7, 2026
A men's hiking shoe should match terrain, weather, and foot shape before brand preference. Waterproof low hikers such as Salomon X Ultra 5 Gore-Tex and HOKA Anacapa 2 Low GTX solve different stability and cushioning needs, while Merrell Moab 3, Columbia Crestwood, Altra Lone Peak, and KEEN Targhee cover day-hike, value, wide-foot, and durability lanes. Compare traction, waterproofing, cushioning, weight, drop, and fit before choosing.

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  • Rankings based on aggregated user data, not personal bias
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Hoka Kaha 3 Low GTX hiking shoe

Best for Cushioning
The Hoka Kaha 3 Low GTX is a solid choice for hikers who prioritize comfort and traction. Its Vibram Megagrip outsole provides reliable grip on a variety of surfaces, making it a great option for wet and rugged terrain. The shoe's cushioning is top-notch, offering excellent support even on long treks. Additionally, the Gore-Tex lining ensures your feet stay dry in damp conditions. However, the durability of the outsole may not be as robust as some hikers need, especially on rough surfaces. The Kaha 3 Low GTX is ideal for those who want a comfortable, supportive hiking shoe with great traction, but may not be the best fit for those who frequently tackle extremely rugged terrain.
Hoka Kaha 3 Low GTX hiking shoe
Comfort
4.8 / 5
Durability
3.8 / 5
Traction
4.8 / 5
Fit
4.4 / 5
Breathability
4.2 / 5
Protection
4.8 / 5
Materials

Nubuck leather / recycled mesh

Weight

17.1 oz

Midsole Material

Dual-density sugarcane EVA

Waterproof Membrane

GORE-TEX Invisible Fit

podiatry
Drop

0.31 in

Warranty

1 year

GOODS

  • Exceptional traction on wet and rugged terrain, thanks to the Vibram Megagrip outsole.
  • Superior comfort and support, even on long hikes, with Hoka's signature cushioning.

BADS

  • Durability could be better, as the outsole may wear down faster than expected on rough surfaces.
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Hoka Kaha 3 Low GTX hiking shoevsHOKA Anacapa 2 Low GTX

HOKA Anacapa 2 Low GTX

The Anacapa 2 Low GTX is a solid choice for hikers looking for a balance of comfort and durability. Its Gore-Tex lining provides reliable waterproofing, keeping your feet dry in wet conditions. The traction is exceptional, making it suitable for a variety of terrains, from rocky paths to muddy trails. The shoe's construction is robust, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of long hikes. However, the fit tends to be on the narrower side, which might be a consideration for those with wider feet. Despite this, the Anacapa 2 Low GTX offers good protection and support, making it a dependable option for serious hikers.
Anacapa 2 Low GTX
Comfort
4.7 / 5
Durability
4.6 / 5
Traction
4.7 / 5
Fit
3.3 / 5
Breathability
3.6 / 5
Protection
4.7 / 5
Materials

Nubuck leather / recycled mesh

Weight

15.3 oz

Midsole Material

Sugarcane EVA

Waterproof Membrane

GORE-TEX Invisible Fit

podiatry
Drop

0.31 in

Warranty

1 year

GOODS

  • Excellent traction on varied terrain, making it reliable for both rocky and muddy trails.
  • Durable construction with Gore-Tex lining ensures long-lasting use and waterproof protection.

BADS

  • The fit can be narrow, which might not suit those with wider feet.
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HOKA Anacapa 2 Low GTXvsSalomon X Ultra 5 Gore-Tex

Salomon X Ultra 5 Gore-Tex

Best for Technical Trails
The X Ultra 5 Gore-Tex is a solid choice for hikers who need a balance of comfort and durability. The shoe's Gore-Tex lining keeps your feet dry in wet conditions, while the snug fit provides excellent support on rugged terrain. The outsole offers reliable traction, making it suitable for a variety of surfaces. However, the breathability isn't the best, so it might not be the ideal choice for hot weather or intense climbs. The protective features, such as the reinforced toe cap, add to its durability. Overall, it's a great option for those who prioritize comfort and support for long treks.
X Ultra 5 Gore-Tex
Comfort
4.9 / 5
Durability
4.2 / 5
Traction
4.2 / 5
Fit
4.8 / 5
Breathability
3.8 / 5
Protection
4.4 / 5
Materials

Synthetic / textile

Weight

13 oz

Midsole Material

EnergyCell EVA

Waterproof Membrane

GORE-TEX

podiatry
Drop

0.43 in

Warranty

2 years

GOODS

  • Exceptionally comfortable with a snug, supportive fit for long hikes
  • Gore-Tex lining provides reliable waterproofing without sacrificing breathability

BADS

  • Breathability could be better for hot weather or intense climbs
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Salomon X Ultra 5 Gore-TexvsSalomon X ULTRA 360

Salomon X ULTRA 360

The X Ultra 360 is a solid choice for hikers who need a reliable shoe for rugged trails. Its aggressive outsole grips well on uneven surfaces, giving you confidence on tricky descents. The midsole offers plenty of cushioning, reducing fatigue on long treks. However, the fit leans toward the narrow side, which might be a drawback for those with wider feet. The upper provides good protection against debris while maintaining decent breathability. Overall, it’s a great option for those prioritizing traction and support over a roomy fit.
X ULTRA 360
Comfort
4.8 / 5
Durability
4.3 / 5
Traction
4.7 / 5
Fit
3.9 / 5
Breathability
3.9 / 5
Protection
4.3 / 5
Materials

Synthetic / Textile upper

Weight

12 oz

Midsole Material

EnergyCell EVA

Waterproof Membrane

No

podiatry
Drop

0.39 in

Warranty

2 years

GOODS

  • Exceptional traction on varied terrains, from loose gravel to slick rock.
  • Cushioned midsole provides long-lasting comfort for extended hikes.

BADS

  • Narrow fit may require breaking in for those with wider feet.
$148.80 at Amazon

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Salomon X ULTRA 360vsColumbia Men's Crestwood Hiking Shoe

Columbia Men's Crestwood Hiking Shoe

The Men's Crestwood Hiking Shoe is a solid choice for those seeking a balance of comfort and performance on the trail. These shoes excel in providing reliable traction, making them suitable for rugged conditions and long treks. The breathability is a standout feature, ensuring your feet stay dry and comfortable even during strenuous hikes. While they offer good value for the price, the fit can be a bit inconsistent, with some users finding them narrower than expected. The durability is generally good, but there are reports of wear and tear over extended use. Overall, these shoes are a great option for hikers who prioritize comfort and traction but should be tried on for fit before committing to a purchase.
Men's Crestwood Hiking Shoe
Comfort
4.6 / 5
Durability
4.1 / 5
Traction
4.7 / 5
Fit
3.7 / 5
Breathability
4.7 / 5
Protection
4.1 / 5
Materials

Leather, mesh and webbing

Weight

12.3 oz

Midsole Material

Techlite

Waterproof Membrane

N/A

podiatry
Drop

N/A

Warranty

1 year

GOODS

  • Excellent traction and stability on varied terrain, making them reliable for long hikes.
  • Breathable and comfortable, keeping feet dry and at ease even during extended wear.

BADS

  • Fit can be inconsistent, with some finding them narrow or smaller than expected.
$87.71 at Amazon

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Columbia Men's Crestwood Hiking ShoevsMerrell Moab 3 hiking shoe

Merrell Moab 3 hiking shoe

Best for Day Hikes
The Merrell Moab 3 is a reliable hiking shoe that balances comfort and durability, making it a great choice for men who spend a lot of time on the trails. The shoe is known for its exceptional comfort, often compared to walking in slippers, which is a big plus for long hikes. It's also built to last, with a durable construction that can withstand the wear and tear of regular use. The fit is true to size and wide enough to allow toes to move comfortably, reducing the risk of blisters and soreness. However, the water resistance is a bit inconsistent. While some users find the waterproofing excellent, others have experienced leaks, so it might not be the best choice for very wet conditions. Overall, the Merrell Moab 3 offers great value for its price, making it a solid investment for any hiking enthusiast.
Merrell Moab 3 hiking shoe
Comfort
4.6 / 5
Durability
4.4 / 5
Traction
4.6 / 5
Fit
4.2 / 5
Breathability
4.3 / 5
Protection
3.4 / 5
Materials

Pig suede leather and breathable mesh upper

Weight

16.9 oz

Midsole Material

Super Rebound Compound

Waterproof Membrane

Waterproof membrane

podiatry
Drop

0.45 in

Warranty

1 year

GOODS

  • Exceptionally comfortable, like walking in slippers, even on long hikes
  • Durable construction that holds up well to wear and tear over time

BADS

  • Water resistance is inconsistent, with some users experiencing leaks
$113.76 at Amazon

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Merrell Moab 3 hiking shoevsMerrell Moab Speed 2 hiking shoe

Merrell Moab Speed 2 hiking shoe

The Merrell Moab Speed 2 hiking shoe is a solid choice for those seeking comfort and traction on the trail. The soft midsole and cushioning make these shoes exceptionally comfortable, even on long hikes. They offer excellent traction on varied terrains, ensuring stability and grip where it counts. The fit is generally true to size, with wide options available for those who need them. However, there are some concerns about durability, with reports of ornamental parts coming off and heel wear over time. These shoes are best suited for rugged trails rather than street use. Overall, they are a great option for hikers prioritizing comfort and performance, but be mindful of potential durability issues.
Merrell Moab Speed 2 hiking shoe
Comfort
5 / 5
Durability
3.7 / 5
Traction
4.6 / 5
Fit
4.2 / 5
Breathability
3.9 / 5
Protection
4.3 / 5
Materials

Engineered mesh / TPU

Weight

11.99 oz

Midsole Material

FloatPro foam

Waterproof Membrane

No

podiatry
Drop

0.39 in

Warranty

1 year

GOODS

  • Exceptionally comfortable with a soft midsole and ample cushioning, making them ideal for long hikes.
  • Excellent traction on varied terrains, providing reliable grip and stability.

BADS

  • Durability issues reported, with some users experiencing problems with ornamental parts and heel wear.
$144.95 at Amazon

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Merrell Moab Speed 2 hiking shoevsMerrell Speed Strike 2 hiking shoe

Merrell Speed Strike 2 hiking shoe

The Merrell Speed Strike 2 is a solid choice for hikers who need a balance of comfort and durability. These shoes are lightweight, making them ideal for long treks where every ounce matters. The roomy toe box provides ample space, which is great if you have wider feet or just prefer a little extra wiggle room. The durability is impressive, with a construction that can handle rough trails without showing much wear. However, while they keep your feet cool in moderate conditions, breathability isn’t their strongest suit, and you might find them a bit warm in hotter weather. Overall, they’re a reliable option for those who want a shoe that can handle varied terrain without sacrificing comfort.
Merrell Speed Strike 2 hiking shoe
Comfort
4.6 / 5
Durability
4.4 / 5
Traction
4.2 / 5
Fit
4.1 / 5
Breathability
3.9 / 5
Protection
4.2 / 5
Materials

Synthetic and mesh upper

Weight

13.04 oz

Midsole Material

EVA foam

Waterproof Membrane

No

podiatry
Drop

N/A

Warranty

1 year

GOODS

  • Lightweight and comfortable for long trails, with a roomy toe box that accommodates wider feet.
  • Durable construction that holds up well over time, even on rugged terrain.

BADS

  • Breathability could be better, as feet may get warm on hotter days.
$81.10 at Amazon

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Merrell Speed Strike 2 hiking shoevsOn Cloudrock Low Waterproof

On Cloudrock Low Waterproof

The On Cloudrock Low Waterproof is a solid choice for men seeking a dependable hiking shoe that balances comfort and durability. Its standout feature is the exceptional traction, which performs well on a variety of terrains, from rocky paths to muddy trails. The shoe's durability is another strong point, as it's built to withstand the rigors of long hikes without showing significant wear and tear. However, the tradeoff for its waterproofing is reduced breathability, which can make your feet feel hot and sweaty in warmer weather. The fit is snug and supportive, though it might feel a bit narrow for those with wider feet. Overall, this shoe is a great option for hikers who prioritize performance and protection over ventilation.
On Cloudrock Low Waterproof
Comfort
4.1 / 5
Durability
4.6 / 5
Traction
4.3 / 5
Fit
3.6 / 5
Breathability
3.3 / 5
Protection
4.8 / 5
Materials

100% recycled polyester upper with TPU mudguard and toe cap

Weight

15.2 oz

Midsole Material

Helion / Speedboard

Waterproof Membrane

Waterproof membrane

podiatry
Drop

0.31 in

Warranty

Limited

GOODS

  • Excellent traction on varied terrains, making it reliable for rugged conditions
  • Highly durable construction that holds up well over long treks

BADS

  • Breathability is limited, which may cause discomfort in warmer conditions
Check price at Amazon

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On Cloudrock Low WaterproofvsKEEN Men's Targhee IV Waterproof Hiking Shoe

KEEN Men's Targhee IV Waterproof Hiking Shoe

The Men's Targhee IV Waterproof Hiking Shoe is a solid choice for those seeking comfort and support on the trail. Its wide toe box provides ample room, reducing foot fatigue during long hikes. The waterproofing is reliable, keeping your feet dry even in heavy rain or wet grass. The shoes are also easy to slip on and off, adding to their convenience. However, there are some concerns about durability, with reports of the soles separating from the shoe over time. These shoes are ideal for short to moderate hikes and year-round use, offering good traction and protection. If you prioritize comfort and water resistance but don't need extreme durability for rugged terrain, these shoes are a great fit.
Men's Targhee IV Waterproof Hiking Shoe
Comfort
4.6 / 5
Durability
3.7 / 5
Traction
4.2 / 5
Fit
3.9 / 5
Breathability
3.3 / 5
Protection
4.1 / 5
Materials

Premium nubuck leather upper, breathable mesh lining

Weight

18.7 oz

Midsole Material

Luftcell

Waterproof Membrane

KEEN.DRY

podiatry
Drop

0.47 in

Warranty

Lifetime delamination

GOODS

  • Exceptionally comfortable with a wide toe box, reducing foot fatigue on long hikes
  • Excellent water resistance, keeping feet dry in heavy rain and wet conditions

BADS

  • Durability issues reported, with some users experiencing sole separation
$170.00 at Amazon

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KEEN Men's Targhee IV Waterproof Hiking ShoevsAltra Lone Peak 9+ hiking shoe

Altra Lone Peak 9+ hiking shoe

Best for Wide Feet
The Altra Lone Peak 9+ is a versatile hiking shoe that excels in comfort and traction. Its wide toe box is a standout feature, offering a natural feel that's perfect for long treks. The shoe's grip is reliable on a variety of surfaces, making it a great choice for rugged conditions. However, the durability can be hit or miss, with some hikers finding the soles wear out quicker than expected. The lightweight design adds to its appeal, making it suitable for not just hiking but also walking and workouts. If you prioritize comfort and traction and don't mind keeping an eye on the wear, these shoes are a solid pick.
Altra Lone Peak 9+ hiking shoe
Comfort
4.6 / 5
Durability
3.1 / 5
Traction
4.3 / 5
Fit
4.1 / 5
Breathability
3.6 / 5
Protection
4.1 / 5
Materials

RPET ripstop mesh

Weight

11.55 oz

Midsole Material

Altra EGO™

Waterproof Membrane

No

podiatry
Drop

0 in

Warranty

1 year

GOODS

  • The wide toe box provides exceptional comfort, especially for those with wider feet, making it ideal for long hikes.
  • Excellent traction on various terrains, including slippery surfaces like wet moss.

BADS

  • Durability is inconsistent, with some users experiencing rapid wear and tear.
$119.99 at Amazon

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Altra Lone Peak 9+ hiking shoevsAltra Olympus 6

Altra Olympus 6

The Altra Olympus 6 is a solid choice for hikers who need a versatile shoe that can handle both trail and road conditions. Its aggressive outsole provides reliable traction, even in slippery or snowy conditions, making it a great option for varied terrains. The shoe is built to last, with a durable construction that can withstand rugged use over time. However, the fit can be a bit hit or miss; while some find them comfortable straight out of the box, others with wider feet might find them too tight. The cushioning is designed for long treks, offering a good balance between support and comfort. If you're looking for a dependable hiking shoe that can tackle different environments, the Olympus 6 is worth considering, just be mindful of the fit.
Altra Olympus 6
Comfort
3.8 / 5
Durability
4.2 / 5
Traction
4.4 / 5
Fit
3.4 / 5
Breathability
3.4 / 5
Protection
3.6 / 5
Materials

Engineered mesh upper

Weight

12.2 oz

Midsole Material

Compression-molded EVA

Waterproof Membrane

No

podiatry
Drop

0 in

Warranty

1 year

GOODS

  • Excellent traction on varied terrains, including ice and snow
  • Durable construction that holds up well on rugged trails

BADS

  • Fit can be inconsistent, with some finding them too tight for wide feet
$184.95 at Amazon

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Altra Olympus 6vsHoka Kaha 3 Low GTX hiking shoe

Trust & Transparency

  • Data-driven rankings from real user reviews
  • Affiliate partnerships don't influence our methodology

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Conclusion & Final Verdict:

When comparing the top options, the Merrell Moab 3 and X Ultra 5 Gore-Tex stand out for their exceptional comfort and durability. The Merrell Moab 3 is like walking in slippers, making it ideal for long hikes, but its water resistance can be inconsistent. The X Ultra 5 Gore-Tex, on the other hand, offers a snug fit and reliable waterproofing, though its breathability could be better for hot weather. The Anacapa 2 Low GTX is another strong contender with excellent traction and durability, but its fit can be narrow for those with wider feet. The Altra Lone Peak 9+ is perfect for hikers with wider feet due to its wide toe box, but its durability is inconsistent. For those prioritizing comfort and traction, the Merrell Moab Speed 2 is a great choice, though it may not be as durable as some other options. After considering all the tradeoffs, the X Ultra 5 Gore-Tex is our top pick for its balance of comfort, durability, and waterproofing, making it a reliable choice for a variety of hiking conditions.

If you are torn between shoes and boots, use our hiking shoes vs hiking boots guide to decide how much ankle support and protection you actually need.

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How We Rated These Products

Comfort

How cushioned and pleasant the shoe feels during extended wear.

Durability

Resistance to wear and tear over time and rough use.

Traction

Grip and stability on slippery or uneven surfaces.

Fit

How well the shoe conforms to the foot’s shape and size.

Breathability

Airflow to keep feet cool and dry during activity.

Protection

Shielding from rocks, water, and other trail hazards.