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10 Best Mens Hiking Shoes 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Columbia Mens Crestwood Breathable, High-Traction Grip, Camo Brown, Heatwave, 10.5 US

The Columbia Mens Crestwood hiking shoes are designed for those who need reliable and versatile footwear for their outdoor adventures. These shoes are made from a combination of suede leather, mesh, and webbing, which contribute to their durability and breathability.

The TechLite midsole ensures that you experience all-day comfort with superior cushioning and energy return, making these shoes suitable for long hikes. The Omni-Grip outsole provides excellent traction on various terrains, ensuring stability and preventing slips.

The shoes are lightweight, adding to their appeal for extended use without causing foot fatigue. The Columbia Crestwood shoes are best suited for hikers who prioritize comfort, durability, and traction.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Fit and Comfort
The Crestwood shoes offer incredible comfort with no break-in period needed.
Traction
Excellent traction and grip characteristics make these shoes reliable on various terrains.
#2

Merrell Men's Moab 3 Hiking Shoe, Black Night, 10

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.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Fit and Comfort
Comfortable, great traction and durable. Fit and comfort are consistent.
Traction
Comfortable, great traction and durable. Fit and comfort are consistent.
#3

Merrell Men's Moab 3 Hiking Shoe, Walnut, 11

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.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Fit and Comfort
Comfortable, great traction, and durable. Fit and comfort are consistent.
Waterproofing
Not waterproof! If you want waterproof, you must look for the special waterproof label on the side of the Merrell Shoe.
Traction
Comfortable, great traction, and durable. Fit and comfort are consistent.

Buying Guide for the Best Mens Hiking Shoes

Choosing the right men's hiking shoes is crucial for a comfortable and safe hiking experience. The right pair will provide support, protection, and durability, ensuring that your feet remain comfortable and injury-free on various terrains. When selecting hiking shoes, consider the type of hiking you plan to do, the terrain you'll encounter, and your personal comfort preferences. Here are some key specifications to help you make an informed decision.
Type of Hiking ShoesHiking shoes come in different types, including trail shoes, hiking boots, and mountaineering boots. Trail shoes are lightweight and suitable for well-maintained trails and short hikes. Hiking boots offer more support and protection, making them ideal for longer hikes and rougher terrains. Mountaineering boots are designed for extreme conditions and technical climbs. Choose the type based on the difficulty and length of your hikes.
Fit and ComfortThe fit and comfort of hiking shoes are paramount. Shoes that are too tight can cause blisters, while those that are too loose can lead to instability. When trying on hiking shoes, wear the socks you plan to hike in and ensure there's enough room to wiggle your toes. Walk around to check for any discomfort or pressure points. A good fit will provide a snug feel around the heel and midfoot while allowing some space in the toe box.
MaterialHiking shoes are made from various materials, including leather, synthetic, and mesh. Leather is durable and offers excellent protection but can be heavier and less breathable. Synthetic materials are lighter and more breathable but may not be as durable. Mesh panels provide ventilation, making them ideal for hot weather. Consider the climate and terrain of your hikes when choosing the material.
WaterproofingWaterproof hiking shoes are essential if you plan to hike in wet conditions or cross streams. They are typically made with waterproof membranes like Gore-Tex, which keep water out while allowing moisture to escape. However, waterproof shoes can be less breathable, so if you hike in dry, hot conditions, you might prefer non-waterproof shoes for better ventilation.
TractionTraction is provided by the outsole of the hiking shoe, which should have a good tread pattern to grip various surfaces. Deep lugs offer better traction on muddy or loose terrain, while shallower lugs are suitable for rocky or hard-packed trails. Consider the typical terrain you'll encounter and choose a shoe with an outsole that provides the necessary grip.
WeightThe weight of hiking shoes can affect your endurance and comfort. Lighter shoes are easier to walk in and reduce fatigue, making them suitable for shorter hikes or well-maintained trails. Heavier shoes offer more support and protection, which is beneficial for longer hikes or rough terrains. Balance the need for support with the desire for a lighter shoe based on your hiking plans.
Ankle SupportAnkle support is important for preventing injuries, especially on uneven terrain. Low-cut hiking shoes offer less ankle support but are lighter and more flexible, suitable for easy trails. Mid-cut and high-cut boots provide more support and stability, making them ideal for rough or steep trails. Consider your ankle strength and the terrain when choosing the level of support.

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