Best Hiking Boots for Men

Researched the top hiking boots from the most popular manufacturers and styles with top performance from lab testing. Our top picks are from brands we love and trust, have rave reviewers from many happy hikers, or have new exciting features.

How to find the best hiking boots for you

Materials: When shopping for hiking shoes, we recommend looking for a mix of materials: waterproof treated leather and mesh for breathable ventilation. Always take a peek at the sole too. Hiking boots should have a rubber sole with deep crevices, which help provide strong traction on slippery slopes. Below are some common materials for the upper fabric of the boot:

· Leather: One of the most popular materials seen on hiking boots, leather typically has a waterproof treatment, so it will keep your feet dry and shoes scuff free in wet weather. Full-grain leather is seen in heavier weight hiking boots, as it’s not as light or breathable, but it is very tough – ideal for boots that will get a lot of wear.

· Suede: Very similar to leather, suede is another product that is common with hiking boots. The suede is waterproofed, so you can be sure your boots are mud ready.

· Nylon: Woven nylon and nylon mesh panels are a popular fabric upper in mid-level boots. Creating areas of breathability, these panels allow air in, so your feet don’t overheat on a long trail.

Weight: Hiking boots are sold at various weights for different needs. If you are a beginner, avoid a super heavy boot, as these are designed for hiking pros. Typically, lower weight styles offer less support and stability, which isn’t recommended if you’re carrying a heavy pack. But, if you are just hitting the trails casually, a lightweight hiking boot is less bulky and easier to maneuver. For all of our picks, we listed the weight of one boot, so it's easy to compare styles.

Midsole material: The midsole of the hiking boot is what your foot will directly be seated on. Below are the two most popular types (some brands will use a combination of both):

· EVA: You will likely find EVA in light or midweight hiking boots, as it’s soft and cushy

· PU: Although less cushy, PU foam will likely last longer without losing its shape.

Hiking boots vs. hiking shoes: They are often advertised as the same, but hiking boots cover your ankle while hiking shoes cut below the ankle. Hiking boots offer ankle support on rougher terrain, while hiking shoes are usually lighter weight and fit more like a sneaker.

Key features: When shopping for new hiking boots, these two features can make a huge difference in your hiking experience.

· Gusseted tongue: A gusseted tongue means that the tongue is connected to the boot on each side. This helps keep out debris, so you leave the dirt and mud on the trail.

· Toe cap: Hiking boots should have a rubber sole, but not all styles will have a toe cap. A toe cap is when the sole actually covers your toe box to keep your toes protected when forging ahead.