Best Hiking Shoes of 2023

Best Hiking Shoes [2023] - Trail-Tested

Author: Casey Handley | Tester & Editor: Dave Collins
Last Updated: June 7, 2023

Choosing a great pair of hiking shoes is one of the most important gear decisions you’ll make. Getting a pair that has the right balance of comfort, traction, weight, and durability will make a huge difference with every step along the trail.

Finding the perfect fit can be tricky though, and we expect our footwear to withstand a lot of rough use on trail. Our team has trail tested dozens of pairs of hiking shoes over thousands of miles, and we’ll use that experience in this guide to help you find the very best hiking shoes for your needs.

Related: Best Hiking Shoes for Women

Quick Recommendations

Check out this quick list of our favorite hiking shoes, or continue scrolling to see our full list with in-depth reviews.

• Best waterproof hiking shoes: Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX

• Best non-waterproof hiking shoes: Saucony Peregrine 13

• Best budget hiking shoes: Merrell Moab 3 WP

• Best cushioning: HOKA Speedgoat 5

• Ultralight hiking shoes with a wide toe box: Altra Lone Peak 7

• Best balance of weight, support & breathability: Topo Athletic Ultraventure 3

• Wide-fitting hiking shoes that excel on day hikes: KEEN Targhee III WP

  Rugged & durable waterproof hiking shoes: La Sportiva Spire GTX

• Grippy hiking shoes that work well in wet climates: Salomon XA Pro 3D V8 GTX

• Lightweight & breathable waterproof hiking shoes: Vasque Breeze LT NTX

• Highly durable & supportive hiking shoes: Oboz Firebrand II BDry

What’s Most Important to You in a Hiking Shoe?

COMFORT & FIT - Fit is very personal, so what works for some people may not be the best option for others. Generally, the most comfortable hiking shoes should give your toes some room to spread, have cushioning that supports your foot shape, and have some flex in the upper so it moves with your foot.

• Hiking shoes that don’t require breaking in to be comfortable: Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX, Saucony Peregrine 13, HOKA Speedgoat 5, Altra Lone Peak 7, Topo Ultraventure 3 & Vasque Breeze LT NTX

• Best hiking shoes with a wide fit: Merrell Moab 3 WP, KEEN Targhee III WP & Altra Lone Peak 7

• Most supportive hiking shoes: Oboz Firebrand II BDry, Salomon XA Pro 3D V8 GTX, HOKA Speedgoat 5 & La Sportiva Spire GTX

PRICE - High-quality footwear can be expensive, but we’re usually willing to spring for it because the success of our adventures depends on having happy, healthy feet. Cheap footwear tends to be less breathable, falls apart easily, and is more likely to create blisters and other foot problems. We recommend spending a bit more if you’re able as it will be cheaper than replacing blown out and ill-fitting shoes in the long run. You can expect quality craftmanship and performance from all of the footwear on this list.

• Best budget hiking shoes: Saucony Peregrine 13, Merrell Moab 3 WP & Oboz Firebrand II BDry

• Best value hiking shoes: Altra Lone Peak 7, Topo Ultraventure 3, Salomon XA Pro 3D V8 GTX & HOKA Speedgoat 5

• Best high-end hiking shoes: Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX, Vasque Breeze LT NTX, KEEN Targhee III WP & La Sportive Spire GTX

WEIGHT - Weight on your feet zaps about 5 times more energy than weight carried on your back. Lighter shoes mean less muscle fatigue, less stumbling, and they can help avoid knee and hip flexor problems. That’s not to say that heavier shoes are bad though. If you do a lot of hiking off-trail or you tend to carry a heavier pack, you’ll likely be more confident in a more burly and durable shoe.

• Best lightweight hiking shoes: Saucony Peregrine 13, HOKA Speedgoat 5, Topo Ultraventure 3 & Altra Lone Peak 7

• Best midweight hiking shoes: Vasque Breeze LT NTX, Salomon XA Pro 3D V8 GTX & Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX

• Best heavy-duty hiking shoes: Merrell Moab 3 WP, KEEN Targhee III WP, La Sportiva Spire GTX & Oboz Firebrand II BDry

DURABILITY & MATERIALS - Hiking shoes can be a big investment, so finding a durable pair will help you get the most bang for your buck. Traditional leather shoes are going to be more durable than lightweight trail runners. But if keeping weight low is important to you, look for a pair of lightweight shoes/trail runners with nylon reinforcements to get the best balance of weight and durability.

• Most durable hiking shoes: La Sportiva Spire GTX, Oboz Firebrand II BDry, Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX & Merrell Moab 3 WP

• Most durable trail runners for hiking: HOKA Speedgoat 5, Topo Ultraventure 3, Saucony Peregrine 13 & Altra Lone Peak 7

WATERPROOF VS NON-WATERPROOF - Almost all of the shoes on this list come in both waterproof and non-waterproof versions. Find the specific shoe that appeals to you most, then decide if waterproof/non-waterproof will work best.

Waterproof hiking shoes can be a real lifesaver if you often hike in wet, muddy areas. We like using them for soggy day hikes in spring and fall. On the other hand, waterproof shoes aren’t very breathable on hot days, and they can be heavy and slow to dry when they get wet.

Non-waterproof shoes are lighter and more breathable, and though they’re susceptible to getting wet, they dry fairly quickly. Most backpackers - us included - tend to prefer non-waterproof hiking shoes for multi-day trips because of the breathability benefit.

• Best waterproof hiking shoes: Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX, Merrell Moab 3 WP, Vasque Breeze LT NTX & Salomon XA Pro 3D V8 GTX

• Best non-waterproof hiking shoes: HOKA Speedgoat 5, Topo Ultraventure 3, Saucony Peregrine 13 & Altra Lone Peak 7

Sortable Hiking Shoe Comparison Table

Best Hiking Shoes of 2023

Best Waterproof Hiking Shoes

SHOES: Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX

MSRP: $160

WEIGHT (PAIR): 2 lb. 0.9 oz.

OPTIONS: Non-waterproof

SIZING: True to size; wide sizes available

PROS: Very little break-in needed, lightweight for how durable/supportive they are, excellent traction, breathable, stable

CONS: Quicklace takes some getting used to

BOTTOM LINE: The Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX hiking shoes have a nearly unrivaled balance of durability and weight. They’re built like a traditional shoe, but they fit more like trail runners. The X Ultras feel much more nimble than other shoes in their category, and they require practically no break-in period. We’ve also found that the traction is well above average on the X Ultras, so they’re great for backpacking or day hikes on challenging terrain.

We’ve used every iteration of the X Ultras since the original came out, and the only thing we didn’t love at first is the Quicklace. It’s harder to replace than regular laces, and it can be tough to get the it tucked up into the “lace garage” on the tongue. That said, the Quicklace is a minor gripe on an otherwise outstanding shoe, and it’s easy to use once you’re used to it.

Needless to say, we're big fans of the X Ultras, and we highly recommend them for hikers wanting a shoe that fits like a trail runner but lasts as long as more traditional hiking footwear.

Best Non-Waterproof Hiking Shoes

SHOES: Saucony Peregrine 13

MSRP: $140

WEIGHT (PAIR): 1 lb. 9.1 oz.

OPTIONS: Waterproof

SIZING: True to size

PROS: Excellent traction, breathable, lightweight, affordable, flexible, rock plate (increased protection/durability in sole), no break-in needed

CONS: Not as durable as some

BOTTOM LINE: We’ve hiked thousands of miles in Saucony Peregrines over the years, and they’re some of our favorites due to their exceptional traction and low weight. Whether it’s a trek through Nepal, the Sierras, or the Torres del Paine in Patagonia, the Peregrines bite into the terrain to provide stability and confidence.

The newest Peregrines are lighter than ever, even grippier than before, and have a refined fit. They also have an increased stack height with more underfoot cushioning for tough terrain. Plus the Peregrine 13s are made with a highly breathable knit upper that dries quickly, so they’re ready for just about anything you throw at them.

A shoe this light won’t hold up as well as more traditional hiking shoes in the long run, but you’ll expend less energy with each step and experience less problems with sweaty feet (like blisters). The Saucony Peregrines are the shoes you’ll catch us rocking for most of our high-mileage backpacking trips, and we can’t recommend them highly enough for those who prefer trail runners.

Best Budget Hiking Shoes

SHOES: Merrell Moab 3 WP

MSRP: $135

WEIGHT (PAIR): 2 lb. 1 oz.

OPTIONS: Non-Waterproof

SIZING: True to size; fits wide, wide sizes available

PROS: Affordable, very little break-in needed, durable, breathable, excellent traction

CONS: Heavier than some

BOTTOM LINE: The Merrell Moab 3 WPs have reigned supreme as the best budget hiking shoe for as long we can remember due to their comfort, durability, and performance. These are some of the more durable hiking shoes on our list, which makes their already friendly price point all the more appealing.

The Moabs may not be the best choice for big mile days since they’re on the heavy and bulky side. But what they lack in grace they more than make up for in cushioning and support, so they’re an exceptional choice for weekend warriors and day hikers.

The Moabs require less break-in than other traditional shoes which means you can spend more time doing what you love - enjoying your hike! So if you’re after a burlier shoe that doesn’t compromise on the performance features that really count - durability, traction, and comfort - we think you’ll love the Moabs.

Best Cushioning Hiking Shoes

SHOES: HOKA Speedgoat 5

MSRP: $155

WEIGHT (PAIR): 1 lb. 10.5 oz.

OPTIONS: Waterproof

SIZING: True to size

PROS: Very cushy soles, excellent traction, supportive, lightweight, roomy toe box, breathable, flexible, no break-in needed

CONS: Taller stack height can feel a bit unstable

BOTTOM LINE: HOKAs are known for their exceptional comfort and support, and the Speedgoat 5 is the best example of this in their trail shoe lineup. The biggest standout feature of the Speedgoats is their ultra-cushy midsole, which is excellent at absorbing impact and doesn’t flatten out as quickly as some other lightweight hiking shoes we’ve tested.

Thanks to the supportive design, the Speedgoats are a favorite among thru-hikers who need a shoe that’s lightweight and can keep their feet and joints comfortable while logging lots of miles. The Speedgoats are also more durable than many other trail runners because they’re constructed with less mesh.

If a cushioned feel and supportive build are your top priorities in a lightweight hiking shoe, you won’t find anything better than the Speedgoats.

Ultralight Hiking Shoes With A Wide Toe Box

SHOES: Altra Lone Peak 7

MSRP: $150

WEIGHT (PAIR): 1 lb. 9.7 oz.

OPTIONS: Waterproof

SIZING: True to size; fits wide, wide sizes available

PROS: Roomy toe box, excellent traction, lightweight, flexible, breathable, rock plate (increased protection & durability in sole), no break-in needed, built-in gaiter attachment

CONS: Not as durable as some

BOTTOM LINE: Altra Lone Peaks have long been the flagship shoe of lightweight hikers due to their weight, grippy outsole, and roomy fit. The 7th iteration of the LPs got another big makeover - the upper has been redesigned, the outsole has been overhauled, and the modern colorways make these shoes stand out against the crowd.

Some hikers struggled with the durability of the previous model, but we’re happy to report that the Lone Peak 7s feature more reinforced spots and will last far longer than the LP 6s. The signature Trail Claw lug pattern also got a makeover and is more sticky than before, resulting in less slips on wet rock and other tricky terrain.

Personally, we're loving the LP 7s and they’ve quickly become our favorite version of the Lone Peaks we’ve ever tested. For hikers seeking a wider fit that allows for natural movement, the Lone Peak 7s should be at the top of your list.

Best Balance Of Weight, Support & Breathability

SHOES: Topo Athletic Ultraventure 3

MSRP: $150

WEIGHT (PAIR): 1 lb. 10.4 oz.

SIZING: True to size; fits wide

PROS: Excellent value, lightweight, breathable, flexible, excellent traction, roomy toe box, cushy soles, no break-in needed

CONS: Taller stack height can feel a bit unstable

BOTTOM LINE: We love hiking and backpacking in the Topo Athletic Ultraventure 3s because they’re lightweight, highly breathable, and they dry quickly after water crossings. They’re similar in cushioning to the HOKA Speedgoats above, but they have a wider toe box that allows your feet to spread naturally.

The uppers are flexible, light, and airy, so they’ll keep your feet feeling cool and free on long hiking days. But we’ve found that the taller stack height (a 5mm. increase over the Ultraventure 2s) can feel a bit unstable on tricky terrain. That said, if you mostly stick to groomed trails that don’t include scrambles or rocky traverses, you’ll likely find the Ultraventures plenty comfortable and secure for putting up big miles.

The Ultraventures kind of blend two of our favorite trail shoes - you get the cushy sole of the Speedgoat mixed with the wider toe box of the Lone Peaks. So we think the Ultraventures are a homerun for hikers looking for the best of both worlds.

Wide-Fitting Hiking Shoes That Excel On Day Hikes

SHOES: KEEN Targhee III WP

MSRP: $165

WEIGHT (PAIR): 2 lb. 5.7 oz.

OPTIONS: Non-waterproof

SIZING: True to size; fits wide

PROS: Excellent traction, roomy toe box, secure lacing system, stable

CONS: Heavier than some, stiff soles, requires longer break-in period

BOTTOM LINE: The KEEN Targhee III WPs are a crowd favorite because they’re a dependable shoe that’s made to last. These leather hiking shoes will require a longer break-in time than many of the lightweight models on our list, but the high-quality material will hold up for hundreds of miles on the trail.

One of our favorite features of the Targhees is the elastic band that connects the laces to the heel cup. This helps provide a secure, locked-in feeling and makes it easier to dial in the perfect fit. The Targhees are also known for their wide toe box, so they’re an excellent choice for hikers needing a little extra wiggle room in their shoes.

Because they’re on the bulkier side and not as breathable or fast-drying as some shoes, we recommend the Targhees for shorter hikes and those who want something long lasting and comfy for daily wear.

Rugged & Durable Waterproof Hiking Shoes

SHOES: La Sportiva Spire GTX

MSRP: $209

WEIGHT (PAIR): 2 lb. 2.3 oz.

SIZING: True to size

PROS: Breathable, excellent traction, durable

CONS: Expensive, heavier than some, stiff soles, some break-in required

BOTTOM LINE: The La Sportiva Spire GTX are an ideal middle ground between hiking boots and shoes as they’ve got an impressive balance of support, durability, and breathability.

The stiff outers and aggressive Vibram outsoles are protective and grippy, and the quality build ensures these bad boys will last for many hundreds of miles. But as you may have guessed, these shoes will require a longer break-in period before they really shine. Once you’ve gotten through that initial break-in, the secure fit provides ample stability and comfort.

While the Spires are on the heavier side, these shoes - described by La Sportiva as a low cut boot - are surprisingly light for how much confidence they provide on the trail. Hikers who frequently tackle tough terrain will find that the grippy and rugged Spires excel on technical trails - even under a heavier backpack.

Grippy Hiking Shoes That Work Well In Wet Climates

SHOES: Salomon XA Pro 3D V8

MSRP: $150

WEIGHT (PAIR): 1 lb. 15.6 oz.

OPTIONS: Non-waterproof

SIZING: True to size; fits a bit narrow

PROS: Supportive, excellent traction, durable, rock plate (increased protection & durability in sole), stable

CONS: Quicklace takes some getting used to, some break-in required

BOTTOM LINE: The Salomon XA Pro 3D V8 GTX excel on trails with tricky terrain thanks to their stable, supportive build and excellent traction. Because they’re lighter than many traditional hiking shoes but burlier than the trail runners on our list, the XA Pros are an ideal balance of durability and all-day comfort.

These shoes are a top pick for day hikers wanting a good value option that will last for multiple seasons. And their aggressive Contagrip traction and GoreTex membrane make the XA Pros some of the best hiking shoes on our list for particularly wet, rugged climates.

Lightweight & Breathable Waterproof Hiking Shoes

SHOES: Vasque Breeze LT NTX

MSRP: $160

WEIGHT (PAIR): 1 lb. 14.5 oz.

SIZING: True to size; fits slightly narrow

PROS: Lightweight, no break-in needed, excellent traction, breathable, cushy soles, flexible, supportive

CONS: Not as durable as some, arch support is a bit aggressive for us

BOTTOM LINE: The weight, cushy soles, and excellent breathability of the Vasque Breeze LT NTX make them comfy for long day hikes and supportive enough for lightweight backpacking. Unlike Vasque’s powerhouse lineup of more traditional offerings, the Breeze LTs are pretty flexible and more forgiving on uneven terrain than a typical leather hiking shoe.

The trade-off in choosing a lighter shoe over something more traditional is that you compromise a bit of durability to shave off a few ounces. Still, if lightweight comfort and breathability in a waterproof shoe is what you’re after, you can’t go wrong with the Breeze LTs.

Highly Durable & Supportive Hiking Shoes

SHOES: Oboz Firebrand II BDry

MSRP: $145

WEIGHT/PAIR (SIZE 12): 2 lb. 8.8 oz.

SIZING: True to size

PROS: Supportive, durable, excellent traction

CONS: Heavier than some, stiff soles, requires longer break-in, arch support is a bit aggressive for us

BOTTOM LINE: Thanks to Oboz’s signature premium insoles, the Firebrand II BDry are some of the most supportive shoes we’ve hiked in. The molded arch and heel cup, secure lacing system, and exceptional traction make this shoe a great choice for challenging terrain - especially for backpackers who tend to carry a heavier pack around 40 lbs. or more.

The traditional-style Firebrands start out a little more stiff than some others, so we recommend breaking them in before taking them on any big trips. But after you get past this initial period, you’ll have a comfy shoe that can withstand multiple years of hiking.

Honorable Mentions

The following hiking shoes didn’t make our final list, but they’ve still got a lot of good things going for them. You never know, one of these pairs of shoes might be perfect for you:

• Merrell MQM 3 - The Merrell MQMs are affordable lightweight hiking shoes that are good choice for dayhikes and short backpacking trips on easy terrain. But their outsoles wear out a bit too quick for long term use.

• La Sportiva TX4 - La Sportiva’s TX4s are approach shoes, so they excel on trails with a lot of scrambling. But they’re not as versatile as many of the other shoes on our main list.

• Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX - The quality construction and impeccable styling of the Arcteryx Aerios really stand out, but we don’t find their on-trail performance to be on par with the shoes on our main list.

Critical Footwear Considerations

BOOTS VS. SHOES VS. TRAIL RUNNERS - Hiking footwear is a really personal choice, and people often have differing opinions on what type of shoe works best for hiking. We tend to prefer lightweight trail runners since they’re more comfortable to hike long distances in and they’re typically more breathable. Traditional hiking shoes - especially those made with leather - are going to be more durable, but they’re typically significantly heavier/bulkier. Here’s an article that will help you decide which style works best for you.

SIZING - Feet can swell during long days on trail, so it’s a good idea to buy hiking footwear at least a half size larger than your normal shoes if you’re on the edge of a size. A good way to test sizing on your hiking shoes is to loosen all the laces, situate your foot so that your toes touch the front of the toe box, and then make sure you can put your index finger between your heel and the back of the shoe. This will ensure that your toes don’t slide forward and hit the toe box on downhill sections of trail. You should also consider which socks you’ll be wearing and if you’ll be adding aftermarket insoles when choosing a size. It’s much better for footwear to be a little big than too small.

BREAK-IN PERIOD - You’re going to take thousands of steps on any backpacking or hiking trip, so you need to know that your footwear will fit comfortably and won’t cause blisters. We recommend buying your footwear at least a few weeks before any long hiking trips and spending as much time in them as you can. This will allow your new shoes to soften up, and you can make sure they work well for your feet. If you notice any issues, it’s much easier to address them before you head into the backcountry.

TRACTION - Traction is one of the most important aspects of backpacking and hiking footwear. Your shoes will take you over narrow and rocky ridgelines, through slippery water crossings, and across loose scree fields. Knowing that your footwear will keep you from slipping is crucial, especially over washed out or exposed sections of trail. We heavily factored quality traction into all of our footwear recommendations.

MANAGING MOISTURE & BLISTERS - If you’re on an extended trip in wet conditions or you find yourself caught in a downpour during a day hike, your feet will likely get wet no matter what type of footwear you're wearing. Wet feet can lead to hot spots and blisters, but this can be prevented if you have a healthy foot care routine. Whether you hike in waterproof hiking shoes or non-waterproof trail runners, be sure to check out our post on How to Prevent and Treat Blisters for more info on moisture and blister management.

WATERPROOFING TREATMENTS - Waterproof footwear is ideal for soggy day hikes, but it’s important to remember that “waterproof” doesn’t mean that water can never get in. Water always finds a way in during a prolonged downpour, and light rain can drip down your legs and into your shoes. Keep in mind that waterproof treatments are not permanent, you’ll eventually need to reapply a treatment to keep your shoes sealed.

SOCKS - We’ve found that wearing quality socks makes a big difference in how long we can keep our feet happy and in good shape on trail. Hiking socks should be comfortable, durable, and made with materials that wick moisture away from your skin. Check out our Best Hiking Socks list to see our top picks.

INSOLES - Aftermarket insoles can help alleviate a variety of shoe discomforts on the trail. If you suffer from plantar fasciitis or you just need more cushioning and support in an otherwise rigid shoe, swapping insoles may be your solution. Insoles can also help take up a little extra space in footwear for a customized fit if you’re between sizes.

Need More Gear Advice?

If you liked this list, you’ll love the CleverHiker Gear Guide where we test and recommend tons of outdoor adventure gear from a variety of categories. here are some links to popular articles:

• 10 Best Backpacking Tents

• 10 Best Hiking Shoes

• 10 Best Sleeping Bags

• 10 Best Sleeping Pads

• 10 Best Backpacking Packs

• 10 Best Backpacking Stoves

• CleverHiker Top Gear Picks

Why Trust Us?

We fully understand how tough it is to find trustworthy gear advice, and that’s one of the main reasons we built CleverHiker. We live for outdoor adventure, and we take these guides very seriously. Here are some of the reasons you can trust us:

• Our choices are completely independent and based on personal experience.

• We’ve logged over 10,000 trail miles and test outdoor gear for a living.

• We own and field test every product we recommend, which is sadly not the norm.

• We travel to industry trade shows to learn about upcoming product innovations.

• We constantly update our guides when new products launch.

• We treat our recommendations as if they were for our family and friends.

• We’re lifelong learners and we’re always open to constructive criticism. If you think we’ve missed a product or got something wrong, we’d love to hear your feedback.

More Information

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Thanks for reading and happy trails!

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