Best Hiking Shoes of 2025

BEST OVERALL HIKING SHOES

Providing for the optimal blend of light weight, durability, and comfort, the X Ultra 3s are a great companion for wearing on pretty much any hiking trail you travel.

With multiple models to choose from, you’re sure to find an X Ultra 3 that is perfect for you. This Gore-Tex model offers excellent water resistance but this does cause the shoe to run warmer than the non-waterproof models. The sole of this shoe has impressive grip across a variety of terrains and substantial cushioning to ease the weight of carrying a heavy pack. The synthetic uppers and beefy toe cap help keep this shoe on the trail for years to come.

What I like about this choice is how versatile the line-up is, including lightweight, wide, and a non-GTX model you can choose for better breathability.

BEST FOR: HIKERS ON A BUDGET

When you need a quality hiking shoe for your next adventure and you don’t have a lot to spend, consider the Moab 3s — they just might be exactly what you’re looking for.

These perfect summer time hiking shoes excel at keeping your feet cool and comfy all day. Durable synthetic uppers offer substantial ventilation and increased cushioning in the heel provides for support when you’re carrying a heavy pack. The Ventilator model described here is perfect for hot weather hiking but it’s important to note that there is a Gore-Tex version, which may suit hikers in wetter conditions.

What I like about the Moab 3s is that for a moderate price, you can get a long-lasting pair of hiking shoes.

BEST FOR: RELIABLE TRAIL PERFORMANCE IN ANY WEATHER

The KEEN Targhee IV Waterproof is the latest evolution of KEEN’s beloved trail shoe, built for hikers who want dependable support, durability, and weather protection wherever the trail leads.

Outfitted with KEEN.DRY — the brand’s proprietary waterproof, breathable membrane — the Targhee IV keeps feet dry while still allowing moisture to escape, making it ideal for wet conditions and multi-season use. The rugged leather and mesh upper is reinforced for durability without adding unnecessary weight. Underfoot, the KEEN All-Terrain rubber outsole provides confident grip on everything from muddy paths to rocky climbs, while the mid-cut design offers extra ankle support for uneven terrain. The roomy toe box and cushioned midsole deliver comfort over long distances, making this shoe a solid choice for weekend hikes or extended adventures.

What stands out most about the Targhee IV is how it balances sturdy trail protection with all-day comfort — a true workhorse that’s ready for any kind of terrain.

BEST FOR: LIGHT & FAST ADVENTURES

Whether you’re in need of a supportive shoe for trail running or a lightweight hiker for long-distance trips, the Lone Peak 9+ are sure to meet your needs.

Altra is a running-centric company that has become increasingly popular among thru-hikers and the latest iteration of the Lone Peak is a great example of why. The Lone Peak 9+ weigh in at just 1lb 7.1 ounces for the pair, making for the lightest pair of hikers on our list. The toe box is designed to allow the toes to relax and spread out as they would naturally and GaiterTrap hook-and-loop tabs allow you to secure your gaiters to your shoes to keep out dirt and debris.

What I like most about the Altra Lone Peak 9+ is how well the thick heel cushioning reduces impact on your joints when landing.

BEST FOR: COMFORT ON OR OFF TRAIL

The HOKA Anacapa 2 Low GTX blends trail-ready performance with the signature comfort HOKA is known for — perfect for hikers who want to log serious miles without sacrificing cushion or stability.

Built with a responsive, rockered sole and thick EVA midsole, the Anacapa 2 Low GTX helps reduce fatigue over long distances, whether you’re hiking mellow forest trails or navigating rocky ridgelines. The GORE-TEX waterproof membrane keeps your feet dry in wet conditions while still allowing for breathability, making them a reliable choice in unpredictable weather. The low-cut design offers flexibility and agility, while the Vibram® Megagrip outsole delivers trustworthy traction on both wet and dry surfaces. Recycled mesh upper materials and a partially sugarcane-based EVA midsole make the Anacapa 2 a more sustainable pick, too.

What I like most about the Anacapa 2 Low GTX is that it manages to feel both rugged and responsive — giving you dependable grip and comfort, all in a lightweight build that’s trail-ready straight out of the box.

BEST FOR: ROCKY TERRAIN

Next time you plan on tackling a rocky summit, be sure to don the TX4s for the ultimate combination of comfort and traction.

By redesigning the sole of these shoes, La Sportiva was able to boost traction without adding weight, making them ideal for ascending or descending steep, bouldery slopes. A thick rubber sole, full rubber rand, and durable leather upper inspires confidence for moving fast. If you don’t mind the stiffer midsole integrated to increase underfoot support while scrambling, these shoes are equally suitable choice for everyday hiking. The drawstring woven into the lacing allows you to achieve a snug fit around the foot without becoming so tight that you experience rubbing or chaffing.

What I like most about these shoes is despite being designed as approach shoes for climbing, they’re surprisingly light, weighing in at 1 pound 10 ounces.

BEST FOR: AGILITY

When you’re zooming along the trail the last thing you want are bulky shoes slowing you down. Enter Saucony Peregrine ISO. Built for speed, these are the trail runners you’ve been dreaming off.

The lightweight Saucony Peregrine ISO has tacky rubber outsoles with flexible rubber lugs that are grooves which bite into the earth to prevent slippage. This amps up traction making these trail running shoes suitable for varying terrain. As debris goes flying, the protective uppers keep your feet scratch-free. Powerful on the ascent and swift on the downhill, the cushioning keeps your feet feeling supported and comfortable every step of the way.

BEST FOR: LONG DISTANCE HIKES

When you need extra thick cushioning in a lightweight build, look no further than the Speedgoat 6s — they may be exactly what you’re looking for.

Once a niche brand for runners, the HOKA’s Speedgoat line-up in particular has become increasingly popular among hikers. The Speedgoat 6s feature exceptional comfort and support created by a combination of lightweight foam midsoles and durable mesh uppers. 3D-printed overlays over the upper’s mid foot serves ensure a secure fit, mile after mile.

What I like most about the HOKA ONE ONE Speedgoat 6s is how lightweight they are, second only to our top ultralight choice. These weigh in at just 1 lb 5.6 ounces for the pair.

BEST FOR: LONG DAYS ON THE TRAIL

Founded in Bozeman, Montana, Oboz is a company as committed to producing quality footwear as they are to protecting the environment. The company’s headquarters is powered entirely by wind power and the brand plants a tree for every pair of shoes sold. 

The Sawtooth II Low BDry features a waterproof leather upper with a moisture-wicking mesh liner for breathability. In addition to the naturally waterproof properties of the leather upper, this shoe utilizes a proprietary waterproof and breathable membrane called “B-Dry”. Located in the liner, this membrane allows moisture to escape from the inside of the shoe while keeping out the elements for a comfortable hike every time. Asymmetrical ankle collars (lower on the outside and higher on the inside) accommodate a wide range of movement on a variety of terrains.