The Best Hiking Boots of 2024
Durable, waterproof boots with superior traction for hikers of all levels.
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Whether you're in it for the unbeatable views or the challenge, you'll still need quality hiking gear, especially for longer treks and harsh weather. Between chilly leaf peeping season in the fall and icy days in the winter, a pair of solid hiking boots and hiking socks can go a long way. After all, nothing is worse than ill-fitting shoes or blisters. Still, finding your perfect pair is easier said than done.
At the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, we've been testing all sorts of products for over a century, including footwear for every type of activity (think the best walking sandals, best running shoes, best winter boots and more). Our expert analysts regularly evaluate all kinds of shoes for ankle and arch support, cushioning, flexibility and design before working with consumer testers to put them to the test. In the past few years, we've tested 28 hiking shoes, boots and sandals with the help of over 60 consumer testers to find the best available. To date, our testers have gone on dozens of hikes, totaling more than 800 miles over all types of terrain. Here are our picks for the best hiking boots.
Our top picks:
- Best Overall: Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof
- Best Value: Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof
- Most Supportive: Oboz Bridger Mid B-Dry
- Best Lightweight: Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX
- Best Hiking Sneaker: Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2 GTX
- Best for Backpacking: La Sportiva High Nucleo II GTX
Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof
Pros
- Lightweight and supportive
- Mesh panels for extra ventilation
- Protective toe cap
Cons
- A little heavy for light hikes or fast scrambles
Beginners and veteran hikers alike will appreciate the balanced comfort and support of this pair from Merrell. It's known for its surefooted feel and provides generous support without feeling too clunky to walk around town in afterwards. We think they're pretty versatile, making them great for both technical trails and long treks, though some users may find them too heavy for scrambles.
Standout features: They've got generous arch support with substantial cushioning around the ankle and interior. On the exterior, there's breathable mesh, a protective toe cap and a rugged Vibram outsole. We tested the waterproof version, but you can opt for the regular Moab 3 Mid for more breathability.
Tester feedback: Many testers, including several GH editors, have praised its stable feel and excellent traction. GH Analyst Olivia Lipski shares, "These are so comfortable and have lots of padding. When I first put them on I didn’t want to take them off!" Another tester noted, "These are some of the most solid-feeling shoes I've ever worn. The traction is fantastic going both uphill and downhill, and I felt really safe in these shoes on loose rock and slick surfaces."
| Waterproof | Yes |
| Weight (per pair) | 2 pounds |
Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof
Pros
- Top scores from testers for comfort
- Lightweight nature
- EVA foam midsole
Cons
- Unideal for heavy duty treks
Columbia's hiking boots are some of the most popular ones you'll see on the trails and for good reason. They have a timeless design that doesn't skimp on key features like ankle support and comfy cushioning. This pair in particular has won over several GH editors and analysts, who reach for them over any other.
Standout features: The ample midsole is lightweight and made with cushiony ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) foam for added comfort while the tall ankle shaft provides necessary stability. Pus, the rugged outsole easily navigates a wide range of terrain.
Tester feedback: Our testers especially appreciated how comfortable these boots were from the start, with minimal break-in time (if any). GH Analyst Eva Bleyer has owned the boots for more than four years and says, "I’ve gone on a variety of hikes in these, from a steep volcano in Iceland to muddy trails in New Jersey. I’ve never gotten blisters from them. My feet and ankles feel supported and they provide good traction no matter the terrain."
Note that these boots aren't the best for a weeklong backpacking trip or particularly challenging terrain.
| Waterproof | Yes |
| Weight (per pair) | 1 pound, 10 ounces |
Oboz Bridger Mid B-DRY
Pros
- Stable and protective
- Excellent traction in every direction
- Notable arch support
Cons
- May be too stiff for some hikers
If you're looking extra security on uneven terrain, this pair has superior traction and support. They're a must-have for hikers who prefer a stiff, durable option, especially for those upcoming weeklong backpacking trips. Plus, they're particularly well-suited to users who need added stability, like those who tend to overpronate or have plantar fasciitis.
Standout features: They've got supportive insoles (which you can even buy separately and slip into your own shoes for extra arch support) with a focus on stability. Each outsole also has lugs that cover every edge for optimal grip in all directions. Plus, there's a protective toe cap.
Tester feedback: They're also a long-time favorite of Lipski, an avid hiker at GH, who's tested many shoes but finds herself loyal to Oboz. She notes, "These have done a remarkable job protecting my feet on rocky trails and keeping them dry when stepping in mud or water. I’ve worn these boots in both hot and cold weather, and they’ve been surprisingly breathable for someone with feet that quickly overheat."
Still, they may not be for everyone: Some testers, particularly those who prefer softer, flexible boots will find these too stiff.
| Waterproof | Yes |
| Weight (per pair) | 2 pounds |
Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid Gore-Tex
Pros
- Soft, flexible upper
- Great cushioned interior
- High-traction outsole
Cons
- Can run warm, according to testers
Want functionality without feeling weighed down? Salomon's X Ultra 4 Mid combines the comfort of a trail runner with the durability of a boot for an all-in-one versatile mid hiker. In fact, it's one of the lightest on our list and has a well-cushioned interior and flexible feel.
Standout features: Like our other picks, these boots have a high-traction outsole with sharp lugs for extra grip, a solid toe cap and a Gore-Tex membrane to keep out muddy water. They've also got a well-cushioned interior, especially near the ankle, and a sleek look.
Tester feedback: All of our testers unanimously liked how it felt both comfortable and supportive, myself included. Beyond its flexible nature and top-tier padding, it provides adequate stability and protection. One tester shared, "I loved how supported I felt while hiking. I have weak ankles and these were a dream." Others praised the waterproof design and one said, "We walked in the pouring rain, and I was soaked, but my feet were dry." Note that it can run a bit warm, especially for those with sweaty feet.
For a more traditional backpacking shoe, I'd recommend the brand's Quest 4 GTX.
| Waterproof | Yes |
| Weight (per pair) | 1 pound, 10 ounces |
Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2.0 Gore-Tex
Pros
- No break-in period
- Plush cushioning and breathable mesh
- Great for short hikes on any type of terrain
Cons
- Not ideal for multi-day hikes or backpacking
While they might look more like high-top sneakers than hiking boots, don't let appearances fool you: Adidas Terrex's Free Hiker 2.0 are perfect for many types of terrain. They're an undeniably sleek pair that'll seamlessly take you from hard concrete to soft, muddy trails without compromising on performance.
Standout features: The sock-like fit and gusseted tongue offers protection against dirt and debris while the rugged outsole provides necessary grip. Beyond that, they're made with Adidas's famous Boost midsole for extra comfort and a waterproof Gore-Tex membrane.
Tester feedback: Take it from GH Textiles Lab Associate Director Emma Seymour, who's personally owned this pair for years: "I love that these shoes offer great ankle support without feeling too bulky or heavy like other hiking boots I’ve used in the past. They have great traction [and] a chic appearance that I’d still wear in the city. I also appreciate the excellent cloud-like cushioning, [which is] great for a new hiker." Other testers agreed, highlighting the comfortable feel and excellent grip.
Still, they're best suited to day hikes, so if you're looking for a pair for a backpacking trip, these may not be the best.
| Waterproof | Yes |
| Weight (per pair) | 1 pound, 15 ounces |
La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX
Pros
- Specialized airflow system for extra breathability
- Superior braking ability and traction
- Lighter than most backpacking hiking boots we've tried
Cons
- Brand's boots run narrow in our tests
When you're on a multi-day trek, the last thing you want is to be weighed down by heavy, clunky hiking boots. This pair from La Sportiva offers lightweight comfort without compromising on durability. And while it comes at a higher premium, many reviewers say it's worth the splurge.
Standout features: It's got a durable nubuck leather upper with a high-traction Vibram outsole and a Gore-Tex membrane to help keep out water. The outsole also has slanted lugs at the heel for improved braking and added stability. Plus, this pair uses nano-size channels in the footbed and midsole, which will help wick away excess moisture (e.g. sweat) and provide ventilation.
Tester notes: While we're still in the process of testing this updated pair, La Sportiva's shoes have earned high praise from our testers. Testers highlighted how their feet have stayed dry when stepping in puddles or streams without overheating. Our most recent testers for this style even commented that they'd never found backpacking boots this lightweight. Note that these boots run narrow, so for those with wider feet, consider opting for wide sizing or even going up half a size.
| Waterproof | Yes |
| Weight (per pair) | 2 pounds, 1.6 ounces |
More hiking boots to consider
We've rounded up the best hiking boots in our tests, but here are some other notable top performers and popular online options to consider:
Best Leather Hiking Boots: Lowa Renegade GTX Mid
- These are some of the most popular hiking boots you'll find. They're known for their exceptional stability, support and protective design. The Renegades have a stiff collar, nubuck leather upper, rugged outsole with ample cushioning and make for a reliable boot. At 2 pounds, 2 ounces they're heavier than some of our other picks, making them less versatile and better suited to long trips rather than day hikes.
Best Breathable Waterproof Hiking Boots: Vasque Breeze
- For those who want a waterproof hiking boot but fear overheating and sweating, these boots are near perfect. They've got mesh panels throughout for optimal ventilation and a heel brake for added stability. Reviewers praise these boots for being comfortable right out of the box, thanks to their lightweight and flexible design, but the jury is still out on long-term durability.
Best Hiking Boots for Wide Feet: Altra Lone Hiker 2 Mid
- If you have wide feet, Altra's innovative toe box design is a must-try, providing ample room for full toe splay. This pair uses the brand's signature zero-drop design, similar to barefoot shoes but with cushioning. While we haven't put this version to the test yet, the first iteration was a hit among many online reviewers for its blend of agility and stability but received mixed feedback on the longevity of its outsole. Altra has since revamped the design with a new "grippy" outsole that promises enhanced performance.
Most Cushioned Hiking Boots: Hoka Anacapa 2 Mid GTX
- Hoka’s cushioning is exceptional — their thick midsoles have revolutionized the running world. The Anacapa offers a responsive feel combined with a hiking-boot-inspired design, featuring nubuck leather and a Gore-Tex membrane to keep your feet dry on wet trails. However, the tall midsole may feel too cushioning at times, meaning you can feel unstable on technical trails as you won't be able to feel the ground beneath you.
How we test hiking boots
The Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab has evaluated all kinds of footwear for over a century. Our analysts are constantly testing both tried-and-true classics and new innovative launches to find the best available.
In recent years, we've tested 28 styles both in the Lab and with the help of over 60 consumer testers with various foot shapes and experience levels, who hiked for more than 800 hours on all sorts of trails over the past few years to help us determine the best of the best.
Beyond real-world performance testing, we assess footwear construction, material performance and more in the Lab. Our analysts use specialized machinery (like our Rain Tester, pictured here) and standardized testing methods to verify claims like moisture-wicking and water resistance.
Things to keep in mind when shopping for hiking boots
✔️ Sizing & Fit: Finding hiking boots that fit your feet properly is essential. Too big, and your feet will slosh around, feeling uncomfortable with every movement, especially when hiking downhill. Too small, and your toes will hit the front of your boots the entire time you walk down.
- Try shoes on after dinner. Since your feet usually swell throughout the day, your feet will likely be at their largest at night. This will help you check to make sure they aren't too small. If you're trying on boots earlier in the day, make sure you can fit one finger behind your heel once your toes are touching the front of the boot to accommodate potential swelling.
- Wear thick or hiking-specific socks. You also want to factor in the socks you'll be wearing, and thicker pairs will help avoid blisters. Wool socks are some of the most popular hiking socks, since they help wick away moisture and are temperature-regulating. Just make sure you're not looking for 100% wool socks, as those won't have the necessary structure for long-term use. For those who have wool sensitivities, opt for acrylic for cold-weather hiking or polyester and nylon for summer hikes. Good hiking socks will also have ample cushioning along the soles.
- Wiggle your toes. Your boots should feel snug all over — but not tight. You should have enough room to wiggle your toes. If the toe box feels too wide or too narrow, these shoes aren't suited for you. Too wide, and you can get blisters on your feet. Too narrow, and your feet will feel squeezed the entire trek.
- Walk around. Go from room to room and up and down the stairs. If you notice your heels slipping up and down while walking, you may get blisters out on the trail. Check to make sure your toes don't hit the end of the boots on an incline and that there's no pinching in the forefoot, or uncomfortable bumps or seams. If the boot feels too tight near the laces, or too loose, the instep isn't the best fit for your foot.
✔️ Materials: When searching for hiking boots, we recommend looking for a mix of materials, starting with 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 and lugs, which help provide strong traction on slippery slopes. Below are some common materials for the upper fabric of the boot:
- Leather: This is 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, making it ideal for boots that will get a lot of wear.
- Suede: Similar to leather, suede is another common material for hiking boots. It's often been waterproofed, so can feel comfortable that 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 are unlikely to overheat on a long trail.
✔️ Weight: Hiking boots are sold at various weights for different needs. If you're a beginner, avoid super-heavy boots, as these are designed for seasoned hikers and backpackers. Typically, lower-weight styles offer less support and stability, making them best for fast hikers who aren't carrying a heavy pack. Whether you're planning on going on a casual hike or a longer trip, our pros recommend choosing something you'll feel confident maneuvering in.
✔️ Midsole material: The midsole of the hiking boot is what your foot will be directly seated on, providing cushioning between the ground and your foot. Most hiking brands use one of two materials for midsoles — ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) and polyurethane (PU) — though you may find some brands that combine both.
- EVA: You'll likely find EVA in light- or mid-weight hiking boots, as it's soft and has a cushiony quality.
- PU: Although less cushiony, PU foam will likely last longer without losing its shape.
✔️ Key features: When shopping for new hiking boots, these 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 have a toe cap. A toe cap consists of a sole that actually covers your toe box to keep your toes protected when you're forging ahead.
- Waterproofing: If you're planning on hiking in snowy or wet weather, look for a waterproof hiking boot to help keep your feet warm and dry. Just note that if you don't expect to be in a wet hiking environment, the waterproof membranes used in hiking boots typically cause the shoes to feel less breathable and run warm.
What's the difference between hiking boots and hiking shoes?
Though they're often advertised as one and the same, hiking boots cover your ankle, while hiking shoes cut below the ankle. Hiking boots offer ankle support and added stability on technical terrain, while hiking shoes are usually lighter and fit more like a sneaker.
If you're hiking in the fall or winter, hiking boots can help provide more protection and warmth. Warm-weather hikers, on the other hand, may prefer lightweight hiking shoes or trail-running shoes (think hiking sneakers). Those who have larger calves and ankles and find boots uncomfortable during long treks may want to consider swapping to a supportive, stability-focused hiking shoe.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
Grace Wu is a textiles product review analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute. An avid hiker, she's overseen all hiking-footwear testing since 2022 and personally put several boots to the test. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping, Grace earned a Master of Engineering in materials science and engineering and a Bachelor of Science in fiber science from Cornell University.
Grace Wu (she/her) is a product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she evaluates fabric-based products using specialized equipment and consumer tester data. Prior to starting at Good Housekeeping in 2022, she earned a master of engineering in materials science and engineering and a bachelor of science in fiber science from Cornell University. While earning her degrees, Grace worked in research laboratories for smart textiles and nanotechnology and held internships at Open Style Lab and Rent the Runway.
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