5 Best Hiking Boots We Have Tried And Confirmed Great

The best hiking boots are not just any footwear but a must-have companion when it comes to hiking. Even if you have all the essentials such as hiking shorts, a hiking backpack, a hiking pole, etc., you need comfortable hiking boots to make your hiking experience amazing.

Unfortunately, choosing the best hiking boots is not easy. But for over seven years, we have worn over 55 pairs of hiking boots while hiking more than 1000 miles across different terrain. The best hiking boots will help you prevent blisters and fatigue while supporting your ankle.

After testing a lot of hiking boots, Foxelli Men’s and women’s Hiking Boots are the best. They are durable, comfortable, waterproof, offer solid traction and are budget-friendly. These boots are also perfect for those with wide feet.

The Best Hiking Boots

The best hiking boots can make a difference between an unforgettable hike and a frustrating trek. They shield your feet from rocks and roots, prevent nasty slips on loose gravel, and keep your toes dry when the path gets wet.

Not to mention, ankle support from a good boot can save you from a painful twist on uneven ground. If you are looking for the best hiking boots, here are the best hiking boots:

1. Foxelli Men’s and women’s Hiking Boots (Best Overall)

Our team is thoroughly impressed after using Foxelli Men’s Hiking Boots and Foxelli Women’s Hiking Boots for some backpacking trips. The boots are lightweight and comfortable, even after miles on the trail. Our feet stayed dry thanks to the waterproof membrane, and the breathable mesh kept them from getting swampy.

The aggressive tread provided great traction on loose rocks and uneven terrain, and the ankle support helped us avoid any unwanted twists. They are lightweight and come with a padded insole. Overall, these boots were a great companion on my adventure.

2. Timberland Men’s and Women’s White Ledge Hiking Boot

When we took the Timberland White Ledge Mid Waterproof boots on a camping trip, they were amazing in performance. The waterproof leather kept our feet dry through puddles and light rain, and the ankle support was excellent when navigating uneven terrain.

The boots felt comfortable all through, even after miles of hiking. The traction was amazing because the treads are top-quality. It is lightweight and stylish. The good thing is that it supports your ankle, provides arch support and is perfectly cushioned.

3. Merrell Men’s and Women’s Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot

They’ve become one of our go-to hiking boots after wearing the Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof for months of hiking and camping. These boots have tackled everything from easy day trails to challenging hikes with loose rocks and wet paths.

They have stayed dry and comfortable throughout our hikes, thanks to the waterproof membrane and breathable mesh upper. The boots also offer great ankle support and shock absorption, which is a lifesaver on long treks.

4. Salomon Men’s and Women’s X ULTRA

Our team has put miles on the Salomon X Ultra for weeks now, and they’ve become one of our favorite hiking companions. They’re surprisingly lightweight and flexible for a boot, which makes them feel more like a trail running shoe on technical terrain.

Yet, they still offer enough support and protection for day hikes and backpacking trips. The waterproof bootie has kept our feet dry through puddles and downpours, and the amazing tread provides excellent grip on different surfaces. The boots are super comfortable and we got value for our money.

5. KEEN Men’s and Women’s Targhee 3 Hiking Boots

Wearing the KEEN Targhee 3 has been all about comfort. These boots are just amazingly lightweight and the good thing is that they provide optimal support from the ankle to the arch. With these boots, we’ve tackled everything from easy day trails to challenging hikes with loose rocks and stream crossings.

The waterproof membrane has been great for keeping our feet dry on wet trails, and the breathable mesh prevents them from getting swampy on hot days. The boots are also surprisingly comfortable, even after miles of hiking, thanks to the supportive design and cushioned footbed.

Features To Look For In The Best Hiking Boots

If you are looking for the best hiking boots, here are the features we always capitalize on for the hiking boots we choose:

1. Waterproofing

This is crucial if you’ll be hiking in wet conditions like rain, snow, or crossing streams. Boots with a waterproof membrane, such as Gore-Tex or Keen. Dry, which allows moisture vapor to escape while keeping water out is important for wet conditions.

2. Breathability

Even in wet weather, your feet will sweat after putting in some miles. Breathable materials like mesh uppers or linings help prevent your feet from getting swampy and uncomfortable. So, consider breathability when looking for the best hiking boots.

3. Traction

You cannot separate hiking and traction in your boots. Good traction is essential for preventing slips and falls on various terrains, especially loose rocks, mud, or wet surfaces. Boots with aggressive treads that have deep lugs for gripping the ground are vital to keep your feet firm on the ground when hiking.

4. Ankle Support

Higher-cut boots that go above your ankle joint offer more stability and protection, particularly for uneven or rocky trails. However, low-cut boots provide more flexibility and breathability, which might be preferable for easier trails.

5. Support and Comfort

Good hiking boots should provide adequate arch support and cushioning to reduce fatigue and strain on your feet and joints during long hikes. Consider features like a supportive shank (a midsole insert) and a comfortable footbed.

6. Durability

Hiking boots are an investment, so choose a pair built with high-quality, durable materials like leather or synthetic fabrics that can withstand tough terrain and multiple hikes.

7. Weight

Lighter boots are generally more comfortable for long distances, but heavier boots might offer more support and protection. Consider the trade-off between weight and features for your specific needs.

8. Fit

This is paramount!  Hiking boots should fit snugly but comfortably, with enough room for your toes to wiggle.  Try them on with the socks you plan to wear hiking.  Don’t hesitate to walk around the store or on a treadmill to get a feel for the fit. If you are buying online, make sure you buy from reputable ones such as Amazon.

RELATED: 17 Tips When Hiking – Easily Dominate Your Hike

Hiking Boot Maintenance And Care Tips

One thing you should understand about your hiking boots is that they are investment. And you should take care of your investment. To care for your hiking boots, try the following:

1. Cleaning:

• After Every Hike: Remove dirt and debris from the boots as soon as possible after each use. Brush off loose dirt with a stiff brush, paying attention to crevices and the soles.
• For Deep Cleaning: If your boots are caked with mud or grime, you can clean them with a mixture of lukewarm water and a mild soap (avoid harsh detergents). Use a soft cloth to wipe down the boots, focusing on dirty areas.
• Focus on the Insoles: Remove the insoles and wash them separately with warm water and soap. Allow them to air dry completely before placing them back in the boots.

2. Drying:

• Air Drying is Key: Never dry your boots near a heat source like a fireplace, campfire, or heater. The high heat can damage the materials and adhesives. Let them air dry naturally in a well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight.
• Stuffing with Newspaper: Speed up the drying process by stuffing the boots with crumpled newspaper. The newspaper will absorb moisture and help the boots dry from the inside out. Replace the wet newspaper with fresh, dry paper frequently. You can also use a towel.

3. Conditioning:

• Waterproof Membranes: Regularly treat boots with a waterproofing spray specifically designed for the type of membrane your boots have (e.g., Gore-Tex). This helps maintain the water-repellent properties of the material. Follow the instructions on the product label for appropriate application.
• Leather Boots: Leather needs conditioning to stay supple and prevent cracking. Use a leather conditioner precisely formulated for hiking boots. Apply a thin coat to the clean, dry leather and buff it with a soft cloth.

4. Storage:

• Store Properly: When not in use, store your boots in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Loosen the laces slightly to prevent them from losing their shape and allow for ventilation.
• Stuffing for Shape: Consider stuffing the boots with shoe trees or crumpled paper to maintain their shape during storage.

Additional Tips:

• Inspect Regularly: Regularly check your boots for possible signs of damage, such as worn treads, loose stitching, or cracked leather. Address any issues promptly to prevent further wear and tear.
• Replace When Necessary: Hiking boots don’t last forever. If the soles are worn smooth, the boots no longer provide adequate support, or the waterproofing fails, it’s time for a new pair.

How We Choose The Right Hiking Boots For Different Terrains And Conditions

When you are trying to choose the best hiking boots for your specific conditions such as terrain, conditions, and features, here is what to consider:

Terrain	Conditions	Features
Easy Trails	Dry	Lightweight, breathable shoes or low-cut boots with good traction
Moderate Trails	Uneven Terrain	Mid-cut boots with ankle support, aggressive treads
Challenging Trails	Heavy Backpacks	High-cut boots, sturdy construction, supportive shank, thick outsole
Wet Weather	Rain, Snow, Streams	Waterproof boots with breathable membrane, sealed seams, gusseted tongue
Hot Weather	Dry Climate	Breathable boots with mesh uppers, quick-drying materials
Cold Weather	Snow, Freezing Temperatures	Insulated boots, waterproof membrane, thermal lining, aggressive treads

The Bottom Line On The Best Hiking Boots

If you are looking for the best hiking boots for your outdoor activities, this article has highlighted exactly what you should look for in hiking boots that will make you comfortable throughout your hiking or backpacking activities. The boots on this list were chosen based on experience and you can comfortably choose any of them for your hiking activities.