5 best men's hiking shoes to buy in 2022
The best men's hiking shoes balance four things: a grippy outsole, a comfortable all-day fit, enough support for the terrain you hike, and weather protection that matches your climate. We've refreshed this guide for 2026 with five shoes that are in stock and proven on the trail—from the best-selling all-rounder to a plush, max-cushion trail runner—plus a quick buyer's guide so you can match a shoe to your hiking style.
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Footwear is the gear most worth getting right—pair the right shoe with moisture-wicking socks to prevent blisters, and see our hiking gear for beginners checklist and what to wear hiking guides for the rest of your kit.
How to choose hiking shoes
- Hiking style and terrain — well-kept trails and day hikes suit low-cut shoes; rough, off-trail, or heavy-load routes favor more support (or a mid/boot). All five picks below are low-cut hiking shoes or trail runners.
- Weather — choose a waterproof membrane (GORE-TEX or OutDry) for wet, cold, or muddy conditions; choose breathable mesh for hot, dry hikes where ventilation matters more than staying dry.
- Fit — your foot should be locked at the heel with room to splay your toes. Try shoes on late in the day (feet swell) and wear your hiking socks. A snug, blister-free fit beats any brand name.
- Cushion vs. ground feel — max-cushion shoes save your legs on long, hard-packed miles; lower-stack shoes give more stability and trail feel on technical ground.
- Outsole — deep, multi-directional lugs (Vibram, Contagrip, etc.) shed mud and grip wet rock and loose dirt far better than a flat sole.
Here are our five picks for 2026 ↓
Hiking shoes vs. hiking boots: which is safer?
Neither is universally safer—it depends on the load and terrain. Low-cut hiking shoes are lighter and more agile, which many hikers find reduces fatigue and trips on smooth trails. Boots add ankle support and protection that pays off with a heavy pack or on rough, rocky, off-trail ground. For most day hikers carrying a light pack, a supportive hiking shoe is plenty.
Frequently asked questions
Can I hike in running shoes? For short, dry, well-maintained trails, yes. But road-running shoes have shallow tread and little protection, so they grip poorly on loose or wet ground and invite blisters on long hikes. A trail runner like the HOKA Speedgoat below gives you running-shoe comfort with real trail grip.
How do I stop blisters in new hiking shoes? Buy the right size, break shoes in on short walks first, and always wear non-cotton (merino or synthetic) socks. Lace snugly at the ankle to stop heel slip, and address any hot spot the moment you feel it.
How long do hiking shoes last? Most last 500–800 miles depending on terrain and how hard you are on them. Replace them once the lugs are worn smooth or the midsole no longer rebounds—both quietly kill grip and cushioning.
Merrell Moab 3
The Moab ("Mother Of All Boots") is the default recommendation for a reason: it fits a huge range of feet right out of the box, needs almost no break-in, and costs less than most rivals.
The Moab ("Mother Of All Boots") is the default recommendation for a reason: it fits a huge range of feet right out of the box, needs almost no break-in, and costs less than most rivals. The Moab 3 adds a more cushioned, partly recycled footbed and a grippy Vibram TC5+ outsole. It's the best all-around day-hiking shoe for most men—comfortable, supportive, and easy to live with.
What we like
Comfortable from the first mile with almost no break-in, a roomy fit that suits most feet, and dependable Vibram grip—an easy first hiking shoe.
Salomon Speedcross 6
When the trail turns to mud, loose dirt, or steep descents, the Speedcross is hard to beat.
When the trail turns to mud, loose dirt, or steep descents, the Speedcross is hard to beat. Its deep, aggressive chevron lugs bite into soft ground, and Salomon's Quicklace system cinches the fit in one pull. It's a trail runner, so it's light and fast rather than a tank—ideal for hikers who move quickly and want maximum grip on technical, slippery terrain.
What we like
Outstanding traction on mud, loose dirt, and steep descents, with a secure one-pull lace and a light, fast feel.
HOKA Speedgoat 4
If long, hard miles leave your legs and feet aching, the Speedgoat's max cushion is the fix.
If long, hard miles leave your legs and feet aching, the Speedgoat's max cushion is the fix. A thick, soft midsole soaks up impact while a Vibram Megagrip outsole keeps you planted on rock and dirt. The breathable mesh upper runs cool, and the low, stable platform protects your feet on all-day hikes and thru-hike-length days alike.
What we like
Plush, leg-saving cushioning for long days, plus genuine Vibram Megagrip traction and a breathable upper that runs cool.
Arc'teryx Aerios GTX
The Aerios is the pick for fast-and-light hikers who still want to keep their feet dry.
The Aerios is the pick for fast-and-light hikers who still want to keep their feet dry. A GORE-TEX membrane blocks the wet while staying breathable, the Cordura mesh upper with TPU films resists abrasion, and the precise, supportive fit excels on technical ground. It's a premium shoe, but it's noticeably lighter and more refined than typical waterproof hikers.
What we like
Light, precise, and properly waterproof—a refined fit that handles technical terrain without the bulk of most GORE-TEX hikers.
Columbia Peakfreak II OutDry
For waterproof protection without the premium price, the Peakfreak II OutDry is the value pick.
For waterproof protection without the premium price, the Peakfreak II OutDry is the value pick. Columbia's OutDry membrane keeps puddles and wet grass out, the Techlite midsole is cushioned and surprisingly light, and the Adapt Trax outsole grips wet and dry surfaces. It frequently sells below $100, making it the easiest way to get into a capable waterproof hiker.
What we like
Reliable waterproofing and comfortable cushioning at a price that undercuts the big outdoor brands—great value for wet-weather hiking.
Review of Our Favorite 3
About the Author
Victoria Miller
Victoria Miller is passionate about literature and outdoor adventures. After completing her undergraduate studies at the University of Utah, she spent a year traveling and hiking throughout New Zealand and Europe. She is an avid reader and has a penchant for escaping into worlds of her own creation.
