Best Hiking Boots for Men: Finding the Perfect Hiking Boots for You
When it comes to hiking, you need a few critical items, but at the top of the list has to be a quality pair of hiking boots. The last thing you want to do when going out on a hiking adventure is wearing a pair of boots that isn’t up to the task. Well, with this list of the best hiking boots for men, you can ensure that this doesn’t happen to you.
This list of the best hiking boots for men will ensure that you find the perfect pair of hiking boots. With the proper boots, you can hike with confidence and know that you can cover that extra terrain and not feel it later.
So whether you’re a beginner hiker or an experienced mountaineer, read on for our list of the best hiking boots for men.
Also, if you are looking for more footwear-related lists, our lists of the best running shoe brands, best cowboy boot brands, and best walking shoes for men will have you covered.
Top 20 Hiking Boots for Men:
1. Salomon Quest 4 GTX Men’s Hiking Boots
Price: $167.29
Highlights: Aggressive traction, a well-balanced design, and nimble.
About Hiking Boots: If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line hiking boot that will provide unmatched stability and support on even the most rugged terrain, the Salomon Quest 4 GTX is an excellent choice. These boots are built to last with a durable construction, and they feature aggressive traction that will keep you steady on your feet no matter what surface you’re walking on.
Plus, their well-balanced design makes them surprisingly nimble for such a heavy-duty boot. These top hiking boots are definitely worth the investment for serious hikers who demand comfort and performance from their footwear.
2. Merrell Moab 2 Mid Men’s Hiking Boots
Price: $89.99
Highlights: Great cushioning, Vibram outsoles, and an updated design.
About Hiking Boots: These hiking boots are perfect for day hikes and backpackers who love adventuring. With great cushioning and Vibram outsoles, the Moab 2 offers superb comfort and traction.
The updated design features a new insole with higher arch support, improved cushioning, and a more waterproof and durable suede upper. Whether you’re hitting the trails or facing inclement weather, the Merrell Moab 2 is your go-to boot.
3. Scarpa Zodiac GTX Men’s Hiking Boots
Price: $249.95
Highlights: Full-grain leather upper, a rockered Vibram sole, and can carry heavy loads.
About Hiking Boots: This top men’s hiking boot is perfect for off-trail travel, mountain scrambling, and carrying heavy loads. The Vibram sole is sticky and durable, while the full-grain leather upper is tough and can take a lot of abuse.
Plus, the rockered sole makes it walk better than the average mountain boot. So if you’re looking for a boot that can handle anything you throw at it, the Scarpa Zodiac GTX is a great choice.
4. Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX Men’s Hiking Boots
Price: $149.95
Highlights: Lightweight, comfortable, and flexible.
About Hiking Boots: The Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX hiking boots are some of the most comfortable and lightweight boots on the market, making them a great choice for backpackers and long-distance hikers. These boots are extremely flexible and feel great right out of the box, so you won’t have to worry about breaking them in.
5. Asolo Falcon GV Men’s Hiking Boots
Price: $249.95
Highlights: Well built, sleek design, and a modern look.
About Hiking Boots: This hiking boot is perfect for men who want to hit the trails in style. The Falcon GV Hiking Boot is well built, extremely comfortable, and can handle any terrain you throw at it. With its sleek design and modern look, this boot will have you feeling confident on any adventure.
6. La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX Men’s Hiking Boots
Price: $208.95 – $229.00
Highlights: Gore-Tex Surround technology, nubuck leather, and a gusseted tongue.
About Hiking Boots: This tough and lightweight boot is made with Gore-Tex Surround technology and nubuck leather, meaning it can take on any terrain you throw at it while keeping your feet comfortable and dry.
The Vibram sole provides excellent grip and stability on any surface, while the gusseted tongue prevents water from seeping in. Whether you’re crossing streams or hiking through muddy terrain, the Nucleo High II GTX will keep you going all day long.
7. Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Men’s Hiking Boots
Price: $239.95 – $441.04
Highlights: Great ankle support, maximum stability, and extremely comfortable.
About Hiking Boots: If you’re looking for a tough and durable boot that can take on any terrain, the Lowa Renegade GTX Mid is a great choice. With great ankle support and maximum stability, these boots are perfect for anyone who wants a boot that can take on any terrain.
These boots are extremely comfortable and offer a great fit. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just getting started, the Lowa Renegade GTX Mid is a boot that you can depend on.
8. KEEN Targhee II Mid Men’s Hiking Boots
Price: $164.95
Highlights: Wide fit, high collar, and a toe cap.
About Hiking Boots: This boot is perfect for day hikes and moderate backpacking trips, offering great out-of-the-box comfort and a solid build. The boot has a wide fit and a high collar that provides excellent rollover protection, while the toe cap offers added durability.
The KEEN Targhee II is a great choice for anyone looking for a versatile and stylish hiking boot that can handle any adventure.
9. Vasque Breeze AT Mid Men’s Hiking Boots
Price: $83.19 – $170.00
Highlights: Combination of mesh and nubuck leather, breathable, and supportive.
About Hiking Boots: Made with a combination of mesh and nubuck leather, these boots are lightweight and breathable yet still supportive. The cuff provides ankle support, making them perfect for longer hikes. Plus, they’re available in a lighter LT version if you’re looking to save even more weight.
10. Oboz Bridger Mid Men’s Hiking Boots
Price: $190.00
Highlights: Cushioned and protective underfoot, TPU reinforcements, and a nylon shank.
About Hiking Boots: Based in Bozeman, Montana, Oboz is known for making rugged, reliable footwear. The Bridger Mid is a great choice for weekend backpacking trips or snowshoeing in the winter. These boots have a nicely cushioned and protective underfoot, with TPU reinforcements and a nylon shank.
The leather upper is tough and stable, and the midsole reinforcements give the boot a planted feel. So if you’re looking for a comfortable, durable hiking boot, the Oboz Bridger Mid Hiking Boot is an excellent option.
11. ALTRA Lone Peak Men’s Hiking Boots
Price: $149.95 – $249.99
Highlights: Feature eVent membrane, wick moisture better, and are breathable.
About Hiking Boots: The Altra Lone Peak is an excellent choice for men who want a light and comfortable boot that doesn’t sacrifice on support. The eVent membrane is more breathable and wicks moisture better than traditional Gore-Tex, making it ideal for long hikes.
The newest model is even more supportive than previous models, making it perfect for adventurers who need a little extra support.
12. SCARPA Rush Mid GTX Men’s Hiking Boots
Price: $198.95 – $400.68
Highlights: Burly midsole, TPU reinforcements, and a sticky rubber outsole.
About Hiking Boots: When it comes to mountain footwear, Scarpa knows a thing or two. The new Rush Mid GTX hiking boot is designed for lightweight performance, making it a great choice for modern hikers.
The boot has a burly midsole with TPU reinforcements and a sticky rubber outsole, providing support and protection on tricky trails and off-camber terrain. The rockered profile facilitates quick movements, and the low weight makes the boot easy to carry.
13. Vasque St. Elias GTX Men’s Hiking Boots
Price: $154.00 – $220.00
Highlights: Made with traditional leather, offers great support, and has toe caps.
About Hiking Boots: Introducing the Vasque St. Elias GTX Hiking Boot. If you’re looking for a boot that is both stylish and functional, then this is the perfect choice for you. These boots are constructed with traditional leather, which gives them an amazing look while also providing durability. The ankle cuff offers great support, and the toe cap gives you plenty of protection against tough trails.
Additionally, the boots are a little stiff at first, but they will loosen up over time. Once they’re broken in, you’ll have a stable and comfortable boot that is ready for adventure. So make sure to pick up a pair of these great boots before your next hike.
14. Danner Mountain Men’s Hiking Boots
Price: $95.69 – $359.99
Highlights: Full suede upper, quality lacing hardware, and an in-house waterproof liner.
About Hiking Boots: This boot is made with a full suede upper and quality lacing hardware for a sharp look. They also feature an in-house waterproof liner for protection against mud and wet grass.
The over-the-ankle design is surprisingly flexible, making it easier to maneuver on difficult terrain. And at just 2 pounds 5 ounces for the pair, this boot won’t weigh you down on long hikes.
15. Zamberlan Vioz GT Men’s Hiking Boots
Price: $309.00 -$329.95
Highlights: High-quality, traditional design, and excellent traction and support.
About Hiking Boots: Made with only the best materials, these top men’s hiking boots are built to last. Traditional in design, they offer excellent traction and support – perfect for those who like to stray from the beaten path. On the heavier side, they’re also quite comfortable once you break them in.
16. Salewa MTN Trainer GTX Men’s Hiking Boots
Price: $258.09 – $456.00
Highlights: Protective rand, extended lacing system, and a customizable fit.
About Hiking Boots: This boot is designed for rough trails and harsh conditions, with a protective rand that wraps around the entire lower section of the boot to keep out rocks, snow, and other debris. The lacing system extends all the way to the toes, so you can customize the fit to your foot shape.
17. Timberland Mt. Maddsen Men’s Hiking Boots
Price: $83.19 – $199.00
Highlights: All-leather, lightweight, and stylish.
About Hiking Boots: These stylish and comfortable boots are perfect for hitting the trail, and they’re built to last. The all-leather construction is rugged and ready for anything, while the light weight ensures you won’t be weighed down on your hike.
18. Topo Athletic Trailventure Men’s Hiking Boots
Price: $101.93 – $147.42
Highlights: Low collar, roomy toe box, and a unique lace lock system.
About Hiking Boots: These top men’s hiking boots are designed with comfort and performance in mind, so you can tackle any terrain with confidence. The low collar provides ample ankle support, while the roomy toe box ensures your feet won’t feel cramped after a long day on the trail.
The unique lace lock system allows you to customize the fit for maximum support, and the moderate heel-to-toe drop provides a stable ride. With their rugged construction and versatile design, the Topo Athletic Trailventure hiking boots are perfect for any outdoor adventure.
19. Columbia Ridge Plus Men’s Hiking Boots
Price: $62.83 -$255.57
Highlights: Advanced traction rubber sole, waterproof full-grain leather, and mesh bootie construction.
About Hiking Boots: The Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot is the perfect choice for those who want a lightweight and durable boot that can withstand any terrain. Featuring a comfortable midsole and an advanced traction rubber sole, this boot is ideal for any outdoor adventure.
The waterproof full-grain leather and mesh bootie construction will keep your feet dry and comfortable, while the mesh tongue allows for breathability. Whether you’re hiking through the woods or taking on a national park, these hiking boots will provide you with the support and stability you need.
20. NORTIV Men’s Hiking Boots
Price: $38.00 – $58.99
Highlights: Made with waterproof suede leather, has a waterproof membrane, and a reinforced heel.
About Hiking Boots: This top hiking boot is made with waterproof suede leather and a waterproof membrane to keep your feet cool and dry, even when trekking through wet or humid conditions. The rubber toe cap and reinforced heel add durability to the boot and protect your feet from collisions, while the MDT outsole provides grip and traction on any terrain.
Editor’s Pick: Best Hiking Boot for Rugged Trail Performance
If you’re looking for the most reliable and versatile hiking boot, our Editor’s Pick for the best hiking boots for men is the Salomon Quest 4 GTX. It offers a perfect combination of stability, durability, and comfort for serious hikers tackling challenging terrain. With aggressive traction and a well-balanced, nimble design, it supports long-distance hikes and uneven trails with ease. Whether you’re scaling steep inclines or crossing muddy switchbacks, this boot performs across the board and earns its spot as our top recommendation.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Hiking Boots for Men
What should I look for when buying men’s hiking boots?
Focus on fit, ankle support, waterproofing, and traction. The best hiking boots for men, like the Merrell Moab 2 Mid or Lowa Renegade GTX Mid, offer comfort, grip, and protection for different terrains and weather conditions.
Are hiking boots better than hiking shoes?
Hiking boots provide more ankle support and durability, especially for rugged or uneven trails. If you’re going on extended treks or carrying a heavy pack, boots like the Scarpa Zodiac GTX or Oboz Bridger Mid are ideal.
How long should hiking boots last?
With proper care, high-quality hiking boots can last 500–1,000 miles. Durable options like the Zamberlan Vioz GT or La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX are built to endure years of hiking.
Are waterproof hiking boots necessary?
For wet or unpredictable conditions, yes. Boots such as the Columbia Ridge Plus or Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX include waterproof membranes to keep your feet dry and blister-free on rainy or muddy trails.
How do I break in new hiking boots?
Wear them around the house, on short walks, or during easy hikes before hitting tougher trails. Gradually increasing wear time helps soften materials and mold the boot to your foot. Models like the KEEN Targhee II Mid offer excellent out-of-the-box comfort but still benefit from light break-in.
Tips for Choosing the Best Hiking Boots for Men
1. Match Your Boots to Your Trail Type
For day hikes or well-maintained trails, lightweight models like the Topo Athletic Trailventure or NORTIV Hiking Boots provide flexibility and breathability. For rugged or alpine routes, go with heavy-duty options like the Scarpa Rush Mid GTX or Zamberlan Vioz GT.
2. Consider Weight and Comfort Balance
Lightweight boots reduce fatigue over long distances but may sacrifice ankle support. The Salewa MTN Trainer GTX finds a balance by offering protection without excessive weight, ideal for technical trails that still require mobility.
3. Check Waterproofing and Breathability
Look for materials like Gore-Tex or eVent membranes to keep water out while allowing moisture to escape. The ALTRA Lone Peak and La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX are both breathable and waterproof, perfect for changing weather.
4. Choose the Right Fit and Sizing
Try boots on with your hiking socks and check for enough toe room, secure heel fit, and arch support. Brands like Lowa and Danner often run true to size, while others may vary, so read sizing reviews before purchasing.
5. Think About Long-Term Use and Value
It’s worth investing in boots that are built to last if you hike frequently. Options like the Scarpa Zodiac GTX and Vasque St. Elias GTX feature leather uppers, sturdy soles, and long-wearing construction for years of adventure.
Best Hiking Boots for Men Conclusion
With the right pair of hiking boots, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying many wonderful hikes and outdoor adventures. Rather than struggling through those last few miles of a hike, your new hiking boots will give you the boost you need to push through and enjoy your hike all the way through to the last steps.
Remember to take care of your boots and break them in properly before hitting the trails. The better you can break a pair of boots in before your hike, the better.
And while some of these hiking boots may be an investment right now, if properly taken care of, they will last for years to come and will be there for you on all your outdoor adventures.
Is there a hiking boot that you think should be on this list but isn’t? Please feel free to share it below if so.
