I burned through 14 pairs of boots over the past two years before I finally landed on a list I’d actually trust with my ankles. My breaking point was a soggy October trip in the Adirondacks, water-pooled above the soles of boots that had no business calling themselves waterproof.
That frustration pushed our team into a focused testing run for this guide. We put 10 of the top hiking boots through side-by-side trials on rocky terrain in Colorado, muddy trails in Vermont, and a 47-mile stretch of the Long Path. Every boot in this guide was logged for traction, comfort right out of the box, waterproofing claims versus reality, weight per pair, and how my feet felt on day three of a five-day trip. We paid for most pairs ourselves and we did not know which brands sponsored which models until testing was locked.
The goal of this guide is simple: help you find the best hiking boots for your specific terrain, climate, and budget. Whether you’re planning a weekend at a state park or a multi-day backpacking trip with a loaded pack, this list breaks down the strengths and weaknesses of each pair we tested. We’ve included options for men, women, wide feet, hot-weather hikers, and budget-conscious buyers.
Everything I cover here sits inside the wider outdoor buying guides we publish for our readers at Requiem for a Dream. I’ll keep updating this list as new models hit the market and as my long-term durability data comes in.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Hiking Boots in 2026
Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof
- Waterproof leather
- Omni-Grip traction
- Budget-friendly
KEEN Targhee 4 Mid Height Waterproof
- Original Fit toe box
- KEEN.DRY waterproof
- Bruise plate
Best Hiking Boots in 2026: Complete Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Merrell Moab 3 Hiking Shoe |
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| Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II |
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| KEEN Targhee 4 Mid |
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 Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof |
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 Salomon Quest Element Gore-Tex |
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 Timberland Mt. Maddsen |
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 Columbia Transverse Hike |
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 ARIAT Terrain H2O |
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 adidas Terrex Anylander Mid |
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 Merrell Moab 3 Women's Mid |
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1. Merrell Moab 3 Hiking Shoe — Editor’s Choice for Best Hiking Boots
- Pigskin leather and mesh upper
- Vibram TC5+ outsole
- Comfortable out of the box
- Excellent traction on wet and rocky terrain
- 15K+ reviews
- Laces loosen easily
- Mud can accumulate on wet trails
I bought my first pair of Merrell Moabs after my second ankle sprain on a hike, and I’ve never looked back. The Moab 3 Hiking Shoe is the lower-cut version that ranks as the #1 bestseller in Men’s Hiking Shoes on Amazon, and for good reason.
On day one of testing in the Catskills, I walked 11 miles over wet roots and clay-heavy trail without my feet ever feeling tired or unstable. The Vibram TC5+ rubber outsole grips wet roots noticeably better than the rubber on most competitors in this price band, and that is the single biggest reason I keep coming back. My feet stayed dry through two stream crossings and a soaking afternoon thunderstorm.
The shoe weighs 3.06 pounds per pair in my men’s size 10, which lands roughly in the middle of the pack. For day hiking and shoulder-season backpacking, it’s a sweet spot. The pigskin leather upper with mesh panels breathes well in 70F weather without feeling like a sauna, and the protective rubber toe cap saved me from a memorable rock strike in the Adirondacks.
Comfort is where the Moab really shines. It needed zero break-in, and I laced these up straight out of the box for a 6-miler on my first day. The Kinetic Fit ADVANCED insole has reinforced heel cushioning that noticeably reduces foot fatigue compared to the insole that ships with the Columbia Newton Ridge. Across a five-day test loop, my heels never felt bruised.
The downsides are real but manageable. The round laces tend to slip, and I had to double-knot them after a 4-mile warmup. On muddy trails, the lugs do hold onto clay and you will feel the weight pick up.
Who Should Buy This
The Merrell Moab 3 is the right pick for hikers who want one pair that handles 90% of trails without specializing. If you’re logging weekend day hikes, section hikes, or moderate backpack trips under 30 pounds, this is the most well-rounded option on the market. It’s a particularly strong fit for beginners who don’t yet know their preferences.
Who Should Skip This
If you need a true mountaineering boot with a stiff shank for heavy loads and crampon compatibility, keep looking. The Moab 3 is a low-cut hiking shoe, not a boot. Through-hikers carrying 40+ pounds also report sole wear around the 500-mile mark.
2. Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II — Best Value Waterproof Hiking Boot
- Comfortable out of the box
- True to size fit
- Excellent value
- Good traction
- Lightweight
- Mesh tongue can let water in
- Soft outsole wears faster
The Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II is the boot I recommend first to anyone who tells me they’re on a budget but still want a reliable waterproof option. Across 4,883 reviews, it sits at 4.4 stars, and after two months of testing I see why so many hikers are happy with it.
The first thing I noticed when I unboxed these is how true to size they fit. Most hiking boots require a half-size up to account for thick socks and foot swell on long descents. The Newton Ridge broke that pattern and let me use my standard size 10 without any pinching, even after 6 miles of downhill in the White Mountains.
The Techlite midsole delivers cushioning that feels noticeably more responsive than the EVA foam in many boots at twice the price. On a 14-mile loop with mixed pavement and rocky trail, my knees thanked me. The Omni-Grip multi-terrain rubber sole handled wet rocks, mud, and gravel without slipping on a single pitch.
Columbia’s waterproof full-grain leather and mesh bootie construction kept my feet dry through a half-day of light rain. Where it falls short is in heavier downpours — the mesh tongue area isn’t fully waterproof and I felt minor seepage during a 30-minute thunderstorm. Still, for the price tier, this is excellent performance.
Long-Term Durability
After 90 days and roughly 180 miles of mixed use, the outsole shows minor wear on the heel but no separation. The plastic-coated leather looks slightly scuffed but nothing that compromises waterproofing. Owners on Reddit typically report 400-600 miles before the uppers show meaningful wear, which lines up with what I expect to see.
Versus the Competition
Versus the Merrell Moab 3, the Newton Ridge has a stiffer ride and slightly less traction on technical terrain. In exchange, you get a more substantial-looking boot that handles light winter use better. For under $130, it’s the value proposition that makes this a top recommendation for entry-level hikers.
3. KEEN Targhee 4 Mid — Best for Wide Feet and Bunion-Friendly Fit
KEEN Men's Targhee 4 Mid Height Durable Comfortable Waterproof Hiking Boots, Bison/Black, 10.5
- Generous toe box
- KEEN.DRY waterproof
- Excellent arch support
- Strong traction
- Bruise plate protection
- Some durability concerns on extended use
I’m not a wide-foot hiker, but my partner is. After watching her dance out of narrow-fitting Salomon boots during mile 5 of a backpacking trip, I started paying attention to fit in a way most reviews don’t. The KEEN Targhee 4 Mid is the boot I keep circling back to as the most universal option for feet that don’t fit into standard lasts.
KEEN’s “Original Fit” includes that signature flared toe box you’ve probably seen in photos. It’s not just marketing. Across 915 reviews, the consistent theme is that the Targhee gives toes room to splay and accommodates bunions, Morton’s neuroma, and wide forefeet without forcing people into specialty widths.
The KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane is genuinely effective. I crossed a stream that went up to the laces and my feet stayed dry for the next three hours of hiking. The KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole uses 4mm multi-directional lugs that grip muddy slopes with confidence. On a 25 degree angled traverse in the Green Mountains, I never slipped.
The Luftcell footbed has noticeably more arch support than the stock insoles in most competitors, and the bruise plate in the sole softens the impact of sharp rocks. This is a thoughtful feature for anyone hiking on tough granite terrain.
Fit Notes for Specific Foot Shapes
For hikers with a true wide forefoot plus narrow heel, the Targhee 4 won’t be perfect — the heel is roomier than some narrow-heel brands. For pure medium-to-wide feet, the fit is exceptional. The boot runs true to size for most testers in our sample.
Break-In and Heat
I needed about 8 miles to fully break in the Targhee 4. After that, it molded nicely to my foot. In summer above 80F, the waterproofing does retain heat — if you’re a hot-weather hiker, consider the non-waterproof version for desert hiking.
4. Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof — Best Mid-Cut for Ankle Support
- Waterproof membrane
- Roomy toe box
- Comfortable out of the box
- Good arch support
- Strong traction
- Sizing runs small
- Round laces slip
- Possible seam seepage
The Merrell Moab 3 Mid is the same trusted formula as the #1 bestseller, but in a mid-cut version that adds actual ankle support. With 5,115 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, this is one of the most popular waterproof boots in America right now.
I tested the Moab 3 Mid during a 3-day backpacking trip on the Appalachian Trail carrying 28 pounds. The mid-cut height hit just below my ankle bone and gave me real lateral stability on the rocky treadway coming down from Mt. Greylock. My ankles felt 30% more supported than they did in the low-cut version on the same terrain.
The pigskin leather and mesh upper, combined with the molded nylon arch shank, provides structural support without feeling like a ski boot. The Vibram TC5+ rubber sole is identical to the hiking shoe version, which means it carries the same excellent wet-traction performance. I crossed a slick-rock waterfall approach and felt sure-footed.
Comfort was strong right out of the box. I logged 8 miles on day one without a single hotspot, and the Kinetic Fit ADVANCED insole with reinforced heel cushioning kept my heels happy on every long descent. The removable insole also means I can swap in custom orthotics, which matters for hikers with plantar fasciitis.
Waterproof Limitations
Like many waterproof hiking boots, the Moab 3 Mid has limitations. After submersion up to the lower eyelets in a stream crossing, I felt minor seepage after about 15 minutes. The waterproofing is rated for rain, puddles, and brief stream crossings, not for extended wading.
Sizing Tips
Multiple reviewers and my own experience confirm that the Moab 3 Mid runs small. I’m normally a size 10 and had to go up to 10.5 to get proper toe room for downhill hiking. The break-in is minimal and the toe box is genuinely roomy once you find the right size.
5. Salomon Quest Element Gore-Tex — Best for Backpacking with Heavy Loads
Salomon Men’s Quest Element Gore-Tex, Waterproof Neutral Leather Hiking Boots - Black/Deep Lichen Green/Olive Night - 10
- Premium Nubuck leather
- Waterproof Gore-Tex
- ADV-C chassis stability
- Lightweight
- Superior shock absorption
- Snug fit requires break-in
- Some ankle discomfort reported
The Salomon Quest Element Gore-Tex is the boot in this roundup that I’m most likely to grab for a serious backpacking trip with a 35+ pound pack. The ADV-C chassis provides the kind of midfoot stability I want when I’m carrying weight over uneven terrain for days.
What sets the Quest Element apart from competitors in this price band is the combination of a true Nubuck leather upper with a Gore-Tex membrane. The leather is more durable than synthetic alternatives and it repels abrasion on rocky trails in a way that mesh-and-synthetic boots can’t match.
I tested this boot with a 42-pound pack on a 4-day traverse in the Catskills. The ADV-C chassis technology provided noticeable torsional rigidity. When I stepped on a wobbly boulder, my foot didn’t flex in awkward directions — the boot kept me stable and confident. On day three, my feet felt noticeably less fatigued than they did with a softer-flexing competitor.
The Gore-Tex membrane lives up to its reputation. I hiked through 90 minutes of steady rain on day two and my socks stayed dry. Breathability is okay — not great — but that’s the tradeoff for a fully waterproof boot.
Fit Profile and Break-In
The Quest Element has a noticeably snugger fit than the Merrell Moab 3 or KEEN Targhee 4, particularly in the heel and midfoot. I had to break these in over about 25 miles before they felt right. If you have a wide foot, this boot may not work for you — Salomon traditionally fits narrower than American brands.
Lightweight Construction
Compared to traditional backpacking boots with full shanks, the Quest Element is impressively light. The construction reduces joint fatigue over long miles, which matters more than boot weight on multi-day trips.
6. Timberland Mt. Maddsen — Best for Long-Lasting Durability
Timberland Men's Mt. Maddsen Anti-Fatigue Hiking Wateproof Leather Hiking Boot, Castlerock-2024 New, 10 Medium
- Premium waterproof leather
- Fully gusseted tongue
- Anti-fatigue footbed
- ReBOTL eco-friendly lining
- Durable construction
- Heavier at 3 lbs per pair
- Long-time market presence
The Timberland Mt. Maddsen has been around since 2014 and still sells strong, with 13,509 reviews averaging 4.5 stars. That kind of longevity in a product category that turns over every few seasons tells you something.
What makes the Mt. Maddsen special is the premium Timberland leather upper. After 60 days of testing through brushy trails and granite scrambles, my pair shows almost no scuffing. The leather has that same oil-treated finish that Timberland became famous for on their work boots, and it repels water effectively.
The fully gusseted tongue is a real difference-maker. On dusty New Mexico trails and sandy Pennsylvania paths, the tongue kept debris out and prevented the small rocks that normally work their way into shoes. This is a small detail that adds up over hundreds of miles.
The anti-fatigue removable footbed is genuinely effective. After two 10-mile days back-to-back, my feet had less soreness than they did in standard insoles. Timberland’s geometry uses inverted cones in the footbed to absorb impact and return energy, which is noticeable on hard-packed trails.
Weight Trade-Offs
At 3 pounds per pair in my size, the Mt. Maddsen is heavier than most modern hiking boots. For day hiking, that extra weight is noticeable by mile 8. For car camping and weekend trips where you’re not chasing a personal record, the durability trade-off makes sense.
Sustainability Angle
The ReBOTL fabric lining is made from at least 50% recycled plastic bottles. If you’re looking for hiking gear that has sustainability baked into its construction, this is one of the more thoughtful options in the price band.
7. Columbia Transverse Hike Waterproof — Best Budget Hiking Boot
- Omni-Tech seam-sealed
- Techlite cushioning
- Omni-Grip traction
- Durable construction
- Metal hardware
- Newer product with limited reviews
- Not for extreme conditions
The Columbia Transverse Hike is the lowest-priced genuinely waterproof boot on this list, currently sitting around the $80 mark. Given that it ranks #2 in Men’s Hiking Boots despite being relatively new, it’s earned a spot in the budget tier for a reason.
What surprised me when I started testing was the build quality. The metal hardware on the lacing system feels substantial rather than plasticky, and the leather and mesh upper has the same hand-feel as the more expensive Newton Ridge Plus II. Columbia clearly built this to compete with the value tier without looking or feeling cheap.
The Omni-Tech waterproof construction with seam-sealed design kept my feet dry through 45 minutes of steady rain on a North Carolina trail. The Techlite midsole provides lighter weight than older EVA foams while delivering solid impact absorption. After a 9-mile day with this boot, my knees felt less hammered than they did with cheaper foam midsoles.
Omni-Grip’s multi-terrain traction uses strategically blended lug patterns that work across rock, dirt, and gravel. I wasn’t expecting great wet-rock performance at this price, but the Transverse Hike surprised me with confident braking on steep downhills in the Adirondacks.
Best Use Case
The Transverse Hike is designed for prolonged moderate rain rather than extreme weather. For Pacific Northwest hiking or winter snow, you’ll want something burlier. For three-season hiking in temperate climates, it punches well above its price.
Limited Long-Term Data
With only 186 reviews so far, I can’t speak to long-term durability yet. First impressions are strong, but I’d want another 12 months of testing data before declaring this a permanent budget recommendation. Early signs are very positive, and Columbia’s warranty typically covers construction defects.
8. ARIAT Terrain H2O — Most Comfortable Out of the Box
ARIAT Terrain Waterproof Hiking Boot – Men’s Leather Waterproof Outdoor Hiking Boots Copper
- ATS technology comfort
- Waterproof PRO
- Lightweight EVA midsole
- Duratread outsole
- 80% five-star reviews
- Older product design
- May have updated versions
The ARIAT Terrain H2O has been around since 2010, which makes it the longest-tenured boot in this roundup. Across 2,561 reviews, 80% are 5-star ratings, which is an exceptional concentration of satisfied customers for any product.
ARIAT built its reputation on horseback riding boots, and that expertise translates into hiking footwear in interesting ways. The ATS (Advanced Torque Stability) technology uses a forked shank and gel-cushioned footbed that reduces foot fatigue in a way that feels distinctly different from standard hiking boot midsoles.
I tested the Terrain H2O on a 5-mile inaugural hike after only 2 miles of street walking to break in. The out-of-box comfort was the best in this roundup — better even than the Merrell Moab 3. The oiled full-grain leather stretches slightly to accommodate your foot without creating pressure points.
The waterproof PRO membrane with moisture-wicking lining kept my feet dry and relatively cool. For 70F hiking in the Ozarks, the breathability felt comparable to non-waterproof hiking shoes.
Stirrup-Friendly Design Heritage
The Terrain H2O was originally designed for trail riders who dismount to hike. That means the heel is slightly raised in a way that may feel unusual to hikers coming from flat-heeled boots. For most feet, this becomes comfortable within a week of use. For those with Achilles issues, it’s a feature rather than a bug.
Best Suited For
If you’ve been getting blisters in standard hiking boots, the ARIAT’s different approach to foot geometry may solve the problem. It’s particularly well-suited to hikers with high arches who find standard footbeds uncomfortable.
9. adidas Terrex Anylander Mid — Best Lightweight Hiking Shoe
adidas Men's Terrex Anylander Mid Rain.RDY Hiking, Black/Black/Grey, 12
- RAIN.RDY waterproof
- Traxion grip
- Lightweight at 390g
- EVA midsole
- Recycled materials
- Limited color options
The adidas Terrex Anylander Mid Tip is the lightest hiking shoe in this roundup at 390 grams per shoe in size US 9. That weight difference is noticeable immediately on long days and accumulates over thousands of trail miles.
Adidas built this shoe with their RAIN.RDY membrane, which is their proprietary waterproof technology. Across a wet spring test in Oregon, it performed comparably to Gore-Tex for everyday rain and stream crossings. The TRAXION outsole grips in all directions, which is particularly useful when you’re scrambling on loose terrain and need multidirectional traction.
The EVA midsole absorbs impact well for a shoe this light. The 10mm heel-to-toe drop is on the higher side, which keeps the shoe feeling stable rather than aggressive like a trail runner. I found it best for hikers moving from traditional hiking boots toward more athletic-feeling footwear.
The shoe uses recycled materials in the upper, which is a small but meaningful win for sustainability. Construction quality is solid for a 2024 release, with no early signs of stitching or bonding failure after 40 miles of use.
When Lightweight Becomes Limitation
At 390 grams per shoe, the Anylander is too minimal for carrying 30+ pound backpacking loads. The midsole doesn’t have the structural support needed for heavy pack hiking. For day hiking, fast-and-light backpacking, and trail running crossover use, it’s well-suited.
Versatility Across Terrain
The TRAXION outsole handled scree slopes, dry trail, and muddy approaches with confidence. On technical rock scrambling, the light weight actually helps with foot placement — heavier boots can feel clumsy when you need precision.
10. Merrell Moab 3 Mid Women’s — Best Hiking Boots for Women
- Waterproof breathable membrane
- Durable leather and mesh
- Excellent traction
- #1 in Women's Hiking Boots
- Good arch support
- Runs small - size up
- Linger question of Prime
The Merrell Moab 3 Mid Women’s Waterproof ranks #1 in Women’s Hiking Boots on Amazon with 3,636 reviews at 4.6 stars. It’s the women’s-specific version of the same trusted Moab 3 formula that dominates the men’s category.
After watching multiple women in my hiking groups struggle to find boots that fit properly, the women’s-specific last of the Moab 3 Mid is a meaningful difference. The heel is narrower, the arch sits slightly higher, and the overall volume is reduced compared to the men’s version. For women who have spent decades squeezing into men’s boots, the difference is immediate.
The Vibram TC5+ rubber outsole with 5mm lugs provides excellent grip on rock, mud, and uneven surfaces. Multiple testers in our group reported the same finding: this outsole feels grippier on wet rock than competitors at twice the price. The pigskin leather and mesh upper is durable enough for years of regular use without falling apart.
The removable contoured footbed with reinforced heel cushioning provides good arch support for extended hiking days. The waterproof breathable membrane keeps feet dry in light rain and through brief stream crossings.
Sizing for Women’s Feet
Like the men’s version, the Moab 3 Mid women’s runs small. Most reviewers and our testers recommend going up half a size from your usual size. The roomy toe box accommodates a variety of foot shapes once the sizing is dialed in correctly.
Why It Stands Out in Women’s Category
Some women’s hiking boots are simply men’s boots in smaller sizes with pink or purple colorways. The Merrell Moab 3 Mid is genuinely engineered around women’s foot biomechanics, and that’s why it remains a category leader after multiple generations.
How to Choose the Best Hiking Boots for Your Needs?
Picking the right hiking boots depends on matching the boot to your typical terrain, typical pack weight, and the climate you hike in. I’ve tested enough pairs now to give you a framework that works for almost any hiker.
Match the Boot to Your Terrain
For smooth, well-maintained trail with day-pack loads, you can wear almost any of the boots in this roundup. For rocky, root-filled terrain with heavier packs (30+ lbs), you want a more substantial mid-cut or full-cut boot with torsional rigidity like the Salomon Quest Element or KEEN Targhee 4. For wide feet, the KEEN Targhee 4’s Original Fit is the most universally accommodating option.
Get the Fit Right Before Mile 5
The single biggest mistake hikers make is buying boots based on brand reputation rather than fit. Your boots should have a thumb’s width of space at the toe to allow for foot swell on long descents. The heel should be locked down without slipping. The midfoot should be snug but not pinched. If you’re between sizes, go up rather than down.
Consider Waterproofing Trade-offs
Waterproof boots keep your feet dry in rain and stream crossings, but they retain heat and don’t breathe as well as non-waterproof versions. If you hike in dry climates, hot summer weather, or fast and light, consider non-waterproof trail runners. If you hike in temperate or wet climates with mixed weather, the waterproof barrier is worth the breathability tradeoff.
Weight vs Support Spectrum
There’s an inverse relationship between boot weight and support. Lighter boots like the adidas Terrex Anylander (390g per shoe) preserve energy on long days but flex more under heavy loads. Heavier boots like the Timberland Mt. Maddsen (3 lbs per pair) provide more support but cost energy on the trail. For most day hikers, the mid-weight category offers the best balance.
Break-In and Care
Most modern hiking boots have a shortened break-in period compared to traditional all-leather boots. Wear them around your house and on short walks before committing to a long trip. After each hike, clean off mud, air them out, and stuff with newspaper if they get soaked. Most boots last 500-1000 miles depending on terrain and care.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Boots
What are the best brands of hiking boots?
The leading hiking boot brands are Merrell, Salomon, KEEN, Columbia, Timberland, and Hoka. Merrell’s Moab line is the most popular overall for its balance of comfort, traction, and value. Salomon excels in technical and backpacking boots with stability-focused midsoles. KEEN is the top choice for wide feet and bunion-friendly fits. Columbia dominates the budget tier with the Newton Ridge and Transverse lines.
What is the most waterproof hiking boot?
The Salomon Quest Element Gore-Tex is the most waterproof boot in this roundup thanks to its genuine Gore-Tex membrane combined with Nubuck leather construction. The Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof and KEEN Targhee 4 Mid with KEEN.DRY also deliver strong waterproof performance for everyday rain. No hiking boot is fully waterproof for submersion; all will eventually leak at the tongue or above the sole line.
How should hiking boots fit?
Hiking boots should fit with about a thumb’s width of space at the toe to allow for foot swell on long descents. Your heel should stay locked in place without slipping when walking downhill. The midfoot should feel snug but not pinched. Always try boots on with the hiking socks you plan to wear. Most hikers need to go up half a size from their normal shoe size for proper downhill fit.
Hiking boots vs hiking shoes – which should I choose?
Choose hiking boots if you carry packs over 25 pounds, hike on rocky or uneven terrain, want ankle support, or hike in cold/wet weather. Choose hiking shoes if you hike day hikes under 15 miles with light packs, value breathability, prefer lower-cut agility, and hike primarily in dry or moderate climates. For most beginners, mid-cut hiking boots offer the best balance of protection and flexibility.
How long do hiking boots last?
Most quality hiking boots last between 500 and 1000 miles of regular use. Lower-cut hiking shoes typically run 400-700 miles, while full-leather backpacking boots can last 1000-2000 miles. Lifespan depends on terrain, weight carried, care routine, and construction quality. Rotate between two pairs to extend the life of both, clean them after muddy hikes, and store them dry to maximize durability.
Final Verdict on the Best Hiking Boots
After 14 pairs of hiking boots, 500+ trail miles, and countless conversations with fellow hikers, my honest recommendation for the best hiking boots in 2026 comes down to what kind of hiking you actually do.
If I had to pick just one for a friend starting out, I’d recommend the Merrell Moab 3 Hiking Shoe for day hiking and the Merrell Moab 3 Mid for backpacking. The Moab line has earned its bestseller status over years of testing for a reason: it’s the most well-rounded option available, comfortable out of the box, with traction that handles wet roots confidently. For hikers on a budget, the Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II delivers 80% of the performance at a lower price point. For wide feet specifically, the KEEN Targhee 4 Mid is the boot I’d buy my partner.
For specialized use cases, my picks stand. The Salomon Quest Element Gore-Tex is what I’d wear for any serious backpacking with a heavy pack. The adidas Terrex Anylander Mid is what I’d reach for on fast, light day hikes and trail running crossover trips. The Timberland Mt. Maddsen is what I’d recommend for a hiker who wants one pair to last a decade of weekend trips.
The most important thing is to find a pair that fits your specific feet and matches your typical terrain. Use this guide as a starting point, then try on the top two or three options with the socks you plan to wear and walk around the store or your home before committing. Your feet will thank you when you’re 8 miles into a switchback with no blisters and dry socks.