Best of
The Best Hiking Shoes (2027)
The best hiking shoes for 2027, from the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX technical leader to the Columbia Crestwood budget pick and two real kids shoes, ranked on waterproofing, grip, fit and weight.
The short answer
For most hikers in 2027 the best hiking shoe is the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX for technical, wet terrain, or the Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof for classic all-round trail use at a lower price. Wide feet belong in the KEEN Targhee 4 Low Waterproof, fast hikers belong in the HOKA Speedgoat 6, and budget buyers belong in the Columbia Crestwood Waterproof. Kids get two proper options: the KEEN Kids Targhee 4 Low Waterproof for tough wet trails and the Merrell Moab Speed 2 Low Waterproof for light, fast days.
Our top picks at a glance
- Salomon X Ultra 5 GTXThe newest X Ultra: a Matryx upper, Gore-Tex sealing and Contagrip traction in a lighter, more agile technical shoe.Best overall technical hiker
- Merrell Moab 3 WaterproofThe classic Moab formula in a low cut with a waterproof membrane: leather and mesh, Vibram grip and the fit that made the line famous.Best classic all-rounder
- KEEN Targhee 4 Low WaterproofThe updated Targhee: direct-attach construction, KEEN.DRY sealing and the same wide, forgiving fit in a tougher package.Best wide-fit waterproof shoe
- HOKA Speedgoat 6The max-cushion trail runner for hiking: CMEVA foam and Vibram Megagrip in a light shoe that eats flat miles.Best cushioned trail runner for hiking
- Salomon X Ultra 4 GTXThe proven Gore-Tex all-rounder: Quicklace closure, ADV-C chassis and Contagrip grip for steep, wet and mixed ground.Best proven Gore-Tex workhorse
The picks, ranked
| # | Product | Award | Upper | Membrane | Outsole | Closure | Midsole |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX | Best overall technical hiker | Matryx woven upper | Gore-Tex | Contagrip rubber | Quicklace one-pull system | EVA foam cushioning |
| 2 | Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof | Best classic all-rounder | Leather and mesh | - | Vibram TC5+ rubber | - | - |
| 3 | KEEN Targhee 4 Low Waterproof | Best wide-fit waterproof shoe | - | KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane | KEEN ALL-TERRAIN rubber traction | - | - |
| 4 | HOKA Speedgoat 6 | Best cushioned trail runner for hiking | Breathable engineered mesh | - | Vibram Megagrip rubber | Lace-up | CMEVA foam |
| 5 | Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX | Best proven Gore-Tex workhorse | - | Gore-Tex | Contagrip rubber | Quicklace one-pull system | EnergyCell EVA foam |
| 6 | Merrell Moab 3 GTX | Best leather-leaning Gore-Tex classic | Leather and mesh | Gore-Tex waterproof membrane | Vibram TC5+ rubber | - | - |
| 7 | Salomon XA Pro 3D GTX | Best tough trail hybrid | - | Gore-Tex | Premium Wet Traction Contagrip rubber | Quicklace one-pull system | - |
| 8 | New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro V8 | Best road-to-trail crossover | Breathable, lightweight mesh | - | Vibram Eco-Step Natural rubber | Lace-up | - |
| 9 | Columbia Crestwood Waterproof | Best budget waterproof shoe | Suede and mesh panels | - | Omni-Grip non-marking traction rubber | Lace-up | Techlite lightweight midsole |
| 10 | KEEN Targhee III Low Waterproof | Best old-school leather value | Oiled nubuck leather | KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane | KEEN ALL-TERRAIN rubber, 4 mm multi-directional lugs | - | Dual-density EVA |
| 11 | KEEN Kids Targhee 4 Low Waterproof | Best kids waterproof shoe | Leather and textile | KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane | All-terrain rubber traction | Hook-and-loop strap with laces | - |
| 12 | Merrell Moab Speed 2 Low Waterproof (Kids) | Best kids light hiker | Textile and mesh | - | Extra-grippy rubber | - | - |
Best overall technical hiker
Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX
The newest X Ultra: a Matryx upper, Gore-Tex sealing and Contagrip traction in a lighter, more agile technical shoe.
Strengths
- Matryx upper resists abrasion from rock and brush while staying lighter than leather builds
- Gore-Tex membrane handles rain, wet grass and shallow crossings without soaking through
- Contagrip outsole bites on both wet and dry surfaces, from granite slabs to forest floor
- Agile, lower-profile build suits quick movement and scrambling better than bulkier hikers
Limitations
- Fit runs snug, and wide feet will likely find the toe box restrictive
- Less cushioning than the HOKA and New Balance trail runners for long flat mileage
- Newer model means fewer long-term durability reports than the X Ultra 4 it succeeds
What owners report
Most praised
- Owners describe the shoe as nimble on rocky trails, with grip that inspires confidence on steep steps
- Wet-weather hikers report the Gore-Tex sealing holds up through rain and boggy sections
- Scramblers like the precise feel, saying the shoe lets them place feet accurately on rock
Common complaints
- Buyers with wider feet say the snug last squeezes the forefoot on longer walks
- Some owners wish for softer cushioning on flat approach miles between technical sections
- A few note the price sits high for a shoe that replaces the already strong X Ultra 4
| Upper | Matryx woven upper |
|---|---|
| Membrane | Gore-Tex |
| Outsole | Contagrip rubber |
| Closure | Quicklace one-pull system |
| Midsole | EVA foam cushioning |
| Protection | Reinforced toe and heel caps |
Best for: Fast hikers and scramblers who want technical grip and waterproofing without a heavy boot-like shoe.
Skip if: You need a wide toe box, or you want maximum cushion for flat, long-distance days over technical performance.
Best classic all-rounder
Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof
The classic Moab formula in a low cut with a waterproof membrane: leather and mesh, Vibram grip and the fit that made the line famous.
Strengths
- Vibram TC5+ outsole gives confident grip on wet rock, mud and loose trail surfaces
- Waterproof membrane keeps feet dry through stream crossings and sustained rain
- Leather and mesh upper balances support with ventilation better than full leather
- Merrell Air Cushion in the heel absorbs shock on long descents and hard-packed trails
Limitations
- Waterproof construction traps heat on warm days, so summer hikers may prefer the vented Moab line
- Break-in takes a few walks before the leather panels soften and the fit settles
- Heavier than the trail-runner options here, which shows on fast, long-mile days
What owners report
Most praised
- Owners keep coming back to the familiar Moab fit, saying the shoe feels right from the first walk with little adjustment
- Wet-weather walkers report dry feet after rain-soaked paths and shallow crossings that soak lesser shoes
- Long-time Moab wearers praise the durability, with uppers and soles holding up across seasons of regular trail use
Common complaints
- Summer hikers say the waterproof version runs noticeably warm once temperatures climb
- Some owners find the shoe stiff out of the box and wish the leather softened faster
- A few buyers note the sizing feels snug with thick hiking socks and suggest trying the wide version
| Outsole | Vibram TC5+ rubber |
|---|---|
| Waterproofing | Waterproof membrane construction |
| Upper | Leather and mesh |
| Cushioning | Merrell Air Cushion heel plus Super Rebound Compound |
| Sustainability | Partially recycled laces, webbing and mesh lining |
| Cut | Low top |
Best for: Day hikers who want one dependable shoe for mud, rain and rocky paths and who like the traditional Moab fit.
Skip if: You hike mostly in summer heat or need a featherweight shoe; the waterproof membrane runs warm and this is not the lightest shoe here.
Best wide-fit waterproof shoe
KEEN Targhee 4 Low Waterproof
The updated Targhee: direct-attach construction, KEEN.DRY sealing and the same wide, forgiving fit in a tougher package.
Strengths
- KEEN.FUSION direct-attach construction bonds the sole to the upper for a sturdier build
- KEEN.DRY membrane seals out wet trails while the exterior treatment stays PFAS-free
- Wider KEEN form with regular and wide widths fits feet that narrower brands pinch
- All-terrain traction handles mud, gravel and wet rock without drama
Limitations
- Still a substantial shoe, so ultralight hikers will find it heavier than trail runners
- Leather-leaning build runs warm in summer despite the low cut
- Newer generation means fewer years of owner history than the Targhee III
What owners report
Most praised
- Owners with wide feet say the Targhee 4 finally gives them a waterproof shoe without squeezing the forefoot
- Walkers praise the sturdier feel, noting the sole and upper feel joined as one piece
- Wet-trail users report dry feet through mud and rain, with the membrane doing its job quietly
Common complaints
- Some buyers find the shoe heavier than expected for a low-cut design
- A few owners say the fit feels roomy enough to need careful lacing to stop heel movement
- Summer hikers note the shoe stays warm on hot days, like most waterproof leather-leaning shoes
| Membrane | KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane |
|---|---|
| Construction | KEEN.FUSION direct-attach sole |
| Outsole | KEEN ALL-TERRAIN rubber traction |
| Fit | Traditional wider KEEN form |
| Waterproofing treatment | PFAS-free exterior waterproofing |
| Sizes | US 7 to 15 men's, regular and wide widths |
Best for: Wide-footed hikers who want the newest Targhee with better build quality and waterproofing that avoids PFAS treatments.
Skip if: You chase the lightest shoe, or you prefer a snug, precise technical fit for scrambling.
Best cushioned trail runner for hiking
HOKA Speedgoat 6
The max-cushion trail runner for hiking: CMEVA foam and Vibram Megagrip in a light shoe that eats flat miles.
Strengths
- CMEVA midsole delivers the soft, high-stack cushion HOKA is known for on long days
- Vibram Megagrip outsole grips confidently on dry rock, dirt and loose gravel
- Light build for a cushioned shoe keeps legs fresher over high-mileage days
- Breathable mesh upper dries quickly after stream crossings and sweaty climbs
Limitations
- No waterproof membrane, so wet trails and rain will soak through
- Soft cushion trades some stability on side slopes and technical rock
- High stack height can feel tippy for walkers used to low, firm hiking shoes
What owners report
Most praised
- Owners rave about the cushioning, saying knees and feet feel fresher after long days than in firmer shoes
- Trail runners praise the grip, reporting confident footing on loose descents and dry rock
- Walkers like the light feel, saying the shoe disappears on the foot over many miles
Common complaints
- Buyers caught in rain say the non-waterproof mesh soaks fast and stays wet
- Some owners find the tall cushion unstable on uneven side slopes
- A few report the soft midsole wears down faster under heavy daily use
| Midsole | CMEVA foam |
|---|---|
| Outsole | Vibram Megagrip rubber |
| Weight | 9.8 oz / 280 g (men's size 9, maker figure) |
| Style | 1147811 (women's variant wired here) |
| Upper | Breathable engineered mesh |
| Closure | Lace-up |
Best for: Fast day hikers and trail runners who want soft cushioning and grip for long, runnable trails.
Skip if: You need waterproofing, or you hike sharp, rocky terrain where a firmer, more protective shoe matters more than softness.
Best proven Gore-Tex workhorse
Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX
The proven Gore-Tex all-rounder: Quicklace closure, ADV-C chassis and Contagrip grip for steep, wet and mixed ground.
Strengths
- ADV-C chassis steadies the foot on side slopes and uneven ground without feeling rigid
- Quicklace closure tightens the whole shoe with one pull and tucks away cleanly
- Contagrip outsole grips across wet rock, mud and dry hardpack
- Gore-Tex membrane seals out rain and stream splash on long wet days
Limitations
- Narrower last than the KEEN shoes here, so wide feet often need to size up or look elsewhere
- Quicklace cannot be re-tensioned across separate foot zones the way laces can
- Stiffer feel than the cushioned trail runners, which some walkers find tiring on flat miles
What owners report
Most praised
- Owners love how the Quicklace system locks the midfoot down on steep descents with no heel slip
- Technical hikers report sure footing on wet rock and muddy traverses thanks to the Contagrip sole
- Walkers praise the all-day support, saying tired feet stay steadier late in a long hike
Common complaints
- Wide-footed owners say the toe box pinches and the fit runs narrow compared with KEEN and Merrell
- Some buyers dislike the Quicklace feel, finding it hard to fine-tune pressure over the forefoot
- A few owners note the shoe feels firm underfoot on flat, easy paths where cushion matters more
| Membrane | Gore-Tex |
|---|---|
| Chassis | ADV-C advanced chassis |
| Outsole | Contagrip rubber |
| Midsole | EnergyCell EVA foam |
| Footbed | OrthoLite sockliner |
| Closure | Quicklace one-pull system |
Best for: Hikers who tackle steep, technical and wet trails and want a shoe that locks the foot down securely.
Skip if: You have very wide feet, or you dislike one-pull lacing systems and prefer traditional laces you can adjust zone by zone.
Best leather-leaning Gore-Tex classic
Merrell Moab 3 GTX
The Moab 3 with a Gore-Tex membrane: the same trail-proven platform, sealed for the wettest walking conditions.
Strengths
- Gore-Tex membrane gives the strongest wet-weather sealing in the Moab family
- Vibram TC5+ outsole holds grip on slick rock and muddy descents
- Leather and mesh upper keeps the supportive Moab feel while shedding trail debris
- Super Rebound Compound midsole softens repeated impacts on hard, rocky paths
Limitations
- Gore-Tex version costs more than the standard waterproof Moab while feeling similar on dry trails
- Membrane warmth makes it a poor pick for hot-weather hiking despite the low cut
- Heavier build than the trail-runner shoes here, so fast hikers may find it slow
What owners report
Most praised
- Owners praise the Gore-Tex sealing on boggy trails, reporting dry socks where non-membrane shoes gave up
- Walkers who already trust the Moab shape say the GTX version keeps the same reassuring fit
- Cold-season hikers like the way the sealed upper blocks wind and drizzle on exposed ridges
Common complaints
- Buyers in warm climates say the membrane makes the shoe too hot for summer use
- Some owners question paying extra over the standard waterproof Moab for similar dry-trail feel
- A few report the shoe needs several outings before the fit feels broken in
| Membrane | Gore-Tex waterproof membrane |
|---|---|
| Outsole | Vibram TC5+ rubber |
| Upper | Leather and mesh |
| Cushioning | Super Rebound Compound midsole |
| Lug depth | 5 mm (Moab 3 GTX platform figure) |
| Cut | Low top |
Best for: Walkers who love the Moab fit but hike in persistent rain, boggy ground and cold, wet seasons.
Skip if: Your trails are mostly dry and warm, or you want the lightest shoe possible; Gore-Tex adds cost and warmth you may not need.
Best tough trail hybrid
Salomon XA Pro 3D GTX
The tough trail hybrid: 3D Advanced Chassis, Gore-Tex sealing and wet-traction Contagrip for rough, all-weather miles.
Strengths
- 3D Advanced Chassis stabilises the foot on uneven ground and loose descents
- Gore-Tex membrane keeps rain and mud out on all-weather hikes
- Premium Wet Traction Contagrip holds on slick rock and wet wood where other soles slip
- Protective mudguard and toe cap shield the foot from rocks, roots and debris
Limitations
- Firm ride feels less forgiving than cushioned trail runners on flat, long miles
- Fit runs snug, so wide feet may need to look at the KEEN options instead
- Heavier and stiffer than the light trail runners, which shows on fast days
What owners report
Most praised
- Owners praise the toughness, saying the shoe survives rocky trails that destroy lighter shoes
- Wet-weather walkers report reliable waterproofing through mud, rain and stream edges
- Hikers like the locked-in feel, with the chassis keeping feet steady on loose descents
Common complaints
- Some owners find the ride firm and unforgiving on long flat walks
- Wide-footed buyers say the fit squeezes the forefoot on all-day hikes
- A few note the shoe takes time to soften, feeling stiff on the first outings
| Membrane | Gore-Tex |
|---|---|
| Chassis | 3D Advanced Chassis |
| Outsole | Premium Wet Traction Contagrip rubber |
| Weight | 385 g (size 8.5, maker product card) |
| Drop | 11 mm (27 mm heel / 16 mm forefoot stack) |
| Closure | Quicklace one-pull system |
Best for: Hikers who want one rugged shoe for mud, rain and rocky trails without paying the X Ultra premium.
Skip if: You want a soft, cushioned ride, or a wide toe box; this is a firm, protective shoe with a snugger fit.
Best road-to-trail crossover
New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro V8
The road-to-trail crossover: Fresh Foam X cushioning and a Vibram Eco-Step outsole for hikers who also run the trails.
Strengths
- Fresh Foam X midsole gives soft, responsive cushioning that suits both running and walking
- Vibram Eco-Step Natural outsole wraps the cushioning in durable, grippy rubber
- Breathable, lightweight upper keeps feet cool on warm-weather hikes
- Trail-runner build feels natural for runners moving onto hiking trails
Limitations
- No waterproof membrane, so rain and mud soak through quickly
- Less rock protection than chassis hiking shoes on sharp, rugged ground
- Cushion-first design gives less support for heavy packs and steep side slopes
What owners report
Most praised
- Owners love the soft ride, saying the cushioning makes long trail days feel easier on joints
- Trail runners praise the smooth transition from road to dirt without changing shoes
- Walkers like the breathability, reporting cool feet on warm-weather hikes
Common complaints
- Buyers caught in wet weather say the mesh upper soaks through with no membrane to stop it
- Some owners find protection thin on rocky trails, with sharp stones felt through the sole
- A few report the cushioning feels less supportive under a heavier day pack
| Cushioning | Fresh Foam X midsole |
|---|---|
| Outsole | Vibram Eco-Step Natural rubber |
| Upper | Breathable, lightweight mesh |
| Style | MTHIERA8 (men's variant wired here) |
| Closure | Lace-up |
| Sport type | Trail running |
Best for: Hikers who mix trail running with walking, and anyone who wants one shoe for park trails and light mountain paths.
Skip if: You need waterproofing, or you hike sharp, technical terrain where a chassis shoe protects better.
Best budget waterproof shoe
Columbia Crestwood Waterproof
The budget waterproof shoe that keeps beginners dry: suede and mesh, Techlite cushioning and Omni-Grip traction for sensible money.
Strengths
- Waterproof construction keeps feet dry on rainy walks and muddy paths at a budget price
- Techlite midsole gives light, responsive cushioning for all-day comfort on easy trails
- Omni-Grip outsole holds traction across dirt, gravel and wet pavement
- Suede and mesh upper balances durability with airflow better than full synthetic builds
Limitations
- Less support and protection than the premium technical shoes for rough, rocky ground
- Cushioning and grip fall short of the Salomon and HOKA options on long, hard days
- Sizing and width range is narrower than the KEEN shoes, so wide feet should try before committing
What owners report
Most praised
- Owners call it a bargain, saying the waterproofing and comfort beat expectations at the price
- Casual walkers praise the easy, trainer-like feel on park trails and neighborhood paths
- Buyers like the sturdy look, saying the suede panels hold up well to everyday wear
Common complaints
- Experienced hikers say support runs out on rough, rocky terrain where pricier shoes hold firm
- Some owners report the cushioning flattens faster than premium midsoles on long days
- A few buyers find the fit narrow and wish a wide version were easier to find
| Style number | 210065 |
|---|---|
| Midsole | Techlite lightweight midsole |
| Outsole | Omni-Grip non-marking traction rubber |
| Waterproofing | Waterproof construction |
| Upper | Suede and mesh panels |
| Closure | Lace-up |
Best for: New hikers and occasional walkers who want waterproof protection without paying premium-shoe prices.
Skip if: You hike steep, technical terrain weekly, or you need wide widths and a roomy toe box; this is a general trail shoe, not a specialist.
Best old-school leather value
KEEN Targhee III Low Waterproof
The long-running leather waterproof shoe: oiled nubuck, KEEN.DRY sealing and the roomy toe box wide feet love.
Strengths
- Roomy toe box lets toes spread naturally instead of squeezing together on descents
- KEEN.DRY membrane keeps water out on wet trails and rainy walks
- Oiled nubuck leather upper takes scrapes and brush far better than thin mesh
- 4 mm multi-directional lugs on the all-terrain outsole bite on mud, gravel and rock
Limitations
- Leather build is heavier and warmer than mesh trail runners, especially in summer
- Needs a short break-in before the leather softens to the foot
- Styling is rugged and workmanlike rather than sleek, which matters to some buyers
What owners report
Most praised
- Wide-footed owners praise the toe room, saying it ends the pinching they get from narrower hiking shoes
- Walkers report the leather upper shrugging off rocks, roots and brush that tear mesh shoes
- Rainy-trail users say the waterproofing holds up season after season with basic care
Common complaints
- Some owners find the shoe heavy on longer hikes compared with modern mesh designs
- Summer walkers say the leather and membrane combination runs hot in warm weather
- A few buyers note the break-in period, with stiffness on the first few outings
| Membrane | KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane |
|---|---|
| Upper | Oiled nubuck leather |
| Midsole | Dual-density EVA |
| Outsole | KEEN ALL-TERRAIN rubber, 4 mm multi-directional lugs |
| Fit | Roomy toe box, traditional wider KEEN form |
| Leather sourcing | Leather Working Group-rated sourcing |
Best for: Walkers with wider feet who want a durable leather shoe for wet trails, mud and everyday trail use.
Skip if: You want a light, fast shoe, or you hike in serious summer heat; leather and membrane make this a warm, sturdy shoe.
Best kids waterproof shoe
KEEN Kids Targhee 4 Low Waterproof
The kids Targhee: KEEN.DRY waterproofing, a protective toe bumper and the wide, sturdy fit young hikers need.
Strengths
- KEEN.DRY membrane keeps feet dry through rain, mud and shallow puddles
- Rubber toe bumper protects small toes from rocks, roots and playground scrapes
- Wide, sturdy fit gives growing feet room without the shoe feeling sloppy
- All-terrain rubber traction grips on trails, wet grass and loose gravel
Limitations
- Sturdier build is heavier than the light Merrell kids shoe for running and play
- Waterproofing adds warmth, so feet can get hot on summer hikes
- Higher price than basic kids trainers, which stings when feet grow fast
What owners report
Most praised
- Parents praise the toughness, saying the shoes survive rocky trails and daily playground abuse alike
- Families report dry feet after rainy hikes, with the waterproofing holding up through mud
- Parents like the roomy fit, saying wide little feet finally have space to move
Common complaints
- Some parents find the shoe heavier than expected for younger, smaller kids
- A few report warm feet on summer walks, with the waterproof build trapping heat
- Parents note the price feels steep for a shoe outgrown within a season or two
| Membrane | KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane |
|---|---|
| Style | 1029564 |
| Upper | Leather and textile |
| Toe protection | Rubber toe bumper |
| Outsole | All-terrain rubber traction |
| Closure | Hook-and-loop strap with laces |
Best for: Kids who hike proper trails in wet weather and need a tough, waterproof shoe with room for growing feet.
Skip if: Your child mostly walks pavements and parks, or you want the lightest possible shoe for running and play.
Best kids light hiker
Merrell Moab Speed 2 Low Waterproof (Kids)
The kids Moab, made light and fast: waterproof construction and a grippy sole in a shoe kids can actually run in.
Strengths
- Waterproof construction keeps small feet dry through puddles, mud and rain
- Light, sneaker-like build lets kids run and scramble instead of clomping along
- Extra-grippy rubber outsole holds on playground, trail and wet grass alike
- Odor-reducing lining helps after long, sweaty days on the trail
Limitations
- Light build gives less ankle and arch support than a sturdier kids hiking boot
- Kids outgrow sizes fast, so the cost per month of wear runs higher than adult shoes
- Lacing or strap fit needs a parent check, since kids rarely tighten shoes well themselves
What owners report
Most praised
- Parents say kids refuse to take them off, calling them the most comfortable trail shoes they have owned
- Families praise the waterproofing, reporting dry socks after puddle-jumping and rainy hikes
- Parents like the light weight, saying kids keep up better instead of dragging heavy boots
Common complaints
- Some parents find the laces unravel quickly and wish the closure held tighter on its own
- A few report waterproofing fading after heavy, repeated soaking on very wet days
- Parents note sizing runs tricky, with kids between sizes needing careful measuring
| Waterproofing | Waterproof construction, seam-sealed |
|---|---|
| Outsole | Extra-grippy rubber |
| Footbed | Cushioned foam footbed |
| Upper | Textile and mesh |
| Lining | Odor-reducing lining |
| Sizing | Little kid through big kid sizes |
Best for: Active kids who hike, scramble and play on trails and need waterproofing without a heavy boot.
Skip if: Your child needs a stiff, supportive shoe for rough mountain terrain, or outgrows shoes too fast to justify a trail-specific pair.
How we chose
Membrane honesty first
A waterproof label means little without a named membrane and a sealed construction behind it. Gore-Tex, KEEN.DRY and sealed waterproof builds all keep water out, but they also trap heat, so the ranking separates true wet-weather shoes from breathable shoes that merely resist a shower. Buy the membrane your climate actually demands, not the strongest one on the shelf.
Fit and width beat features
No chassis, outsole or cushion system rescues a shoe that pinches. KEEN lasts run wide, Salomon lasts run snug, and Merrell sits in between, so the ranking treats last shape as a primary filter. A shoe that fits your foot shape will out-hike a better-specced shoe that fights your toes on every descent.
Grip is a safety feature, not a spec
Contagrip, Vibram Megagrip, Vibram TC5+ and KEEN all-terrain rubber all grip well on dry trails, but they separate on wet rock, mud and loose gravel. The ranking weighs wet-weather traction heavily, because most hiking falls happen on slick surfaces, and a sole that only grips when dry is a fair-weather sole.
Weight decides how far you enjoy
A heavy leather shoe protects and supports, but every extra ounce shows up in tired legs by mile ten. Trail runners like the Speedgoat 6 and Hierro V8 trade protection for speed and softness, and that trade suits runnable trails and day hikes. The ranking states each shoe's weight class plainly so buyers choose their trade on purpose.
Questions, answered
Should I buy hiking shoes or hiking boots?
Buy shoes for maintained trails, day hikes and lighter packs, where ankle freedom, lower weight and faster drying matter most. Buy boots for rough, off-trail ground, heavy packs and loose scree, where ankle support and protection matter more. Most day hikers are better served by shoes, and this guide assumes marked trails and a day pack or lighter.
Do I need waterproof hiking shoes?
Only if your trails and climate demand it. Waterproof membranes keep rain, mud and stream splash out, but they trap heat and dry slowly once water gets in over the collar. Hikers in wet climates, boggy ground and cold seasons should choose a membrane shoe; summer hikers on dry trails are usually happier in a breathable shoe like the Speedgoat 6 or Hierro V8.
How should hiking shoes fit?
Fit them with the socks you hike in, with room to wiggle toes and no heel slip on a slope. Feet swell during a hike, so a thumb's width ahead of the longest toe is a good starting point. Wide feet should start with the KEEN shoes here; narrow feet usually suit the Salomon lasts. Always test on a downhill slope, since descents expose a short or narrow fit fastest.
Are trail running shoes good for hiking?
Yes, for runnable trails and day hikes. Shoes like the Speedgoat 6 and Hierro V8 are lighter, softer and faster than hiking shoes, and their grip suits maintained trails well. They give up waterproofing and rock protection, so they suit dry, well-kept paths better than sharp, wet or technical terrain, where the Salomon and KEEN shoes take over.
Every guide on Hiking Shoes15 pages
- Topic hubHiking Shoes
- Kids hiking shoes fail in different ways from adult shoes. They get outgrown before they wear out, they get soaked in the first puddle, and they get kicked off when they pinch or rub. This guide leads with the two true kids shoes, one tough and waterproof, one light and fast, and adds adult shoes that work for older kids who have outgrown kids sizing. Fit matters more than features here: a shoe a child will actually keep on beats a technical shoe they hate.The Best Hiking Shoes for Kids (2027)
- Waterproof hiking shoes split by membrane, not by brand. Gore-Tex seals hardest and costs most, KEEN.DRY seals well in a wider, tougher shoe, and sealed non-membrane builds like the Crestwood keep rain out for less money. This guide ranks the membrane shoes first for genuinely wet conditions, and treats warmth as the real cost of waterproofing: every shoe here runs hotter than its breathable twin, so buyers in dry climates should look at the main guide instead.The Best Waterproof Hiking Shoes (2027)
- Lightweight hiking shoes trade protection for speed, and the honest question is how much protection a given trail actually needs. On maintained paths and runnable trails, a light shoe with good grip beats a heavy shoe every time, because tired legs cause more stumbles than thin uppers do. This guide ranks the lightest, softest shoes first for fast day hikes, and keeps one technical Gore-Tex option for hikers who want light weight without giving up waterproofing entirely.The Best Lightweight Hiking Shoes (2027)
- ReviewSalomon X Ultra 5 GTX Review (2027)
- ReviewMerrell Moab 3 Waterproof Review (2027)
- ReviewKEEN Targhee 4 Low Waterproof Review (2027)
- ReviewHOKA Speedgoat 6 Review (2027)
- ReviewColumbia Crestwood Waterproof Review (2027)
- ReviewKEEN Kids Targhee 4 Low Waterproof Review (2027)
- Head to headMerrell Moab 3 Waterproof vs KEEN Targhee 4 Low Waterproof (2027)
- Head to headSalomon X Ultra 5 GTX vs HOKA Speedgoat 6 (2027)
- Buying guideHiking Shoes Buying Guide (2027)
- Fix itHiking Shoes Hurting Your Feet? Fixes (2027)
Related topics in Outdoor & Adventure
Outdoor & Adventure
The Best Hiking Boots (2027)
Mid-height hiking boots ranked on fit, grip, and waterproofing.
Outdoor & Adventure
The Best Binoculars (2027)
Binoculars ranked on glass, field of view, low-light reach, weight and weather sealing, from a pocket 8x25 to a tripod-mounted 15x70 for the night sky.
Outdoor & Adventure
The Best Rain Boots (2027)
Rain boots ranked on shaft height, waterproof construction, insulation and walking comfort.
Outdoor & Adventure
The Best Outdoor Speakers (2027)
Outdoor speakers ranked on weather sealing, throw, battery life and how they mount or travel.