Best Hiking Boots of 2024 | Conquer Every Path With Confidence

Tyler Sep 03, 2024
10 People Read
Hiking Boots on a Mountain

Looking for a new hiking boot? We have you covered. We have tested and reviewed plenty of hiking boots over the past 10 years. We have compiled a list of the best hiking boots.

We have spent hundreds of hours testing each boot on the trail, specifically against rough and technical terrain. Testing included comfort, traction, overall protection, stability, waterproofness, weight, durability, and sustainability. 

 

We have compiled the top 5 best hiking boots of 2024 after testing over 10 different brands. Our research has been diligent and pristine, and we are excited to share our top hiking boots with you. As you will see, each of the top five hiking boots fits into its own category, whether it is the best budget hiking boot or the most comfortable. If you're new to hiking and want to know how to choose the right hiking boots, please see this article



Our Top Hiking Boot Picks

 

Best Overall Hiking Boot: Hoka Kaha 2 GTX

Best Budget Hiking Boot: Merrell Moab 3 

Best Max-Cushioned Hiking Boot: Hoka Anacapa 2 GTX

Best Lightweight Hiking Boot: Salomon X 4 Ultra GTX

The Best Hiking Boot for Rough Terrain: Salomon Quest 4 GTX


Best Overall Hiking Boot

1. Hoka Kaha 2 GTX

Hoka Kaha 2 GTX in box

What We Liked

 

The best overall comfort

 

Hubbell Heel

 

Excellent ankle support

 

Wide Toe box

 

What We Didn’t Like

 

Price ($240)

 

Decent Lacing System

Specifications: Gore-tex membrane, Weight: 2 lbs, 5 oz (men’s 10.5), Vibram Megagrip, Nubuck Leather

backside of Hoka Kaha 2 GTX

At first glance, I was very surprised that Hoka was producing a line of hiking boots. Following that, I was extremely surprised and pleased with the Hoka Kaha 2 GTX. At first glance, this hiking boot looks very pristine with its fancy waterproof Nubuck leather and GORE-TEX membrane. This boot really rocked the hiking trails. I must say my foot striking was very efficient, and I felt excellent support around the ankle and the rest of the boot. 

 

The compression-molded EVA midsole The cushiony sole of this boot is a feature you won't miss. The vibram megagrip rocks have excellent attraction against technical and rough terrain. I cannot state enough how excellent this hiking boot is, making it the best hiking boot of 2024. The Hoka Kaha 2 GTX will pass your expectations; why wait? Give them a try.

 

Check out our full Hoka Kaha 2 GTX review


Best Budget Hiking Boot

2. Merrell Moab 3

Merrell Moab 3 at top of mountain

What We Liked

 

Well-cushioned midsole

 

In-House Waterproof Membrane 

 

Fantastic Traction

 

Great Price

What We Didn’t Like

 

Breathability issues

 

Weight

 

Specifications: Eva Midsole, Vibram Megagrip, Waterproof, weight: 2.1 pds (men’s 10.5)

 

There's a reason why the Merrell Moab 3 is our second pick for the best hiking boots. You will never pass someone on the trail who is not wearing the Merrell Moab 3. With a top price of $160, it is an excellent option, especially for those on a budget. It is a very popular choice among hikers.

The Vibram Megagrip sole punches through tough terrain like nobody's business. What we really liked about Moab 3’s is that they do not use Gore-Tex for their waterproof member and that it has a built-in in-house waterproof membrane. We have also rated these as the best waterproof hiking boots. 

 

There aren't many drawbacks to this boot, especially considering the competitive price. Overall, I tested these hiking boots on different types of terrain, and they worked every single time.

They can be slightly hot, especially in the summer, given the waterproof membrane and robust leather that make up the boot itself. The upside is that they keep your feet toasty in the winter months. Without hesitation, give these boots a try; you won't be disappointed.

 

See Our Full Merrell Moab 3 Review


The Best Max-Cushioned Hiking Boot 

 

3. Hoka Anacapa 2 GTX

Hoka Anacapa 2 sitting on top of mountain

What We Liked

 

Excellent traction

 

Breathable Mesh

 

“Lightweight” Feel

What We Didn’t Like

 

Tightness around the big toe

 

Expensive

 

Specifications: Vibram Megagrip, Eva midsole, Swallowtail heel, weight: 2 lbs, 5 oz (men’s 10.5)

Coming in at number 3 for the best hiking boots are the Hoka Anacapa 2 GTX. Again, I was extremely surprised at how well Hoka Hiking boots have performed. The Hoka Anacapa 2 boasts the Vibram Megagrip sole, just like the Hoka Kaha 2. The difference is that the Hoka Anacapa 2 has a much more breathable mesh. For frequent hot-weather hiking, these boots are ideal. They are pretty effective on technical terrain, too. The cushioning on the midsole is excellent. 

 

What makes these hiking boots outstanding is the “lightweight” feel they have. These are technically mid weight boots, coming in at 2 lb 5 oz for men's 10 and a half; however, when walking with them, they feel extremely lightweight, like the Salomon X 4 Ultra.

The boot primarily features a swallowtail heel design, which significantly enhances its striking efficiency. Even crossing the most technical terrain, it feels like light dirt. You feel like you can move extremely quickly in these boots without building up a lot of foot fatigue. The Hoka Anacpa 2 is an excellent choice, putting them at number 3 for the best hiking boots.

See our full review of the Hoka Anacapa 2 GTX.


The Best Lightweight Hiking Boot

 

4. Salomon X 4 Ultra GTX 

Salomon X 4 Ultra sitting on a wall

 

What We Liked

 

Lightweight

 

Excellent Build

 

Advanced chassis

 

What We Didn’t Like

 

Synthetic Upper

 

Quick lace system

Specifications: Contagrip sole, Advanced Chassis, GORE-TEX, Weight: 1 pd, 12 ounces (men’s 10.5)

Coming in at number four is the Salomon X 4 Ultra GTX. It is the most lightweight hiking boot you will ever see. It weighs 1 lb. 12 oz for a men's size 10 and a half. Not only is it super lightweight, but the materials are extremely breathable yet waterproof.

While hiking with the Salomon X 4 Ultra, you feel a secure fit and quick, lightweight movement. This hiking boot has overall excellent protection and comfort. We can take a beating on the trails and perform well every time, without any signs of breakdown. 

 

It is so lightweight that it compares to several Trail Runners, such as the Hoka Speedgoat 6. What's so impressive about the Salomon X 4 Ultra is the traction it holds against rough terrain.

It definitely outperforms trail runners in terms of traction and stability. This hiking boot fulfills all the necessary requirements. If you're looking for the most lightweight hiking boot available, here it is. 

See our full review of the Salomon X 4 Ultra.



Best Hiking Boots For Rough Terrain

 

Salomon Quest 4 GTX

Salomon Quest 4 sitting on a wall

What We Liked

 

The best traction against technical terrain

 

Excellent ankle support

 

The Best Backpacking Hiking Boots

What We Didn’t Like

 

Long Break in Period

 

Weight

 

Expensive

Specifications: Contagrip TA, Gore-Tex, ADV-C, Nubuck Leather

Are you looking for a very robust hiking boot that'll get you through the roughest terrain and weather conditions? Coming in at number 5 for the best hiking boots is the Salomon Quest 4 GTX. The Salomon Quest 4 GTX is a rugged hiking boot that is ideal for trekkers traversing through challenging terrain.

It has the best traction available of any hiking boot we've reviewed. We tested the Quest 4 in snow, mud, gravel, sand—anything you can think of—and it performed at its best every single time. The grip is so strong, it feels like glue holding on to the terrain you are traversing. 

 

The Salomon Quest 4 GTX's only drawback is its design. Given its weight of nearly 3 pounds, the Salomon Quest 4 GTX definitely falls on the heavier side of hiking boots. However, if you're traversing dangerous terrain, this feature shouldn't bother you.

However, be aware that it can still cause some foot fatigue. Not the most comfortable hiking boots, but if you're hiking rough terrain, these shouldn't be your first choice.

 

See our full review of Salomon Quest 4.


traversing rough terrain

Why You Should Trust Me on Hiking Boots

I’ve spent over 15 years testing hiking boots on every type of terrain—rocky mountain trails, muddy forest paths, you name it. I’ve learned what makes a hiking boot truly trustworthy. With my experience testing boots in all conditions, I can provide you with informed, unbiased advice for your specific needs. Whether you’re a serious hiker looking for durability, comfort, or performance, my advice is based on years of real-world testing and a commitment to helping you find the right gear for your adventures.

Adventure Awaits,

Tyler