Best Men’s Hiking Boots of 2025 | Tested & Rated
In this article, I am going to share my Best Men’s Hiking Boots of 2025. With testing over 50 models of hiking boots over the last 11 years I have been able to compile a list based on objective testing measures with my case study of each hiking boot.
I 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.
I have compiled the top 5 best men’s hiking boots of 2025 after testing over 10 different brands. My research has been diligent and pristine, and I am excited to share my best 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.
Related: Top 6 Best Lightweight Hiking Boots for 2025 | Expert Reviews
Editor’s Note: This best hiking boots post was updated on August 6th 2025, with new products and scores as well as our youtube review.
Watch this Full Review on YouTube!
Top 6 Hiking Boots Of 2025
Hoka Kaha 3 GTX (Best Overall)
Our Flagship boot of 2025, everything you need nothing you don't!
Hoka Anacapa 2 (Most Comfortable)
Easily the most comfortable hiking boot of 2025. Best choice for most hikers not wanting to spend top dollar
Merrrell Moab 3 (Best Budget Boot)
Easily the best bang for your buck. On the heavier side, made for all types of hikers
The lightest hiking boot of its class. Great zero-drop technology.
Best Overall Hiking Boot of 2025
Hoka Kaha 3 GTX
- Outstanding comfort
- High-riding ankle support
- GORE-TEX invisible fit
- Excellent shock absorptionÂ
- Heavier Boot
- Price Tag
Price: $240
Order the Hoka Kaha 3 GTX for the LOWEST PRICE AVAILABLE (Do NOT pay retail):
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The Hoka Kaha 3 GTX emerges as the premier choice for the best hiking boot in 2025, boasting superior cushioning and strong support that is perfect for beginner hikers to advanced trekkers. With new added comfort and specs compared to previous Kaha 2 it’s easily my choice for the best hiking boot of 2025.
With its comfort level rated at an impressive 9.5(the highest I have ever rated a hiking boot), the Kaha 3 boasts extreme comfort with an EVA midsole that cradles your foot with comfort in a 360 degree fashion.
The Kaha 3 offers exceptional traction and stability on trail, with equipped Vibram megagrip sole, the lugs dig deep into terrain with extreme grip. The high ankle support with Nubuck leather gives it undeniable support on trail.
The boot’s lacing system is composed of three metal hooks and offers exceptional support suitable for various foot shapes, providing increased stability during hikes. The ankle cuff spans up to 7.5 inches giving undeniable support while on trail.
Hoka continues to integrate the Meta-Rocker feature and promotes a fluid stride which helps reduce strain on your feet during long treks. With the Kaha 3 my stride feels much “lighter” as if I wasn’t wearing a boot at all.
Hoka really knocked it out of the park with this new design in 2025. Before, when I compared the Hoka Kaha 2 vs Anacapa 2 I said the Anacapa 2 was more comfortable. I have to say, now the upgraded Kaha 3 is just as comfortable.
While this model’s cushioned construction provides exceptional comfort suitable for long journeys, it is accompanied by both an increased cost and weight when compared to some lighter alternatives.
These slight drawbacks do not diminish its status as an ideal option for hikers who prioritize consistent reliability and adaptability in their footwear choices.
Read More: Hoka Kaha 3 GTX Review | The Most Underrated Hiking Boots Of 2025
Best Comfortable Hiking Boot
Hoka Anacapa 2
- Best In-class Comfort
- Excellent Value
- Very Supportive
- Great Waterproofing
- Price
- Lacks “ruggedness” like the Keen Targhee IV
Price: $195
Order the Hoka Anacapa 2 (Our Most Comfortable Hiking Boot Of 2025) for the LOWEST PRICE AVAILABLE (Do NOT pay retail):
The Hoka Anacapa 2 caters to hikers with a preference for comfort, offering lush cushioning, a secure heel cup, and generous space in the toe area for an accommodating fit suitable for most hikers.
Ideal for well-trodden paths and hikes where comfort is key, this boot promises to keep your feet at ease even during prolonged treks. It’s crafted from robust materials that contribute to its longevity.
Easily the most comfortable hiking boot of 2025, the Hoka Anacapa has such an inviting feeling once you slip them on. The midsole is so cushy and forgiving you forget that this is still a hiking boot.
The ankle cuff has extra padding that you wouldn’t expect from a hiking boot. The sugarcane EVA sole is a nice plush added bonus. Compared to the sister Model, the Hoka Kaha 2- I felt the Anacapa was more comfortable.
Read More: Hoka Kaha 2 vs Hoka Anacapa 2 | Which One Is Better?
The Hoka Anacapa 2 stands out as an exceptional option for those in search of a supremely comfortable hiking boot.
Read Review: Hoka Anacapa 2 Mid GTX | Worth It in 2025?
Best Budget Hiking Boot
Merrell Moab 3
- Great cushioning
- Budget-friendly
- Great waterproofing
- Versatility
- Lacks traction in muddy conditions
- Breathability Issues
- Heavy
Price: $130
Order the Moab 3 for the LOWEST PRICE AVAILABLE (Do NOT pay retail):
The Merrell Moab 3 hiking boot offers a budget-conscious choice that doesn’t compromise on comfort or support. It boasts an impressive comfort rating of 8.5 and substantial cushioning, making it ideal for hikers who prioritize comfort without wanting to overspend.
The Moab 3 can be purchased for under $110, which is unbelievable value compared to other hiking boot prices. While it is not the most stiff on the terrain such as Oboz Bridger and Oboz Sawtooth, it still keeps up with the competition in terms of support and stability.
Its waterproof design ensures good resistance against moisture with a four-inch flood height, thus suiting various hiking scenarios.
I did a case study where I compared Merrell waterproof vs Gore-tex and felt the Merrell waterproof membrane performed better.
Read More: Merrell Waterproof vs Gore-Tex
The Moab 3 presents some disadvantages like subpar traction on muddy terrain and its heftier structure when compared to more lightweight alternatives in the market.
For an everyday hiker looking for a budget hiking boot, the Merrell Moab is simply the best available.
Read More: Merrell Moab 3 Review
Best Backpacking & Performance Hiking Boot
Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX
- Excellent Overall Value
- Great Price
- Durable AND Lightweight
- Top-Notch Stability
- Synthetic Materials
- Soft Outsole
Price: $180
The Salomon X 5 Ultra excels in backpacking ventures, providing immediate comfort and virtually no break-in period. The X Ultra 5 took over as our best backpacking boot since it’s early release in 2025, replacing the Keen Targhee IV.
Further testing of the X Ultra 5 shows how immensely comfortable and grippy they are on technical terrain. The immersed technology of the Advanced chassis and Active Support wings give it undeniable stability and support while trekking. The Contagrip outsole is new and improved since the predecessor model X Ultra 4. The outsole measured 3 inches of the ground, about 10% thicker than the previous model making it perfect the pounding and added weight for backpacking.
The updated fit on the X Ultra 5 is a game changer. The new Matryx® upper really steps things up—it wraps around your foot securely and keeps everything locked in place, boosting stability without putting unwanted pressure or compression on the top of your foot.
Worried about breathability with the X Ultra 5? Say no more, the new upper is more breathable AND durable. Salomon did not cheap out on this one, they wanted to construct a more breathable hiking boot without sacrificing durability and they knocked it out of the park.
As far as waterproofing, the gore tex membrane does an excellent job of keeping the water out, without sacrificing breathability as we said before. We also measured the toe box at over 4 inches which crowns the X Ultra 5 as the best men’s hiking boots for wide feet.
Those who are looking for a “rugged” backpacking boot with strong leather should consider the Danner Mountain 600 or still the Keen Targhee III.
Still, due to its blend of grip, comfort, and improved design the Salomon X Ultra 5 represents an outstanding option for enthusiasts embarking on backpacking trips.
The X Ultra 5 is also an excellent option for hikers who don’t want to spend over $200 on the Kaha 3, and would rather save $60 on our runner up boot for 2025.
Read Review: Salomon X Ultra 5 Review | WORTH IT In 2025?
Best Lightweight Hiking Boot
Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid 2
- Best lightweight boots on market
- Outstanding value
- Good Comfort
- Zero drop for natural foot movement
- Issues with durability
- Need to size upÂ
Price: $160
Order the Altra Lone Peak All-WTHR 2 for the LOWEST PRICE AVAILABLE (Do NOT pay retail):
Renowned for its featherlike construction, the Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid 2 stands out as an exceptionally light choice within its category, weighing in at 14 oz per shoe, the lightest I have ever tested.
Its spacious toe box offers increased comfort, especially for those with wider feet. The boot’s zero-drop design encourages a natural walking motion, though it might necessitate some adaptation time for newcomers to this style.
For a hiking boot that is known to be lightweight, this does not take away from the fact that it has great traction. Many lightweight hikers never perform well on the trail, the Altra Lone Peak defies those odds. With an 8.5/10 for traction, the Lone Peak has the same traction rating as the Oboz Sawtooth, which is a known rugged backpacking boot.
Although this lightweight hiking boot may not boast the same longevity as more robust options due to its minimal weight, its combination of waterproof capabilities and overall coziness renders it a top pick for individuals seeking both a comfortable lightweight hiking boot and standard lightweight boot features.
Read Our Review: Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid 2 Review | WORTH it in 2025?
Best Summer Hiking Boot
6. Hoka Anacapa Breeze 2
- Excellent Breathability
- Heavily Cushioned
- Great Ankle Support
- Swallowtail Heel
- Expensive
- Lacks Waterproof Membrane
Price: $ 170
This hiking boot really stands out from the rest due to its breathability and comfortability. It has a lot of traits from the Hoka Anacapa 2 GTX, however it does not have a waterproof membrane therefore is much more breathable. It features much more ventilation pockets throughout the boot giving it a nice “airy” feel during testing.
The Anacapa Breeze features a Compression molded EVA insole which is extremely plush and comfortable. We measured the toe box at 3.36 inches, which is one of the largest we have tested to date. More than enough room in the toe box for our toes to spread out for better balance.
One of the best features about the Anacapa Breeze is the heel comfort. It is nice and plush like a walking shoe like the Brooks Ghost Max 2. The volume is nice and accommodating allowing some swelling during those long summer hikes without compression.
They feature the Vibram Megagrip outsole just like the normal Anacapa model; it is no different with great traction and grip on the trail, minimal slipping. The ankle stability and support is one of the best in its class. They provide a nice secure lacing system with two eyelets at the top for a secure fit. I didn’t experience any ankle sprains or strains while on the trail.
I didn’t feel any insecure movements in my stride even with a 40 lb backpack. While there are no internal shanks, the boot is very reinforced with excellent torsional stability.
One of the downsides is the high stack height when it comes to technical terrain. Some heavier individuals may experience some overcompression of the outsole on uneven terrain.
Breathability is where this boot shines, They have ventilation pockets all throughout the boot making it extremely lightweight and breathable on the trail. We tested this in over 95° Fahrenheit and they breathe extremely well.
Overall, this very enticing summer hiking boot is only $170 for the mid version which is one of the best values you can get on the market.
Read Our Review: Hoka Anacapa Breeze Mid Review | Best Summer Hiking Boot?
7. Salomon Quest 4 GTX
- Outstanding traction
- High-riding ankle support
- Excellent water resistance
- Best Backpacking Boots
- Comfort could be improved
- Weight
- Foot Fatigue
- Long Break In Period
Price: $220
The Salomon Quest 4 was crafted to be the best backpacking boot of their hiking boot collection.Coming in at 1 lb 7 oz per boot they are one of the heaviest boots we have tested to date. While they were never made to be the most lightweight hikers out there, they definitely pack a punch in terms of backpacking and support.
We were able to test the Quest while backpacking with 40 lb pack and they have one of the best impact absorptions out there thanks to the Contagrip outsole. While it is not as impressive as the Vibram megagrip outsole, it still holds its own against the competition.
The Quest 4 is definitely not as comfortable as the Hoka or OnCloud brand boot however it does not have the massive outsole, which in turn tends to hinder stability and support. The added active support wings and advanced chassis really add some serious stability to this boot.
Despite not having such a high stack height as other hiking boots, The outsole is extremely firm and can tackle any sort of technical terrain you come across on the trail.
The thick nubuck leather protects you against any scrapes or tears on the trail, with the added massive toe cap you really are looking at a “tank” of a hiking boot.
If you’re somebody who’s looking for the next adventurous backpacking boot, consider this one. We do warn you, the comfort is something you have to give up if you want that massive stability and overall protection while hiking.
Read Our Review: Salomon Quest 4 GTX Review | WORTH It in 2025?
8. Lowa Renegade GTX
- Crafted with quality durable materials
- Central Locking Mechanism For Secure Tying
- Great Traction With Vibram Megagrip
- Outstanding support
- Tight Fit Around Top Of Foot
- Breathability
- Weight
Price: $220
The Lowa Renegade has been around for quite a while. Many hikers praise this boot for its exceptional stability as well as high quality leather and construction. When I first tried these on I immediately felt the PU foam which was comfortable. It allowed my toes to sink in slightly without overly compressing the insole.
This is where I got my first taste of the Renegade. It wasn’t as uncomfortable as I was expecting nor was it extremely plush; it was just right in the middle. Lowa incorporates shock absorbing zones throughout the insole where there is extra foam where it absorbs the most impact during your hikes.
They weighed in at 1.2 pounds, which is on the heavier side. One of the downsides is the lack of freedom around the ankle. The height of the ankle cuff is quite high which is great for securing your ankle during those uneven terrains however I found it as a slight hindrance while trying to move a little bit faster on the trail.
The Renegade features the Vibram Evo outsole which is just as grippy as the if it were the Vibram megagrip outsole. We tested them on limestone, sandstone, gravel, rock, and dirt trails. They held excellent grip on all different types of uneven and even terrain.
One must consider the hefty price of the Renegade at $220, However also consider these are one of the most durable boots out there and have shown to last up to 400+ miles.
Read Our Review: Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Review | Worth It In 2025?
9. Danner Mountain 600
- Outstanding comfort and value
- Great support and stability
- Great in-house waterproof membrane (Danner Dry)
- Built to Last with Premium Materials
- Not ideal for trekking past 10+ miles daily
- Leather offers less ventilation compared to mesh or synthetic options
- Premium price
Price: $200
The Danner Mountain 600 comes in as one of our most stylish and aesthetic boots out there on the market. Made with premium full grain leather they really carry an edge to their game.
At first I was very surprised when I tried on the Danner Mountain 600’s, I did not expect such a heavy leather hiking boot to be extremely plush and comfortable as it was. One of the biggest surprises was the sleek, silk-like sock liner throughout the entire boot.
The toe box was a little tight, coming in at 3.27 inches, I didn’t feel any numbness but I didn’t feel like my toes could totally splay out for a wide base while trekking.
The Danner Dry waterproof membrane definitely keeps water at bay, I felt it was even more effective than the Gore-Tex membrane which tends to hinder breathability. Creek crossings are one of my favorites while wearing the Mountain 600. They were able to handle the water effectively and dry off quite quickly compared to other premium leather hiking boots.
Despite the great looking aesthetic, don’t let this hiking boot fool you that It can’t handle technical trails. I did some of my best hiking in the White Mountains of New Hampshire while wearing the Danner Mountain 600.
The fit was a little funky, due to the narrow toe box that they would not recommend sizing down.I would recommend going up a half a size if you tend to run slightly wide.
Overall the Danner Mountain 600 is a great choice if you’re looking for a rugged hiking boot that can carry the looks as well as the load on your back.
Read Our Review: Danner Mountain 600 Review | Worth It In 2025?
10. Keen Targhee IV
- Best traction and overall support
- Very Comfortable
- Excellent waterproofnessÂ
- Extreme durability that will last years
- Great value for a brand new model
- Luft cell sole issues with comfort
- Tying Issues
- No Wide Fit Options
- Breathability
Price: $170
The Keen Targhee IV hit the market with a BUNCH of excitement coming off of the Targhee III. Keen improved the comfort with a more plush insole for this iteration of the Targhee.
How do they perform on the trails? I felt the KEEN.rugged outsole performs very well holding onto mud, gravel, slate and much more on the trail. The lugs are in a quite odd pattern, more triangular shaped toward the mid of the boot which allows for a better toe off especially on inclined terrain.
The Targhee IV does have an internal shank for the heel counter which is quite impressive. The ankle lockdown is also a standout feature. Also, the stack height is not as high as some other boots, it does not compress leading to a topple over effect.
The waterproof design does a great job keeping water out while not killing the breathability of this boot. While this is not the best trekking boot it definitely is great for mild to moderate trails with good comfortability and support.
The Targhee IV also holds great value at $170 because we rated the durability at 9/10 it has lasted 100’s of miles without breakdown like the synthetic boots out there.
Read Our Review: Keen Targhee IV Review | Are They Worth It In 2025?
11. Oboz Sawtooth X Mid
- Resistant to abrasion
- Great ankle support
- Excellent water resistance
- Good backpacking boots
- Very Heavy
- Narrow Fit
- Foot Fatigue
- Heel comfort issues
Price: $180
I was a little disappointed when I tried on the Oboz Sawtooth X Mid, mainly due to the fit. My foot felt very snug in these boots. The internal aspect of the shoe really hugged my foot, compressing it too much. While you should want the upper to hug your foot as it is great for stability on the trail, over-compression can just lead to discomfort and blisters over time.
They feature the O Fit insole is mildly cushioned however, not like the other hiking boots mentioned in this article. My right foot has a slightly higher arch than my left and I will say that side was more painful, I do recommend a custom orthotic for this boot if you have high arches.
We weighed the sawtooth in at 20 oz which is pretty heavy compared to our other options. The boot can also feel quite “blocky” while on the trail, it does not feature a rockered sole.
The good news is the traction was quite well earning at a score of 8.5 out of 10. The outsole showed an impressive adherence to a variety of different surfaces even on wet and slick surfaces as well. The lugs are broadly spaced apart and do a good job shedding mud.
This boot definitely feels “armored” as there’s thick leather all throughout the boot that acts as a nice abrasive shield against the elements on the trail. The waterproofness is maintained with the B-dry technology, it worked well during our 10 minute submersion testing.
One big downside to the Sawtooth X is the breathability, The robust leather does not have any ventilation pockets throughout the entire boot. I do not recommend using this boot in extremely warm weather as the breathability is quite mediocre.
With all these gripes aside, the Oboz X Sawtooth is not a bad option to consider at $180.
Read Our Review: Oboz Sawtooth X Mid Review | WORTH IT in 2025?
12. Oboz Bridger
- Durable, long-lasting quality materials
- Excellent Ankle Support
- Great against uphill terrain
- Great Backpacking Boots
- Weight
- Narrow fitting
- Not very voluminous
Price: $200
The Oboz Bridger took quite a long time to break in (over 15 miles). Even after breaking them in, the fit still felt similar to the Sawtooth where there was not enough volume in room throughout the entire boot. While this is not a “comfy” and “plush” option you cannot take away the fact that this is a very stable hiking boot.
The ankle support and lock down is similar to The Quest 4 however it does not have as high of ankle cuffs. The internal support system does an excellent job on technical trails however, it does so at the expense of comfort.
Just like the sawtooth they weigh 19 oz, again not a Thru-hiking boot by any means. The Bridger does not have a nice contoured shape to its profile, it’s very bulky and seems to “drag” along the trail.
We really only recommend the Bridger for hikers looking for extremely supportive boot that’s robust and can handle a light amount of trail miles at a time.
Read Our Review: Oboz Bridger Review | WORTH IT in 2025?
13. Timberland Mt Maddsen
- Perfect balance of affordability and capability
- Strong ankle support and dependable resistance against the elements
- Practical features to use as normal boots during the day
- Long Break-In Period
- Weight
- Questionable durability over long time use
Price: $100
There are many mysteries about the Timberland Mt Maddsen however we put them to the real test to find out.
First off, they have an unbranded outsole that is created by Timberland, however it does not have a name to it. The outsole is nice thick rubber and holds pretty good traction on trail. I felt that the Maddsen did a great job on snowy trails as it is one of my favorite winter hiking boots.
The break-in period was a little rough and took a little longer than I expected. One issue I had with the Mt Maddsen was the lace bite. The tongue is not thick and puffy enough to withstand the nice heavy laces Timberland provides. If you cannot handle this,I recommend getting a thinner less robust pair of laces which will fix the problem.
The in-house built waterproof membrane Timberdry does a great job of keeping water at bay. The leather of these boots tend to hold and retain moisture, they take a very long time to dry off in the sun after getting wet.
The presence of a TPU shank stabilizes the boot very well. The platform of the Mt Maddsen is very wide, my toes are able to splay out for a nice stable base. I had nice stability even with a 40 lb backpack on the trail.
Well this boot does not achieve the high quality of something like the Hoka Kaha 3 or the Salomon X Ultra 5, It’s a great option for Budget hikers out there as it is only $100.
Read Our Review: Timberland Mt Maddsen Review | WORTH IT In 2025?
14. Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II
- Cheapest Hiking Boot we have reviewed for 2025
- Price
- Strong ankle support for beginner hikers
- Limited breathability, making them less ideal for summer hikes
- Durability over long-term use
- Lacks superior comfort compared to other hiking boots
Price: $80
This boot is the cheapest one we have tested to date with a price of $80. The leather is not robust as something like the Lowa Renegade, it is soft and lacks resilience under load. They do run warm as well, I wouldn’t suggest them for summer hikes.
The Newton Ridge Plus II features the Columbia Omni-gip outsole, Its limited use should be for light trails with mild terrain. Using these boots on anything more than mild terrain is asking for a bad day.
The Columbia Newton Ridge uses their own in-house waterproof membrane, made by Omni-Tech. Omni-Tech uses the same technology as Gore-tex for waterproofing.
Water did seep in during our 10 minute submersion test. The suede leather is too thin, without enough barrier for waterproofness. I wouldn’t recommend these during creek or river crossings.
Overall, the Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II is only recommended for the budget hiker who does very light trails one to two times a month.
Read Our Review: Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Review | 5+ Years Of Testing!
How We Objectively Test For The Best Hiking Boots Of 2025
I like to objectively measure all of my hiking boots in specific categories before placing my reviews. I have compiled a list of specific categories that are weighted, to give you the best possible overall score before deciding on a specific hiking boot. I have iterated this formula over the past 10 years to perfect it.
Our weighted categories are:
Comfort: (18% of weighted score)
Traction: (18% of weighted score)
Overall Protection: (9% of weighted score)
Waterproofness: (9% of weighted score)
Stability & Support: (9% of weighted score)
Fit: (9% of weighted score)
Durability: (18% of weighted score)
Value: (9% of weighted score)
Based on these objective measures, We are able to come up with an overall score for each hiking boot review.
Comfort
I will go over each testing category and how I objectively test for each to give you the best possible selections.
When it comes to the comfort of a hiking boot, my first impression is how comfortable is the midsole? When first slipping on the boot does my foot sink into the midsole easily? or do I feel some discomfort when first slipping them on?
When I first slipped on the Oboz Bridger, I immediately felt some compression on the top of my foot. Unfortunately this took away from the comfort score, no matter how comforting the midsole is.
The next objective measure for comfort is toe box room. Some hiking boots offer generous toe box space while others can be more compressive. A good example of this is the Salomon Quest 4, it has great toe box space but then becomes a little more compressive around the heel and mid foot.
One of the last objective measures for comfort I use is heel and ankle comfort. The Hoka Anacapa 2 is a great example of a boot that offers excellent comfort in every direction. The heel has extra cushioning as well as the ankle cuff without being too restrictive. Having a lot of pressure on your ankle and heel will lead to a bad hiking experience.
Smaller objective measure I use for comfort is ease of walking. The Altra Lone Peak 2 excels in ease of walking, with a zero drop feature it feels as if you are wearing a running shoe while on the trail.
Additional questions I ask myself for comfort are how does the footbed feel? Are there any additional compression spots? Does the comfort change after a certain amount of miles? And how does shock absorption feel with this boot?
All of these objective measures help me come up with an overall comfort score. Comfort is the most important score when testing hiking boots. I have been re-iterating this formula over and over to make it as objective and accurate as possible.
Traction
The next measuring category is traction. Traction is mainly measured by performance of the lugs and outsole. Many hiking boots outsource their outsole to other companies such as Vibram. Other companies such as Salomon, produce their own mid sole like Contagrip or Columbia Omnigrip.
I also test the outsoles directly and compare them to each other to give you a better idea of what are the best hiking boot materials on the market. For example, I did a case study of Salomon Contragrip vs Vibram. I felt the Vibram outsole was slightly more grippy than Contagrip.
Read More: Contagrip vs Vibram | Which One Is Better?
I also assess the general makeup of the outsole itself. Is it more stiff or soft? A soft outsole tends to conform to uneven surfaces, thus losing grip while on trail.
Next I measure the lugs, which are essentially the teeth of the hiking boots outsole. Deeper lugs tend to work better for uneven terrain, snow or mud.
Shallow lugs are great if you are on even terrain that is smoother. Assessing how much the lugs hold onto snow or mud is also a must. The Oboz Sawtooth Mid tends to hold onto mud with its lugs which hinders its performance on the trail.
I always test my hiking boots on uneven terrain, even terrain, steep accents, and some sort of wet terrain whether mud or snow. These elements help me come up with an overall traction score from a birds eye view.
Overall Protection
Overall protection is a category many other hiking boot testers do not factor into their score. I believe this is an important factor to consider when purchasing your boots. If you feel like your feet are at risk of sharp objects piercing through your boots, then you are essentially putting yourself at risk of injury.
When assessing overall protection I start at the toe box. Most boots have a protective toe cap, many are rubber while some are almost steel toe.
The Kaha 3 has a steel toe-like toe cap that leaves you at ease when it comes to overall protection. Other hiking boots like the Salomon X Ultra 4, lack much protection at the toe box putting you at risk while on the trail.
The next part is the medial and lateral aspects of the boot. Many Nubuck leather boots tend to cover sides of your foot very well, while other synthetic boots tend to leave these areas exposed.
The last is obviously the heel and tongue of the boot. Most hiking boots have a gusseted tongue which helps keep out debris from entering your boot. I check the heel for a rubber cap protection as well. When scoring the top hiking boots I really feel overall protection is a crucial factor a lot of reviewers leave out.
Waterproofness
Waterproofness is a must for any year-round hiker. Several hiking boot models claim they are waterproof, but in my testing I found they were not. The Columbia Newton Ridge claims they are waterproof, I found them to be the complete opposite.
Many waterproof membranes are made with Gore-tex or GTX. GTX works pretty well against water resistance, it does take away from the breathability. Other hiking boots craft their own waterproof membrane such as Keen and Merrell.
I felt the Keen and Merrell waterproof membrane performed better in the field when it came to waterproofing as well as breathability. I did a case study on each, comparing them to Gore-tex.
Read More: Merrell Waterproof vs Gore tex | Which Is Better?
Read More: Keen.dry vs Gore tex | Which Is Better?
When testing for the waterproofness of a hiking boot, I turn to my 10 minute submersion test. I place them in water (a creek) for 10 minutes and notice any water logging, I also test how high the waterproof membrane goes.
The Lowa Renegade are a great representation of a very high waterproof membrane, spanning higher than 6 inches during my testing.
Waterproofness is really important for keeping your feet dry as well as avoiding blisters.
Stability and Support
Stability and support are a must when determining the top men’s hiking boots of 2025. My first objective standard for stability and support is the ankle. Hiking boots with nice sturdy ankle support reduces the risk of sprains. Most of the time, a higher ankle cuff increases ankle support. You must also factor in how secure the ankle cuff is.
When comparing the Merrell Moab vs Keen Targhee III, I felt the Moab had better ankle security dubbing it the winner between the two for stability and support.
Another objective testing measure is torsional stability. On my Youtube reviews, you can see I twist the hiking boot to see how well it bodes for torsional stability. Salomon boots feature the advanced chassis which aids in lateral stability thus aiding in torsional stability.
Better torsional stability prevents you from overpronating and supinating for a more natural foot movement, especially while backpacking.Torsional stability also for better weight distribution and surefootedness.
Shanks and plates are usually not present in hiking boots, more so trail runners. These also aid in torsional stability.
The last thing I consider when rating the best hiking boots for stability and support is surefootedness. How secure does my foot feel while on the trail? This is important when training proprioception while hiking and anticipatory responses to terrain.
Fit
Fit is an underrated category for assessing hiking boots. Many hikers wear different types of socks which can skew the boots fit assessment. I always wear the same type of Darn Tough Full Cushion hiking socks to ensure my fit ratings are accurate.
First, I like to note how wide the mid foot is. What I do is measure the distance from the Toe box to the heel. I then divide that by two to get the exact mid foot. From my mid foot I measure the width of the boot. This gives me an estimate of how wide they run, then I put them on to compare my feel vs how wide they actually are.
Some boots may seem deceivingly wide like the Oboz Bridger, but in fact are narrow. This helps me stay objective in my fit testing. From there, I notice how easy they are to slip on and off. Having to unlace the Salomon Quest every time to get them on, was quite cumbersome and affected its fit score.
I like to always give a recommendation as to size up or down, or go for the wide fit. I also recommend certain sock types to pair with the hiking boots. Using the Danish Endurance would be for a lighter more compressive hiking boot, vs the Smartwool classic for a roomier boot.
Durability
What’s the point of purchasing a hiking boot that won’t last? For durability scoring I always start by assessing the overall makeup of the boot. Synthetic and welded materials may save you money and weight in the short term, but won’t last you long. Leather and traditional stitching tends to last much longer.
The midsole and lugs can also begin to have premature wear. The lugs on the Salomon X Ultra 4 vs Hoka Kaha 2, wore much quicker than the Kaha giving it a lower durability score. I always assess the durability on a long timeline (4+ months) and update my reviews accordingly.
Having a hiking boot that will last you a long time will save you time and money in the long run. Overall, the most durable boots I saw were the Hoka Anacapa 2, Keen Targhee IV, and Hoka Kaha 3.
Value
My last objective testing measure is basically putting it all together. Do the previous measures represent the product well for how much it costs?
Paying well over $240 for the Kaha 3 is worth the investment for how well it scored. Compare that to the Quest 4, and I could not justify the price as well for its performance.
Basically, you want the most value for what you are paying for. A cheaper hiking boot may not score as well, but may represent what it’s worth via scoring. Overall, value is making sure you are getting the same or even more than what you pay for.
Types Of Hiking Boots
Different styles of hiking boots are tailored to cater to particular conditions and user preferences, which is essential knowledge for making a well-informed choice.
Lightweight Boots
These are optimal for casual day hikes or speedy fastpacking excursions, giving you the advantage of agility and airiness. They don’t offer as much support or endurance as their heavier counterparts.
Lightweight boots also tend to have less durability, but not always. Think of lightweight boots to perform more like trail runners, like the Hoka Speedgoat 5 or Speedgoat 6. If you want to move faster on the trail, consider a lightweight boot.
Midweight Boots
Striking a harmony between heft and help, these boots adapt well for bearing modest loads during extensive treks. They’re appropriate for most backpacking journeys. Midweight boots tend to rule most of the hiking boot market.
Midweight boots usually offer good-better comfort and don’t sacrifice lugging around a lot of weight. For most hikers, this is the most popular pick.
Heavyweight Boots
Crafted with challenging landscapes and hefty burdens in mind, these robust boots afford supreme defense and steadiness — indispensable qualities for trekking extensively over rocky trails.Heavyweights usually tend to be less comfortable, but make up for stability and durability.
Consider heavyweight boots if you are an advanced hiker or trekker.
Each boot category comes with its own set of advantages and drawbacks. It’s critical to reflect on your individual hiking tendencies as well as the nature of the terrain when selecting an apt pair of hiking boots.
Why Trust Mountaineer Journey
As a solo owner of Mountaineer Journey, I test all hiking boots with the same objective standards. I do not have multiple testers with skewed results based on subjective experience.
I have reiterated my scoring system over 10 years of trial and error.This scoring system was brought to perfection so I can present you the best hiking boots of 2025. I also objectively test hiking boot materials to give you an idea of the best components that make up each hiking boot.
I have logged over 2000 miles of hiking, I know what to look for and how to get the most for your money. I have specifically niched this website to hiking footwear only! I have one mission, and that’s to provide you with the best information, to make a decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best hiking boots for long treks?
The Hoka Kaha 3 GTX stands out as one of the best hiking boots for long treks, owing to its plush cushioning, solid support, and excellent water resistance.
Are there budget-friendly hiking boots that offer good performance?
The best budget-friendly boots with great performance are the Merrell Moab 3 with excellent cushioning and support, perfect for day hikes and moderate backpacking.
Which hiking boots are best for wide feet?
The Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid 2 is an excellent choice for hikers with wide feet, thanks to its spacious toe box, and lightweight zero drop design.
How important is waterproofing in hiking boots?
Waterproofing is essential for hiking boots, especially in wet conditions, as it ensures your feet stay dry and comfortable. An important aspect to keep in mind is the fact that waterproof boots sacrifice breathability.
Related Posts
Best Hiking Socks Of 2025 | Which Ones Are The Best?
Oboz Bridger Vs Sawtooth | Which One Is Better?
Merrell Moab 3 Vs Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX | Which Is Better?
Hoka Kaha 2 Vs Salomon X Ultra 4 | Which Is Better?
Merrell Moab 3 Vs Keen Targhee III | Which One Is Better?
Adventure Awaits,
Tyler
Our Founder Tyler has over 15+ years of experience in the outdoors, including Hiking, Trekking, Mountaineering, Survival Skills, and much more. Tyler also serves as a Mountain Guide.
