The hiking shoe landscape in 2025 is all about balance—between weight and durability, sustainability and performance, comfort and cost. Whether you’re tackling rocky scrambles, soggy forest trails, or long-distance treks, your shoes are your foundation. And the best hiking shoes today aren’t just rugged—they’re lighter, more breathable, more supportive, and increasingly eco-conscious.
To help you navigate the ever-growing range of options, we’ve put together this expert-tested guide to the top hiking shoes of 2025. From lightweight hiking shoes built for speed to waterproof hiking shoes ready for wet-weather adventures, we cover it all—including the best budget hiking shoes, premium picks, and options tailored to wide feet, flat feet, and beginners.
Table of Contents
- Best All-Around Hiking Shoes
- Best Runner Up Hiking Shoes
- Best Affordable Hiking Shoes
- Best Heavy-Duty Hiking Shoes
- Most Breathable Hiking Shoes
- Best Ventilated Waterproof Hiking Shoes
- Best Hiking Shoes for Day Hikes
- Best Ultralight Hiking Shoes
- Best Hiking Shoes for Technical Terrains
- How We Tested These Hiking Shoes
- What to Look for in Hiking Shoes
- FAQ
The Top Hiking Shoes Reviewed
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Best All-Around Hiking Shoes
For Which Type of Hiker
The Altra Lone Peak Trail Running Shoes are ideal for hikers who want a cushioned, lightweight hiking shoe that can handle everything from weekend day hikes to long-distance thru-hikes. Great for those who prefer a natural foot feel, need a roomy toe box, or often deal with trail debris.
Why We Picked It
After over 500 km of testing, the Altra Lone Peak 9s earned our top spot for their balance of comfort, grip, and durability. The updated midsole foam improves ground connection without sacrificing cushioning, while the new MaxTrac outsole offers excellent traction on both dry and technical terrain. These are comfortable hiking shoes built for serious mileage.
Features & Benefits
- Zero-drop platform promotes natural stride and posture on uneven terrain
- Lightweight hiking shoes (just 25mm stack height) ideal for covering long distances without fatigue
- Durable hiking shoes made with 100% recycled ripstop mesh upper
- Roomy FootShape toe box supports wide feet and natural toe splay
- Grippy hiking shoes with upgraded MaxTrac outsole for traction across variable trail conditions
- Stoneguard insert protects from sharp debris without compromising flexibility
- GaiterTrap system helps keep dirt and gravel out—no extra hardware needed
- One of the best hiking shoes for wide feet, flat feet, and thru-hiking adventurers
Price: 179.99$
Altra | Shoe
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Best Runner Up Hiking Shoes
For Which Type of Hiker
Looking to prioritize stability and protection without the bulk of a boot? Look no further than the Salomon X Ultra 5 GORE-TEX Hiking Shoes. These supportive hiking shoes are built for day hikes on mixed terrain—mud, roots, rocky switchbacks, or slippery descents—especially in unpredictable weather.
Why We Picked It
The X Ultra 5 consistently ranked near the top in our expert-tested hiking shoe reviews, impressing with its lateral stability, waterproofing, and confident grip on steep, rugged terrain. It’s one of the best waterproof hiking shoes available, offering a stellar blend of control and comfort for hikers who move fast and light but still demand structure.
Features & Benefits
- GORE-TEX membrane keeps feet dry on wet trails without sacrificing breathability
- Advanced Chassis system adds lateral stability for rugged descents and side-hilling
- All-Terrain Contagrip outsole delivers reliable traction on wet, muddy, or rocky paths
- Quicklace system makes for easy on/off and micro-adjustments on the fly
- Matryx upper is abrasion-resistant, lightweight, and partly made from recycled materials
- One of the best hiking shoes for rocky terrain and changing conditions
Price: 209.99$
Salomon | Shoe
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Best Affordable Hiking Shoes
For Which Type of Hiker
Awesome for beginners, casual hikers, or anyone looking for a budget-friendly hiking shoe that doesn’t cut corners on comfort or durability. Whether you’re exploring local trails or planning a weekend trip, the Merrell Moab 3 Hiking Shoes are a reliable all-arounder.
Why We Picked It
Trusted by millions and tested in the field by our team, the Moab 3 continues to impress with its out-of-the-box comfort, stable fit, and solid performance on mixed terrain. In our hiking shoe comparison, it stood out as the best hiking shoe for beginners—affordable, dependable, and ready for real-world adventure.
Features & Benefits
- Durable hiking shoes with pigskin leather and recycled mesh construction
- Kinetic Fit insole with reinforced heel cushioning adds all-day support
- Vibram TC5+ outsole provides grip across dirt, gravel, and rocky terrain
- Protective toe cap + shock-absorbing heel cushion for added trail safety
- Bellows tongue keeps out trail debris and dust
- One of the best budget hiking shoes with a long-standing reputation for performance
Price: 149.99$
Merrell | Shoe
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Best Heavy-Duty Hiking Shoes
For Which Type of Hiker
The Salewa Wildfire NXT GORE-TEX (men’s) and the Salewa Pedroc Air (women’s) are exceptional options for hikers who demand serious protection and support over steep, rocky, and technical terrain. Whether you're climbing scree slopes or pushing your pace on exposed ridgelines, these durable hiking shoes offer performance you can trust.
Why We Picked Them
Both models impressed in our real-world testing with their rugged construction, advanced traction, and locked-in support. The Wildfire NXT is purpose-built for rocky ascents and wet conditions, while the Pedroc Air delivers surprising stability and agility in a lightweight, breathable hiking shoe—perfect for summer missions.
Features & Benefits
- Vibram Megagrip outsole (men’s) and Pomoca Speed Hiker outsole (women’s) for secure traction on slick, technical trails
- Kevlar-reinforced uppers add structure and protection without bulk
- 3F System wraps the foot for adaptive support and precise fit
- GORE-TEX waterproofing (men’s) and PFC-free water-repellent treatment (women’s) for all-weather performance
- Among the best hiking shoes for rocky terrain, scrambles, and high-output mountain days
Price: 199.95$
Salewa | Shoe
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Most Breathable Hiking Shoes
For Which Type of Hiker
If your hikes lean hot, dry, and fast-paced, the Danner Trail 2650 Mesh GTX hits the sweet spot. Designed for those who move quickly but don’t want to sweat the terrain—or the sweat—these shoes are a go-to for breathable performance minus the bulk.
Why We Picked It
During field testing, this Danner proved that breathable hiking shoes can still be rugged. The mesh upper kept things cool on sun-blasted ridgelines, while the Vibram outsole and Trailguard shank held firm over loose rock. Waterproof yet airy, it’s a rare blend that delivers.
Features & Benefits
- Lightweight mesh upper maximizes airflow for hot-weather hiking
- GORE-TEX lining keeps out moisture without trapping heat
- Vibram Megagrip outsole adapts to changing trail textures
- Exo Heel + Trailguard shank boost stability on uneven ground
- Removable OrthoLite footbed provides all-day cushioning and breathability
- A standout for breathable, supportive hiking shoes on long, dry days
Price: 294.99$
Danner | Shoe
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Best Ventilated Waterproof Hiking Shoes
For Which Type of Hiker
This one’s for the creek-crossers, hot-weather roamers, and multi-sport adventurers who refuse to choose between breathability and waterproofing. If your hikes blend water, dirt, and sun, the Hoka Hopara 2 keeps pace—and keeps cool.
Why We Picked It
The Hopara 2 proved itself in steamy, wet, and debris-prone conditions. It’s one of the few waterproof hiking shoes that actually ventilates, thanks to its open-knit upper and drainage-focused build. During testing, we found it surprisingly grippy and comfortable, even under load. And bonus: it’s one of the most sustainable hiking shoes on our list.
Features & Benefits
- Water-repellent upper built from 100% recycled mesh and Cordura overlays
- Ventilated design with strategic drainage to dump water fast and stay dry
- Sticky rubber outsole with 4mm lugs grips wet, rocky surfaces with confidence
- Quick-toggle lace + adjustable heel strap offer lockdown without hassle
- 30% sugarcane EVA midsole + topsole delivers cushioned, eco-conscious comfort
- A top pick for sustainable, breathable hiking shoes that thrive near water
Price: 149.99$
Hoka | Sandal
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Best Hiking Shoes for Day Hikes
For Which Type of Hiker
Try out the Salomon X Ultra 4 GORE-TEX if you love to move light and fast but need a little insurance underfoot. If your ideal day out includes packed trails, rooty climbs, and sudden shifts in weather, these are the shoes that let you push the pace without losing your footing. Pair it with one of the year’s top-rated daypacks.
Why We Picked It
The X Ultra 4 brings trail-running DNA to the hiking world, combining agility with structure. During testing, we found it excelled on varied day hikes—wet rocks, tight switchbacks, loose dirt—thanks to its grippy outsole and smartly engineered chassis. It’s waterproof, responsive, and a solid entry in any hiking shoes comparison.
Features & Benefits
- Contagrip MA outsole grips confidently across terrain types, even in wet stuff
- ADV-C Chassis reinforces key flex points for control without stiffness
- GORE-TEX lining keeps out moisture without overheating
- Quicklace system tucks away neatly and cinches down in seconds
- One of the best shoes for hiking if you favor speed, support, and dry feet
Price: 189.99$
Salomon | Shoe
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Best Ultralight Hiking Shoes
For Which Type of Hiker
If you’re the type to track sunrise mileage with nothing but a bottle and a snack in your pack, the Altra Lone Peak Low All-WTHR 2 Running Shoes are for you. Lightweight, nimble, and built to handle unpredictable skies, it’s one of the top hiking shoes for fast movers.
Why We Picked It
Tested by our gear editors on back-to-back trail days, the Lone Peak Low All-WTHR 2 kept pace without weighing us down. It brings the comfort and ground-feel Altra is known for—zero-drop, wide toe box—paired with weather resistance and reliable grip. In short, it’s our top pick for those seeking the best lightweight hiking shoes that won’t flinch when conditions shift.
Features & Benefits
- Featherlight construction (just 374g) supports high-mileage hiking
- Water-resistant bootie-style upper sheds light rain and trail spray
- MaxTrac outsole offers grip across technical or slippery ground
- Balanced Cushioning platform promotes alignment and natural stride
- Original FootShape Fit makes it one of the best hiking shoes for flat feet and wider feet
- A sleek option in our outdoor gear guide, especially for weight-conscious hikers
Price: 209.99$
Altra | Shoe
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Best Hiking Shoes for Technical Terrains
For Which Type of Hiker
This one’s for the ambitious trekkers who treat trails as warm-ups for what comes after the tree line. If your adventures involve scree, boulder-hopping, or alpine traverses, the Salewa Alp Trainer 2 GORE-TEX Hiking Shoes are built to meet you where the terrain gets serious—and keep up.
Why We Picked It
Tested by experts in the Dolomites and put through the wringer by our own gear testers, this low-cut alpine hiker blends stiff-soled control with surprising step-in comfort. From its 360° rubber rand to its climbing zone outsole, everything about it is tuned for rugged performance. It's one of the best premium hiking shoes we’ve worn this year—and a standout in any outdoor gear guide worth its laces.
Features & Benefits
- Vibram Alpine Hiking outsole delivers bite and braking power on steep, loose terrain
- GORE-TEX Extended Comfort lining keeps your feet dry, cool, and protected
- 3F System + Climbing Lacing lock in fit and stability for confident edging and descents
- EVA midsole softens the impact on long, technical days
- A top-tier pick in our best hiking shoes 2025 roundup and an easy contender among the top hiking shoes overall
Price: 259.95$
Salewa | Shoe
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How We Tested These Hiking Shoes
Our goal was simple: identify the best hiking shoes for real-world use, not just on paper. To do that, our team of gear testers—including long-distance trekkers, weekend hikers, and outdoor gear editors—logged over 500 km across a wide range of Canadian terrain and even through the Dolomites.
We tested each pair in varied conditions:
- Wet and dry trails
- Rocky alpine routes
- Muddy forest paths
- Urban-to-trail transitions
Each shoe was assessed for traction, comfort, fit, breathability, durability, and support over both short hikes and multi-day outings. We paid particular attention to how each model performed under load, during descents, and in adverse weather. Our testing also included verified reviews from customers and real feedback from the Altitude Sports community.
This roundup wasn’t compiled by algorithm—it was built from boots on the ground, one step at a time.
What to Look for in Hiking Shoes
Hiking Shoes vs Boots
Hiking boots can be more durable and provide more ankle stability than hiking shoes. On the other hand, hiking shoes have more flexibility and breathability.
There is also more of a break-in period with boots. Initially, you can expect some blisters, so bring moleskin or bandaids on your first hike. The choice ultimately depends on what you’re doing—if you’re going for a long trek, a hiking boot is better.
Trail Runners
Trail runners don’t have the same life expectancy as hiking boots. At the same time, they’re great for when you want to go fast and light. If you’re the type of person who goes on day hikes and multi-day treks, having both trail runners and hiking shoes is ideal.
Weight
Consider what kind of hiking you’ll be doing. Is it a slow and steady trail with a heavy backpack? Or is it a speedy jaunt through your local backwoods? The lighter the shoe, the faster you’ll be. Light hiking shoes make it easier to maintain a brisk pace as you blow through miles.
Materials
Today, hiking shoes integrate many different technologies into their construction. GORE-TEX waterproof membranes equip shoes for wet weather conditions. This waterproof material helps hikers cope with everything from misty mornings to heavy downpours.
EVA foam, often seen in the midsoles of shoes, gives support and cushioning. Vibram, another common material seen on the outsoles, helps give shoes durability and traction through varied terrain.
Waterproof vs Breathable
Breathable hiking shoes are usually designed with high-quality mesh. They are made to whisk away moisture on hotter days.
Waterproof shoes can sometimes lack breathability but have other benefits. If you want shoes for crossing streams or rainy conditions, look for shoes with waterproof treatments.
Soles & Traction
Aside from standard rubber outsoles that are designed for durability, additional features also give traction. Wide-spaced lugs, for example, help the hiker get through soft terrain such as mud. Deeper, thicker lugs improve grip on backpacking and mountaineering trips.
Fit
Fit is one of the most critical aspects when choosing a hiking shoe. You want a shoe that holds your foot securely in place and doesn’t let your heel raise up out of the heel cup as you walk. Also, your toes need to have enough space to splay out comfortably and naturally, so a wider toe box is something to look for.
If you go downhill and your toes hit the front of the shoe, this can cause pain and blisters. A true fit to size is the best rule.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ankle support necessary for hiking?
Depending on your intended use, ankle support may be necessary. Low-cut hiking shoe models are ideal for day hiking. Mid to high-cut hiking boots are perfect for day hikes or backpacking trips with light loads. Finally, high-cut backpacking boots are designed for maximum support.
If you anticipate carrying a heavy load or hiking for several days, additional ankle support may also be needed.
How long does it take to break in hiking shoes?
If you’ve just bought a new pair of hiking shoes, it can take several weeks to break them in. If you haven’t worn your shoes for several months, you may have to break them in again. It takes time for your foot to adjust to the stiffer build of the shoe. One to five weeks of regular wear is recommended to soften the material of the shoe.
Is it OK to hike in sneakers?
If you are going on short day hikes in familiar terrain, sneakers are perfectly suitable. Hiking shoes are made to give you better stability and support if you’re carrying weight or hiking in challenging terrain.
Are barefoot shoes good for hiking?
Barefoot shoes can be the right choice for hiking if you are used to them. If you have only been barefoot walking for a short time, you need to build up to this. Wait until your feet are stronger before you hit the trail with barefoot shoes.
Conclusion
The right pair of hiking shoes can completely change the way you experience the trail—turning rough miles into smooth strides and rainy days into minor details. Whether you’re searching for lightweight comfort, weather protection, or technical performance, we’ve got something for every hiker.
Still deciding? Our best hiking shoes buying guide breaks down what to look for in hiking shoes, including side-by-side comparisons like hiking shoes vs hiking boots and expert advice on how to choose hiking shoes that match your terrain and goals.
Every pair featured here has been tested by experts, backed by verified reviews, and selected with real trail conditions in mind. Whether you’re gearing up for your first summit or refining your long-distance kit, Altitude Sports makes it easy to shop trusted brands, compare prices, and find your fit—with free returns and some of the best deals on hiking shoes in Canada.
Next up, learn all about our picks for the best trail running shoes updated for 2025 or find out what to wear while hiking and where to buy it.