Hiking Boots for Men: 8 Best Options in 2024
Sep 16, 2023
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Your backpack is ready. You’ve purchased the proper attire — and your next big outdoor adventure awaits. However, one thing you won’t want to forget for your trip is hiking boots. Not just any footwear will do, though. For this trip, you’ll want to wear the best hiking boots for men.
Hiking is strenuous on your feet. If your shoes aren’t as durable as they are comfortable, your trek off the beaten path might not go as planned. What do you do if it rains or you encounter rough terrain?
Whatever shoes you buy must have excellent traction and waterproofing to protect your feet. Sometimes, your hiking boots can double as functional and fashionable footwear. Let’s explore some popular styles to match your tastes and hiking needs.
How to Choose the Best Hiking Boots
A good hiking boot is pricey but worth the investment, especially if you’re an avid outdoorsman. You’ll want to consider a few things before buying a new pair of boots, though, such as the following:
- The type of terrain you’ll be hiking — easy and flat, uneven or unstable trails
- The distance and pace you intend to hike
- Whether you’ll be speed walking or running
- How much you’ll be carrying with you — the more you have, the lighter the shoe you’ll need
- Waterproofing to prevent moisture
- Level of hiking — beginner, intermediate or expert
According to one study, about 75% of non-fatal hiking falls occur while coming down a steep slope. Another 80% of hikers fall on marked trails.
Likewise, 42.4% of hikers sprain their ankles, making it the most common hiking injury.
While injuries can occur to anyone, the best hiking boots can soften the fall and prevent hefty medical bills and prolonged recovery time later.
8 Top Hiking Boots for Men
Preventing injury and death should be at the forefront of your hiking gear decisions. Of course, comfort is equally important — especially for long hikes. Those interested in owning a pair of the best hiking boots for men should consider the following eight options for their next adventure.
1. Timberland Men’s White Ledge Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
Timberland became one of the most renowned hiking gear brands in 1973, delivering high-quality premium boots to meet your hiking requirements.
The White Ledge Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot for men marries durability and comfort with a 100% waterproof leather construct to lock out moisture. The boots also have rust resistance around the speed-lace front.
Timberland footwear is an excellent choice for hikers keen on sustainability. The company has pledged to be climate-friendly and is certified by the Leather Working Group to ensure responsible leather production.
2. Timberland Men’s Premium 6-inch Waterproof Boot
The Premium 6-inch Waterproof Boot by Timberland provides excellent ankle stability with its 6.25-inch shaft from the arch. Meanwhile, the heel has an approximate 1.25-inch platform.
These boots are as stylish for everyday wear as they are reliable for outdoor adventures — Timberland always guarantees superior waterproof engineering. This boot model contains 400 grams of Primaloft insulation for greater warmth for those who enjoy hiking in the colder seasons.
Like all of this brand’s footwear, manufacturing to packaging is certified sustainable.
3. KEEN Men’s Nxis Evo Mid-Height Waterproof Hiking Boots
Lightweight boots are ideal for hikers who love to run, providing stability and ease of movement without risking injury. As such, the KEEN Nxis Evo Mid-Height Waterproof footwear is one of the best hiking boots for men.
Those with a broader foot will find the Nxis Evo Mid-Height boot incredibly comfortable, while PFC-free water-resistant leather will prevent your feet from becoming soaked.
Like Timberland, KEEN footwear is certified by the Leather Working Group. KEEN also offers a one-year manufacturing warranty for any material defects from the day of purchase.
4. Skechers Men’s Sergeants-Verdict Waterproof Boot
Keep your feet protected from the elements with the Sketchers Sergeants-Verdict Waterproof Boot. A 1.5-inch heel is met with a cushiony insole and padded tongue and collar to ensure optimal foot relief during rugged hikes.
Sketcher’s trademarked Air-Cooled Memory Foam is its most appealing feature — a breathable, versatile and supportive design for all-day comfort.
5. Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Suede Waterproof
Columbia’s Newton Ridge Plus II Suede Waterproof hiking boot is another lightweight option using leather, suede and mesh materials. A rubber midsole ensures advanced traction and shock absorption, while the shaft provides adequate ankle support.
Considering falls account for many hiking injuries, you’ll want to buy a boot engineered for gripping miles of terrain, including grass, rocks and roots. This hiking boot, in particular, has a dual-zone winter tread pattern to prevent slipping on ice and snow.
6. Merrell Men’s Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
If there’s one thing Merrell has mastered in its footwear, it’s versatility, comfort and fit. For instance, its Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot keeps improving.
Upgrades to the design include extra heel cushioning to absorb shock, an advanced tread for gripping uneven terrain and durability. Even better, this shoe uses recycled materials for the most eco-conscious hikers.
7. KEEN Men’s Targhee 3 Low-Height Waterproof Hiking Shoes
Do you prefer a low-height boot for your hiking adventure? KEEN’s Targhee 3 Waterproof Hiking Shoes for men are the ticket. This shoe has all the workings of optimal performance — breathability, rubber toe guard, high traction and ankle support.
Give your toes some space with the Targhee 3’s wider fit. The shoe’s footbed will mold to your foot’s shape like a glove. KEEN products are also environmentally friendly and made in the U.S.
8. Salomon Men’s OUTPULSE Hiking Shoes
Some hikers prefer more of a sneaker to a boot but look for a pair comparable in durability and support. Salomon knows a thing or two about outdoor sports, having been in business since 1947. The brand continuously uses advanced technology and engineering to create the perfect hiking footwear for the everyday traveler.
The OUTPULSE hiking shoes are lightweight, delivering a soft, flexible rubber midsole for a smoother stride.
The only shortcoming of this product is it isn’t water-resistant. Consider an alternative if that is a feature you need for your hiking adventure.
Buy Your Next Pair of Functional Hiking Boots
Explore the many brands and models for your next pair of hiking boots. Selecting the best hiking boots takes time to determine the proper fitting and specifications. Once you find the perfect pair, though, your adventure can begin.
