Far away from its roots of bulky designs, hiking footwear has taken a leap in performance, comfort, and style. Shaping a hiking shoe requires dedication to both protecting and supporting a food. Thus, the boot-making process is often deemed art rather than science.
Many companies have spent years on testing and R&D to create a perfect fit, yet very few of them eventually made it.
Below are the 14 best hiking shoe brands that nail the techniques and marked themselves with high-performing boots for hikers. For us, they’ve met not only the basics but also more advanced requirements for a quality pair of hiking boots.
History of Hiking Shoes: From Cobblers to Trail Runners
Hiking shoes have come a long way since their humble beginnings in the mountains of Germany, France, and Austria at the turn of the 19th century.
Back then, the first mountain climbers faced the challenge of conquering peaks with footwear that was far from adequate.
They needed boots that could withstand the rigors of the mountains, something more substantial than the flimsy shoes with cardboard soles that were commonly available. This necessity sparked the emergence of hiking shoes as we know them today.
Cobblers took up the task of creating durable and sturdy boots for mountain climbers, and among them was the renowned Bavarian company, Meindl.
Established to supply these specialized shoes, Meindl quickly became a prominent player in the field of hiking footwear.
Their boots provided the necessary ankle support and protection for those venturing into the unforgiving terrains of the mountains.
Over time, the hiking boot industry evolved and expanded to include a wide array of manufacturers and styles.
One such example of innovation in hiking shoes is the Meindl Sahara type, which was adapted from a combat boot designed for desert climates. These shoes offer a perfect fit for longer distance hiking and excel in various terrains.
Additionally, trail runners with ample cushioning have gained popularity among hikers, providing a balance of comfort and performance.
14 Best Hiking Shoe Brands To Try
Danner
The first name on the list of the best hiking shoe brands 2023 is Danner.
The story of Danner began with Charles Danner, a visionary who headed west with a mission to craft the finest boots loggers had ever known.
As the years have passed, Danner has remained true to its original vision while embracing innovation to meet the ever-changing needs of their customers.
They continue to uphold their reputation for producing high-quality boots that stand the test of time, providing both comfort and durability to those who rely on them in their endeavors.
One of Danner’s best shoes for hiking is the Trail 2650 – a hiking companion designed to conquer any terrain with ease and confidence.
The inclusion of a Trailguard TPU shank and an EXO Heel System makes this shoe not only lightweight but also highly stable on even the most challenging grounds.
These features work in harmony to provide essential support and protect your feet from fatigue and strain, allowing you to focus solely on the joy of your outdoor experience.
Salomon
Since its inception in 1947, Salomon has been a collective born in the heart of the stunning French Alps, where the beauty and challenges of nature inspire their every creation.
As outdoor enthusiasts themselves, the team at Salomon understands the importance of reliable equipment that can endure the rigors of extended journeys.
Their backpacking boots stand as a testament to their passion for creating products that enable people to venture further and connect with nature on a profound level.
Also, hiking shoes are one of Salomon’s forte, offering extreme agility and innovative stability for those seeking safe and thrilling trail adventures.
Whether navigating rocky terrain or exploring untamed wilderness, Salomon’s hiking shoes provide the support and confidence needed to conquer the outdoors with ease.
Topo Athletic
At the core of Topo Athletic philosophy is the belief that runners should have access to the best of both worlds.
But Topo Athletic offerings go beyond just running shoes. The brand also recognizes the importance of exploring the great outdoors and has expanded its range to include hiking and backpacking shoes.
What many sports people love about Topo Athletic is their lightweight and rugged waterproof hiking shoes, designed to withstand days on the trail in any weather.
The shoes boast signature wide toe boxes, providing ample space for the toes to splay naturally, enhancing stability and balance on uneven terrains.
Their full eVent® water resistance inner-bootie construction ensures that water stays out, keeping feet dry and comfortable even in wet conditions.
Vasque
Vasque’s success lies in its ability to modernize classic boot designs, incorporating cutting-edge technology and sustainable materials to create a new generation of hiking shoes that resonate with outdoor enthusiasts worldwide.
One of the key features that sets Vasque hiking shoes apart is their leather construction.
This sturdy material stands up to the toughest tests that outdoor adventures can throw its way, ensuring that hikers can rely on their footwear even in the most rugged environments.
Additionally, the leather’s softness allows for easy break-in, ensuring that comfort is not compromised even during the initial wear.
A vital aspect of any high-quality hiking shoe is its ability to keep feet dry and comfortable in wet conditions.
To address this crucial need, Vasque equips its shoes with a waterproof membrane, creating a full waterproof seal that ensures feet remain dry regardless of how wet the ground gets.
Columbia
Columbia, a brand known for its budget-friendly offerings, has garnered a strong reputation as one of the hiking shoe brands.
A prime example of their success is the best-selling Newton Ridge, a waterproof version of hiking boot that boasts a seam-sealed leather upper.
Priced at just $100, this boot offers not only reliable waterproofing but also all-around comfort with a well-padded collar and tongue.
Its performance is well-suited for light day hiking, exploring national parks, and even everyday use around town.
For those new to outdoor activities, Columbia is a one-stop shop, offering a diverse range of affordably priced products. Their collection includes jackets, hiking shirts, pants, and much more, making it convenient for beginners to gear up without hurting their wallets.
KEEN
In the Keen waterproof hiking shoes review, we’ve lavished praise on this brand. It never lets us down with the smart features and flexible design. So, we’re going to cut it short.
KEEN, a brand rooted in Oregon, initially gained prominence for its sandals, which remain a significant part of their product lineup. However, their hiking collection is equally noteworthy, boasting high-quality and versatile options.
One standout offering is the Targhee, their signature hiker introduced in 2005.
Renowned for its exceptional out-of-the-box comfort, durable construction, and ample stability, the Targhee has garnered popularity among hikers for years.
It is well-suited for day hikes and easy to moderate backpacking trips.
Moreover, the boots are available in both waterproof and non-waterproof options, catering to different weather conditions.
KEEN has also thoughtfully designed models for kids and an array of sandal designs, ensuring there’s a perfect fit for every hiker.
If you’re new to this adventurous sport and have just started learning everything from scratch, you may also find our guide on how to lace hiking shoes helpful!
La Sportiva
For over a century, the Italian company La Sportiva has been a trusted name in producing technical mountain products.
Situated in the mountain town of Ziano di Fiemme, under the watchful gaze of the Dolomites, they continue to craft exceptional footwear, including hiking boots renowned for their expertise in handling rocky and steep terrains.
Another reason we consider La Sportiva one of the best hiking shoe brands is that the boots exhibited minimal signs of wear and tear after rigorous testing on diverse terrains and in varying weather conditions. This speaks volumes about their durability.
Moreover, the ease of cleaning adds to their appeal, making them a reliable companion for many future adventures.
Merrell
For those new to hiking or occasional hikers, the idea of investing in expensive hiking boots might seem daunting. However, compromising on quality is not an option when it comes to the comfort and safety a good pair of hiking boots provides. Fortunately, Merrell has a solution.
Established in 1981, this American company boasts decades of experience in designing boots, shoes, and trail runners catered to the needs of casual hikers.
The Merrell Moab collection is designed to handle a wide range of outdoor activities, from day hikes to multi-day treks, with ease.
Equipped with cushioned midsoles and contoured footbeds, these shoes offer exceptional support and shock absorption, reducing fatigue and strain during long hikes.
The breathable mesh uppers ensure proper ventilation, keeping feet cool and dry even during intense activities.
HOKA
Renowned for their comfort-centric, generously cushioned trail and road running shoes, HOKA is a relatively new player in the world of hiking footwear.
Despite their newcomer status, HOKA has seamlessly translated their expertise to create over-the-ankle designs tailored for swift movement on easy to moderate trails.
We had the pleasure of testing their Anacapa Mid, and it left us with an overwhelmingly positive impression.
The boot combines the signature smooth and well-cushioned ride that defines the HOKA brand with a lightweight build, secure fit, and top-notch materials throughout.
Another favorite from their collection is the Speedgoat, a trail running shoe highly regarded in our roundup.
For those seeking both speed and ankle protection, the Speedgoat is also available in a mid-height version, ensuring you can move swiftly without compromising on support.
Lowa
In 2023, Lowa proudly celebrated its remarkable 100th anniversary, marking a century of continuous progress and innovation.
The journey of this esteemed company began when cobbler Lorenz Wagner founded it in the quaint village of Jetzendorf, Germany.
Initially, Wagner focused on crafting work brogues for the locals, but his expertise soon expanded to encompass military work boots and ski boots.
As the years passed, Lowa’s dedication to excellence led them to venture into crafting mountaineering boots by the 1960s.
Their commitment to quality and performance earned them the honor of outfitting the first American to conquer Mount Everest, Jim Whittaker.
Today, Lowa is renowned for its extensive range of outdoor footwear, catering to everyone from casual enthusiasts to professional athletes.
The brand’s legacy is a testament to their unwavering dedication to crafting durable, reliable, and high-performance footwear for all outdoor pursuits.
Oboz
What truly distinguishes Oboz footwear is the human touch that goes into every pair. With a team of 140 talented individuals, each pair of shoes undergoes a painstaking hand-building process.
While this approach may be more challenging, it is the right way to ensure that every Oboz shoe delivers superior fit and performance.
Also, Oboz’s proprietary insole is a true game-changer and what sets them apart in the industry.
Molded to match the specific shape and construction of each shoe, this purpose-designed technology delivers an unparalleled fit, feel, and performance.
It’s no wonder that Oboz is widely recognized for their exceptional insole technology.
Adidas
When it comes to athletic footwear, Adidas – one of the best sportswear brands 2023 – needs no introduction. With a rich history of innovation and style in the world of sports, Adidas has expanded its offerings to cater to outdoor enthusiasts with their range of hiking shoes.
Adidas hiking shoes are built to withstand the demands of various terrains and weather conditions, making them an excellent companion for outdoor adventures.
Their footwear incorporates advanced materials, cushioning systems, and durable outsoles, providing optimal support and comfort for long hours on the trails.
Additionally, many Adidas hiking shoes come with waterproof or water-resistant properties, ensuring feet stay dry in wet conditions.
Arc’teryx
Arc’teryx, a brand synonymous with technical excellence and innovation, continues to push the boundaries of outdoor gear, and their footwear collection is no exception.
Two standout offerings in their lineup are the ACRUX TR GTX Boot and the KONSEAL FL 2 Shoe, both designed to meet the demands of challenging terrain while providing comfort and support for adventurers.
The ACRUX TR GTX Boot is a technical trekking boot specifically crafted for multi-day routes in rugged landscapes.
Supporting heavy packs with ease, this boot ensures a comfortable journey even on the most challenging terrains.
Meanwhile, inspired by trail running shoes, the KONSEAL FL 2 Shoe is the epitome of agility, confidence, and comfort for technical approaches and long hikes.
Its precise design caters to the most demanding terrains while delivering essential support and protection.
Forsake
Forsake’s primary objective was clear: to create “all-weather kicks to keep your feet dry and fly.” In essence, Forsake promises stylish footwear with reliable waterproofing, making their shoes a perfect fusion of fashion and function.
Notably, even their hiking boots exude a sneaker-like aesthetic, setting them apart from the rest.
Forsake hiking boots effortlessly transition from urban settings to rugged trails, making them an ideal choice for both town and outdoor adventures.
One remarkable advantage is that these boots require no breaking in before use, thanks to their sneaker-like construction.
This feature ensures immediate comfort and flexibility, allowing you to hit the trails or the streets with confidence from the get-go.
Wrapping Up
Physically demanding sports are always attractive to adventurous outdoor enthusiasts, and hiking is quite a breezy one to take up. This sport doesn’t call for tons of gear, unlike what most beginners think. Just a large backpack and a durable pair of hiking boots are enough.
While the list of best hiking shoes brands above gives you many reliable names to choose from, the right pick boils down to your intended use, favorite treks, and preferred style.
Find one fitting you the most and rock all the pavements!
