The Best Hiking Shoes for Light Hikes and Day Hikes

1. Danner Trail 2650 Campo GTX

These breathable, waterproof hiking shoes have a sock-like feel and keep you unexpectedly sure-footed on slick, rocky trails.

SPECIFICATIONS

• RRP is $200 (US) / £180 (UK) (UK)
• Men’s / Women’s Gender Specificity
• Upper made of leather and textile, Gore-Tex membrane, Vibram Megagrip sole, and open-cell Polyurethane footbed
• 340g/12oz weight (per shoe)
• Colors include brown and meadow green, blue and orange, and black and red.
• Hiking is a good match.

REASONS TO BUY

• Breathable and waterproof
• Megagrip soles by Vibram
• OrthoLite Footbed (removable)
• The sock-like feel is quite comfortable.
• Uppers made of leather and abrasion-resistant fabric provides enough protection.
• There are a variety of sizes available.

REASONS TO AVOID

• With high arches, it’s difficult to put on.
• If it’s not insulated, it might not be adequate to keep you warm in the winter.
• Pricey

The Danner Trail 2650 GTX looks like a trail running shoe built for rainy days and rocky terrain. The heel tab on this sock-like shoe pulls them on, while the laces only tighten them. Even if they’re a little more difficult to put on because of their flex and three layers of detachable/breathable padding, they’re worth the effort for those with high arches.

These shoes are sturdy and great for long hikes, with abrasion-resistant leather uppers with a Gore-Tex membrane and hefty Vibram Megarip bottoms.

These hiking boots are pricey but constructed to last.

2. Keen NXIS EVO Waterproof

Keen’s latest waterproof hikers feature a unique heel-lock technology and a stylish design.

SPECIFICATIONS

• RRP: $135 (US) / $135 (UK) (UK)
• Men’s / Women’s Gender Specificity
• EVA midsole; KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole; Removable PU insole; Performance mesh upper with TPU overlays; KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane; EVA midsole; KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole;
• 381g/13.4oz weight (per shoe)
• Dark Olive/Black Olive is a color combination of dark olive and black olive.
• Hiking trails are compatible.

REASONS TO BUY

• An ingenious heel-locking device
• Toe protection is excellent.
• Comfortable and supportive
• Waterproof
• Looks good
• The outsole isn’t too aggressive.

REASONS TO AVOID

• Lace that is prone to unraveling
• Cleaning is difficult.

To give you complete confidence on even the most challenging terrain, the NXIS Evo features a terrific and ingenious heel-lock mechanism. And interacts with the laces to provide a secure grip across the entire heel and forefoot area. Except when the laces come undone during testing — user error? The thick, spherical laces were sturdy but prone to unraveling.

The NXIS has a split-toe design to minimize weight (don’t worry, your pinkies are still properly covered). The mesh top is light and waterproof but splattered with mud, dirt, or trail slime; it’s difficult to clean. The insoles and midsoles provide a smooth ride. It’s not too aggressive to lose trail feel; some people might prefer more aggressive lugs. Still, we think these 4mm multidirectional teeth are just right for a walking shoe.

3. Hoka Anacapa Low Gore-Tex Walking Shoe

Hiking shoes with full suspension for comfortable trail walking on various terrain.

SPECIFICATIONS

• $155 (US) / £135 (UK) (UK)
• Upper made of nubuck leather and Gore-Tex, molded PU sock liner (50 percent soybean oil), compression-molded EVA midsole, and Vibram Megagrip rubber outsole with 5mm lugs.
• 6mm drop
• 397 grams (per shoe)
• Women’s: Black / Cherry Mahogany & spicy sauce / Tiger’s eye and black; Men’s: Black / Tiger’s eye and black
• Three-season hiking in a wide range of landscapes and terrain types is possible.

REASONS TO BUY

• To improve stride efficiency, use a rocker.
• The midsole has a lot of cushioning.
• a relaxing ride
• High-quality components (Gore-Tex / Vibram) were employed.
• Collar, mesh, and laces are made of recycled polyester.

REASONS TO AVOID

• There is no sense of a path.
• Not everyone likes the chunky look.
• It can get quite hot during summer.

Hoka footwear is readily recognizable on a mist-shrouded trail. Its trademark super-sized midsole shoes are divisive – either you adore them or mock them.

They are comfortable, and the added suspension means your knees will thank you at the end of a long trail day. With so much padding, there is no trail feel.

It has a rocker, so heel strikers may still push off from the front of the foot on each fresh stride and the enormous maxi midsoles. This will take some time to adjust to.

The uppers are nubuck leather with a Gore-Tex layer for waterproofing. Summers can be a bit hot, but they’re excellent all year. The heel cup and pull loop are convenient, and there is an extra lace hole (for usage in thick mud to avoid losing a shoe).

1. Merrell MQM Flex 2 GTX

A multipurpose hiking shoe with the agility of most trail running shoes.

SPECIFICATIONS

• $140 (US) / £120 (UK) (UK)
• Waterproof mesh upper, Gore-Tex membrane, Quantum technology Rubber outsole with traction Weight of each shoe
• 290g/10oz (women’s) and 350g/12oz (men’s) per shoe
• Colors (men’s): Burnt granite / Black / Black & grey / Black & orange / Black & white / Moonbeam raven / Orange / White (women’s): Black HV / Dragonfly /Black / Black & White / Granite wave / Lichen
• All trails in all but the worst circumstances are compatible.

REASONS TO BUY

• Very relaxing.
• Very good grip
• Vegan-friendly

REASONS TO AVOID

• Some of the tests were not as long-lasting as others.
• Grit might get trapped between the tongue and the chassis.

The Merrell MQM 2 is a multipurpose shoe with features like a rock plate that protects against sharp flints and sticks while only weighing a fraction of a thick midsole. So while these shoes are swift and agile on even the toughest routes, they aren’t as durable as a chunkier shoes.

5mm lugs strategically placed on the mountain-grade Quantum Grip rubber outsole from Merrell provide assurance. The heel has air cushioning for bounce and shock absorption (especially for heel strikers). Flex connect in the midsole aids balance and trail feel. However, grit can get between the tongue and the shoe due to the Gore-Tex lining. The extra lace hole and incorporated strap across the forefoot allow you to tighten the laces up if you’re going into gloopy marshy terrain.

2. The North Face Activist Futurelight Walking Shoe

A trail-walking shoe that is equally at home on the tarmac as it is on gravel paths blends one part cool comfort with one part technical performance.

SPECIFICATIONS

• $135 (US) / £125 (UK) (UK)
• OrthoLite foam footbeds, Futurelight waterproofing, and Exploration Trax System outsoles are among the materials used.
• Weight of each shoe
• Women’s shoe weight: 296g/10.5oz; men’s shoe weight: 350g/12oz
• Colors (men’s): Aviator navy / Nautical blue / TNF yellow / Verdial / TNF black / Taupe green (women’s): Urban Navy / Mallard blue / Rambutan pink / Blackberry wine
• Compatibility: Lower-level tracks and hill walks are preferable to mountain trails.

REASONS TO BUY

• Comfortable
• Lightweight, stiff, and durable sole
• Excellent rand for protection.

REASONS TO AVOID

• The fit is a little tighter than intended.
• For high alpine trails, it’s not strong enough.

The Activists are lighter than some running shoes, which is a great relief after hefty hiking boots. With TNF’s unique breathable-waterproof ‘Futurelight’ membrane, you won’t get hot or wet unless the weather is terrible. The fabric uppers are protected by a complete rand that includes a toecap and extra thickness on the heel.

Washable Ortholite insoles and a gusseted tongue add to shoe comfort. The ‘EXTS’ sole provides a reliable grip on wet and dry surfaces, including asphalt and gravel tracks. The sole protects the foot from slipping on the stony ground, while ‘heel positioning technology’ adds stability. The North Face says these shoes are as good as boots for mountain treks, but they lack the bottoms and uppers to last very long.

1. Keen Terradora II Waterproof Hiking Trainers

A waterproof walking shoe designed specifically for women.

SPECIFICATIONS

• RRP: $140 (US) / £110 (UK)
• Materials: Performance mesh upper, low-density EVA midsole, breathable mesh lining, dual-density EVA footbed, KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole
• 320g/11oz weight (per shoe)
• Colors: Drizzle & African violet / Canteen / Black magnet / Brick dust / Tan / Steel grey & ocean wave / Cherry mahogany / Dusty olive & Nostalgia rose / Cherry mahogany / Dusty olive & Nostalgia rose / Drizzle & African violet
• Compatibility: This is a fantastic shoe for the warmer months.

REASONS TO BUY

• Wider fit for women’s design
• Versatile
• a reasonable price

REASONS TO AVOID

• limited abrasion protection
• limited waterproofing

It is the second edition of the iconic Terradora walking shoe. The Terradora’s low-density EVA midsole accommodates the smaller female foot’s heel (Keen footwear is noted for its wider fit, so try before buying). The Keen ‘All-terrain’ rubber outsole has 4mm multidirectional lugs for grip and a stability shank for lightweight support.

Forefoot grooves provide more flex and allow for more natural foot movement. Keen’s ‘KonnectFit heel-capture’ technology provides a supportive but not constraining fit and a replaceable dual-density EVA insole with arch support for long-term comfort. The top is waterproof and breathable, owing to Keen’s exclusive membrane. A lightweight rubber rand wraps around the shoe for abrasion protection.

What are your favorite hiking shoes? To answer that, consider the type of walking you undertake most frequently. The amount of gear you need depends on the terrain you’re traversing, the quality of the path, the weather, and how much gear you usually carry. There are also entirely vegan trail-ready footwear options available.

The following are some significant factors to consider in your decision-making process.

Seasons

Walking shoes are best suited to milder weather in general. On the other hand, lighter-weight fabric shoes are more susceptible to bad weather. If you walk in bad weather, you should invest in a more durable shoe with sturdy materials. Even the best full-on hiking boots aren’t appropriate for winter circumstances, so you’ll need a pair of boots created expressly for the season if you’re a winter walker.

Many manufacturers may even put the word “waterproof” in the name of their hiking shoes, so keep an eye out for that.

Terrain

The terrain will influence the shoe (and sole) you wear. Even the best hiking shoes don’t provide ankle support, but some are tougher and give more protection. A solid sole, sticky outsole, aggressive lugs, a hefty rand, and a good toe cap are essential for hard terrain hiking. Trekking poles can help on steep terrain.

These approach shoes are for rough scrambles and tricky approaches to climbers’ crags. Approach shoes are becoming more durable and capable of greater distances than hiking shoes. If you enjoy long days on tricky scrambling terrain, approach shoes may be the best choice.

Some of the best water shoes combine hiking qualities with a design fit for hours in the water. They provide a unique grip that gives you confidence on a wet rock when coasteering or ghyll scrambling.

Cushioning

A rigid sole will generate a lot of energy, whereas a cushioned sole and insole absorb it. However, increased cushioning protects joints and provides a more pleasant on-the-ground feel. In contrast, a stiffer and less cushioned sole provides higher stability, traction, and less energy absorption. Wear contrasting pairs to get a feel for this, and don’t forget your hiking socks.

Some runners and hikers want to feel the route or ground beneath their feet (trail feel). In this context, barefoot running and hiking shoes are gaining popularity. It means less cushioning but a closer connection to the landscape.

Width

We all have distinctly shaped feet, and there might be a major difference between male and female feet. The width of the shoes in our reviews is rated, and we look for specifically designed designs for women.

Weight

Hiking shoes are normally lighter than walking boots, although heavier than running shoes. Over longer distances, the weight of footwear can induce tiredness. However, certain shoes are heavier due to qualities such as stiffer soles and more robust uppers.

Heel to Toe Drop

A heel-to-toe drop is commonly found in running shoes. A neutral drop shoe, for example, will start at zero and gradually increase in size up to 10mm and beyond. Because few boot makers provide these characteristics, it’s crucial to try them on before purchasing to see if they fit your walking style and gait.

Materials

Walking shoes can be made from leather, nubuck leather, suede, synthetic textiles, etc. Although leather is more durable, your feet are more prone to grow hot and sticky. Fabric is more breathable than leather, but it is less durable. A rubber band around the shoe’s perimeter, where the upper meets the sole, can help protect the shoe from abrasion from rocks, stones, and vegetation. Also, look for extra rubber shoes on the toe and heel.

Waterproofing

A waterproof and breathable membrane liner is found in many shoes. The goal is to make the fabric waterproof and resistant to water. Gore-Tex is the most well-known waterproof membrane. Many of the best hiking shoe and boot manufacturers utilize it. Other businesses utilize their own-brand membranes, which operate to varying degrees. A full rubber rand around the shoe is excellent for preventing water infiltration from puddles and dirt. However, once the water level exceeds ankle height, you’ll get wet feet regardless of how waterproof your shoes are.

Salomon X Ultra 4 Low GTX

BEST WATERPROOF HIKING SHOES OVERALL FOR COMFORT, TRACTION & DURABILITY

• MSRP: $150
• MEASURED WEIGHT PER PAIR (SIZE 13): 2 lb. 0.9 oz.
• ALSO AVAILABLE IN: Non-waterproof
• SIZING: True to size; wide sizes available

BOTTOM LINE: The Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX hiking shoes have an outstanding balance of weight and durability. They feel much lighter and more agile than other similarly built shoes, and the fit is similar to that of a trail runner. Also, much like trail runners, they require practically no break-in period and are comfortable to hike in straight out of the box. The traction is well above average on the X Ultras, making them great for backpacking or day hikes in challenging terrain. We’re big fans of the X Ultras, and we highly recommend them for hikers who want a shoe that feels like a trail runner and lasts like a more traditional hiking shoe.

Saucony Peregrine 12

BEST NON-WATERPROOF HIKING SHOES OVERALL FOR TRACTION, LOW WEIGHT & COMFORT

• MSRP: $130
• MEASURED WEIGHT PER PAIR (SIZE 12): 1 lb. 8.1 oz.
• ALSO AVAILABLE IN: Waterproof
• SIZING: True to size

BOTTOM LINE: The Saucony Peregrines have been our favorite hiking shoes. We’ve worn them over thousands of miles. What makes the Peregrines stand out so much is their exceptional traction. Whether it’s a trek through Nepal, the high sierras of California, or the Torres del Paine in Patagonia, the Peregrines bite into the terrain and provide stability and confidence. The newest iteration of the Peregrines features the same sock-like comfort and durability as the previous model, but it’s an ounce lighter. The Peregrine 12s is our top pick for demanding hikes where reliable traction is key.

HOKA ONE ONE Speedgoat 4

• BEST LIGHTWEIGHT HIKING SHOES WITH AMPLE CUSHIONING
• MSRP: $145
• MEASURED WEIGHT PER PAIR (SIZE 12): 1 lb. 10.5 oz.
• ALSO AVAILABLE IN: Waterproof
• SIZING: True to size

BOTTOM LINE: HOKAs are known for their exceptional comfort and support, and the Speedgoat 4 is the best trail shoe in the lineup. The most standout feature of the Speedgoats is their ultra-cushy midsole. It’s excellent at absorbing impact, and it doesn’t flatten out as quickly as some other shoes we’ve used. For this reason, the Speedgoats are a favorite amongst thru-hikers who need a lightweight shoe and can keep their feet and joints comfortable while logging lots of miles. That said, because these shoes are built more for trail running, they’re not going to hold up quite as long as some of the traditional hiking shoes on our list in the long run. Despite the slight hit to durability, the Speedgoats are our go-to for long days when comfort is most important.

Altra Lone Peak 6

• LIGHTWEIGHT HIKING SHOES WITH A NATURAL SHAPE
• MSRP: $140
• MEASURED WEIGHT PER PAIR (SIZE 12.5): 1 lb. 9.7 oz.
• ALSO AVAILABLE IN: Waterproof
• SIZING: True to size, wide sizes available

BOTTOM LINE: Altra’s Lone Peak 6s are the first major diversion from their typical design. The narrower profile is the most significant change (wide sizes are available). It makes the shoe look and feels a little sleeker while maintaining the signature foot-shaped toe box that allows your toes to spread naturally. The uppers are reinforced and well ventilated, so they feel more durable than previous Lone Peak models and should last for quite a few more miles than some other shoes in their weight class. We love the newest iteration of the Lone Peaks and recommend them to anyone looking for a comfortable ultralight hiking shoe.

Merrell Moab 2 Low WP

• BEST BUDGET SHOES FOR DAY HIKING
• MSRP: $125
• MEASURED WEIGHT PER PAIR (SIZE 12): 2 lb. 1 oz.
• ALSO AVAILABLE IN: Non-Waterproof
• SIZING: True to size; fits wide, wide sizes available

PROS: Affordable, out-of-the-box comfort, durable, breathable, good traction

CONS: Heavy, high heel-to-toe drop, the wide fit isn’t for everyone

BOTTOM LINE: If you’re looking for a good-value shoe that doesn’t compromise on quality, the Merrell Moab 2 WP Lows are excellent. These shoes and the Moab Mids have long been a favorite among hikers due to their comfort, durability, and affordable price. Because the Moabs feel a little bulkier than others, they may not be the best choice for big-mile days. But they’ll last a long time, and the cushioning and support they provide is excellent for day hikes and weekend trips.

Vasque Breeze LT Low GTX

• 
  LIGHTWEIGHT & BREATHABLE WATERPROOF HIKING SHOES
• MSRP: $159.95
• MEASURED WEIGHT PER PAIR (SIZE 13): 1 lb. 13 oz.
• ALSO AVAILABLE IN: AT Low (more supportive)
• SIZING: True to size; fits slightly narrow

BOTTOM LINE: The low weight, comfy soles and excellent Vasque Breeze LT Low GTX make them comfortable for long day hikes and supportive enough for lightweight backpacking. The Breeze LTs, unlike most of Vasque’s more traditional offerings, are friendly and flexible, so they’re more forgiving on uneven terrain than a typical leather hiking shoe. The trade-off in choosing a lighter-weight shoe over a more traditional shoe is that you compromise a bit of durability to shave off a few ounces. Still, if lightweight comfort and breathability in a waterproof shoe are what you’re after, you can’t go wrong with the Breeze LTs.

La Sportiva Spire GTX

• RUGGED & DURABLE WATERPROOF HIKING SHOES
• MSRP: $190
• MEASURED WEIGHT PER PAIR (SIZE 12): 2 lb. 2.3 oz.
• SIZING: True to size

BOTTOM LINE: The Spire GTX from La Sportiva is an ideal middle ground between hiking boots and hiking shoes and is an excellent choice for those looking for the best balance of support, durability, and breathability. The stiff outers and aggressive Vibram outsoles are protective and grippy for rugged terrain. The quality build ensures these bad boys will last for many adventures. While the Spires are a little heavier than many of the other shoes, we find them surprisingly light for their confidence on the trail.

Keen Targhee III Low WP

• EXCELLENT VALUE HIKING SHOES FOR DAY HIKERS
• MSRP: $164.95
• MEASURED WEIGHT PER PAIR (SIZE 13): 2 lb. 5.7 oz.
• ALSO AVAILABLE IN: Non-waterproof
• SIZING: True to size; fits wide

PROS: Good value, stable, excellent traction, roomy toe box, secure lacing system

CONS: Heavy, stiff, requires a more extended break-in period, can feel large rocks through the sole

BOTTOM LINE: The Keen Targhee III Low WP shoes are a crowd favorite because they’re supportive, have excellent traction, and are very well-priced. The Targhee is leather, requiring a longer break-in time than many lightweight shoes. The material holds up well for multiple years of hiking, making them a good value. One of our favorite features is the elastic band that connects the laces to the heel cup. This feature helps provide a secure, locked-in feeling and makes it easier to dial in the fit. Because they’re on the bulkier side, the Targhee is best suited to day hikers and weekend warriors looking for something long-lasting at a reasonable price. The Keen Targhee III Low WP shoes are a crowd favorite because they’re supportive, have excellent traction, and are very well-priced. The Targhee is leather, requiring a longer break-in time than many lightweight shoes. The material holds up well for multiple years of hiking, making them a good value. One of our favorite features is the elastic band that connects the laces to the heel cup. This feature helps provide a secure, locked-in feeling and makes it easier to dial in the fit. Because they’re on the bulkier side, the Targhee is best suited to day hikers and weekend warriors looking for something long-lasting at a reasonable price.

Salomon XA Pro 3D V8

• GRIPPY HIKING SHOES THAT WORK PARTICULARLY WELL IN WET CLIMATES
• MSRP: $160
• MEASURED WEIGHT PER PAIR (SIZE 12.5): 1 lb. 15.6 oz.
• ALSO AVAILABLE IN: Non-waterproof
• SIZING: Runs large. We recommend sizing down ½ size.

BOTTOM LINE: The Keen Targhee III Low WP shoes are a crowd favorite because they’re supportive, have excellent traction, and are very well-priced. The Targhee is leather, requiring a longer break-in time than many lightweight shoes. The material holds up well for multiple years of hiking, making them a good value. One of our favorite features is the elastic band that connects the laces to the heel cup. This feature helps provide a secure, locked-in feeling and makes it easier to dial in the fit. Because they’re on the bulkier side, the Targhee is best suited to day hikers and weekend warriors looking for something long-lasting at a reasonable price. The Keen Targhee III Low WP shoes are a crowd favorite because they’re supportive, have excellent traction, and are very well-priced. The Targhee is leather, requiring a longer break-in time than many lightweight shoes. The material holds up well for multiple years of hiking, making them a good value. One of our favorite features is the elastic band that connects the laces to the heel cup. This feature helps provide a secure, locked-in feeling and makes it easier to dial in the fit. Because they’re on the bulkier side, the Targhee is best suited to day hikers and weekend warriors looking for something long-lasting at a reasonable price.

Salomon XA Pro 3D V8

• GRIPPY HIKING SHOES THAT WORK PARTICULARLY WELL IN WET CLIMATES
• MSRP: $160
• MEASURED WEIGHT PER PAIR (SIZE 12.5): 1 lb. 15.6 oz.
• ALSO AVAILABLE IN: Non-waterproof
• SIZING: Runs large. We recommend sizing down ½ size.

BOTTOM LINE: The Salomon XA Pro 3D V8 GTX is great for hiking over tricky terrain with excellent traction and a stable, supportive build. The XA Pros are a good compromise between durability and all-day comfort. They are lighter than many traditional shoes but heavier than the trail runners we prefer to hike in. They excel for day hikers wanting a good value option that will last for multiple seasons. Their aggressive Contagrip traction and GoreTex membrane make the XA Pros some of the best shoes for backpacking in particularly wet, rugged climates.

Oboz Firebrand II BDry

• DURABLE & SUPPORTIVE HIKING SHOES FOR TRADITIONAL BACKPACKERS
• MSRP: $140
• MEASURED WEIGHT PER PAIR (SIZE 12): 2 lb. 8.8 oz.
• SIZING: True to size

BOTTOM LINE: Thanks to Oboz’s signature premium insoles, the Firebrand II BDry is the most supportive shoe we’ve hiked in. The molded arch and heel cup, secure lacing system, and exceptional traction make this shoe an excellent choice for challenging terrain – especially for backpackers who tend to carry a heavier pack of around 35 lbs. or more. The traditional-style Firebrands start a little stiffer than others, so we recommend breaking them in before taking them on any big trips. But after you get past this initial period, you’ll have a comfy shoe that can withstand multiple years of hiking.