7 Best Hiking Boots in 2024

Paul Ronto
Paul Ronto on
7 Best Hiking Boots in 2024
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Confused about what to buy after seeing the hundreds of boots available online? Well, worry not. Whether you’re a beginner hiker planning to go on a nature walk or an experienced backpacker looking for a new pair of kicks, we are here to help make your boot-hunting experience a breeze with our list of best hiking boots and detailed guide.

Having tested over 80 pairs of hiking boots, we know what makes the best one. Whether you’re looking for a heavy-duty trailblazer or a lighter option for some speedy hikes, we have selected our top picks in different categories.

How we test hiking boots

We, at RunRepeat, help boot shoppers find the right hiking boot without going through the hassle of checking out every feature of every boot in numerous brands. When it comes to providing thorough reviews, we offer a complete, one-stop guide! Here’s a quick overview of what we do:

  • We pick up all the hiking boots using our own private money, with no one capitalizing on us.
  • We backpack and trek for hours in different terrains and elevations while in the hiking boots, personally determining their level of grip, durability, stability, and others.
  • We take the boots back to our lab to test and analyze them to a data-driven extent.

Best hiking boots overall

What makes it the best?

For a hiking boot that does the job come rain or shine, look no further than the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX. It can handle torrential rain and mud, and it’s still an extremely lightweight boot suitable for longer, drier days on the hill. In short, the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX is hands down our best overall hiking boot.

On our wet and rainy hikes, we tested the boots in a deep puddle to test the waterproofing. Incredibly, despite standing in water for over a minute, there wasn’t even the slightest seepage. On closer inspection in the lab, we saw that the tightly woven upper and Gore-Tex membrane are complemented by a fully gusseted tongue and high collar. That explains why no water could get in!

Even with all that protection from the elements, these boots are far from clunky. We weighed them at 14.5 oz (412g), which is astounding, given that the average for waterproof boots is 19.5 oz (553g)! We found this ideal for our longer day hikes and multi-day adventures because our feet tired much slower than expected.

We found the X Ultra 4 Mid GTX to exhibit superb traction whether we were hiking on dry and dusty trails or on wet rock. We inspected the Contragrip outsole in the lab and counted 41 lugs which measure 5.1 mm deep. 0.7 mm above average isn’t much, but it worked wonders for us on any terrain. We especially like the chunky heel lug which gave us extra braking power or steep, loose descents.

The mid-height ankle support of this boot may not be enough for hikers with weak ankles. We can recommend https://runrepeat.com/salomon-quest-4-gtx the Salomon Quest 4 GTX for a more protective alternative.

Pros

  • The boot of choice for multi-day hikes
  • Lightweight
  • Waterproof
  • Excellent grip
  • Supportive midsole
  • Detailed ground feel
  • Great ankle support
  • Protective
  • Perfect lacing system

Cons

  • Midsole may be thin for some
  • Very stiff in colder climates
Full review of Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX

Hiking boots with the best cushioning

What makes it the best?

After being subjected to meticulous testing in our lab and long day hikes, we have to say that the hiking boot with the best cushioning is doubtless the Hoka Anacapa Mid GTX. With its iconic Hubble heel making our landings cushy, its feather weight and impeccable support really make it stand out from the crowd.

Hoka’s protruding heel acts as a shock absorber and makes for super-smooth transitions. Our measurements of the stack height at the heel and toe showed it has plenty of material underfoot - 36.7 mm at the heel and 26.1 mm at the forefoot. While the heel stack is a minimal 0.5 mm higher than average, the forefoot is 2.3 mm higher than average. We appreciated the resulting 10.6 mm drop on sustained descents, as it took the pressure off the forefoot.

Our feet felt snug and comfortable from the get-go. We put the luxurious cushioning under our feet to the test in the lab. Perhaps unsurprisingly, we found it to be much softer than average. Our durometer test of the EVA midsole showed 22.5 HA, far softer than the average of 29 HA. On the trails, we felt protected from the ground beneath and we experienced all-day comfort for our feet.

Despite sporting such a soft midsole, the Hoka Anacapa Mid GTX rates 5/5 for torsional flexibility in our lab tests. 5 being the stiffest rating, it’s pretty hard to twist an ankle while wearing these boots! We felt really stable when hiking on rocky, uneven trails, and light scrambling was a breeze.

When we pumped smoke into the boot to test for breathability, we had to award this boot 1/5, the least breathable rating. The Gore-Tex lining doesn’t allow air to flow into the boot, making it very hot. We don’t recommend the Hoka Anacapa Mid GTX to hikers looking for a fresh-feeling, breathable summer boot.

Pros

  • Top-notch waterproofing
  • Very lightweight
  • Generous and soft cushioning
  • Reliable stability (with a light backpack)
  • Wide platform
  • Flexible forefoot
  • Excellent grip
  • Doesn't get too firm or stiff in cold
  • Comfortable in-shoe feel
  • Effective lacing system
  • Sustainable materials

Cons

  • Not supportive with heavy backpacks
  • Upper lacks wear resistance
  • Extended heel catches rocks and roots
  • Not for wide feet
  • Tricky to put on
Full review of Hoka Anacapa Mid GTX

Best hiking boots for backpacking

What makes it the best?

On our hunt for the best hiking boot for backpacking, our research led us to the Salomon Quest 4 GTX. Exceptionally supportive, incredibly durable, and protectively cushioned, it’s the perfect companion for multi-day hikes over rough and rocky terrain.

As soon as we laced up the boot we could feel the support afforded by Salomon’s integrated ADV-C 4D chassis stabilizer. In the lab, we twisted and bent the boot, finally awarding it 5/5 for rigidity - the most rigid possible. Even when rock hopping on alpine trails with a heavy pack, we couldn’t twist an ankle if we tried! 

If we could, we would give the Salomon Quest 4 GTX a 10/5 for durability! We applied our Dremel liberally to the toe box, the heel, and the outsole – all three far exceeded our expectations! After 12 seconds at 5K RPM at a force of 3.2N, the solid rubber toe cap barely showed a scratch. While hiking on rocky trails or light scrambling, we could relax, knowing our toes are fully protected from bumps and scrapes.

The midsole is of average firmness - 27 HA according to our durometer measurements. The stack height at the heel is 2 mm above average, meaning there is plenty of firm material underfoot to protect our heels from sharp rocks. Heel strikers in particular may enjoy the extra material below the heel.

While 23.4 oz (663g) is not unusual for a highly supportive backpacking boot, for most day hikers, this may be overkill. For this reason, we don’t recommend the Salomon Quest 4 GTX to light hikers or day hikers.

Pros

  • Exceptional durability
  • Top-notch waterproofing
  • Excellent impact protection
  • Highly secure ankle support
  • Fantastic stability
  • Comfortable in-boot feel
  • Effective grip on various terrain
  • Fits as expected

Cons

  • A bit heavy
  • Gets very stiff in cold
Full review of Salomon Quest 4 GTX

Best lightweight hiking boots

What makes it the best?

Following rigorous lab tests and outdoor excursions, the Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2 emerged as our top lightweight hiking boot. This agile and lightweight marvel offers exceptional traction and luxurious comfort, empowering us to navigate through the wild with full confidence.

This boot rides more like a trail shoe on steroids with its light and natural feel. Weighing a mere 15.0 oz (425g), it outshines competitors by a significant 16.3% margin, providing a nimble feel that allows us to speed up. It feels like a breath of fresh air as the breeze flows liberally through the upper. Our breathability tests reaffirm this with the highest 5/5 rating.

Moreover, its adaptable midsole facilitates unrestricted movement. Our bend test reveals it's 38.6% more flexible than average. Equipped with grippy 3.7 mm multi-directional lugs, this boot excels on both wet and dry surfaces, efficiently shedding mud and debris along the way.

The midsole delivers otherworldly comfort from start to finish and we enjoy a spring in our step while hiking. Using our durometer, we discovered that it’s 39.4% softer than average. With its rockered geometry, the ride feels smooth as we’re being launched forward. 

While its $200 price tag reflects its quality, budget-conscious consumers may want to explore alternative options.

Pros

  • Extremely well-cushioned
  • Luxuriously padded interior
  • Grippy and durable lugs
  • Tackles wet surfaces confidently
  • Very flexible and forgiving
  • Excellent airflow
  • Feels incredibly stable underfoot
  • Supportive heel collar
  • Rockered midsole
  • Relatively lightweight
  • High-quality construction
  • Eye-catching design

Cons

  • Needs breaking in
  • Tricky to put on
  • Expensive
Full review of Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2

Best leather hiking boots

Scarpa Terra GTX
95
Superb!

What makes it the best?

After multiple wear tests and lab analysis, we discovered Scarpa Terra GTX as the best leather hiking boot. It delivers the support and protection we need to traverse rough terrains with its impenetrable upper, stable ride, and impressive adhesion capabilities. Its tank-like build gave us confidence like no other.

Terra GTX kept our feet warm and dry as we sloshed through puddles and streams. In our breathability tests, it blocked off smoke and light completely with its solid leather upper, confirming its insular nature.

Each stride feels surefooted even as we carry heavy backpacks on technical trails. The firm and low-profile platform enhances ground feel and doesn’t compress easily. Our durometer confirms it’s 16.1% harder than average. Providing additional support is the stiff heel that scored 4/5 in our manual assessment. Thankfully, it didn’t place unwanted pressure on our Achilles since it tapers down slightly in the rear area.

Underfoot, is the renowned Vibram outsole that is reliably durable and grippy. It has 4-mm multi-directional lugs that serve as our source of traction and brakes. From loose gravel to slippery mud, Terra GTX powered through them all.

Unfortunately, it’s a heavyweight hiker at 20.3 oz (575g). For long hikes, it felt undeniably chunky and intensified the pull of gravity.

Pros

  • Glue-like underfoot, even on wet surfaces
  • Insanely comfortable
  • Reliably stable and supportive ride
  • Resilient and high-quality build
  • Durable Vibram outsole
  • Watertight and warm
  • Quick break-in time
  • Performs consistently in the cold
  • Strong ankle support

Cons

  • Quite heavy
  • Cushioning could be better
  • Scuff magnet
Full review of Scarpa Terra GTX

Best hiking boots with a wide toebox

What makes it the best?

Altra’s Lone Peak Hiker 2 is a revelation in our lab, standing out as the best hiking boot for outdoor wanderers with wide feet! Free from cramped toes and hotspots, this lightweight had us with its unparalleled on-foot feel that makes time fly on long hikes. 

We loved how it's inclusive of broad feet, giving our toes room to splay and breathe. It barely tapers to the front with its square-toe build, measuring 91.1 mm vs. the 79.2 mm average.

Its malleable and airy build keeps it all natural and light on foot. The ride feels more like a trail shoe, which makes it versatile enough for city walks and light jogs. Our scales show a feathery 12.0 oz (339g), 32.7% lighter than the average hiking boot. Even in our bend test, it proves its adaptive nature as it emerges 24.9% more flexible than its counterparts.

The main reason LPH2 feels so light is its low-to-the-ground profile. It gives high ground sensitivity with its low 2.6 mm drop. Despite this, our feet had enough impact protection and comfort thanks to the buttery platform. Our durometer confirms it’s 12.7% softer than average.

Due to its high flexibility, it inherently feels less stable on rocky terrains. We recommend a more supportive boot for technical trails and backpacking.

Pros

  • Exceptionally comfortable
  • Astonishingly lightweight
  • Gives strides a boost
  • Performs consistently in cold conditions
  • Superb durability
  • Supportive around the ankle
  • Excellent attention to detail
  • Decent moisture resistance
  • Dries quickly

Cons

  • Subpar grip on technical terrain
  • Underwhelming stability
  • Quite hard to put on and off
Full review of Altra Lone Peak Hiker 2

Hiking boots with the best style

What makes it the best?

The Danner Mountain 600 concludes our quest for the most stylish hiking boots, boasting a timeless design that seamlessly transitions from the trails to urban environments. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this boot's construction provides exceptional comfort and protection against unwanted elements, shielding our feet from rain, snow, and debris.

Crafted from quality leather, the Mountain 600's upper acts as a reliable waterproof barrier, keeping feet warm and dry even in wintry and wet conditions. Despite its waterproofing capabilities, the boot surprisingly offers adequate ventilation, earning a commendable 2/5 rating on our breathability test, surpassing typical waterproof shoes.

Beneath the foot, the midsole delivers a comfortable and stable ride, featuring a generous 36.8/23.0 mm stack for cushioned landings. With an average firmness of 24.3 HA, it gives a little pep while ensuring centered and balanced strides. Additionally, its rigid construction effectively minimizes excessive motions and foot fatigue, as confirmed by our bend test, which revealed a slightly stiffer-than-average rating of 42.5N.

However, the outsole's traction fades on wet roots and branches, as we needed additional support from walking poles or nearby trees. We recommend exploring alternative options for more challenging trails to ensure optimal traction and stability.

Pros

  • Supportive
  • Very comfortable, like a running shoe
  • Oustanding grip
  • Durable
  • Feels light
  • Great out of the box
  • Waterproof
  • Awesome for casual use

Cons

  • Debris gets into the boot
  • Not for technical hiking
Full review of Danner Mountain 600

Hiking boots: are they necessary?

There’s probably a time when you’ve thought of wearing your reliable beaters, Dr. Martens or flip-flops for hiking. Since it’s just a walk up the mountains, your everyday Chucks might just be able to survive the beating. The question is: would your feet make it?

If you’re the type who has strong ankles and likes to travel light, then your trail runners or sandals might just make it. Keep in mind though, that however strong you think your feet are, there are hiking adventures that will require you to wear non-slip hiking boots. Checking the mountain’s hiking rules is always a good idea to avoid any unnecessary hassle on your part. 

Hiking boots vs hiking shoes and other footwear 

Generally, when hiking, your footwear needs to be grippy, stable, supportive, and protective. While hiking boots offer these benefits, we’re not saying that it’s always an ideal option. 

In case you're wondering what hiking boots have that trail runners, hiking shoes, and whatnots don’t, here’s a side-by-side comparison.

Hiking boots vs hiking shoes vs Trail runners vs whatever kicks.png

NOTE: The ratings are based on how each type of footwear performs in general. This does not, however, apply to each model that exists. The ratings will vary depending on the make and model of the shoes.

Types of hiking boots (based on your hiking plans) 

Before you finally click on that buy button, have you considered checking the difficulty level of your upcoming hike? Hiking trails have levels of difficulties and include a variety of terrains. Knowing the elevation and distance of a hike (plus the weather condition on that day) will help you figure out the right footwear to wear. 

When it comes to difficulty, trails can be rated from easy to very strenuous. Below, you’ll find the various difficulty levels of trails as defined by the National Park Service (NPS). As a bonus, we also added the types of boots that will work best for each difficulty level.

NOTE: The weather condition or season will definitely affect your choice. Hiking during the summer will require you to wear breathable kicks. On the one hand, insulated hiking shoes are recommended for winter hiking.

Hiking boot types - based on your hiking plans.png

Hiking boot anatomy and why it matters 

The construction of a hiking boot plays an important role in the footgear’s performance. You need to determine the kind of hike you’re planning to take so you can choose the appropriate boot configuration. 

Here are the major parts of a boot, common materials used, and their key benefits as well as their flaws.

  Common Materials Used Key Benefits Could-be-betters
Upper
Leather (Suede/ Nubuck/ Full-grain) - Durable (material can last for years)
- Stable and supportive
- Comfortable overtime (this material most often molds to the shape of the foot over time giving hikers a customized fit)
- Feels warm (making it perfect for cold-weather conditions)
- Naturally capable of repelling water
-Takes a long time to break-in
-Full-grain leather boots are heavy on the feet
-Less breathable
Synthetic Mesh/Nylon -Breathable
-Dries quickly
-Weighs less
-A more affordable option
-Feels softer out of the box
-Prone to wear and tear
-Provides limited support and stability
-Tends to absorb water
Midsole
EVA -Soft to mildly stiff cushioning underfoot
-Much more flexible
-Lightweight
-Less supportive
-Tends to compress over time
PU -Supportive (helps when carrying a heavy pack)
-Durable
-Feels stiff out of the box
-Weighs more
Nice to know: Some boots are made with shanks or plates placed in between the midsole and outsole improving the boot's stability. This equates to less foot-fatigue. The plates also prevent bruising underfoot caused by sharp rocks.
Outsole
Soft rubber -Stickier
-Flexible
-Lighter
-Best used when scrambling in rocky terrain
-Mediocre performance on muddy trails
Hard Rubber -Durable
-Stable
-More protective
-Lacks flexibility
-Feels heavy underfoot
-Less traction on sleek surfaces like wet rocks
Nice to know: Deeper outsole lugs offer better grip on muddy terrain and shed debris with ease

Waterproofing in hiking boots

Some of the things you will encounter when hiking or backpacking are rivers, streams, and muddy trails. Enter waterproof boots, or should I say water-repellent boots, or maybe water-resistant boots - now you’re at a loss. Don’t fret though. We’re here to help you decode those confusing labels.

  Water-resistant Water-repellent Waterproof
General characteristics a tightly woven fabric that is naturally capable of resisting water upon contact fabric treated with durable water-repellent (DWR) or hydrophobic chemicals -fabric treated with DWR
-have waterproofing membranes like Gore-Tex and OutDry
-have seam-sealed construction for extra protection
Water protection level low water protection moderate water protection high water protection
Water pressure resistance 0-5000 mm (no pressure or moisture) 6000-10000 mm (light pressure) 10000-20000 mm (high to very high pressure)
Weather conditions best used in light rain shower and dry snow light rain and average snow moderate to heavy rain and average to wet snow

Take note, however, that when a shoe is waterproof, its breathability decreases due to the added layers (regardless if it's made with the popular Gore-Tex or other waterproofing membranes out there). It would also feel heavier compared to water-resistant and water-repellent hikers. 

So, if you value breathability and weight and you plan to take an adventure in the hot tropics, consider non-waterproof boots that are quick-drying. If you have to go with regular boots, you can always turn these into water-repellent ones by using waterproofing sprays that cost around $5 to $25.  

Other important features in hiking boots

Yes, there are other things worth considering when out boot hunting. Here are just a few of them:

Additional hiking boot features to look for 2.png

How to know that you have the right fit in hiking boots

When fitting hiking boots, it is vital to ensure the fit is snug (not too loose, not too tight). How? Try these methods out.

Go shoe shopping late in the day. Your feet tend to swell after a day full of activities. It happens too when you are hiking, so to get the best fit, try your boots in the afternoon.

Try it on, lace it up, feel your toes, and check for pressure points. Slide your foot inside and push it forward as far as it goes inside the boots. Once settled, feel your toes. There should be a thumb’s width space between the end of the boot and your toes. Check as well if your feet move from side to side. If it does, then the boots are too wide. It should be comfortable, non-constricting, and snug. 

Make sure to try the boots while wearing your hiking socks. Bring the socks that you intend to wear with the hiking boots you are going to purchase. Do not use cotton fabric as it does not offer any insulation and retains moisture. It can leave you with cold feet on the terrain. Wool or synthetic is a better choice of material for socks.

Take your orthotics or preferred insoles with you. Consumers are often not satisfied with the default insole of the hiking boots. Do not fret if the volume is too high or too low for you. Remember that brands manufacture their boots for hiking using different lasts and this can affect how your feet fill the boots’ volume. If it did not work with your insoles, try another pair of hiking boots.

Walk up and down the ramp. This tests the snugness of the boots. When you go up the board, observe for any heel lift or constraint on the collar. When you go down, observe if your toes jam the front of the boots. If your heel rises more than a quarter of an inch or if your toes hit the front, try adjusting the laces or sizing up.

Before your trip, make sure to break your boots in. Every boot, especially the heavy, leather hikers, requires a different break-in time. Start small by wearing it inside your house with your preferred socks (it might look awkward but your feet will surely thank you in the end). From there, gradually increase your miles. 

6 step guide to ensuring proper fit - hiking boots.png

Common hiking boot problems and remedies

While the best hiking boots offer the support, durability, and protection you need to hike that difficult terrain, we can’t deny how heavy and uncomfortable boots are after wearing it for some time. But you don’t have to feel disheartened. Here’s a list of common hiking boot fails and their remedies.

Problem Symptoms Cause Remedy
Numbness starts with painful pressure in the instep which later on turns to numbness laces are tied to tight due to too much interior volume -attach adhesive back felt pads to the inside of the boot's tongue to cushion your instep.
NOTE: If symptoms persist, seek the help of a podiatrist
Black toenails discoloration of toenails -toenails are too long
-ill-fitting heel cups (feet and slide forward when going downhill causing the toes \to hit the front o the shoe)
-low toe boxes that push down on the top of the toenails
-clip your toenails
-tie laces snugly to lock your heel in place
Blisters fluid-filled bubbles found usually on the heel or the top of the toes heat and friction caused by heel slippage (wide heel cups or boots are too long) -wear wool or synthetic socks that wick away moisture
-choose boots made of breathable materials like mesh
-tighten the laces on the top of your foot until you achieve a snug fit
-try on aftermarket insoles or custom orthotics to improve the boot's fit
-keep a bottle of Vaseline (or other brands of petroleum jelly) in your pack - it's cheap and it treats blisters like a charm.

As you can see above, most problems can be quickly fixed by adjusting the laces. Here are two lacing techniques that can help remedy blisters and toenail issues when out and about.

Combines lacing.png

Author
Paul Ronto
Paul Ronto
Over the past 20 years, Paul has climbed, hiked, and run all over the world. He has summited peaks throughout the Americas, trekked through Africa, and tested his endurance in 24-hour trail races as well as 6 marathons. On average, he runs 30-50 miles a week in the foothills of Northern Colorado. His research is regularly cited in The New York Times, Washington Post, National Geographic, etc. On top of this, Paul is leading the running shoe lab where he cuts shoes apart and analyzes every detail of the shoes that you might buy.