7 Best Low Cut Hiking Shoes in 2023

For hikers who prefer more flexible and reliable footwear for day hikes and light backpacking, a pair of low-cut hiking shoes is the way to go. These dependable kicks generally come with soft and cushioned midsoles that offer superb comfort, sufficient stability, and versatility.
For many seasoned outdoorsmen and ultra-light backpackers who go on multi-day treks across the backcountry, the stability and support provided by low-cut style hiking shoes are enough for them. Many great choices await you from top brands such as Scarpa, Lowa, Salomon X, Timberland, and Merrell Moab, just to name a few.
With tons of great quality options available, picking the perfect fit for you can be confusing. To narrow down your choices, we’ve tested and reviewed 200+ of the best low-cut hiking shoes available out there. We evaluated them based on their fit, comfort, durability, support, grip, and many more. But overall, we were after their actual performance in the trails. Check out our top highlights.
Best low cut hiking shoes overall




































What makes it the best?
Pros
- Instant comfort
- Impeccable waterproofing
- Very lightweight
- Exceptional grip
- Excellent support and lockdown
- Stable platform
- Roomy toebox
Cons
- Quicklace is not for everyone
- Too-high collar
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Low-cut hiking shoes with the best cushioning







































What makes it the best?
Pros
- Mind-blowing cushioning
- Podiatrist-approved sole
- Excellent grip
- Top-notch waterproofing
- Lightweight
- Out-of-the-box comfort
- Roomy toebox
- Well-made
- Contains recycled materials
Cons
- GTX version only
- Pricier than average
- Weird-looking heel
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Low-cut hiking shoes with the best stability











































What makes it the best?
Pros
- Boot-like stability
- Highly durable and protective
- Lightweight for what it offers
- Excellent waterproofing
- Breathable for a GTX shoe
- Generously cushioned
- Very secure foothold
- Top-notch grip with deep lugs
Cons
- Stuffy for summer
- Can be too stiff (even stiffer in cold)
- Break-in needed
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Low-cut hiking shoes with the best comfort



































What makes it the best?
Pros
- Superb day-one comfort
- Brilliant surface adhesion
- Supportive like a work shoe
- Fantastic cushioning underfoot
- Remarkably durable
- A-grade waterproofing
- Sheds mud quite well
- Protective toe box
- Incredible overall quality
Cons
- Heavy for a low-top
- Subpar breathability
- Its shoelaces unravel often
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Best lightweight low-cut hiking shoes

What makes it the best?
Pros
- Quite comfy
- Slip resistant
- Amazing surface traction
- Runs true to size
- Pretty durable
- Incredibly light
- Quick drying time
Cons
- Added bulk on med side
- Lacing issue
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Best low-cut hiking shoes for summer

































What makes it the best?
Pros
- Supremely comfy
- Zero break-in
- Boss-level support
- Solid grip
- Stable platform
- Fantastic cushioning
- Fits various foot shapes
- Cheaper than average
- Recycled materials
Cons
- Heavier than average
- Not quite sleek-looking
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Best budget low-cut hiking shoes

































What makes it the best?
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Feels like a trail running shoe
- Breathable
- Water-repellent
- Solid grip
- Durable for the price
- Stable platform
- Contains recycled materials
Cons
- Lacks toe protection
- Flimsy insole
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Comparison of the 7 best low cut hiking shoes
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How we test hiking shoes
To extract the outstanding ones from the mediocre, we, in-house hiking experts, field-tested all the shoes on the list, trekking 30-50 miles for each model. Before giving our assessments, we subject each pair to the grind and intensity of the trails and technical terrains. Our selection method includes:
- Putting in hours of research and our own funds to buy low-top hiking shoes from different brands. This allows us to remain independent and 100% honest with all our reviews.
- Taking the shoes on actual outdoor adventures and backpacking journeys to get a real-life assessment of their fit, traction, breathability, support, protection, durability, and many more. We also test each model further to see how it can handle tougher outdoor environments and weather conditions.
- Calibrating our tools and devices to dig facts and figures regarding the shoes' properties like waterproof ability and outsole grip and durability. We also check these shoes part by part by dismembering and cutting them into pieces.