Gonçalo Marta, Ph.D Biomechanics

Mizuno wanted to jump on the trend of flowy midsoles with the Wave Sky 9 and stand out again after the shoe’s bubbly predecessor, and it succeeded! We were ecstatic about the Sky 9’s soft[…]

We think the Vivobarefoot Primus Lite Knit is a great choice for athletes seeking a barefoot feel during workouts. It feels like it doesn't exist in your foot and offers unheard-of flexibility, high b[…]

A less expensive offering from the Salomon X Ultra series, we found that the 360 Edge excels at day hikes on varied terrain. It carries over the performance features of its more expensive counterparts[…]

If you love the idea of a max-cushioned HOKA shoe with an open-toe setup, you will love the Infini Hike TC. Blown away by its cushioning properties, we couldn't believe the comfort of this sandal! Our[…]

We have mixed feelings about the KURU Ridge Motion. On the one hand, its performance and durability lag behind some of the other hiking shoes in its price range. But on the other hand, it is a unique[…]

Yet again, HOKA proves that you can have both immense comfort and reliable stability on a backpacking adventure! We found the Kaha 3 GTX to be a successful update to the v2, inheriting its title of th[…]

If you seek the stability and surefootedness of a backpacking boot but don't want all the bulk that comes with it, we believe that the Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX offers a perfect compromise. Lightweigh[…]

If sustainability is high on your priority list, then Merrell's most eco-friendly hiking shoe, the Speed Eco, is a must to consider. With recycled materials making up most of its parts, we found this[…]

The North Face Vectiv Fastpack Futurelight packs a punch in a sleek silhouette reminiscent of sporty trainers. This lightweight and nimble hiker took us from boardwalks to soggy and rocky terrain quic[…]

If you want a sandal with the protective elements of a hiking shoe, the KEEN Targhee III Sandal is a great middle ground. A stripped-down version of the Targhee III Waterproof shoe, we were happy with[…]

We think that the Altra Olympus 6 Hike Low GTX is a must to consider if comfort is your top priority on a long hike. And it's an even better match if you specifically look for an ergonomic low-drop sh[…]

It felt like HOKA set everything to the max in the Kaha 2 Low GTX, making it one of the most supportive hiking shoe options on the market. It is, in fact, just a low-cut version of the brand's Kaha ba[…]

We found the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II GTX to be a mighty hiking shoe that can bite and hold up against many trail obstacles above the treeline. It made us feel surefooted and well-protected on both[…]

A premium hiking shoe from Adidas Terrex, the Free Hiker 2.0 Low GTX successfully met all of our high-set expectations. If you are ready to pay the price and accept the shoe's heavier setup, you are i[…]

As a military boot in the first pace, the LOWA Zephyr GTX Mid has gradually made its way into the outdoor realm over the past decade. Having tested the boot through and through, we can see how its rug[…]

With its luxurious nubuck leather and hard-wearing components, the 320 Trail Lite Evo GTX screams Italian quality! And we were elated to discover that this visually appealing Zamberlan boot is equally[…]

Let's make it clear - the Altra Olympus 6 Hike Mid GTX is not for everyone. But if you specifically look for a zero-drop hiking boot with an extra wide ergonomically shaped toebox, then you are on the[…]

The Mountain Trainer Lite Mid GTX from Salewa proves that an alpine trekking boot can weigh less without compromising performance. We found it to be a highly capable backpacking boot that adapts to al[…]

The Mountain Trainer 2 Mid GTX is the most robust hiking and trekking boot from Salewa. Fully equipped with high-end technologies, we found it to be ready for all sorts of outdoor scenarios, predictab[…]

Salewa's alpine prowess is woven into every aspect of the Alp Trainer 2 Mid GTX. The boot's well-thought-through design inspired plenty of confidence and made us feel ready for anything both on and of[…]

New Balance found a sweet spot with the Fresh Foam X Hierro Mid GTX as it's more than just a high-collared running shoe but less than an overbuilt trekking boot. It packs a tonne of ultra-plush Fresh[…]

The Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II WP is a budget-friendly boot which is most suitable for casual wear and occasional hikes on moderate terrain. Very light and cosy on foot, you won't find any hardcore[…]

The Hoka Anacapa 2 Mid GTX holds a prominent place in our top picks as a comfort-oriented day hiking boot. We felt spoiled by its abundant cushioning and chunky platform which not only offered lasting[…]

Touted as the most technical hiking boot from Inov8, the Roclite Pro Mid GTX proved its worth in our lab. Smashing our stability tests, it stood out as a supportive backpacking option that is rather l[…]

The Columbia Crestwood is a shining example of a budget-friendly outdoor shoe without compromises. We are genuinely amazed at the value it offers at such a low price point. It eliminates the need to i[…]

We have always loved the practicality of Teva sandals but now the brand treats us with an even more versatile Hydratrek! Its softer midsole and better-padded straps made it more comfortable for long p[…]

The Cloudhorizon Waterproof is an ideal companion if you want to enjoy a short outdoor getaway with maximum comfort. And this waterproof version also adds the benefit of dry feet in the cold and rainy[…]

The Vasque Breeze has earned a solid reputation since its initial release in 2004. We found that it boasts excellent stability for backpacking while being versatile enough for more casual hiking. The[…]

The X Ultra 360 is the most affordable shoe from the Salomon X Ultra series. But we are delighted to report that it is a beast for its entry-level category! Stable, durable, and comfortable, the shoe[…]

If you are looking for a stout and stable hiking shoe for multi-day backpacking adventures, the La Sportiva Spire GTX is the first option that comes to mind. We were amazed at how much support it offe[…]

We still believe that the Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX is one of the most reliable options for day hiking. It's hard to go wrong with this shoe's abundant cushioning and massive platform if you want to feel[…]

Named after the Oregon mountain range, the Cascade Crest took us from the rocky trail to the town streets without feeling out of place in either scenario. We found it to be a perfect do-it-all boot th[…]

As soon as we feel those first gusts of cold northern wind, we know it's time for the Mistral GTX from Scarpa. We promise that this waterproof boot will help you stay consistent with your daily hikes[…]

Built with foot health in mind, the Lems Outlander kept us very comfortable on the trail. We felt like the boot's simple and grounded profile came as a rebellion against the overdesigned hiking footwe[…]

We think of the Danner Mountain Pass as a younger sibling of the Mountain Light. It shares the latter's heritage lumberjack vibes but cuts back on the ruggedness which makes it more appropriate for li[…]

Once again, the Merrell Moab boot has made it to our top picks for day hiking. We can always rely on this outdoor classic for a blend of comfort, stability, and surefootedness all served under a reaso[…]

Maximum cushioning at minimum weight? Yes, please! On's unique CloudTech midsole makes it possible in the Cloudhorizon hiking shoe. But should we call it a hiking shoe? Our lab and wear tests proved t[…]

The Rush TRK GTX from Scarpa struck us as an exceptionally supportive boot that's capable of pulling off pretty challenging multi-day hikes. We discovered that it is fully equipped to ensure more dari[…]

The Trailhead felt like a normal casual sneaker on the city streets but revealed its sturdy and grippy nature as soon as we hit the trails. What's more, the shoe's entire construction follows Lems' fo[…]

The Merrell Moab Speed 2 is a lighter and speedier sibling of the brand's flagship Moab hiker. Going on a fast-paced hike in this Speed 2 felt like a blessing! We couldn't believe Merell packed so muc[…]

With a few tweaks to the original sandal, the Hopara 2 became an even more comfortable and effective hiking sandal for tackling near-water scenes with ease. We felt very confident in this amphibious H[…]

With its brand almost synonymous with outdoor adventures, Merrell rarely lets us down when it comes to hiking shoes and the Alvestone 2 is no exception. Its supportive and stable ride keeps us going f[…]

Resurrected to our delight, the Danner Jag is a dapper hiker whose appeal goes beyond backcountry adventures. With its versatile design, we found that it brings A-game on both trails and concrete pave[…]

The Mountain Light silhouette dates far back to 1979 and was largely inspired by logging boots of the time. We can recognise this unique red-laced profile from miles away. It is a long-standing Danner[…]

Taking centre stage in the Accentor 3 from Merrell is how it energises our foot so that longer hikes feel way more rewarding. The biggest highlights in this regard are the shoe's oozingly comfy fit th[…]

The Renegade GTX Mid has been Lowa's bestselling hiking boot since its launch in 1997 and frankly, after testing it extensively in the lab and on the trails, we're not surprised. The timeless and rugg[…]

Named after the Greek God of wind, the Boreas GTX from Scarpa is, without a doubt, an almighty backpacking boot that had us mowing down various terrain types effortlessly. Underneath its tough shell,[…]

The excellent craftsmanship of the Z/Cloud is quite evident in the many things it has on offer. The grippy ChacoGrip outsole had us feeling rock steady even on wet surfaces while the dual-density mids[…]

After extensively testing the Terra GTX, both in the lab and out on the trails, we can safely say that this boot is as much a creature of comfort as it is a beast of burden. The generously padded inte[…]

Altra's Lone Peak Hiker 2 is a hiking boot that rides more like a trail shoe on steroids. Its cushy midsole makes each mile marker on our test hikes feel as comfy as the last while being responsive en[…]

What feels illegal but isn't? The extremely satisfying nature of the Asolo Fugitive GTX. It's a comfort machine that keeps us on our feet no matter the terrain and weather conditions. Whether we were[…]

While the Merrell Moab Speed Mid GTX certainly looks like a hiking boot, it feels and rides more like a trail running shoe once laced up and ready to go. They're amazingly lightweight and comfy while[…]

We loved the KEEN Voyageur Mid for its versatility, excellent ankle support, and great outdoor performance. Whether we were out for a quick jaunt in nature or a more ambitious thru-hike, the Voyageur[…]

We appreciated the lab-verified comfort and durability of the KEEN Newport. The sandal also impressed us during our tests because it needed zero break-in time, had great looks, and had excellent water[…]

With its feather-like build and ultra-plush confines, it's safe to say that there's no more appropriate name for the NXIS Speed than what it's been given. This kick from KEEN gives each of our steps e[…]

We bestowed our admiration for KEEN Targhee III Waterproof Mid for delivering us immediate comfort and for having a tacky outsole and warm interior. Overall, we can confirm that it is an affordable bo[…]

The Targhee III Waterproof from KEEN's famous Targhee line-up is a versatile hiking shoe that will suit the needs of casual and grizzled hikers alike. Its laudable combination of breathability and wat[…]

The Vibram Fivefingers V-Trek is a complete package for hiking, trekking, and walking, thanks to its ankle-high support, comfortable upper, and grippy outsole. We are sold by these shoes simply becaus[…]

The Terrex Free Hiker 2 is a lightweight and speedy offering from Adidas that toes the line between hiking boots and roided-up trail shoes. This agile boot had us blazing through the trails with its p[…]

Sometimes, we just get tired of those flashy colours on outdoor shoes and just want something more elegant, something that looks more city-friendly. Well, the Teva Grandview GTX Low, proves to be just[…]

La Sportiva totally changes our backpacking game with its uber-light Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX boot. We are impressed with the magic formula of this boot which packs the protection, grip, and support of[…]

With its peak effectiveness in and around water, the ACG Watercat+ from Nike has the most appropriate of names. We felt 100% safe stepping on wet rocks, thanks to its phenomenal traction. Also, the wa[…]

We found the Hoka Hopara to be remarkably reassuring on the trails, even on slippery ones! With its steady base and generous cushioning, it felt on par with hiking shoes! Despite being heavier and pri[…]

We can't praise Columbia Fairbanks Omni-Heat Boot enough for its quality comfort and toasty insulation. With its sneaker-like weight and flexibility, it proves that a winter boot doesn't have to feel[…]

Some days you just want to grab a light pack and run outdoors without overthinking it. For those occasions, we discovered that the Outpulse Mid GTX is the ultimate companion. A shining example of ligh[…]

We believe that the KEEN Pyrenees is a must to consider if you are in search of all-leather boots for backpacking or day hiking. The sweet spot of this nubuck looker is hiking long miles in cold weath[…]

For adventures that involve the inevitable drench, the Teva Hurricane Drift is an excellent option that we commend for the price. We barely felt it on foot, plus it allowed us to paddle, swim, and exp[…]

Amazingly lightweight, we found the Adidas Terrex Trailmaker perfect for an easy hike minus the unwanted bulk. We instantly got lost in the shoe's plush confines which made us want to keep the shoe on[…]

With its incredible burliness and stability, the Adidas Terrex Swift R3 GTX feels a lot like a crossover between a hiking shoe and a boot. It makes us feel steady and surefooted on the most unpredicta[…]

If you want an outdoorsy pair of boots without the bulk of typical hiking footwear, we firmly believe that the Sprint Trekker from Timberland is very worth considering. We instantly fell in love with[…]

Once you get to experience winter in the Bugaboot III, chances are, you won't settle for anything less moving forward. Indeed, from its cosy confines to its enduring winter-specific performance, we fo[…]

We think that the Fairbanks Mid from Columbia is something you'd be compelled to make your go-to on fall-to-early-winter excursions. As long as those excursions are short, sweet, and...easy. You see,[…]

If you need a break from stiff leather boots, the Hoka Trail Code GTX is one of our top picks for plush comfort. This lightweight hiker is filled with padded goodness from the collar to the sole. But[…]

We consider the Hoka Kaha 2 GTX a convincing day hiking option with backpacking capabilities. The boot justifies its above-average price point with exceptional material and build quality as well as ex[…]

For $50, we cannot think of a better summer option than the Teva Original Universal! This no-frills sandal delivers us all-day comfort while feeling non-existent on the foot. With its stylish and vers[…]

If you are after a lightweight boot for day hikes that feels more like a running shoe, we can't think of a better option than the Hoka Anacapa Mid GTX. Generously cushioned and stable, it works best f[…]

We found that there's a lot of goodness to unpack in the Moab 3 GTX. From its cloud-like plushness and tough-as-nails construction to its shield-like design and magnificent moisture protection, we are[…]

They say the third time's a charm, and for the Moab 3 from Merrell, that is quite the case. Indeed, we discovered this third-gen Moab hiker will push you to go further with its extraordinary in-shoe c[…]

An exceptional budget-friendly day hiker—this is how we view the Terrex X4. Indeed, from its virtually tackle-anything underfoot performance to the way it handles shifting weather, we find this[…]

There is no denying that sporting the ultra comfy Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX has levelled up our hiking game. Taking inspiration from agile trail running shoes, this waterproof and grippy wonder will push[…]

Euro Hiker's comfort is what dreams are made of. We established that it's so much worth the investment especially when we take into account its weight, durability, and grip. We also found the recycled[…]

With excessive amounts of comfort, support, and stability, we find the Newport H2 a KEEN's must-buy. This lightweight footgear also provides us with exceptional traction and requires virtually zero br[…]