7 Best Cheap Hiking Boots in 2023

Paul Ronto
Paul Ronto on
7 Best Cheap Hiking Boots in 2023
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They say in the realm of hiking footwear, dependable boots equal costliness. We go against that notion in this article by featuring the finest hikers that don’t break the bank.

We’ve collected and tested over 90 pairs of inexpensive hiking boots just to bring you this enticing selection. So, whether you need a three-season all-rounder, a pair that can beat the cold, or a boot that can satisfy the speedster in you, you’re in the right budget-friendly place.

How we test hiking boots

Coming up with a comprehensive array of the finest affordable hiking boots is a process we take seriously. Here is how we do it:

  • We purchase budget-friendly hiking boots using our own funds.
  • We test these kicks by hiking in them both on and off the trail.
  • Every pair we expose to various weather conditions.
  • Hundreds of reviews from experts and experienced hikers are included in the mix to make ours even more comprehensive.
  • A CoreScore is assigned to every reviewed hiking boot. This exclusive scoring system is among the major facets making up our meticulous selection process.

Best cheap hiking boots overall

What makes it the best?

Euro Hiker's comfort is what dreams are made of. It's so much worth the investment especially when you take into account its weight, durability and grip. Recycled rubber is a nice touch! The Euro Hiker by Timberland may arguably be a cut above with its wealth of positive traits working into a fine synergy.

Pros

  • Amazing in-shoe comfort
  • Above-average traction
  • Insanely lightweight
  • Supportive arch
  • Lasting construction
  • Above-average traction
  • Recycled rubber used
  • Attractive design
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Subpar ventilation
  • Unruly laces
Full review of Timberland Euro Hiker

Today's best price

Men
Women
Any color
Wheat (09156)
Brown (09510)
BLACK (56038)
Red/Black (C95100)

Best cheap wide toe box hiking boots

What makes it the best?

The Altra Lone Peak Hiker is a versatile hiking shoe that won't disappoint when used for day hiking or walks around the town. It has a more rugged look than the Lone Peak 5.0 and it is suitable for hikers who prefer lightness more than ankle support. It is perfect for outdoorsy individuals who like traveling urban and backcountry distances with a light pack in tow.

Pros

  • Durable
  • Breathable
  • Wide toebox
  • Awesome comfort
  • Grippy traction
  • Super lightweight
  • Great looking

Cons

  • Too wide for narrow feet
  • lacks ankle support
  • Lacing isn’t the greatest
Full review of Altra Lone Peak Hiker

Today's best price

Men
Women
Any color
Black (AL0A4VQF000)
Dusty Olive (AL0A4VQF315)
Khaki (AL0A4VQF017)

Best leather cheap hiking boots

Ariat Terrain
88
Great!

What makes it the best?

The Terrain by Ariat surely made the wearers appreciate its budget-friendly price. The boot delivered all the basics. It offered excellence in providing comfort and support. The toe-box was roomy enough to accommodate their feet, while the outsole gave ample traction on wet surfaces.

Pros

  • Comfortable out of the box
  • Supportive platform
  • Budget-friendly
  • Great for wide feet
  • Moisture wicking
  • Great traction
  • Good-looking

Cons

  • Poor stitching
  • Sole separated from the boot
Full review of Ariat Terrain

Today's best price

Men
Women
Any color
Purple (10002185)
Brown (10002178)

Best cheap hiking boots for speed hiking

What makes it the best?

The Topo Trailventure boot is versatile because it helps beginning hikers through seasoned ultra runners stay comfortable and safe on the trails. The price point represents good value compared to other hiking boots and the light weight and comfortable fit make it an excellent choice for long hikes on difficult terrain.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Great traction
  • True to size
  • Protective design
  • Great comfort
  • Massive toe room
  • Excellent fit
  • Durable
  • Price is good value

Cons

  • Could use a toggle lacing
  • Lacks foot-hugging stability
Full review of Topo Athletic Trailventure

Today's best price

Men
Women
Any color
Blå (M036NAVRED)

Best cheap waterproof hiking boots

What makes it the best?

This mid-top boot from Timberland has received a lot of praise from the outdoor community for its lightness, traction, and ankle support. On the other hand, its lack of success against water-related obstacles did not spark joy with several adventurers. All in all, the Timberland White Ledge Mid Waterproof has a generous set of pros that can go well with hiking trips that don’t have a lot of wet trails.

Pros

  • Lightweight build
  • No break-in period
  • Grippy outsole
  • Provides ankle support

Cons

  • Ineffective waterproofing
  • Insubstantial metal eyelets
Full review of Timberland White Ledge Mid Waterproof

Today's best price

Men
Women
Any color
Black (01212)
BROWN (12135)
Wheat (01417)

Best cheap day hiking boots

What makes it the best?

The sturdily built Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof is a decent choice for customers looking for a durable, comfortable, and breathable hiking boot. The majority was satisfied with its eye-catching looks and the excellent performance of the Gore-Tex lining in wet environments. Its sock-like fit aided wearers during ascents and descents, providing excellent grip on challenging terrains.

Pros

  • Great traction
  • Amazing looks
  • Easy break-in
  • Highly durable
  • Super breathable
  • Glove-like fit
  • Good for everyday wear

Cons

  • Poor underfoot support
  • Not waterproof enough
Full review of Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof

Today's best price

Men
Women
Any color
Brown (J06051)
Gold (J03332)
Granito V2 (J03420)
Black Gray Charcoal (J99759)
Espresso (J50363)
Walnut (J59837)
Beluga (J06053)
Granite (J06055)
More colors

Best cheap hiking boots for backpacking

What makes it the best?

The Merrell Forestbound Mid WP is a heavy-duty leather boot that is touted for its fantastic performance on the trail. It has gotten high marks for its robust construction, high-quality cushioning, and sheer lightness. Despite some concerns over its ability to guard the feet against extreme rain and water, this shoe still makes a great pick for both recreational and serious hikers.

Pros

  • Top-notch comfort
  • Lightweight
  • Very supportive
  • Quality construction
  • Comfortable cushioning

Cons

  • Lack of waterproof qualities
  • Narrow boot
Full review of Merrell Forestbound Mid WP

Today's best price

Men
Women
Any color
Brown (J16495)
Brown (J16497)
Grey (J03476)

Comparison of the 7 best cheap hiking boots

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CoreScore
Users rating
Experts
Best price
Ranking
Popularity
# of colorways
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.