7 Best Leather Hiking Boots in 2024
There is just something special about experiencing the great outdoors in a pair of leather hiking boots. These hikers are naturally tough, and their grounded design makes mixing and matching—to complete your backcountry outfit—an easy feat.
We’ve subjected leather hiking boots to laborious testing for your convenience. We didn't stint on time, money, and other resources in verifying the assertions of the brands, as well as their promoters.
Are you in need of a smashing all-rounder? Maybe you’re into a lightweight pair? Or perhaps something powerful for pack adventures? Whichever it is, if it’s leather, you’re in the right place.
How we test hiking boots
This selection of top-of-the-line leather hikers is a product of dedication and passion. Here’s our approach:
- We buy leather hiking boots using our own funds. This way, we can be as objective and straightforward with our reviews as possible.
- Each leather kick goes through a series of tests. In every pair, we hike on various terrain for days, come rain or shine.
- We collect and analyse data by carrying out different sets of tests in our lab. We also tear apart the shoes to clearly view the sandwich of components inside, especially the cushioning system.
Best leather hiking boots overall
What makes it the best?
After thorough wear tests and lab analysis, the Scarpa Terra GTX emerged as our ultimate leather hiking boot. It provides unparalleled support and protection on rugged terrains. With its robust construction, stable ride, and exceptional grip, we felt we could conquer any trail.
The Terra GTX kept us safe even when navigating cold and wet terrain. Its solid leather upper seals our feet from unwanted elements—cold air, water, and debris—as confirmed by our tests. In addition, its 5/5 durability is unmatched, as evidenced by its resilience against our brutal Dremel.
We felt confident in this pair as its firm and grounded platform gave a lot of surface feedback that allowed us to adapt accordingly. Our durometer reveals its cushion is 16.1% tougher than average—a promising sign that it won’t bottom out even under heavy loads. True enough, we had no wobbles as we carried heavy backpacks. Our ankles also felt supported without any discomfort to our Achilles.
The Vibram outsole carried us safely through wet, dry, soft, and compact surfaces. It’s tough enough to handle anything and is insanely grippy even for the slickest surfaces, thanks to its 4-mm sticky and multidirectional lugs.
Measuring 110.5 mm in the forefoot and 84.1 mm in the heel, it runs a little narrow. We recommend those with broad feet to consider alternative options.
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
Most comfortable leather hiking boots
What makes it the best?
Leather boots can feel a bit clunky, but the Hoka Kaha 2 GTX is most definitely the exception to the rule. With heaps of cushioning underfoot a padded tongue and es, this sturdy and stable boot is the perfect companion for long days on the trail. We crowned it the most comfortable leather hiking boot.
We expected great things from the generous cushioning in the Kaha 2 GTX, and it did not disappoint. Impact protection and comfort while hiking are exceptional, and when we measured the stack height in the lab, all became clear. The Hoka Kaha 2 GTX has 3.3 mm extra material below the heel compared to the average, not to mention a massive 5.6 mm extra below the forefoot! In addition, it’s 14% softer than average, making this boot a delight on big mountain days.
But it’s not all about the feel underfoot - the Kaha 2 GTX is an all-round feel-good boot. Our caliper measured the tongue at 12.5 mm thick, making it 1.3 mm thicker than average. The padded heel counter is also much more flexible than other boots we have tested. In fact, we awarded it 2/5 for stiffness, where 5 is the stiffest. It delivered excellent comfort without compromising the lockdown, and our feet remained securely in the boot without slipping.
A Hoka wouldn’t be a Hoka without an extra-wide landing platform! Our lab assessments show the Kaha 2 sports an impressive 117 mm wide midsole at the forefoot, 4.8 mm wider than average. In practice, this makes for a very stable landing. Along with a maximum rigidity of 5, thanks in part to the nubuck leather upper, we felt safe and surefooted hiking along uneven trails.
While the tongue is 1.3 mm thicker than average, we found it was too short and led to lace bite on our shins. Alternative lacing techniques may solve the issue, but hikers prone to trouble with lace bite may want to look at other options.
Pros
- Sky-high comfort level
- Excellent waterproofing
- High-quality materials
- Pain-alleviating support
- Smooth heel-to-toe transitions
- Incredibly stable
- Superb grip
- Surprisingly light
- Minimal break-in period
- Includes sustainable materials
Cons
- Short tongue (laces slip and cause pressure)
- Bulky heel gets stuck in stones
- Polarising aesthetics
Best leather boots for backpacking
What makes it the best?
The Lowa Renegade GTX Mid ran the gauntlet of our lab tests and days on the trail. This tank of a boot passed our assessments with flying colors, with special attention going to its first-rate stability, incredible durability of the toe box, and perfect waterproofing. This stylish leather boot completely knocks the socks off the competition and we voted it the best leather hiking boots for backpacking.
With a slew of features contributing to its outstanding stability, we have rarely encountered a boot as stable as the Lowa Renegade GTX Mid. A rigid nylon shank in the midsole offers a high torsional rigidity, which measured 5/5 in our lab tests - where 5 is the most rigid. The midsole is cunningly crafted to allow our feet to nestle into it instead of hovering above it, which lends a whole other dimension to the stable feeling of the boot. On rough trails, over rocks or scree, we always felt as surefooted as a mountain goat.
The tough leather upper withstood a load of battering on our test hikes, so we put it to the test in our lab. Setting our Dremel to 5K RPM and applying 3.2N of pressure, we set to work on the toe box. After 12 seconds, only the smallest scuff remained as proof of our attack! The solid leather construction of this boot is tough as nails, and our feet feel protected for the long haul in the Lowa Renegade GTX Mid.
Boasting a Gore-Tex lining, we already trust the Renegade GTX Mid to not let any water in. Coupled, however, with the nubuck leather upper and fully gusseted tongue, this boot is completely watertight. Our feet stayed bone dry splashing through streams, and as an added bonus, the sticky Vibram outsole worked just as well underwater as on dry land!
This boot tapers rapidly around the toe, making this boot unsuitable for hikers with wide feet. Measuring it in the lab, we found it to be 72.3 mm wide around the toe, which is 6.4 mm narrower than average. We recommend hikers looking for a roomier toe box to look at other options.
Pros
- Deceptively comfortable
- Extremely supportive and stable ride
- Lightweight build
- Strong ankle support
- Excellent grip in dry and wet conditions
- Great backpacking companion
- Old-school nubuck leather upper
- Keeps our feet warm and dry
- Consistent performance in the cold
- Feels good out of the box
Cons
- Pricey
- Lots of seams in upper construction
- Finnicky lacing
- Too warm for summer hikes
Most breathable leather hiking boots
What makes it the best?
KEEN Targhee III Waterproof Mid stands out as our top choice for breathability among leather hiking boots in our lab. Its ability to keep our feet ventilated while remaining watertight during hikes impressed us, making it a stellar option for tackling rugged terrains without sacrificing comfort. Priced at £150, it offers these exceptional features without breaking the bank.
Despite its tough exterior, this boot provides a padded interior, ensuring a comfortable fit. Under the microscope, its compact and interlocked braided fibers with minimal gaps strike a balance between waterproofing and breathability. With a remarkable 2/5 score in our lab tests, it proves its effectiveness in keeping water out while allowing airflow. Featuring a toe bumper, it provides additional protection from rocks, enhancing durability.
The ride feels inherently stable due to its firm midsole, supportive shanks, and grippy lugs. Our durometer confirms a 31.1 HA measurement, 22.4% tougher than average, yet we feel cushioned enough from harsh landings. The shoe's additional support and 4.2 mm multidirectional lugs help us feel well-planted and surefooted, even as we carry loaded backpacks.
Balancing all the rigidity is its longitudinal flexibility to enhance a natural feel. Our bend test reveals it’s 31.8% more adaptive than the average boot.
Because this is still a waterproof shoe, it inevitably feels stuffy during the summer.
Pros
- Extremely stable
- Great ankle support
- Generously padded and comfortable
- Secure heel hold
- Flexible
- Budget-friendly price
- Laudable warmth
- Performs very well in the cold
- Excellent grip on various terrain
- Short to zero break-in period
- Commendable toe cap
- Roomy toebox
Cons
- Stuffy in the summer
- Lacklustre outsole durability
- Firm midsole
- Not ideal for narrow feet
Best leather hiking boots with wide toeboxes
What makes it the best?
We cut open and hiked with leather boots and discovered KEEN Pyrenees offers the best wide toebox. With its premium nubuck leather and mighty build, this pair offers exceptional stability and protection. On top of that, we find it immensely cozy for all-day wear, especially in colder seasons.
Pyrenees doesn’t hinder our toe splay in any way. The toebox is a generous 108.0 mm and doesn't taper around the big toe area. It's a whopping 83.5 mm! We have lots of room to find our footing with every stride. Our hikes feel stable thanks to the stiff shank in the midfoot and the firm foothold that prevents awkward missteps.
Our feet feel at home straight away with the plush platform. Our durometer confirms it's 40.2% softer than average. Pyrenees pairs a generous heel stack for impact protection and a humble forefoot for enhanced ground control. This creates a massive 18.1 mm drop, which is extremely supportive and relieving when we’re carrying heavy backpacks.
All around, Pyrenees screams protection. Its tough leather build and secure lockdown shields us from cold winds and water. Underfoot, the KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN compound is one of the toughest we measured in our lab (92.0 HC) for extra protection from jagged rocks.
Contrary to its name, the outsole doesn’t grip well on all terrains. We found ourselves feeling unsteady on mud and snow.
Pros
- Premium nubuck leather quality
- Top-notch waterproofing
- Tonnes of impact protection
- Surprisingly soft cushioning
- Excellent stability and support
- Very wide, accommodating toebox
- Convenient lacing system
Cons
- Too bulky and heavy
- Tongue edges dig into shins
- Lacks traction for mud, ice, and snow
Best premium leather hiking boots
What makes it the best?
Extraordinary robustness, world-class quality, and reliable protection define the best premium leather hiking boot, and the Danner Mountain Light perfectly embodies this. Its handmade craftsmanship is undeniable in the lab with its resistance to wear, while offering effective waterproofing and remarkable traction even on the harshest terrains.
Despite extensive strenuous hikes and challenging conditions such as puddles and rocky paths, we felt extremely sheltered from all unwanted elements. Our feet were free from water contact and cold weather, proven by our breathability test when this boot earned a 1/5 mark. The leather showcased its extreme toughness when it barely showed visible signs of wear after our Dremel test, earning a remarkable 5/5 rating. Even the heel mirrored this performance, truly cementing Mountain Light’s premium quality.
Even underfoot, the boot proved resilient on the most rugged terrains. Its Vibram outsole boasts tougher-than-average results in all our lab tests, convincing us it will survive longer than the average boot. Its 91.6 HC rubber is a massive 4.8 mm thick, lined with extra toothy 5.8 mm lugs for solid traction. With its pronounced heel brake, tackling steep inclines was a breeze.
However, this heavy-duty boot has nothing to do with being “Light.” At a monstrous 28.3 oz (803g), it’s significantly 53.3% heavier than the average boot.
Pros
- Highly durable leather and rubber
- Premium materials and craftsmanship
- Top-notch waterproofing
- Can be resolved and recrafted
- Secure lockdown and support
- Very stable and reliable platform
- Sexy and snazzy vintage look
Cons
- Breaking in takes time and effort
- The heaviest boot out there
- VERY expensive
Best budget leather hiking boots
What makes it the best?
Of all the leather hiking boots we tested in and out of the lab, Keen Voyageur Mid satisfies the outdoor adventurer’s cravings without breaking the bank. At only £130, it offers generous padding, support, ventilation, and traction for more enjoyable long days in the wild. It’s undoubtedly our best budget pick given that the average hiking boot costs £190.
Despite having a leather upper, Voyageur Mid aced its ventilation. It scored a 4/5 on our breathability test thanks to the holes in the mesh area. This, together with the moisture-wicking function, ensures we remain free from blisters and even stinky feet.
The platform is a healthy mix of soft and firm elements for a comfy yet stable ride. The gentler sensation comes from the thick stack, notably its 46.2 mm heel. Meanwhile, the firmness comes from the foam’s density, which our durometer confirms is 15.4% harder than average.
Also ensuring our surefooted strides are the 4.2 mm multi-directional lugs that display their unwavering grasp on loose dirt, soft sand, and wet rocks. Together with the thick 5.0-mm outsole, these served as our underfoot shield from sharp debris.
Unfortunately, while the outsole itself seems durable, the way it’s glued to the midsole is the problem. The sole started peeling off during our testing, which raised concerns about the shoe’s quality.
Pros
- Accommodating fit
- No need to break in
- Excellent traction
- Lightweight
- Sufficient ankle support
- Laudable breathability
- Quick drying
- Versatile
Cons
- Sole started peeling off
- Questionable construction quality
- Too wide for narrow feet
How to choose leather hiking boots
There’s a reason why the classics are the classics. They’re things that have been used and loved for generations, with a story behind every scuff and mark, and hiking boots are no different.
Leather hiking boots have been around for as long as people have been hiking, they’re durable and reliable, and here we take a look at how to find the best leather hiking boots to suit your needs.
Different types of leather used for hiking boots
Full-grain leather hiking boots for durability
Think of full-grain leather as heavy-duty leather. It’s the robust and strong choice for leather hiking boots that’ll let you explore more and push yourself further.
Full-grain leather goes under the least amount of processing, which helps make it incredibly durable and resistant to damage. These boots also have a great level of water resistance that can be improved with additional oils and treatments.
Nubuck leather hiking boots for breathability
Nubuck is a type of leather that we get from cows and is buffed to give a slight texture during the manufacturing process. It can sometimes look similar to suede.
One of the key benefits that Nubuck has when it comes to leather hiking boots, is its breathability, although that does come with the downside of it not being as waterproof as full-grain leather. That’s why you’re more likely to find nubuck used on hiking boots that are to be used in mainly dry conditions.
Pros of leather hiking boots
Go into any outdoor shop in the world and you’re guaranteed to see leather hiking boots on display. That’s because there are so many benefits of using this natural material.
Here we take a look at the pros of leather hiking boots:
- High levels of durability
- Tried and tested materials
- Naturally waterproof
- Naturally breathable
High levels of durability
The best leather hiking boots are very durable. They can be worn in every condition imaginable from hikes along desert trails to expeditions in sub-zero climates and with the right maintenance, will last for years.
Leather can also take a lot of abuse and still remain in excellent condition. While rocks and branches can scuff your boot uppers, they’re unlike to penetrate and seriously damage a material as strong as leather.
Durability test: Nubuck vs. Synthetics
Tried and tested materials
Leather hiking boots have been around for generations, being refined and improved upon every year to the point that they’re now able to take on any situation. Whereas boots made with synthetic materials are much newer and don’t have the heritage that leather hiking boots do.
In some cases, you get a mix of materials that takes the best of both worlds.
Naturally waterproof
Being naturally waterproof, leather hiking boots are predictably reliable in wet and damp conditions. This can even be improved by taking good care of them and using a waterproof treatment that helps keep water out in very wet conditions.
Naturally breathable
One benefit of leather hiking boots that’s often forgotten is that they are naturally breathable. This is one of the most important features when it comes to buying new boots. If your boots aren't breathable then moisture from your feet can’t escape which causes discomfort and can even lead to blisters.
Cons of leather hiking boots
Although leather has many advantages, it does have a few downsides as well that you should be aware of.
These include:
- Animal cruelty
- Often heavier than synthetic boots
- Longer break-in periods
- Leather boots can be expensive
Animal cruelty
One aspect that some people don’t like about leather products, in general, is that they are made with animal skin. Even if the farms treat the animals very well and let them live long, happy lives, some people prefer to not use animal products wherever possible.
Often heavier than synthetic boots
Given the choice, hikers prefer to have a lighter boot over a heavier one. You can feel each and every gramme when you spend hours at a time out on the trail, but all the benefits mentioned above come at a weight penalty. It’s important to weigh up which additional features you need and not lug around ones that you don’t want.
Longer break-in periods
As leather is a stiff material that provides support, it can also take a bit longer to break them in than a pair of synthetic boots. Once you do though, your boots will be much more comfortable having adapted to your foot.
Leather boots can be expensive
Like any piece of outdoor equipment, there are various price points for almost all budgets, but the best leather hiking boots are often more expensive than non-leather boots. Using premium materials to hand-make a pair of boots is always going to be more pricey than mass-produced boots using cheap, synthetic materials.
| Average price | |
| Leather hiking boots | Synthetic hiking boots |
| £220 | £180 |
Modern technology in leather hiking boots
Leather hiking boots are already a brilliantly stable and durable tool, but they’ve been improved with the help of modern technologies.
Gore-Tex for waterproofness
You’ll find Gore-tex in most of the best leather hiking boots on the market. This waterproof membrane is a liner that blocks out water yet allows moisture to escape from the boot. It’s a proprietary technology that boot manufacturers can add to their boots, but it often significantly increases the price.
Vibram soles for comfort
Hiking boots are put through some serious abuse. For days on end, they’re stamped into rough terrain with each step. These vibrations usually pass through the sole and up into your foot, causing pain and discomfort.
Vibram is another proprietary technology that manufacturers can choose to use in their boots. Not only is it a durable sole material, but it's also great at absorbing vibrations that cause discomfort.
Are leather boots better than synthetic hiking boots?
Unfortunately, there’s no clear answer to this question. It all depends on your preferences and how you’ll be using your boots. The best thing we can do is to gather as much information as possible, educate ourselves on the benefits and drawbacks of both, and make an educated decision.
How to break in leather hiking boots
Breaking in your boots is one of the least enjoyable parts of hiking, but there are six things you can do to make this as painless as possible.
1. Buy boots that fit you properly
Before you even start thinking about breaking your boots in, you have to make sure that your boots are a good fit. If they’re too big or too small, no amount of breaking them in will make them comfortable.
2. Wear your boots around your house
Now that you’ve got a pair of leather hiking boots that fit you, you can start breaking them in by wearing them around the house. Put them on for a few minutes at a time and work your way up until you’re comfortable wearing them around the house all day. This gives you the chance to take them off if they’re hurting you in the comfort of your own house, rather than being in the middle of nowhere on a trail.
3. Treat the leather
When you first get your boots, the leather will be pretty stiff and uncomfortable. We can help soften the uppers by using a wax, making them more comfortable before you’ve even hiked in them.
4. Wear proper hiking socks
Hiking socks are thicker, softer, and more durable than normal socks and this can make all the difference when breaking in your boots. It’s likely that your feet will blister to some degree, but hiking socks can reduce this, letting you spend more time in your new leather hiking boots.
5. Go on a short hike
Now that you’ve done all that you can do in your house, it's time to get outside and finish off the breaking in period. Plan a short hike on a route that you know well. This will let you identify any pressure or pain points with your boots and will soften up the leather as well.
6. Go on longer hikes
Now that you’re comfortably hiking short trails in your new boots, it's time to go on a longer hike to make sure that your boots are fully broken in. You may feel some slight discomfort still, but this should ease up as you clock up the miles until your boots are fully broken in.
How did we get here - the history of leather hiking boots
Leather has been the go-to material for boots ever since the Middle Ages. Even back then the benefits of leather were clear, the durability and resistance to the elements allowed people to cover much larger distances in comfort when compared to the traditional shoe of the day.
As the centuries rolled by, the reality of modern leather hiking boots became closer. World Wars brought more technological advancements and soon boots had rugged soles and used hobnails to increase useability and comfort.
Taking us into the modern day, as hiking became a hugely popular pastime, boot brands developed new techniques and materials to create leather hiking boots that allow us to explore extreme terrain in the most severe conditions. Combining the traditional benefits of leather with Gore-tex linings, stiff yet light midsoles, and Vibram soles has given us some of the best hiking boots that have ever existed.
Leather hiking boots FAQ
Do leather hiking boots stretch?
Leather is a natural material that starts off quite stiff but once broken in, it can stretch and better fit your foot. But be aware that this stretching is quite minimal and won’t fix your problems if you’ve bought boots that don’t fit you properly.
Are all leather hiking boots waterproof?
Leather is a water-resistant material, but that doesn’t mean that all leather hiking boots are waterproof. The material used for the upper of your boots has a big say in its performance, but there are other elements, like boot construction, liners, and leather treatments also play a big part too.
Can leather hiking boots be repaired?
Most leather hiking boots can be repaired, depending on the severity of the damage of course. Old, tired leather can be revived with waxes, sprays, and treatments, while some leather hiking boots can be resoled.
How to maintain leather hiking boots?
Regularly maintaining your hiking boots is the best way of extending their lifespan and ensuring comfort on every hike. Here are four easy steps to follow.
Clean and dry your hiking boots
This might seem like an obvious one, but cleaning and drying your boots after each hike is a great way to keep them in top condition.
Brush off any loose dirt from the uppers and gravel that may have lodged itself in the lugs of your soles, and use a damp cloth to brush off any stubborn stains.
Once this is done, leave your boots to dry naturally. Stuffing your boots with newspapers can help speed up this process.
Lubricate your uppers
Leather is a natural product that can degrade over time unless cared for properly. Hikers recommend that you treat your boots with lubricant to keep the material supple and keep you comfortable out on the trail.
Natural lubricants like wax are some of the most popular on the market as they can breathe a new lease of life into the most tired of leather hiking boots.
Re-waterproof your boots
As we mentioned earlier in this article, leather is water-resistant, not waterproof, so depending on how wet the trail is, you can expect some moisture to seep through. But we can boost this level of water resistance by using specifically designed sprays and treatments that help keep moisture out.
Store your boots properly
If you live in a region with cold or wet winters, it's unlikely you’ll be hiking in the same pair of boots all year long, so how you store your boots when you’re not using them is very important.
Keep them in a dry, cool place, out of direct sunlight as this can dry out the leather and significantly decrease its lifespan.
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