7 Best Leather Hiking Boots, 100+ Shoes Tested in 2023

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 rounded up the finest leather hiking boots (out of 300+ pairs) for your convenience. 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 analyze hundreds of reviews from a combination of regular hikers and professional testers.
As a result, every tested leather hiking boot receives a 0-100 rating, a.k.a. CoreScore. This RunRepeat-exclusive scoring system gives a glimpse of whether a given shoe is among the finest or a major pass.
Best leather hiking boots overall
CoreScore
- Top 29% in hiking boots
- Top 25% in Salomon hiking boots
- Top 1% most popular hiking boots
Pros
- Waterproof
- True to size
- Secure fit
- Comfortable
- Durable
- Grippy
Cons
- A few days break-in needed
- Runs hot
- Not for easy hikes
Verdict
Best lightweight leather hiking boots
CoreScore
- Top 28% in lightweight hiking boots
Pros
- Exceptionally light
- Mighty plush everywhere
- Zero break-in
- Cranked-up grip level
- Amazing ankle support
- Shock-absorbent
- Cozy in the cold
- Swagger
- Made with recycled materials
Cons
- Lackluster waterproofing
- Not-so-durable outsole
Verdict
Best leather hiking boots for backpacking
CoreScore
- Top 21% in hiking boots
- Top 21% in waterproof hiking boots
- Top 5% most popular hiking boots
Pros
- Extremely comfortable
- Incredible ankle support
- Excellent waterproofing
- Highly durable
- Lightweight
- Feels nimble
- Astonishing looks
Cons
- Questionable grip
Verdict
Best leather wide toe box hiking boots
CoreScore
Pros
- Remarkably flexible
- Sticky on various surfaces
- Wow-level comfort
- No break-in period required
- Lightweight
- Quite tough
- Watertight
- Great ankle support
Cons
- Not the most breathable
- Not enough room for lacing creativity
Verdict
Best looking leather hiking boots
CoreScore
- Top 11% in hiking boots
- Top 16% in Scarpa hiking boots
- Top 2% most popular hiking boots
Pros
- Glue-like underfoot
- Insanely comfortable
- Watertight
- Quick break-in
- Lightweight
- Reliably supportive
- Sufficient breathability
- Mildly warm
Cons
- Scuff-magnet
- Subpar cushioning
Verdict
Best value
CoreScore
- Top 2% in hiking boots
- Top 8% in Asolo hiking boots
Pros
- Thermal wonder
- Light
- Precise fit
- Comfy
- Sticky (particularly on ice)
- Heavy-duty
- Attractive
Cons
- Quite expensive
- Might not secure lace-hooked gaiters properly
Verdict
Most popular leather hiking boots
CoreScore
- Top 30% in Hoka hiking boots
- Top 2% most popular hiking boots
Pros
- Provides stability
- Resplendence in comfort
- Cushy midsole
- Lightweight
- Good trail performance
- Watertight
- Grippy outsole
- Excels on rocky trails
Cons
- Underwhelming toe cap
- Tricky access