A good hiking shoe provides support, stability, and protection, ensuring your comfort and safety on the trail. Choosing the right shoe for your needs can seem daunting, with numerous brands and models available. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the world of hiking shoes by reviewing the top 10 hiking shoes of 2024, all rigorously tested and evaluated for their performance, comfort, and durability. Let’s see with nationalparkshops.com!
Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX ($135 – $180)
- Measured Weight (per pair, size 11): 0.89 kg | 1.96 lbs
- Lining: GORE-TEX Invisible Fit
- Flood Height: 7.62 cm | 3.0 in
The Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX is an excellent hiking shoe that offers great comfort, support, and waterproofing. It features eco-friendly materials like recycled yarn-based mesh and a midsole made from 30% recycled sugarcane. The addition of a GoreTex Invisible Fit liner in this updated version enhances breathability and flexibility, making it ideal for sweaty hikes.
However, the wider design of the Anacapa 2 Low may not be as confidence-inspiring in technical terrain that requires precise footwork, like scrambling in 3rd or 4th class areas. For such terrain, a narrower and more agile shoe might be a better choice.
La Sportiva Spire GTX for Women (From $209)
- Measured Weight (per pair, size 8.5): 0.76 kg | 1.68 lbs
- Lining: Gore-Tex Surround
- Flood Height: 9.53 cm | 3.75″
The La Sportiva Spire GTX trail shoe has an impressive design that combines the agility of a trail runner with the stability of a hiking boot. The low-profile design provides a comfortable fit, but it may run large for those with smaller feet or low arches.
The abrasion-resistant mesh upper and compression-molded midsole offer excellent support while remaining flexible, making it great for day hikes or longer trips into the backcountry. The shoe features a high flood level of 3.75 inches above the ankle and a breathable waterproof membrane that keeps water out.
While the Spire is a durable and reliable choice for hikers, it may not be suitable for everyone. The 100% recycled polyester laces are eco-friendly but less durable, requiring adjustments or replacements depending on use.
Columbia Crestwood ($52 – $67)
- Measured Weight (per pair, size 11): 0.83 kg | 1.82 lbs
- Lining: None
- Flood Height: 3.81 cm | 1.5 in
The Columbia Crestwood offers a fashionable design and a cozy fit at a budget-friendly cost. Made of leather and mesh, these hiking shoes provide stability and support for casual day hikes. They are not waterproof, making them ideal for warmer climates but less effective in wet conditions.
With moderate traction on both wet and dry trails, the Crestwood shoes are fairly stable but may not be the top choice for extended hikes or carrying heavy loads. However, given their affordable price, they are a great option for most light hiking activities.
Merrell Moab 3 for Women ($97 – $120)
- Measured Weight (per pair, size 11): 0.77 kg | 1.70 lbs
- Lining: Recycled mesh
- Flood Height: 8.89 cm | 3.5″
The Merrell Moab 3 is a reliable choice for those looking for a non-waterproof option at an affordable price. It features a mesh and leather upper with recycled mesh lining for immediate comfort. The sizing is accurate, and available in regular and wide fits. The midsole and insole provide good support, especially for individuals with high arches. The non-waterproof design enhances breathability, while the high flood level offers better clearance over water obstacles. The shoe also boasts excellent traction with Vibram TC5 rubber outsoles and a multidirectional lug pattern for grip on various terrains.
Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex (From $155)
- Measured Weight (per pair, size 11): 0.8 kg | 1.76 lbs
- Lining: Gore-Tex membrane
- Flood Height: 8.26 cm | 3.25 in
The Salomon X Ultra 4 GoreTex is a great option for hikers seeking a lightweight, supportive, grippy, and waterproof shoe. It is part of Salomon’s reliable line of shoes that offer a good fit with the Sensifit system securing the foot in place. The ADVC Chassis provides solid underfoot support, ensuring stability on uneven off-trail terrain.
However, the Quicklace speed lacing system may be difficult to release and occasionally slips. The tongue, not sewn in place and lacking an extended gusset, tends to slide down, which can be frustrating when trying to quickly put on the X Ultra 4. Despite these minor issues, the X Ultra 4 GTX remains a lightweight, supportive, and capable choice for backcountry hiking adventures.
Salewa Mountain Trainer Lite GTX (From $135)
- Claimed Weight: 15.8oz
- Lining: Gore-Tex
- Manufacturer Warranty: 1 year
The Salewa Mountain Trainer GTX Hiking Shoe is designed to help us navigate challenging terrains like ridgeline scrambles and steep ascents on exposed slopes. It incorporates the strong features of Salewa’s mountaineering boots but in a low-cut hiking shoe style. This shoe provides the same level of stiffness and support that we would find in Salewa’s alpine boots but with a more agile and lightweight design.
Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX for Women ($135 – $180)
- Weight (women’s): 1 lb 8.8 oz
- Upper Material: Waterproof Nubuck leather/recycled mesh
- Waterproofing: GORE-TEX Invisible Fit waterproof/breathable laminate
- Midsole Material: Compression-molded EVA (30% sugarcane)
The Hoka Anacapa Low 2 combines the best features of a hiking boot and a trail running shoe. It offers the cushioning, propulsion, and support that the brand is known for, along with added rigidity and unique design elements that set these hiking shoes apart.
Known for lightweight comfort, Hoka delivers once again with the Anacapa Low 2. The rockered sole fights foot fatigue and ensures all-day support, while the extended heel design aids in smooth heel-to-toe transitions.
The North Face Vectiv Exploris 2 Futurelight (From $179)
- Weight: 1 lb. 11.1 oz. (women’s)
- Upper Material: Synthetic
The North Face Vectiv Exploris 2 Futurelight is a high-performance hiking shoe that combines advanced technology with a comfortable, supportive design. Featuring The North Face’s proprietary Vectiv and Futurelight technologies, this shoe is a top choice for hikers who demand exceptional performance and protection.
The Vectiv Exploris 2 Futurelight features a breathable, water-repellent Futurelight upper that provides a snug, secure fit. The shoe’s padded collar and tongue, along with a cushioned Ortholite footbed, offer excellent comfort and support for the foot. Testers found the shoe to be true to size, with enough room in the toe box for natural foot swell.
The Futurelight membrane in the Vectiv Exploris 2 Futurelight effectively seals out water, keeping your feet dry in wet conditions. The shoe’s gusseted tongue and protective mudguard further enhance its water-resistant properties.
Hiking Shoes – Adidas Terrex Swift R3 GTX (From $180)
- Weight (men’s): 1 lb. 11.9 oz
- Weight (women’s): 1 lb. 8 oz
- Upper Material: Warp-knit textile
- Waterproofing: GORE-TEX Performance Comfort waterproof/breathable membrane
- Midsole Material: Lightstrike EVA
- Outsole: Continental Rubber
The Adidas Terrex Swift R3 GTX is a versatile hiking shoe that is now in its third version. It has been updated with a fresh new look.
Similar to the Salomon X Ultras, the R3 features a quick-pull system for laces that is reminiscent of the Salomon X Ultras, but with more durable laces. The R3 maintains a sporty style that makes it suitable for wearing to the gym, while also being sturdy enough to handle rough terrain.
For hikers who want to cover long distances at a fast pace, the R3 is an excellent choice.
Columbia Facet 75 Outdry (From $130)
- Midsole: Techlite Plush (Eva)
- Sole: ADAPT TRAX compound, 5mm lugs
- Claimed Weight: 14.7oz
The Facet 75 Mid Outdry Hiking Shoe provides a secure and shielding fit in a light design to keep us agile even after covering long distances on the trail. Its waterproof build can handle puddles and light rain without compromising dry socks, and the 5mm lugged sole ensures traction on rocks, loose terrain, or mud along the way.
Choosing the right hiking shoes is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable outdoor experience. Each of the shoes mentioned above offers unique features and benefits to cater to different preferences and needs. When selecting a hiking shoe, consider factors such as fit, comfort, support, stability, durability, waterproofness, and weight to ensure that you find the perfect match for your hiking style and terrain preferences.
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