Hiking is an incredibly special activity for meโit has the power to clear my mind, connect me with nature (and myself) and remind me of just how special this life is… but it’s hard to get into that headspace when you’re thinking about a growing blister or cursing an ill-fitting boot a few miles into your trek. Enter: today’s buying guide to all the best hiking boots for men and women this year.
Disclosure:ย Please note that some of the links below are affiliate links and at no additional cost to you, I may earn a commission. Know that I only recommend hiking gear I personally stand behind. When you use one of my affiliate links, it helps me run this blog and keep all of this content free of charge for readers (like you).
You came in search of the best hiking boots, so let’s get straight to the point with my #1 recommendation:
All-Around Best Hiking Boots: Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX ($165)
This pair of hiking boots hits all the highlights for both men and womenโextremely comfortable cushioning, a mid cut design that’s versatile for a wide range of terrains, waterproof, lightweight, highly stable foot support and about as budget-friendly as it gets at just $165. This hiking boot is a great choice for hikers of all ages and for any terrain you’ll encounter (aside from scaling mountains in the Himalayas, of course).
With my #1 pick for the best boots out of the way now, we can get into some more detail & nuance. To give you an idea of where I’m coming from, I grew up with a father that quickly showed me the intoxicating lore of exploring the uncharted wilderness hiking in Yosemite and other US National Parks around the west. From a very early age, I was all in.
However, planning a successful hike is not always as easy as it soundsโespecially without the right gear to make the experience enjoyable (and safe). While there’s a lot of different gear you could pick up depending upon your adventure, having the right footwear is an absolute must. Without the best hiking boots for youโthe risk of doing damage to your feet, rolling an ankle or developing blisters is much higher.
Naturally, if you don’t have a comfortable pair of hiking boots, you’ll struggle through twisting trails and rocky terrain. Investing in high quality hiking boots (that fit your budget) is always worthwhile. And to help you do just that, here’s my ranked & reviewed list of the best hiking boots for men and women in 2022.
20 Best Hiking Boots for Men and Women (Reviewed) in 2022
- Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX Boots ($165)
- Merrell Moab 2 Mid WP Boots ($89+)
- Salomon Quest 4 GTX Hiking Boots ($229)
- Hoka One One Anacapa Mid GTX Boots ($180)
- Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Boots ($245)
- Asolo Falcon GV Hiking Boots
- Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX Boots
- La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX Boots
- Keen Targhee III Mid Hiking Boots
- Altra Lone Peak All-Wthr Mid Boots
- Oboz Bridger Mid WP Boots
- Vasque Breeze AT Mid GTX Hiking Boots
- Danner Mountain 600 Mid WP Boots
- Asolo Fugitive GTX Hiking Boots (for Men)
- REI Co-op Flash Hiking Boots
- Salewa Mountain Trainer Mid GTX Boots
- Oboz Sypes Mid Hiking Boots
- La Sportiva TXS GTX Boots
- Zamberlan Vioz GTX Boots
- Arc’teryx Acrux TR GTX Hiking Boots
Now, if (like me) you had no idea what GTX meant when shopping for hiking boots the first time… whether you should go for a low cut, mid cut or high ankle style boot… or if your next adventure calls for a lightweight vs mid-weight boot… fear not. I’m here to help with answers!
Just click on an FAQs below here to expand and see my detailed answer & recommendation.
What are the most comfortable hiking boots right now?
Coming soon.
What does GTX stand for in hiking boots? (Gore-Tex lining)
Put simply, GTX stands for Gore-Tex lining. Any hiking boot that has the GTX abbreviation in the name, will come equipped with Gore-Tex lining, which has become the highest quality industry standard for boots that are waterproof, breathable and insulated to keep your feet warmer when temperatures drop. Invented in 1969, Gore-Tex is designed to repel water, while allowing water vapor (sweat) to pass through and is a lightweight, waterproof fabric for all-weather use.
At the end of the day, GTX hiking boots (Gore-Tex lined) should usually be prioritized in your search for the best hiking boots that’ll keep your feet most comfortable through any terrain and season of the year. Though to be sure, it still pays to check weather conditions ahead of any hikeโand if you’re headed to Yosemite National Park anytime soon, check out my up-to-date guide about the best time to visit Yosemite.
How high should my hiking boots be? (Low cut vs mid cut vs high ankle)
Coming soon.
What’s the difference between lightweight vs mid-weight hiking boots?
Coming soon.
What are Microspikes, do I need them and how do you put them on your hiking boots?
Coming soon.
Real quickโif you’re looking for something special for your favorite hiker, check out my regularly updated lists of the best gifts for hikers and the best hiking books to spark your inspiration to find that perfect gift idea.
1. Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX Boots ($165)
The Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX is without a doubt the best all-around hiking boot for men and women. It’s a refreshed design of the X Ultra 3 Mid, and is designed to withstand the highs and lows of all kinds of trails with even more stability than the previous version. From day hikes to week-long treks through colossal mountain passes, these shoes will carry you through to the end of your journey.
Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX Boot Highlights:
- Price: $165.00
- Weight: 1 lb. 15.6 oz. (full pair)
- Sizing: True to size
- Category of boot: Lightweight
- Waterproof: Yes
- Upper material: Synthetic
- Colors: Available in 3 very cool color combinations (forest green/black, lunar grey/black/butterscotch and black/grey) for men’s and in 3 equally great color combinations (blue/black, lunary grey/black/mint and black/mocha/grey) for women’s
This hiking boot is constructed with high-quality synthetic fabric to withstand the thick and thin of unpredictable excursions in the backcountry. Moreover, the sturdy Contagrip outsole technology works like magic in providing these boots with superior support to tackle all kinds of surfaces. Whether it’s marshy lands or steep rocky trails, the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid is made to thrive in all terrains without slips or stumbles.
The Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX is waterproof, as much as any high quality waterproof bootโjust expect that it’ll still let in water if the entire boot is submerged and it flows in from the top. Its Gore-Tex liner works on overdrive to keep water out normally, but since it’s a mid cut boot, you’ll want to pick up a pair of waterproof boot gaiters if you plan to move through rivers and streams a lot on your hikes.
Pros of these boots:
- Ultra comfortable hiking boots and easy fit
- Contours very well with your feet
- Stable and sturdy
- Lightweight
- Durable and long-lasting
Cons of these boots:
- Mid cut boots can let in water beyond a certain depth
- If you have wide feet, these can be a little restrictive in the toe box areaโjust be sure to try walking around in them at home when they’re new before taking them out on a big hike
2. Merrell Moab 2 Mid WP Boots ($89+)
If you’re looking for the best budget-friendly hiking boots, the Merrell Moab 2 Mid WP is for you. They’re built with quality materials, giving you superior underfoot cushioning, reliable Vibram outsoles and a protective outer waterproof membrane that’s sure to keep your feet dry on damp trails (just don’t expect to ford a river in these boots).
Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Boot Highlights:
- Price: $89.00+ (prices vary depending upon color and size)
- Weight: 2 lb. 4 oz. (full pair)
- Sizing: True to size
- Category of boot: Lightweight
- Waterproof: Yes
- Upper material: Suede
- Colors: 10+ color combinations
The Merrell Moab 2 Mid WP also features a flexible in-sole that arches at the front with heavily padded heels, to help keep your feet comfortable through long days on the trail. This hiking boot is also waterproof and covered with a thick suede upper, giving them a great visual aestheticโplus they come in so many different color combinations, you can have a lot of fun with these boots.
Pros of These Boots:
- Extremely budget-friendly
- Excellent fit
- Comfortable hiking boots on the feet
- Cushioning is a little on the heavier side (more comfort = more weight)
- Waterproof
- Secure lacing system
Cons of These Boots:
- Decidedly less durable than many of the other hiking boots in our shopping guide here, largely since these are the budget-friendly optionโit’s not made with the highest quality materials, so don’t expect them to make it as many miles as a comparable Salomon
- Not too breathable in hot weather, you might begin to sweat shortly after temperatures rise to 80ยฐF+
3. Salomon Quest 4 GTX Hiking Boots ($229.95)
If you’re ready to splurge a little on quite possibly the most comfortable hiking boots for long adventures, then these top-end Salomon Quest 4 GTX hiking boots are about as good as it gets.ย They’re my #1 pick in the category of waterproof backpacking boots.
The Salomon Quest 4 GTX frame is built to thrive on rough terrains by offering hikers excellent grip on all types of ground surfaces. They come with excellent padding to keep your feet very comfortable. Plus, the fitting around the ankle lacing system on this boot secures the foot in place, preventing heel slips better than just about any hiking boot on the market.ย
What’s more, is that the Salomon Quest 4 works wonderfully well if you need to carry heavy loads on your hikes. Simply put, it’s the perfect choice for challenging treks and that’s why they’re my top pick as the best backpacking boots.
Salomon Quest 4 GTX Backpacking Boots Highlights:
- Price: $229.95 (prices vary based on size and color)
- Weight: 2 lbs. 14.2 oz. (full pair)
- Sizing: True to size
- Category of Boots: Mid-weight
- Waterproof: Yes
- Upper Material: Synthetic
Pros of These Boots:
- Well-built, excelling with demanding trails and long treks
- Exceptional fitting
- Incredible traction
- Great backpacking boots for cold weather
- The best lacing system of all-time (thanks to the locket eyelet at the base of the ankle)
- 100% waterproof
- Stable and supportive (best for rocky paths even with a heavy pack)
Cons of These Boots:
- They’re so well-insulated, they can be suffocating (or too tight) for some wearers
- They don’t have the best breathability, can be less fun to wear for long durations in warm weather
4. Hoka One One Anacapa Mid GTX Boots ($180.00)
Founded by former Salomon employees, Hoka One One is well-known around the world for making exceptionally cushioned running footwear, but their recent release, the Anacapa Mid GTX is one of the most comfortable hiker boots the brand has ever released.
Lightweight and heavily cushioned, the Anacapa Mid GTX is well-made with Hokaโs trademark springy midsole, nubuck leather and Gore-tex waterproof lining. It’s rocker shaped to facilitate seamless strides, and the ankle lacing system keeps your feet in placeโmaking these hiking boots ideal for fast-paced walking.ย
Hoka Anacapa Mid GTX Boot Highlights:
- Price: $180.00
- Weight: 2 lb. 0 oz (pair)
- Sizing: True to size
- Category of Boots: Lightweight
- Waterproof: Yes
- Upper Material: Nubuck leather
Pros of These Boots:
- Lightweight yet extremely well-padded
- Very comfortableย hiking boots for all foot types
- Ankle locking lacing system that keeps you secure on rocky terrain
- Distinct rocker shape, which makes the shoes bouncy and helps you maintain momentum
Cons of These Boots:
- The outsole isn’t regarded as the highest quality (it contains traces of blown rubber)
5. Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Boots ($245.00)
The Lowa Renegade GTX Mid is among the top contenders on our list of best-hiking boots for 2022 for many reasons.
First of all, it is well built to get through rocky trails while providing users the highest level of comfort. It offers support like most high-end hiking shoes, keeping the feet planted and safe from the pointy and rough edges of twisty treks.
While it gives the coverage and stability of other aggressive hiking boots, it doesn’t weigh much as the latter footwear. Its lightweightness is attributed to the polyurethane frame used in the boots’ construction to enhance the product’s stability and sturdiness.
In simple terms, the Lowa Renegade is perfect for people looking for superior support even when hiking on edgy pathways without being anchored down due to excessive footwear weight.
Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Boot Highlights:
Most hikers who become Lowa Renegade loyalists have said that they love this pair of shoes for the unmatched comfort it provides without taking away support to the feet. Typically, sturdy and super supportive hiking footwear is pretty heavy and restrictive, making movement a little challenging, at least for those, not the most seasoned hikers. But with Lowa Renegades, that’s not the case; they offer firm support without being too bulky.
- Price: $245.00
- Weight: 2 lbs. 7 oz. (pair)
- Sizing: narrow, regular, and wide fitting
- Category of Boots: Mid-weight
- Waterproof: Yes
- Upper Material: Thin leather
Pros of These Boots:
- Well-built
- Supportive and sturdy
- Comfortable
- Very lightweight for how supportive and strong the boots are
Cons of These Boots:
- Expensive for how long these hiking boots will last in durability compared to other boots on this list
Even though the polyurethane frame and thin leather coverage make the Lowa Renegades some of the most lightweight hiking boots out there today, they unfortunately cost the product in durability. These boots won’t last as long as many of the others in this review guideโand you can expect to replace them close to once a year if you’re hitting the trail a lot.ย
6. Asolo Falcon GV Hiking Boots
Asolo Falcon GV is arguably one of the best choices on our list for its excellent construction, durability, and some of the most comfortable hiking boots on the market today from a fitting perspective.
It is incredibly sturdy and can withstand all the highs and lows of hiking. No matter how inclement the weather gets or how rugged a trail is, these hiking boots will survive everything Mother Nature sends their way.
Some might say that Asolo Falcon GV is expensive in terms of the level of stability it offers. Many hiking boots costing around 240$ are firm and provide maximum strength to the wearer, which this Falcon GV doesn’t.
In other words, you might feel a bit uncertain when embarking on your trekking trips with Asolo Falcon GV. That said, if you think that you can deal with the slight instability and take that risk for the superior comfort and lightness of the boots, you should consider buying the Asolo Falcon GV.
- Price: 240$
- Weight: 2 lb. 2.6 oz (pair)
- Sizing: true to size
- Category of boot: lightweight/Mid-weight
- Waterproof: Yes
- Upper material: polyester
Pros
- Remarkable construction
- Durable
- Comfortable hiking boots to wear all day
- Fits right in
Cons
- Expensive
- Not too supportive as many others in the same price range are
- Not the best lacing system
7. Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX Boots
A little on the pricier side, the Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX is another incredible piece worth mentioning on our list of best-hiking boots for men and women. It offers a blend of a basic hiking shoe and an aggressive mountaineering boot by having a comfortable fit and sturdy structure.
The well-built Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX is excellent for the steepest trails and precarious twists on hikes. It secures the foot firmly while providing sufficient traction so that the wearer can stride with confidence.
On top of that, you can carry a heavy backpack over your Scarpa Zodiac plus for hours on end, and your feet will not slow down.
All-in-all, Zodiac Plus GTX is the perfect hiking boot choice for seasoned hikers who like to take on twisty, edge terrains.
- Price: 299$
- Weight: 2 lbs. 6.4 oz (pair)
- Sizing: true to size
- Category of boot: Mid-weight
- Waterproof: Yes
- Upper material: Perwanger suede
Pros
- Easy to break-in
- Well-constructed, excellent stability and protection for the feet against even the most challenging trails
- Durable
- Spectacular design and execution
Cons
- It gets dirty easily as the suede upper absorbs dust particles
- The midsole may not last long and require replacement
8. La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX Boots
Made with nanotechnology, the La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX is a hiking footwear masterpiece. It works perfectly well for day hikes and backpacking trips. It’s lightweight, well-built, and facilitates swift movement.
Additionally, it keeps the feet fixed and properly secure during hikes while also ensuring maximum traction on the ground. The leather covering the boots allows superior flexibility, making La Sportiva Nucleo ideal for taking on rough terrains.
- Price: 209$
- Weight: 2 lbs. 1.6 oz. (pair)
- Sizing: narrow fit (toe box, although wider models are available)
- Category of boot: lightweight
- Waterproof: Yes
- Upper material: leather and mesh
Pros
- Built with nanotechnology
- High flexibility
- Lightweight and easy on the feet
Cons
- Narrow fit, not the best fit for people with a wide toe area
9. KEEN Targhee III Mid Hiking Boots
Made with leather, KEEN Targhee III Mid is a suitable option for people looking for an economical choice of hiking boots.
It is well-constructed, offers a moderate fit, a collar height right above the ankle, and a ballooned toe cap to allow wiggle room for the wearer’s extremities. All in all, it’s ideal for day hikes and somewhat rough backpacking trips.
- Price: 175$
- Weight: 2 lbs. 2.8 oz (pair)
- Sizing: Wide fit
- Category of boot: lightweight
- Waterproof: Yes (Keen Dry)
- Upper material: leather
Pros
- Sturdy construction
- Superior support
- Comfortable to wear
- Sizeable toe cap
Cons
- Poor breathability due to the absence of mesh
- Wide, loose-fitting
- Though it’s waterproof, it’s not the best at repelling water as it doesn’t feature a Gore-tex liner for the job
10. Altra Lone Peak ALL-WthR Mid Boots
Altra Lone Peak All WTHR Mid is a suitable boot choice for day hikes on well-maintained trails.
Featuring a wide toe box, heavy cushioning, and a zero-drop design, the Altra Lone Peak All WTHR can be an excellent addition to your hiking gear if you are a beginner and don’t tend to tread risky terrains.
Daring hikers who wish to explore rugged pathways in the backcountry should go for something more secure in construction than the Altra ALL-WTHR.
- Price: 170$
- Weight: 1 lb. 14 oz. (pair)
- Sizing: Wide fit
- Category of boot: lightweight
- Waterproof: Yes
- Upper material: eVent leather
Pros
- Lightweight
- Wide toe box and zero-drop design
- High ankle height
- Excellent traction on marshy lands
- Good breathability despite featuring leather
Cons
- Not the most stable
- Flexible mid-collar leaves the userโs feet loose in the shoe
11. Oboz Bridger Mid WP Boots
Another budget-friendly hiking boot option we have for you is the Oboz Bridger Mid WP.
True to the characteristic qualities of Oboz footwear, this Bridger pair of boots is tough-looking yet incredibly comfortable for hiking boots. It supports the feet perfectly and offers a sense of security, thanks to its sturdiness. That is, since the Bridger is built well, it fits around the user’s feet effortlessly and makes every stride much firmer, hence the said sense of security.
- Price: 180$
- Weight: 2 lbs. 6 oz (pair)
- Sizing: narrow at the heels for snug fitting and roomy toe box with moderately fit midsection.
- Category of boot: lightweight/midweight
- Waterproof: Yes (B Dry)
- Upper material: leather
Pros
- Solid construction
- Top grade insole
- Supportive
- Robust built
- Value for money
Cons
- Not the best outsole as it starts to chip away on impact when going on a rocky terrain
- The B-Dry membrane makes the boots warm in the summer
- It can feel restrictive, as though something is weighing you down at the feet
12. Vasque Breeze AT Mid GTX Hiking Boots
For 190$ a pair, the Vasque Breeze AT Mid GTX is a great hiking boot option. Designed using top-grade materials, such as Gore-Tex waterproofing membrane and Vibram outsole, the Vasque Breeze offers generous support and stability to the wearer when on hikes. Moreover, it is one of the most comfortable footwear choices you can put your feet in, thanks to its snug overall fit.
The Vasque Breeze is suitable for rocky trails but may not be the best choice for mushy lands as it doesn’t hold on to soft ground well.
- Price: 190$
- Weight: 2 lbs. 11 oz (pair)
- Sizing: narrow at the heels
- Category of boot: midweight
- Waterproof: Yes (Gore-Tex)
- Upper material: nubuck leather
Pros
- Supportive and sturdy
- Super comfy
- Snug-fitting
- Made with top quality parts
- Durable
Cons
- It can feel heavy on the feet
- The lacing system is not too secure and loosens up easily
- It doesn’t work well on soft surfaces
13. Danner Mountain 600 Mid WP Boots
Danner Mountain 600 Mid WP is a decent footwear choice for day hikes. It is unlikely to perform well on rugged terrains.
With flexible underfoot, this over the ankle pair of boots is lined with an in-house waterproofing membrane to repel water. While the productโs water resistance is at par with most other boots within the same price range, its breathability is considerably poor, resulting in warmer insides in hot seasons.
- Price: 190$
- Weight: 2 lbs. 5 oz. (pair)
- Sizing: narrow at the heels
- Category of boot: Lightweight
- Waterproof: Yes (Danner Dry)
- Upper material: nubuck leather
Pros
- High-quality lacing mechanism
- Flexible underfoot for comfortable strides
- Easy to walk in
Cons
- It runs a little warm in the summer due to poor breathability
14. Asolo Fugitive GTX Hiking Boots (for Men)
Asolo is known for its top-class athletic footwear, and Fugitive GTX is yet another feather in the brand’s cap. Made with premium materials such as split-grain leather, Gore-Tex liner, and nylon, the Asolo Fugitive GTX is excellent for demanding excursions. The high-performance rubber heels and DuoAsoflex midsoles keep the wearerโs feet safe from the point rocks underneath. Additionally, the polyurethane outsoles and bi-density bottoms made of rubber act as a barrier between the userโs sole and the hard pathway.
Fugitive GTX is ideal for all seasons and can withstand whatever nature throws at it. However, it is pretty bulky and puts too much weight on one’s feet. In other words, it may not be easy to carry on long hikes.
- Price: 285$
- Weight: 3 lbs. 0.7 oz. (pair)
- Sizing: narrow at the heels
- Category of boot: heavyweight
- Waterproof: Yes (Gore-Tex)
- Upper material: split-grain leather and Cordura nylon
Pros
- Good quality waterproofing and breathability
- Sturdy built
- Works in all seasons
- Ideal for tough terrains
Cons
- Too heavy
15. REI Co-op Flash Hiking Boots
For beginners, the REI Co-op flash is the best choice for multiple reasons. First of all, it is not too stifling for first-time users who don’t need to firmly secure their feet to survive rugged trails. Secondly, it is budget-friendly and offers moderate traction.
Featuring passable cushioning, a flexible interior, and a TPU strip at the base, the REI Co-op flash makes for a worthwhile purchase for novice hikers.
- Price: 150$
- Weight: 2 lbs. 2 oz. (pair)
- Sizing: narrow at the heels
- Category of boot: lightweight
- Waterproof: Yes (Hydrowall)
- Upper material: knit tweed-like upper
Pros
- Flexible
- Bio-compose insole
- Uses recycled polyester and plastic
Cons
- Not the most comfortable hiking boots compared to others I’ve tested
- Painful pressure points, such as eyelets that press into the skin when laces are tightened
16. Salewa Mountain Trainer Mid GTX Boots
Salewa Mountain Trainer Mild GTX is one of the chicest hiking boots on the market. Made with topnotch materials and lined with a Gore-tex waterproofing membrane, this Mountain trainer comes with a rubber rand running around the lower section to provide protection against piercing rocks.
Another noticeable feature of the Salewa Mountain Trainer Mid is its extensive lacing system that runs all the way to the toe box, offering the provision to customize the fit.
It’s sturdy, perhaps even borderline stiff, which makes this Salewa pair of hiking boots apt for tricky terrains.
- Price: 250$
- Weight: 2 lbs. 15.2 oz. (pair)
- Sizing: true to size but runs long
- Category of boot: midweight
- Waterproof: Yes (Gore-Tex)
- Upper material: light suede
Pros
- Sturdily built
- Protective rubber rand
- Extensive lacing
- Works in all four seasons
- Unbeatable durability
- Incredible comfort level
Cons
- It doesn’t fit snugly
17. Oboz Sypes Mid Hiking Boots
For the thrifty shopper, the Oboz Sypes Mid is another great hiking gear option.
Featuring leather upper, sturdy construction, B-Dry waterproof liner, and extensive lug pattern, this Oboz pair is a set of modern hiking boots for short trips.
Since Sypes doesn’t have generous cushioning, it is not the best choice for rough trails or long journeys. Simply put, it is a decent hiking boot choice for beginners.
- Price: 165$
- Weight: 2 lbs. 1.2 oz. (pair)
- Sizing: true to size
- Category of boot: Lightweight
- Waterproof: Yes (B Dry)
- Upper material: leather
Pros
- Suitable for first-timers
- Budget friendly
- Well built
- Aggressive lug pattern for improved traction
Cons
- Insufficient padding
18. La Sportiva TXS GTX Boots
This over-the-ankle La Sportiva TXS GTX is a robust hiking shoe, perfect for rocky trails. However, it offers better traction on muddy or wet/snow-covered lands.
It is designed to offer 360-degree protection, maximum breathability, and ease of movement. The Ortholite insoles embedded in the La Sportiva TXS GTX provide improved underfoot comfort.
For added protection, this La Sportiva product features Vibram rubber rands, a differentiated lacing system supported by hooks and loops half and half.
- Price: 179$
- Weight: 2 lb. 3.6 oz. (pair)
- Sizing: true to size
- Category of boot: Lightweight/midweight
- Waterproof: Yes (Gore-Tex)
- Upper material: Mesh
Pros
- Topnotch traction, safety, and waterproofing
- Well built
- A differentiated lacing mechanism that ties up more securely than the standard system
Cons
- Decidedly little padding
19. Zamberlan Vioz GTX Boots
One of the most expensive pairs of hiking boots in our round-up of best-hiking boots for men and women is Zamberlan Vioz GTX. It is a sturdy, incredibly supportive, and brilliantly crafted leather boot, ideal for the rockiest terrains.
Despite the tough exteriors, these boots are super soft from the inside, making them easy on the wearer’s feet. While they are decent enough to take on a tricky trail, they can be hard to carry due to their bulkiness.
Zamberlan Vioz GTX boots are heavyweight, making them unsuitable for lugging around for long.
- Price: 325$
- Weight: 3 lbs. 2.4 oz. (pair)
- Sizing: true to size
- Category of boot: heavyweight
- Waterproof: Yes (Gore-Tex)
- Upper material: full-grain leather
Pros
- Exceptionally breathable, thanks to the nylon lining inside
- Generous cushioning with polyurethane midsoles
- Vibram rubber outsoles enhance durability
- Sleek looking
- Well built
- Gusseted tongues to keep the water out and relieve lace burden
Cons
- Too heavy
- Requires effort to cover ground
20. Arcโteryx Acrux TR GTX Hiking Boots
Another somewhat high-end hiking boot option we have for you is the Arcโteryx Acrux TR GTX. It features Gore-Tex breathable membrane for waterproofing and breathability. It also comes with Vibram mega grips for improved traction and support.
The Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) strips, along with the super-fabric and molded rubber toe caps, offer support and stability.
- Price: 250$
- Weight: 2 lbs. 6.8 oz. (pair)
- Sizing: true to size, though it appears long and narrow
- Category of boot: midweight
- Waterproof: Yes (Gore-Tex)
- Upper material: Super-fabric
Pros
- Long-lasting
- Sturdy construction
- Extensive lacing
Cons
- Low collar height that can give way to grime and dirt
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Hiking Boots (for You)
Now that you’ve made it to the end of this (extremely) detailed buying guide to the best hiking boots for men and women alike, I hope you know which pair to try out for yourself! Or that you’ve at least been able to narrow down your list of options and can flip a coin to make your decision ๐
With all of the ground we’ve covered in this article, I still have one guiding principle to share for you when it comes to choosing the right pair of hiking bootsโalways prioritize your comfort (over looks) and follow your gut about what feels best once you get your hands on the boots and walk around the house a bit.
Now, let’s get back out onto the trail!
I loved reading your blog post about the best hiking boots for men and women in 2022. I work in the industry, so this is definitely something I will be looking into. I loved how you mentioned the little things, like how many miles per gallon your car gets, which is a point of interest for me. I also loved how you mentioned how important a good pair of hiking boots is, which is something I want to hear more about!
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