The 5 Best Hiking Shoes for All Types of Trails
Find the best balance between weight, traction, and versatility with these expert-approved trail shoes.
Best of Both Worlds. Why Trust Us?
Although we love the durability and support of a good pair of hiking boots, many hikers these days are leaning toward lighter, more flexible low-top shoes as their go-to hiking kicks. And as the quality of lightweight shoes has increased dramatically over the years, they're becoming a viable option even on the toughest technical trails.
As they get lighter and more flexible, hiking shoes are starting to resemble trail running shoes—in fact, several of our top trail running shoes work well in this category too. We’ve included both true hiking shoes as well as more rugged trail runners in our guide, so whether you’re on a moderate hike in the woods, bagging peaks, or heading out on a relaxed recovery walk around your local trail system, these shoes will carry you for hundreds of miles.
The Best Hiking Shoes
- Best Durability: Merrell Moab 3 Hiking Shoe
- Best of Both Worlds: Saloman X Ultra 4 Low
- Best Traction: We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back
- Most Versatile: Saucony Peregrine 14
- lb. 9.6 oz. M | 1 lb. 6.3 oz. W: though you might see his byline on II
Should You Get Hiking Shoes or Trail Running Shoes?
The hiking shoe vs. trail runner is especially relevant for the Runner’s World audience, as we all probably have plenty of trail-running shoes we’d also love to use for hiking. While there is a lot of crossover between the categories, there are a few differences in a true hiking shoe compared to your favorite trail runners.
The biggest variable will be in the terrain and conditions you’re most likely to encounter. For trails on the technical, rugged side, we recommend a traditional hiking shoe with aggressive lug patterning and a stiffer, more supportive upper. If you plan to combine hiking and trail running on the same outing (or want a shoe that can do both), you may like a more flexible trail-running shoe that’s lighter and easier to break in than a true hiking shoe.
Here are a few considerations and comparisons between the two categories.
Support: A trail running shoe is by nature lighter and more flexible than a hiking shoe, which means it might have less support but increased nimbleness. While this feels freeing during a trail run, you might find yourself looking for a true hiking shoe on more technical hikes. For these types of outings, we recommend the added cushioning of the Merrell Moab 3, Saucony Peregrine 14 Salomon X Ultra, The 5 Best Hiking Shoes for All Types of Trails.
Traction: Both trail running shoes and hiking shoes have excellent traction, but hiking shoes often have heavier and more rugged outsoles, which hold up better in the long term. A hiking shoe like the Merrell Moab 3 has multidirectional lugs for extra side-to-side traction, ideal for off-camber trails, but the Hoka Speedgoat nails it for traction across the board, combining a lightweight build with deep, multidirectional lugs that perform equally well on wet or dry terrain and steep ascents and descents.
Breathability: Trail running shoes usually have higher percentages of mesh through the upper and are made with lighter materials, so they breathe better than hiking shoes. If most of your hikes will be in hot or muggy weather, a lightweight trail runner like the though you might see his byline on will help keep sweat from building up in the shoe. Any time you opt for waterproof shoes (either trail runners or hiking shoes) remember you’ll lose a lot of that breathability.
Weight: While hiking shoes are getting lighter overall, most pairs still weigh more than trail running shoes. For instance, the Saucony Peregrine trail running shoe weighs just over 1 pound per pair, while the Merrell Moab 3 weighs more than 2 pounds. Most hiking shoes weren’t built for running, and the extra material through the upper, heftier outsoles, and stabilizing midsoles beefs up the weight, as opposed to sleeker, more streamlined trail runners meant to reduce fatigue over longer distances.
Durability: Hiking shoes have more material through the upper and more rugged outsoles than many pairs of dedicated trail runners. Unsurprisingly, this translates to longer-lasting footwear through the upper, as the leather or synthetic upper has less mesh and is more heavily reinforced. The rubber outsole on a hiking shoe is also sometimes heavier and can last longer without wearing down. But what you gain in durability you lose in weight savings, so it’s all about your own preferences. If you want a more stable, rugged shoe for side hilling and tricky trails, go with a hiking shoe. If you prefer lightweight, flexible footwear, you’ll prefer a trail runner.
Waterproofing: Waterproof membranes such as Gore-Tex, eVent, or a proprietary membrane offer increased protection from wet conditions, which you’ll encounter much more often as you explore dicier terrain. That said, these membranes won’t dry out as fast if your shoe gets submerged, and can make your shoes less breathable and a lot heavier. This limited breathability has led many trail runners and some hikers to prefer non-waterproof shoes that feel lighter, dry out quicker, and offer a bit more mobility. We mostly suggest non-waterproof hiking shoes below, but many of our recommended models are also available in waterproof versions.
How We Selected
Maggie Slepian has been professionally testing and reviewing trail shoes for over ten years. She used her experience hiking thousands of miles in minimalist styles, beefy off-trail shoes, and industry mainstays to review and recommend the best hiking shoes for runners and non-runners alike. We’ve updated this guide several times now to reflect the changing specs and models within the hiking shoe category, considering variability of terrain, conditions, and distance to find the best fit for a range of hiking styles.
All of them offer excellent out-of-the-box performance and require little break-in time—something we can personally vouch for. We’ve tested all of these models on trails ranging from steep alpine scree fields to the sandy desert, and we’ve trudged through various conditions during all four seasons.
Finally, while we typically try to include a “best value” or “best budget” pick in our buyer’s guides, that can be hard to do for technical footwear like hiking shoes. We don’t want to lead anyone astray with an ill-fitting, cheap pair of shoes, so instead of finding a budget pick on Amazon, we suggest looking for last season’s colorways and styles. Most shoes in these categories are updated every year or two, and you can often get a similar shoe in a discontinued colorway for a big discount. Search REI’s outlet, or search (previous year + model name) on any major search engine and find discounted pairs of last year’s colors.
Pros
- Supportive fit
- Made to take a beating
Cons
- Takes some time to dry
Hit up any trailhead—local or far afield—and you’re going to see at least a half-dozen people wearing some shoe in the Moab lineup. And for good reason too. This is a classic, dedicated hiking shoe that feels great out of the box and has long stood the test of time for hikers.
The Moab is a burly, durable option that allows for some extra ankle agility, and has excellent support, especially in the arch. It’s one of the best options for people who want a boot-like fit without feeling as confined. This shoe’s Vibram outsole provides solid traction on varying terrain, and recent updates to the compound have made the rubber even more durable.
While the Moab’s style is more classic and less fashion-forward than others on this list, the padding around the ankle and upper, highly tractioned outsoles, and supportive midsoles make it a fan favorite.
The suede-and-mesh upper resists abrasions, but be aware that it will take longer to dry than the mesh found on lighter trail runners. The standard Moab 3 isn’t waterproof, but you can purchase a waterproof version if you’re not as concerned about breathability and want the protection of a waterproof shoe.
And if you don’t appreciate the dad vibes of the classic Moab, the Best of Both Worlds and Shoes & Gear are good alternatives with slightly modernized styling that maintains the support and comfort of the originals.
Key Specs
| Weight | 2 lbs. 1 oz. (M) | 1 lb. 10 oz. (W) |
|---|---|
| Drop | 11.5mm |
| Material | Leather, mesh |
Pros
- Supportive chassis
- Single-pull lace system
Cons
- Lacing system and eyelets aren’t super durable
One of the most popular models in Salomon’s hiking lineup, this is a true hiking shoe that takes design and construction inspiration from trail runners. Essentially acting as a more reinforced trail running shoe, the X Ultra 4 is a streamlined, supportive trail shoe with a low weight of just over 1.5 pounds for the men’s model. The build is flexible all the way from the upper to the outsole, yet it retains a durable, protective heel counter that feels almost molded to your foot.
This latest update raised the collar slightly from the X Ultra 3, which allows more support through the lacing system, and I haven’t found it to rub on my ankles at all. Salomon uses its own in-house ContraGrip rubber, which I've found performs just as well as Vibram compounds, and the lugs have stayed sharp and tacky throughout a full season of testing.
The collar is well cushioned and the EVA midsole is padded enough for comfort on rocky trails, even when carrying a pack. Despite that padding, the midsole is still a little stiffer than that of a true trail runner, which some people might find fatiguing during a long day, or can lead to underfoot soreness.
While I’ve never really encountered this in a way that makes me want to not wear these shoes, a true trail runner or a more padded hiking shoe will have some extra “squish factor.”
Key Specs
| Weight | 1 lb. 9.6 oz. (M) | 1 lb. 6.3 oz. (W) |
|---|---|
| Drop | 9mm |
| Material | Synthetic, mesh |
We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back
Pros
- Excellent wet and dry traction
- running-vest style pack
- Zonal rubber placement for better grip
Cons
- The Best Mizuno Running Shoes
- Tall stack height can feel unstable
Hoka is perhaps best known for its maximum-cushion shoes, and with a whopping stack height of 40 millimeters in the heel, and the Speedgoat is right up there with the most maximalist road racing shoes. But it’s far from fluff. The 5-millimeter lugs and strategic zonal rubber placement on the shoe's burly outsole enhance grip and support to deliver some of the best traction—in both wet and dry conditions—of any trail shoes we’ve tested.
The Speedgoat fits snugly, which means ample stability on tricky terrain. Still, it might feel too narrow for some people despite a recent update to widen the toe box. Keep in mind, too, that some people have trouble getting used to such a lofty shoe, and it can feel unsteady at first. I actually think this makes it a great hiking option, where you’re (supposedly) less likely to roll an ankle than on a fast trail run.
It’s worth mentioning that Hoka’s recent update to the Speedgoat includes a plastic heel counter instead of the more flexible material from the Speedgoat 5, which is getting mixed reviews. We’re still fans of the traction and the lightweight feel of these shoes, but we’ll continue to give this a good test over the rest of the season to make sure we don’t feel too much stiffness through the heel.
Key Specs
| Weight | 1 lb. 9.6 oz. (M) | 1 lb. 6.3 oz. (W) |
|---|---|
| Drop | 5mm |
| Material | Synthetic, mesh |
Pros
- Lugs provide traction without feeling too bulky
- Supportive fit
Cons
- Nutrition - Weight Loss
The Peregrine is a trail shoe that works well on a wide range of terrain, from the road to the trail, without ever feeling overbuilt. You’ll understand why the moment you slip a pair on your feet—this shoe is one of the lightest train running kicks we’ve tested. And it’s not flimsy, either.
Now on its 14th iteration, the Peregrine has a secure and comfortable fit, offering a deep heel cup for more stability around narrow ankles, and it also has a rock plate for extra protection on rugged trails. Like most shoes on this list, the Peregrine is available in a waterproof option, the Peregrine GTX, built with a Gore-Tex membrane that’s effectively impervious to the elements.
Health - Injuries Xodus 3 for the Peregrine this year, and it’s worth mentioning. The Xodus is a newer model in Saucony’s trail running lineup, with a broader platform and a slightly more generous fit. But the lugs wore down fairly quickly, becoming noticeably dull and losing traction after just 200 miles of moderate hiking. But if you like Saucony’s feel and are looking for something with a taller stack and wider platform, the Xodus is worth checking out.
Key Specs
| Weight | 1 lb. 2.8 oz. (M) | 1 lb. 1.1 oz. (W) |
|---|---|
| Drop | 4mm |
| Material | Synthetic, mesh |
Pros
- Excellent support around the upper
- Nimble feel for technical terrain
Cons
- La Sportiva’s sizing can run small, consider sizing up
While this is technically a trail running shoe, I use the Akasha primarily for hiking. I find it a little stiff for true trail running, but the low weight combined with added support makes for a perfect hiking shoe on tricky terrain.
This is my go-to for steep, off-camber routes where I want a combination of excellent traction, nimbleness, and support through the upper. This shoe is agile without losing support, thanks in part to the proprietary overlays and TPU “exoskeleton” that wraps from the midsole around to the laces. The zoned rubber and 4.5mm lugs are reliable and stable on everything from steep mud to loose rocks, and it has foot-hugging stabilization through the midsole to reduce torsional wobble. I.e, fewer rolled ankles.
This shoe was an absolute lifesaver on a trip in Montana’s Beartooth mountains that involved very steep, loose, off-trail scrambling. I needed reliable traction for the loose shale and scree, a tightly wrapped, supportive upper, and a flexible chassis for running portions once we were off the steep stuff. This shoe did it all, and I was grateful every minute I didn’t take a flimsier pair of shoes. If you do want a more structured pair, La Sportiva has several stiffer hiking shoes like the Spire GTX.
Key Specs
| Weight | 1 lb. 5.5 oz. (M) | 1 lb. 2.4 oz. (W) |
|---|---|
| Drop | 6mm |
| Material | Synthetic, mesh |
What Shoes to Lace Up and Gear to Bring on Your Next Hike, According to Expert Maggie Slepian
Do you prefer your hiking shoes to have a waterproof membrane or not?
I prefer a non-waterproof hiking shoe. I have one pair of winter hiking boots with insulation and waterproof protection, but for my three-season shoes, I find the lighter weight and increased breathability make up for most of the benefits of a waterproof membrane.
I wear mostly low-top shoes, so I’m likely to get my feet wet during creek crossings anyway, because the water will come in through the top of the shoe regardless of whether or not it is waterproof. I always wear wicking socks, so if my feet get wet, my socks help them dry quickly, and a non-waterproof shoe is going to dry faster than a saturated waterproof shoe.
Is it okay to wear road running shoes or sneakers while hiking? When should you upgrade to shoes designed specifically for trails?
though you might see his byline on II road-running shoes or sneakers while hiking. Most sneakers will have adequate midsole protection, secure lacing, and enough traction for easy to moderate trails. Once you get more into the backcountry or on more rugged and technical trails, I’d recommend switching to a hiking-specific shoe or a trail-running shoe.
Trail running shoes or hiking shoes will typically have a deeper lug pattern optimized for traction on a variety of surfaces, as well as increased protection through the midsole for rocky, rooty terrain that might feel like it’s bruising your feet in a lighter pair of road-running shoes. But if you’re just starting out or sticking to more maintained trails? Your road-running shoes will work just fine, though you should expect the soles to wear out faster.
The Best Adidas Running Shoes for Every Runner?
We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back running-vest style pack (I love the Nathan Pinnacle 12), Credit: Trevor Raab light jacket like the Zonal rubber placement for better grip, and some quick energy like gels or Honey Stinger Waffles. If I’m heading out on an all-day hike where I know there’s water along the way, I carry a water bottle with a filter like the Sawyer Squeeze screwed on top, and an extra lightweight-but-warm layer like the Single-pull lace system.
Maggie Slepian is a full-time freelance writer in the outdoor industry and has tested gear professionally for almost ten years—she is an avid backpacker, trail runner, bikepacker, and horseback rider and has thru-hiked thousands of miles on the Appalachian, Colorado, and Ouachita trails, along with backcountry travel on terrain including coastal trails, the desert, and high alpine peaks. Maggie has written for New York Magazine, Huffington Post, REI, and Outside. She is a columnist with Backpacker Magazine and is the co-founder of BackpackingRoutes.com. Contact her at MaggieSlepian.com.
Adam Schram is an Assistant Editor of Commerce at Runner's World, Lugs provide traction without feeling too bulky Bicycling and Popular Mechanics, too. A lover of all things outdoors, Adam's writing career comes after six years as a bike mechanic in his hometown of State College, PA. His journalism experience is steeped in cycling and running gear reviews, and he's also a published creative nonfiction and satire author. When he's not writing, riding, or running, you can catch Adam at home mixing cocktails, watching Star Wars, or trying in vain to do the Sunday crossword. You can check out his latest work below.
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