10 Best Hiking Boots of 2024

Hiking boots are a must have for every outdoor enthusiast. As a wildland fireline paramedic, I have a pair of boots for just about every situation. From my 10″ high White’s Smokejumper boots to my trail running shoes, every environment and adventure requires a specific boot. Midweight hiking boots offer a balance of flexibility and support, making them suitable for various hiking intensities, including day hikes.

I’ve put together a quick list of 10 boots I think are a good all around. When it comes to most hiking boots you can spend so much money. I tried to include a couple of the expensive men’s hiking boots but mostly boots that are midrange priced. These boots get my seal of approval. Enjoy.

Quick Jump Guide

1. Salomon Quest 4D 4 GTX

2. Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof

3. La Sportiva TX4 Mid GTX

4. Keen Targhee III Mid Waterproof

5. Salomon X Ultra Mid 4 GTX

6. Vasque Breeze LT Mid GTX

7. Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof

8. Danner Mountain 600

9. Adidas Terrex Free Hiker

10. Keen Women’s Terradora II Mid Waterproof

Choosing the Right Hiking Boots

Choosing the right hiking boots can be a daunting task, especially for those new to hiking. With so many options available, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure you find the perfect pair for your needs.

Intended Usage

Before selecting a pair of hiking boots, consider how you plan to use them. Will you be using them for day hikes, backpacking trips, or mountaineering? Different activities require different types of boots, so it’s crucial to choose a pair that’s designed for your intended use.

For example, if you’ll be doing a lot of backpacking, you’ll want a pair of boots with good ankle support and a sturdy sole to handle the weight of your pack. On the other hand, if you’ll be doing mostly day hikes, a lighter, more flexible boot may be a better option.

Factors to Consider

In addition to intended usage, there are several other factors to consider when choosing a pair of hiking boots. These include:

• Terrain: Will you be hiking on smooth trails or rough, rocky terrain? If you’ll be hiking on rough terrain, you’ll want a pair of boots with good traction and ankle support.

• Weather: Will you be hiking in wet or dry conditions? If you’ll be hiking in wet conditions, you’ll want a pair of boots with a waterproof membrane to keep your feet dry.

• Foot type: Do you have flat feet, high arches, or another foot type? Different foot types require different types of boots, so it’s essential to choose a pair that’s designed for your foot type.

• Personal preference: Do you prefer a lightweight, flexible boot or a more supportive, sturdy boot? Ultimately, the best pair of boots is one that feels comfortable and supportive to you.

Types of Hiking Boots

There are several types of hiking boots available, each designed for specific activities and terrain.

Traditional Hiking Boot

Traditional hiking boots are designed for backpacking and mountaineering. They typically have a sturdy sole, good ankle support, and a waterproof membrane to keep your feet dry. They’re often made with full-grain leather and have a more substantial build than lightweight hiking boots.

Traditional hiking boots are ideal for:

• Backpacking trips

• Mountaineering

• Hiking on rough, rocky terrain

Some popular traditional hiking boots include:

• Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot

• Salomon Quest 4 Gore-Tex Hiking Boot

• La Sportiva TX4 Mid GTX Hiking Boot

Here We Go

1. Salomon Quest 4D 4 GTX

The Salomon Quest 4D 4 GTX is for long expeditions and tough conditions. The QUEST is grippy and supportive. We’ve updated the chassis to target sensitive articulations and wrap the foot for extra support while keeping your stride fluid. No matter how tired you are or how heavy your pack the QUEST 4 GORE-TEX will give you a stable yet smooth ride on any backpacking trip.

• These boots are expensive but worth it. You won’t be disappointed.

Rating: 9.5/10

Cost: $226.71

Features:

GORE-TEX: Keeps your feet dry—outside and inside.

Contagrip TD: For maximum traction on mixed terrain and extended durability, Contagrip TD combines a deep, aggressive lug pattern with our most durable compound.

ADV-C 4D Chassis: This chassis protects outer ankle articulations and brings the right level of stability and extra heel support when carrying a heavy load.

TOMORROW IS YOURS: Whether you’re into trail running, hiking, backpacking or mountaineering Salomon has shoes and gear for kids, men and women to help you go further, faster or conquer a new distance, personal record or event

SINCE 1947 Salomon has been creating innovative outdoor sports gear; From running and hiking to backpacking trips, skiing and more, our shoes, boots, bags, apparel and accessories help you make any path your own.

Reviews:

2. Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof

The Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof is a budget boot.

Experience out of the box comfort with durable leathers, supportive footbed and Vibram traction in one package. You’ll see why Moab stands for MOTHER OF ALL BOOTS.

Rating: 8.5/10

Cost: $109.95

Features:

• Performance suede leather and mesh upper

• Bellows and closed-cell foam tongue keeps moisture and debris out

• Merrell air cushion in the heel absorbs shock and adds stability

• Rubber toe cap, Breathable mesh lining

• 10 x 15 x 6 inches; 1.2 lbs

• Vibram TC5+ sole, 5mm lug depth

Reviews:

3. La Sportiva TX4 Mid GTX

As technical, mid-cut, waterproof leather boots, La Sportiva TX4 Mid GTX approach boots are designed for technical mountain terrain with Vibram® Megagrip soles.

More expensive but the TX4 makes up for it with aggressive tread. This is a tech approach boot that covers all hiking boot needs. With aggressive tread they are also heavier.

Rating: 9/10

Cost: $208.95

Features:

Weight: 16.20oz / 460g

Laces: 100% Recycled Polyester

Upper: Leather / 1.5mm PU TechLite rand / Rubber toe cap

Lining: Gore-Tex® Extended Comfort

Insole: OrthoLite Hybrid with 5% recycled rubber + 15% production waste foam

Midsole: Traverse injection MEMlex / STB™ Control System

Sole: Vibram® Mega-Grip™ Traverse with Impact Brake System™

• Gore-Tex lining for maximum breathability, water resistance and comfort

• Uber-sticky Vibram Mega-Grip rubber outsole with Impact Brake System for increased traction

• STB Control System upper wraps the midsole in the medial zone, increasing stability on traverse routes and wrapping the foot for a comfortable and precise fit

Reviews:

4. Keen Targhee III Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots

The Keen Targhee III Mid Waterproof is an iconic hiking boot for men. Keen brings an updated look to all-terrain adventures. They kept the fit, durability and performance of our award winning Targhee waterproof boot and took its rugged looks to a new level. If you are looking for mid waterproof hiking boots, look no further.

This is a classic for many hikers, proven time and time again to withstand Mother Nature. Keen’s Targhee III Mid Waterproof is the standard for a great all-around boot.

Rating: 8.8/10

Cost: $88.92

Features:

WATERPROOF & PROTECTION: Keen.dry breathable membrane keeps feet dry and comfortable by allowing vapor out without letting water in. Bruise plate for protection on uneven surfaces; high-abrasion rubber toe guard for added durability and underfoot protection.

MATERIAL & CONSCIOUSLY CREATED: Premium leather and breathable performance mesh; quick dry lining for active use; Keen sources hides from leather working group certified tanneries; environmentally friendly DWR helps keep leather from drying out.

TRACTION: Keen all-terrain rubber for high traction in muddy environments and on rocky surfaces; 4mm multi direction lugs for optimal traction. Non marking rubber outsoles won’t leave imprints when walking indoors.

SUPPORT & COMFORT: External Support Shank and mid-cut heights for balance and ankle support. Heel cradle for stability; Removable footbed with arch support cradles to the foot’s shape; Resilient cushioning doesn’t compress quickly after extended use.

FIT & CARE: Keen original fit gives room for toes to spread out; gently brush leather with a soft bristle brush or hand towel to remove loose dirt and debris; tough stains may require a leather cleaner.

Value: It’s a bargain but if you have narrower feet, you may find them too roomy. A good and affordable option for multiple hiking uses.

Reviews:

5. Salomon X Ultra Mid 4 GTX

Power through steep trails, uphills and downhills with the mid-cut GORE-TEX version of the updated X-ULTRA 4. As agile as a trail running shoe but with all the stability, grip and waterproof protection you need for technical terrain. New chassis protects sensitive areas without compromising movement.

Power through uphills and downhills with this mid-cut GORE-TEX version of the updated X-ULTRA 4. As agile as a trail running shoe but with all the stability, grip and waterproof toe protection you need for technical terrain.

Rating: 9.4/10

Cost: $175

Features:

Waterproof Hiking Shoes: Power through uphills and downhills with the mid height X Ultra 4 GTX; It has the agility of a trail running shoe with the stability, grip, and waterproof protection.

All Terrain Grip: New chassis protects sensitive areas without compromising movement; Contagrip MA outsole grips the terrain even when wet or slippery.

Adventure Awaits: Local day hike or multi-day adventure, Salomon has hiking and backpacking shoes and boots for men and women to go the distance.

Time To Play: Trail running, hiking, backpacking, mountaineering, Salomon has shoes and gear for kids, men and women to go further, beat a personal record or an event.

Since 1947 Salomon has been making outdoor sports gear; From running and hiking to backpacking, skiing and more, our shoes, boots, bags, apparel and accessories help you make any path your own.

Reviews:

6. Vasque Breeze LT Mid GTX Lightweight Hiking Boot

Vasque Breeze LT Mid GTX has a lightweight design, Vibram LiteBase outsole and GORE-TEX protection.

Challenging trails and fickle forecasts ahead? No problem if you’re wearing Vasque Breeze AT Mid GTX hiking boots. These grippy, waterproof hikers will get you through whatever your route has in store.

Rating: 8.7/10

Cost: $ 150

Features:

• Vasque-exclusive outsoles combine Vibram® Megagrip with Vibram LiteBase technology, grip any surface and save 25% of weight.

• GORE-TEX® construction with extended comfort technology, waterproof and comfortable for long hikes.

• Uppers made with abrasion-resistant, microfiber mesh for an athletic, responsive ride, purpose-built for trail miles.

• Moisture-wicking materials to reduce sweat buildup

• Anatomic, high-rebound footbeds for support and shock absorption

• EnduraLast midsoles with dual-density, compression-molded EVA for cushioning

Reviews

7. Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof

Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof has a leather upper, Omni-Grip and Techlite cushioning.

Finally a waterproof hiking boot with comfort and traction for tough trails, easy walks and everything in between. The Newton Ridge™ Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Boot is made from high quality materials, quality assembly and strong stitching. It’s a rugged, trail-ready boot for long lasting hiking wear. Lace up and go.
These hiking boots have waterproof seam-sealed construction with full-grain leather and suede upper, mesh tongue, scratch-resistant rubber heel and outdoor lace hardware. This is the secure and stable traditional hiking boot you want for long hikes over uneven and rugged terrain. Columbia has these lightweight hiking boots in several color options and true-to-size.

Rating: 8.4/10

Cost: $75

Features:

ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY: Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Boot has seam-sealed leather construction with TECHLITE lightweight midsole for long-lasting comfort with superior cushioning and high energy return.

DURABLE HIKING BOOT: Women’s lightweight hiking boot inspired by classic mountaineering boots. A durable, mid-cut waterproof hiker with great traction and comfort. This classic Columbia hiking boot will last for years.

ALL TERRAIN TRACTION: Our Omni-GRIP non-marking traction rubber outsole for high traction on all terrain and three-season use.

HIGHLIGHTS: Worry-free days on the trail with waterproof leather and suede construction.

TOE AND HEEL REINFORCEMENT: Designed for long lasting use we’ve reinforced the toe and heel barriers and extended the outsole toe overwrap to protect these high wear areas.

Reviews:

8. Danner Mountain 600

Danner Mountain 600 has full-grain leather upper, Vibram SPE midsole and Danner Dry waterproofing.

Explore Beyond the Familiar!

We partnered with Vibram to create a new kind of hiking boot for men and women. Inspired by decades of legendary hiking boots we define a new category of hiking boots we call Performance Heritage. A classic styling with lightweight innovation. Explore beyond the familiar.

Rating: 9/10

Cost: $209.95

Features:

Vibram SPE Midsole

The Danner Mountain 600 has the Vibram SPE (Specialized Performance Elastomer) midsole, a brand new technical compound that provides more comfort and flexibility. A co-polymer blend of synthetic and natural rubber and EVA this midsole is more resilient, cushioned and durable and lighter.

Waterproof Protection

We took everything we learned building full leather hiking boots and applied it to the Mountain 600. We selected a specific suede for the boot knowing it was lighter, waterproof and more abrasion resistant than other suedes. We designed the lightweight boot to have minimal seams and lined it with Danner Dry to make it waterproof in the wettest conditions.

Vibram Fuga Outsole with MegaGrip

By combining the SPE midsole with the Vibram Fuga outsole we were able to get the perfect balance of flexibility and traction. The pliable SPE midsole and flex lines of the Fuga outsole allow your foot to spread to a wider surface while the self-adaptive lug pattern grips at multiple angles. This gives you stability when hiking on rocky terrain or scree. The entire outsole is injected with Vibram’s Megagrip rubber for grip on wet and dry terrain.

9. Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2 Gor-Tex

Take your hiking to the next level with Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2 Gore-Tex. These shoes combine sleek design with rugged performance. Conquer any terrain with style and performance.

Hike further. Explore more. Enjoy the view. From thru-hikes to weekend adventures these lightweight hiking shoes offer next level comfort and support to take you further in the mountains.

Rating: 9.5/10

Cost: $183.95

Featuring:

A BOOST midsole gives energy back to every step to keep you moving on long and short hikes. A GORE-TEX membrane keeps wet conditions out while letting your feet breathe as they warm up. The soft, supportive upper and gusseted tongue wraps your foot in form fitting comfort that keeps trail debris out.

Internal frame and heel support gives you stability to move with confidence on rocky uneven terrain and uneven ground and the Continental Rubber outsole gives you confident traction wet or dry.

Reviews:

10. Keen Women’s Terradora II Mid Waterproof

We kept everything women love about the original Terradora and added more performance, more comfort and more traction – so you can go further and stay out longer.

Waterproof, lightweight mesh construction Made to a woman’s specific foot shape and form for a narrower fit

KEEN products are made with a natural, pesticide-free probiotic-based technology called Eco Anti-Odor to break down odor in sweat, PFC-free water repellent (in applicable styles) and leather from Leather Working Group (LWG) certified tanneries.

KEEN makes shoes to make a difference. From the products we make to the actions we take, KEEN inspires people to live and work monumentally every day. As a brand born for life outside, KEEN has a responsibility to protect and conserve the places where we all live, play and work.

Rating: 8.9/10

Cost: $65

Features:

KEEN.DRY waterproof breathable membrane to keep your feet dry and comfortable all day long by letting vapor out not in

TRACTION & PROTECTION: 4mm multi directional lugs for more traction on and off the trails; KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole for more traction when you need it

COMFORT: Breathable mesh lining; Removable dual density footbed with arch support for long lasting cushioning

SUPPORT: KEEN’s KonnectFit heel capture system for a locked in feel; Built on a women’s specific foot form for a more narrow and precise fit; Stability shank for lightweight support on uneven surfaces

FIT: Built on a women’s specific foot form for a more narrow and precise fit

Reviews:

Well that’s the end of our list, but not to say there are not other great boots out there. We will continue to update with new and improved products.

Choosing your boots can be a pain and overwhelming but once you find your pair you’ll buy them over and over again. Research and just trying them out sometimes are necessary.

Whether you’re a serious long distance and multi day backpacker or just a stroll around the park, there’s an option for everyone even the ladies. We’ve highlighted the features, reviews, ratings and recommendations for these great products.

Hope you enjoyed it. Check out our social media to stay up to date with Hiking Medic.

Thanks,

-Hiking Medic