10 Best Hiking Shoes Men 2025 in the United States

The Columbia Mens Transverse Waterproof Hiking Boot is a solid choice for men looking for a reliable hiking shoe that combines comfort, durability, and protection. Its waterproof OMNI-TECH construction ensures your feet stay dry during moderate rain or snow, which is great for unpredictable weather on trails. The shoe’s TECHLITE midsole provides lightweight cushioning and good shock absorption, making it comfortable for longer hikes without feeling heavy. You’ll appreciate the ankle-height design which offers a decent balance of support to help prevent injuries on uneven terrain, though it’s not a full boot for extreme ankle protection. The upper is a mix of durable leather and breathable mesh, which helps with ventilation while still being sturdy.

Traction is handled well by the OMNI-GRIP rubber sole, which has a tread pattern designed to grip rocks, dirt, and gravel in both wet and dry conditions. This means you can expect stable footing on various trail surfaces. Weight-wise, the shoe leans toward being lighter than traditional hiking boots, making it easier to carry over long distances. One thing to note is that the shaft height is relatively low (ankle level with 1-inch circumference), so if you need heavy-duty ankle support or plan on tackling very rough terrain regularly, this might feel a bit less protective than taller boots. These boots are ideal for day hikers or those on moderate trails who want waterproofing, comfort, and good traction without the bulk of heavier boots.

The Merrell Men's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is a solid choice for hikers looking for reliable support and comfort on the trail. It features a waterproof membrane that keeps your feet dry while allowing moisture to escape, which helps prevent sweating inside the boot. The upper combines durable pigskin leather with breathable mesh, providing a good balance between protection and ventilation. The shoe includes a protective toe cap to guard against rocks and debris, and a bellows tongue design helps keep dirt out.

Comfort-wise, the boot offers a contoured insole with reinforced heel cushioning and an EVA foam midsole that adds stability without feeling heavy. The lightweight design (around 11.7 ounces) means it won’t slow you down, and Merrell’s Air Cushion in the heel helps absorb shock for extra comfort on rough terrain. The Vibram TC5+ rubber outsole delivers solid traction, which is important for maintaining grip on slippery or uneven surfaces.

Ankle support is moderate, thanks to the mid-height shaft that provides some protection without restricting movement too much. This makes the boot versatile for various hiking conditions but may not be ideal if you need maximum ankle stabilization for very challenging trails. One minor downside is that the shaft circumference is quite narrow (4 inches), which might feel tight for people with wider ankles. Also, while the boot offers good waterproofing, it might take a little time to break in fully due to the sturdy materials. The Moab 3 Mid Waterproof is well suited for casual to moderate hikers who want a durable, comfortable, and fairly lightweight boot with dependable waterproofing and traction. It may be less suitable if you require extra-wide fit or maximum ankle support for very rugged hikes.

The Timberland Men's Anti-Fatigue Hiking Waterproof Leather Mt. Maddsen Boot is a solid choice for those looking for a reliable hiking shoe that combines comfort and durability. One of its standout features is the premium full-grain waterproof leather, which ensures your feet stay dry even in wet conditions, thanks to the TimberDry waterproof membrane. This is particularly beneficial for hikers who venture out in unpredictable weather.

Comfort is another strong point, owing to the anti-fatigue technology designed to provide support during long hikes. The fully gusseted tongue helps keep debris out, enhancing the overall hiking experience. With a 5-inch shaft height, it also offers decent ankle support, which is important for navigating uneven terrain.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. While the leather material offers durability, it can take some time to break in, which might lead to discomfort during the initial hikes. Additionally, although the boot is relatively lightweight, some users might find it bulkier compared to other hiking shoes on the market. Traction is provided by a rubber sole, but in very muddy or slippery conditions, it may not grip as well as specialized hiking shoes with aggressive tread patterns.