10 Best Hiking Shoes Men 2025 in the United States

The Merrell Men's Moab 3 Hiking Shoe is designed for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a reliable and comfortable footwear option. One of its key strengths lies in the combination of leather, mesh, and nylon materials, which provide both durability and breathability. The shoe features a rubber sole that enhances traction, making it suitable for various terrains, and the Vibram TC5+ rubber sole is particularly effective in providing grip on slippery surfaces. With a heel height of one inch and an EVA foam midsole, these shoes offer decent stability and comfort for medium-length hikes.

The shoe's waterproofing is another highlight, as it utilizes a pigskin leather upper and a protective toe cap, keeping your feet dry in wet conditions. The bellows tongue is a nice addition, helping to keep out debris while you traverse different environments. The Kinetic Fit ADVANCED insole provides reinforced heel cushioning, contributing to comfort during extended wear, which is essential for hiking.

There are some drawbacks to consider. While most users find them comfortable, some might feel that the shoe could be a bit heavy for longer hikes, especially when compared to trail running shoes. Additionally, the care instructions specify hand washing only, which might be less convenient for those who prefer machine washability. Lastly, while the shoe offers good ankle support, it is not a high-top style, so those needing additional ankle protection might want to consider alternatives.

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 KEEN Men's Targhee 3 Low Waterproof Hiking Shoes offer a solid choice for hikers who want reliable protection and comfort on a variety of trails. These shoes feature a waterproof KEEN.DRY membrane that keeps your feet dry by letting sweat escape while blocking water from outside. Made with durable leather and breathable mesh, they balance toughness with ventilation, making them suitable for active use. The shoes have a protective rubber toe guard and a bruise plate underneath, which helps shield your feet from rough terrain.

Traction is strong thanks to KEEN’s all-terrain rubber outsole with 4mm multi-directional lugs, providing good grip on muddy or rocky paths. Ankle support is moderate, with a mid-cut height and an external support shank that add stability without restricting movement too much. The fit is roomy, especially around the toes, which is great if you want a bit more space for comfort during long hikes. The removable footbed offers arch support and cushioning that holds up well over time. One thing to keep in mind is that these shoes are a bit on the heavier side compared to trail runners, so they might feel bulkier if you prefer very lightweight footwear.

Also, while the leather is durable, it requires some care like brushing and occasional cleaning to keep it looking good. These hiking shoes are well-suited for those who need dependable waterproof shoes with good traction and comfort for day hikes or moderate trails.