Best Hiking Boots for Men in 2021

Let’s start with our best choice: Saloman Quest’s Men’s Backpacking boots. Like most of the boots on this list, they come with a standard rubber sole for good grip on most kinds of outdoor terrain. Saloman has also developed a 4D Advanced Chassis to guide the foot, suitable for when the landscape starts getting rough. It also helps to reduce fatigue during extended periods of trekking. These gore-tex boots keep your feet dry on the trail. They are comfortable because the 4D Advanced Chassis enables more forefoot flexion. The rubber sole is improved to ensure a sturdier grip on all surfaces.

We have covered our best choice, so why not show you our pick for the best value? Merrell has developed a waterproof boot with a sturdy rubber sole, making it ideal for hiking during a wet season. It’s reinforced by the M Select Dry Barrier, which is a waterproof-breathable membrane. Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots are very comfortable, and the membrane keeps out water while also allowing internal moisture to evaporate. An advanced Kinetic Fit removable contoured insole supports the heel and arch structure, absorbing shock. Although we do not advise jumping from heights and landing, the soles do stand up to a fair bit of stress.

Our third spot goes to Keen and their Targhee II Waterproof Hiking Boots. These comfortable, rubber-soled boots are made from 100% waterproof Nubuck leather, the heels measure at approximately 1.5 inches. They have a breathable membrane which seals out water while allowing internal moisture to evaporate. You can go all day wearing these, and they will feel as comfortable as they did the minute you put them on. The leather treatment is a PFC-free water repellent, so there are no harmful chemicals. These all-terrain boots have a high-traction grip for all environments. The rubber outsoles are non-marking, so you will not leave a trackable trail; additionally, it comes with an external support shank, which adds support to the ankles and helps you maintain balance.

For more quality footwear for outdoor adventures, check out our guide to the best mountaineering boots.

Probably one of the more durable boots we have on this list, the rubber outsole has multi-directional lugs to support traction for a wide variety of terrain. When out walking on uneven surfaces, this helps you keep your balance as well as navigate rough patches. The shaft measures approximately 5 inches from the arch, with a 1.5-inch heel so you can experience a bit of lift. NORTIV 8 Men’s Ankle High Waterproof Hiking Boots also have a waterproof lining and are slip-resistant. While not recommended for sustained wet conditions, should you find yourself walking through a small stretch of water, or out in the rain, your feet will be kept nice and dry. They also feature a cushioned EVA footbed to support the arch of the foot, as well as provide comfort.

For more like this, check out our top hiking shoes list.

Our next spot goes to a brand well-known for top-quality hiking and dress boots, Timberland! The shaft measures approximately five inches from the arch, and the platform comes in at about half-an-inch. The White Ledge Hiking Boot has a premium, full-grain waterproof upper, the seams sealed with waterproof construction, and the lace hooks are rustproof. The closure design lets you lace up the boots quickly and securely. Not only are these Timberland shoes sturdy and suitable for trail walking, but they also look fashionable and will not look out of place for casual wear.

Vasque’s entry onto this list is the Talus Trek UltraDry Hiking Boot. The boot is well designed, using good quality materials such as XSTrek rubber in the Vibram Nuasi sole, which molded with compounded, angular, multi-directional lugs for strong traction while out on the trail. It’s difficult to slip in these boots. The toe of the boot has a rubber sidewall wrap to improve stability and give extra protection while out and about on rocky trails. This lightweight boot comes with athletic EVA midsole cushioning for a nimble, comfortable feel while walking. The upper part of the boot features 1.8mm waterproof Nubuck leather, joined with a breathable, abrasion-resistant polyamide mesh, making it suitable for warm conditions. It’s easy to lace up using a simple speed-lacing setup. Vasque has also included their UltraDry membrane for extra peace of mind for messy weather conditions.

You may also be interested in some of the best water shoes for hiking from our list.

The seventh spot goes to our absolute premium choice: Scarpa’s Zodiac Plus GTX. Made with GORE-TEX Performance Comfort, these boots keep your feet bone-dry while out on the trail. They have a strong rubber sole, not the sturdiest we’ve ever encountered, but it does stand up to a fair bit of wear and tear. The shaft measures at about six inches from the arch of the foot, giving excellent coverage. It laces up with an asymmetric lace system for a precise fit and has Sock-Fit DV construction for a snug fit, and to reduce that bulky feeling you get when wearing hiking socks with the boots.

The eighth spot on this list goes to Columbia’s Newton Ridge Plus II, which features a synthetic sole and a shaft that measures ankle-high from the arch of the foot. The platform is approximately one inch high. The Newton Ridge Plus II features stylish and practical construction. The lace-up closure ensures a comfortable and secure fit from the moment you lace up for the first time. This boot is a mix of faux leather, breathable mesh, and waterproof suede, so this boot is going to keep your foot dry and comfortable for the duration of your hike.

The Newton Ridge Plus II features a signature, lightweight midsole to add to comfort, offering superior cushioning compared to other boots on the market. Additionally, the synthetic sole has a multidirectional grip, so you can maintain your balance while out hiking. The sole has a specially-crafted dual track, which makes it ideal for use during winter, although we do advise caution. This feature also helps reduce the risk of slipping. Additionally, the seam-sealed construction is built for durability, withstanding rain, muck, and generally anything the elements can throw at it.

For more quality footwear, check out our selection of these long-lasting rain boots, and pick your favorite pair.

Our next boot comes from the North Face. The Hedgehog Fastpack Mid GTX Hiking Boot boasts a leather upper, fabric lining, and lace-up closure. The shank is five inches high, the opening is 11 inches wide, and there is a classic lace-up closure. The eyelets are rustproof and will not break after wear and tear. Additionally, it comes with a protective steel toe cap. These boots come with TPU-CRADLE heel-stabilizing technology to help you when you are descending steep hills, as well as compression-molded EVA midsole cushioning. Your arches will thank you for this, as it helps to ease the tension from other parts of your foot. The breathable fabric lining, and GORE-TEX membrane, have a great in-shoe feel, nice and comfortable, and offer waterproof protection from the elements.

Feel free to wear them as your winter boots.

Our last boot is from the lesser-known brand, RAX. The Wild Wolf Mid Venture Hiking Boots boast a sturdy rubber sole and suede leather upper combined with breathable lycra and an adjustable lace-up vamp for comfort. These boots are also waterproof and have a padded tongue that keeps out debris and water so that you can continue your hike or backpacking adventure in comfort. The midsole is made of EVA cushioning, so it molds to the shape of your foot. The multi-directional traction rubber outsole helps you keep a steady path while out on the trail. There’s also an extra element of protection, as the toe has a protective rubber wrap to shield the toes.

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