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18 Sturdy & Stylish Hiking Boots Online-Shoppers Swear By
When it comes to hiking boots, we don’t go by looks alone (as much as we really, really want to). These performance-grade kicks need to hold up to a host of elements — rain, snow, sleet, mud, and more than a little sweat — while supporting our feet and ankles over oftentimes unpredictable terrain. So, when shopping for a pair, there are lots of boxes to check off: are they waterproof? Lightweight? Deeply treaded? Equipped with enough cushioning for a day’s worth of comfy hoofing? And, finally, are they at least kinda cute?! Given the sky-high standards required of this workhorse outdoor footwear, there are enough reviews to fill an encyclopedia of online feedback — and we combed them all in order to hunt down the hiking boots with enough bells and whistles to satisfy five-star requirements. In perusing the wares of brands like Merrell, Columbia, Keen, Hoka, and Teva, we looked out for the highest praise and enough R29-approved style points to help them stand out from the pack. Ahead, 17 such boots that are supportive AND stylish enough to satisfy the internet’s most exacting shoppers (and hikers). Welcome to Hype Machine, our hit-list of the top reviewed products across the web — according to a crowd of die-hard shoppers. Call this your 4-star & up only club, with entry granted by our devoted-to-the-goods shop editorsAt Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team, but if you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-TexThe LighestSalomon is one of the biggest names in the hiking space — Footwear News reported that they were in the top five best-selling brands of 2020. While there are a lot of great things to be said about this shoe (including improved stability and advanced grippy treads), the one thing customers are really freaking out over are the shoe’s lighter-than-air properties.The Hype: 5 out of 5 stars; 14 reviews on Salomon.comWhat They’re Saying: “Love these boots. They are so light that when they arrived I thought I was going to find the box empty!Good traction and genius lacing system. Very comfortable from box to trail with no issues. Worth the price tag!” — MandyB, Salomon.com reviewerSalomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex, $, available at SalomonOn Cloudrock Waterproof BootThe Most MiraculousThere are more proprietary names on this super-engineered speed-hiking shoe than we can count, from MissionGrip (a super-traction-y rubber used for the outsole) to FlexLock (easy-tying laces) to Zero-Gravity CloudTec (cushy, comfy insoles). The mesh upper is waterproof and simultaneously breathable, and the whole shebang is up to 35% lighter than comparable styles — meaning that it can traverse almost any terrain with comfort and ease. Essentially, Cloudrock is a miracle. If you don’t believe us, read what the reviewers have to say.The Hype: 5 out of 5 stars; 33 reviews on OnRunningWhat They’re Saying: “On deserves much reverence and notoriety. Only can imagine the engineering and knowledge of human biomechanics that had to go in this…to have such an end result. I honestly feel lucky to have stumbled upon such an amazing hiking boot. Side note I’m from Florida. Afraid of injury I knew I really needed something next level, especially because I was not used to the kind of rough terrain in Tetons. I feel for an ‘amateur hiker’ these boots alone are going to add miles to my trip for me. I can go on and on but I’ll save you on that. Read the literature. Watch the ads. Everything they say about this boot and their products is absolutely true. The technology is really something you have to feel to believe. The most progressive I’ve seen in awhile truly groundbreaking and innovative. I not only have been completely sold and will only use the Cloudrocks for hiking trips I am completely sold and cannot wait to order my first pair of On Running shoes. I honestly won’t use any other brand from here on out that requires shoes for rigorous activity. OR is my official brand for my feet from here on out. I can’t believe I’ve lived life this long without any of their products. Unreal. I’m beyond impressed.” — Rachel, OnRunning.com reviewerOn Running Cloudrock Waterproof Boot, $, available at On RunningL.L. Bean Vista Mid HikersBest Vintage Sneaker Style (With Modern Engineering)Looking for a sneaker-styled boot with all of the advantages of modern hiking footwear technology? Look no further than L.L. Bean’s Vista Mid Hikers. It boasts a waterproof construction and cushy EVA midsole for a supportive fit, while a suede upper gives it that vintage-inspired je ne sais quois.The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars; 4 reviews on Zappos.comWhat They’re Saying: “Definitely recommended. These shoes are great! Plenty comfy. Plenty warm (just walked 3 miles in a mix of snow and dirt). Feet are dry. Plus I personally think they are stylish. Good go to kicks for winter when you don’t want to wear a sluggish winter boot. I usually wear a 9.5 in running shoes and a 9 in dress shoes. I ended up with a 9.” — Anonymous, Zappos.com reviewerL.L. Bean Vista Mid Hikers, $, available at ZapposKamik Rogue Hiker BootThe SleekestReviewers loved the streamlined profiled of these ankle-covering hiking boots — they stand out from the pack of predominantly bulky outdoor footwear.The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars, 47 reviews on DSW.comWhat They’re Saying: “Bought these because I’m 100% over wearing my cumbersome Sorel boots. I wanted something that wasn’t your standard clunky boot. These are perfect, staying warm and dry without that winter-boot bulk. I’ll easily wear these through spring, too. I had read other reviews, and my advice is to give them a chance, they break in super fast. If you’re having issues with anything digging into your feet or ankles, it’s likely the leather, where it’s folded inside the boot, as the tongue is all one piece with the boot. Smooth the folds and you’re set.” — Jenaxib, DSW.com reviewerKamik Rogue Hiker Boot, $, available at DSWKamik Rogue Hiker Waterproof BootThe Warmest Reviewers find these waterproof leather boots to be super-toasty, thanks to a wool ankle cuff, insulated lining, and sealed seams. Satisfied customers hailing from North America’s coldest climes — Canada, Minnesota, Chicago, Boston — found the boots to chic enough for the office but sturdy enough for light hikes in extreme temperatures. The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars, 47 reviews on DSW.comWhat They’re Saying: “I purchased these boots for a trip to Iceland to replace my current hiking shoes. I wanted something that would cover my ankles and also was waterproof. These were great shoes — comfy, stylish, and held up well for all the walking I did.” — Moonlily, DSW.com reviewerKamik RogueHiker Waterproof Hiking Boot, $, available at DSWOboz Sapphire Mid B-Dry Waterproof Hiking BootThe Most WaterproofThe yuckiest thing about waterproof hiking boots is that they can also keep water in, making your feet awfully clammy as you navigate all of those switchbacks. Luckily, Oboz’s proprietary waterproofing system, B-DRY, lets sweat escape while still keeping moisture out, making these boots waterproof both inside and out.The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars, 114 reviews on AmazonWhat They’re Saying: “Not only are these great boots, but Oboz has fabulous customer service. We put a couple of hundred miles on a pair of these; including some boot-challenging time in the Tetons and Zion. They were fantastic — comfortable, supportive, breathable, and solid – they even stayed dry after 1/2 hr climbing an active creek bed when other brands soaked their owners.” — TD Cook, Amazon.com reviewerOboz Sapphire Mid B-Dry Waterproof Hiking Boot, $, available at AmazonEddie Bauer K-6 BootThe Most Untouched By TimeTalk about a time-tested style — Eddie Bauer made this exact boot in 1964, and its popularity is unchecked in the present day. We can see why — behind the quaint leather exterior hides a workhorse shoe, with a stabilizing heel cup and superior forefoot support, and a Vibram outsole.The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars; 36 reviews on Amazon.comWhat They’re Saying: “I wasn’t sure about the white soles at first but I LOVE these. They have a really retro feel to them, are fully lined, have a comfortable sole, and are waterproof. They are roomy enough for thick socks, so are good for hikes in cold or wet weather. They are a bit on the heavy side, but not to the point of being unpleasant.” — Cookie Munster, Amazon.com reviewerEddie Bauer K-6 Boot, $, available at AmazonKeen Targhee III Waterproof Mid Hiking BootThe Most Tried-and-TrueKeen’s Targhee boot is a longtime best-seller for the brand, and it’s easy to see why. The shoe boasts a waterproof membrance, Leather Working Group-certified hide accents, a stable heel cup, multi-directional lugs for optimal sole traction, and — dare we say — a bit of stylish flair.The Hype: 4.2 out of 5 stars, 241 reviews on Keen.comWhat They’re Saying: “As is the usual for my Keen shoes/boots these Targhee III are a perfect fit right out of the box, no break in ever for me. I have several pair of Keen boots and they are all super comfortable, waterproof and sturdy. The footbeds have the shape of a foot not some cramped, narrow toe space. These shoes live up to their features in every way! I can order 9.5 size every time with no try on and know they will fit.” — JT, Keen.com reviewerKEEN Targhee III Waterproof Mid Hiking Boot, $, available at KeenTeva Grandview GTX BootThe RoomiestWe came for the becoming cobalt blue hue and stayed for the accolades of Teva’s lightweight and accommodating hiking boot. Many reviewers praised the boot’s comfort, wide toebox, waterproof construction, and buoyant design.The Hype: 4 out 5 stars; 33 reviews on ZapposWhat They’re Saying: “Just wore these boots straight out of the box on a moderate trail hike in a Michigan state park. They were great, lightweight but supportive. Plenty of grip, nice wide toe box, no slippage, flexible and my foot did not get too hot when worn with a thin wool sock. I will see how they hold up in rain and hotter/colder conditions (about 60 degrees today). A little bit of dirt came over the ankle collar but not distractingly bad. I am 7.5 in sandals/dress shoes and 8 in athletic shoes/boots, wide across my foot and I have a bunion on the left big toe. Got these in 8. These shoes did not rub anywhere and I had only the usual bunion soreness from long walks but no aggravation. They make a little noise hopefully that goes away with wear. I got the blue color and they are really cute, much more attractive than most hiking/walking shoes. Looks like Nike ACG. My husband got the men’s version in black and loves them.” — Anonymous, Zappos.com reviewerTeva Grandview GTX Boot, $, available at ZapposLa Sportiva Makalu BootThe Longest-LastingOur jaws dropped reading about the lifespans of these super-premium Italian hiking boots — multiple reviewers testified to their pairs remaining intact after 10, 12, and 15 years of regular wear and tear. The results seem unanimous — while these shoes are pricey, they are worth every penny. (The shoes are unisex, but listed in men’s sizes on Zappos, so ladies: calculate 1.5 sizes less than what you’d normally wear to find the correct fit.)The Hype: 4.8 out of 5 stars; 24 reviews on ZapposWhat They’re Saying: “I bought my first pair of La Sportiva Makalus in Fairbanks, Alaska in 1994. I wore them every day for 12 years until last year when the sole came apart from the boot. I recently bought a new pair and have been breaking them in daily. These are by far the best all-around boots ever. They’re built to last for years. They do take some time to break in, but are worth the time and the money.” — Brian L, Zappos.com reviewerLa Sportiva Karakorum Boot, $, available at ZapposAdidas Terrex Free Hiker Blue Hiking Shoes The Most ColorfulSurprisingly, Adidas makes a few fanatically rated-hiking boots, but their durable Terrex style offered the best combination of customer satisfaction and style, in our humble opinions. With a waterproof composition, sleek profile, and eye-catching color scheme, they’re the perfect pair to brighten up your spring outings. Even better? They’re made with Primeblue, Adidas’ proprietary blend of recycled material.The Hype: 4.7 out of 5 stars, 46 reviews on AdidasWhat They’re Saying: “I’ve been looking for new hiking boots for a while, these fit great, have good ankle support, and are such a fun color! I normally wear a 10-10.5 but bought an 11 in these since I prefer thicker hiking socks. So far they are really comfortable and haven’t given me blisters like other boots.” — Caroline, Adidas reviewerAdidas Terrex Free Hiker Primeblue Hiking Shoes, $, available at AdidasHoka One One Sky Toa ShoeThe Most BoostedNot only will the cerulean tones of Hoka’s top-reviewed hiking boots give you an endorphin boost — they’ll also put some pep in your step thanks to a comfort-driven construction that supports your skeleton.The Hype: 4.7 out of 5 stars; 57 reviews on REIWhat They’re Saying: “My nieces introduced me to the Hoka brand and I am thankful they did! I had a partial knee replacement 1 year ago so my running days are over. We have starting hiking, I initially had purchased another brand of hiking shoes which were nice and lightweight but zero cushioning. I was experiencing increase discomfort in my knee and was not able to do the longer hikes that I wanted to do. Purchased these Hoka hiking shoes WOW what a difference they have made. The cushioning and comfort is awesome! I love the stability the shoes provides and I am hiking the longer and steeper trails. Thank you Hoka for making an awesome shoe!” — Kat, REI.com reviewerHoka One One Sky Toa Shoe, $, available at REIColumbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking BootThe Undisputed ChampionAmazon is overflowing with lengthy, glowing reviews for this classic Columbia hiker, replete with more than a few photos of the chic boot tromping through a host of far-flung mountainous locales. One of them was posted by an actual Sherpa. (Seriously — they provided a link to their website.) If that doesn’t count as the most ringing endorsement of all time, we don’t know what does.The Hype: 4.8 out of 5 stars; 4,304 reviews on Amazon.comWhat They’re Saying: “I hike quite a bit because I am a SHERPA and I lead treks to Everest Base Camp, Nepal. I go through a lot of hiking shoes. This by far is the best hiking shoes I have owned. Very light and comfortable, also stylish. This summer I wore this shoe straight for 11 days (a 93-mile trek to Everest Base camp and back). I highly recommend this shoe!” — Anonymous Amazon.com reviewerColumbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Boot, $, available at AmazonForsake Patch Waterproof Light Hiking BootsBest City-to-Country BootIf your hike takes you on terrain that ranges from city to countryside, Forsake’s light hiking boots make for a stylish and practical choice. The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars; 198 reviews on MEC.com What They’re Saying: “Last year before COVID, I planned a trip to Iceland, Ireland, the UK, and France; and I needed a shoe that was going to be waterproof, comfortable and was also appealing. I had originally bought Keens and a couple of others, and I hated them. Someone on Instagram had these and they caught my eye. I found the website and took the plunge to order them, not having actually tried them in person. I have high-arched, wide, and flexible feet that tend to have a hard time finding appropriate shoes that support well enough. The very first try on and they felt perfect immediately. I was so surprised! I ended up wearing them on my month-long trek around Europe, hiking and walking in the cities and my feet were SO HAPPY. I had tracked that I walked 10 – 15 miles and 50 flights of stairs a day on my trip. I had other shoes that I took which were intended to be ‘comfort’ shoes and my Forsake boots were honestly better than the ones I intended to wear more. I am very very grateful to have found these! They were one of the best purchases I’ve made. I just say if you have any doubts, try them and see if they work! They were well worth the money and saved me so many blisters right out of the box and had fantastic support. I definitely plan on purchasing more.” — SeaPetra, MEC.com reviewerForsake Patch Waterproof Light Hiking Boots, $, available at MECSorel Emelie 1964 BootThe Most VersatileIn addition to being extraordinarily functional and waterproof, Sorel’s streamlined shoe is low-key enough to sneak into the office from time to time. The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars; 67 reviews on AmazonWhat They’re Saying: “The boots were a great fit and immediately comfortable – no breaking in required. The first day I wore them was in pouring rain and I walked comfortably for two miles. On subsequent days I walked four and five miles respectively and had no discomfort, rubbing, etc and dry feet. I was complimented on the boots several times, so they look good as well as being practical. With long(ish) black trousers it was possible to get away with them as smart work shoes.” — S Hamilton, Amazon.com reviewerSOREL Emelie 1964 Booties, $, available at AmazonSorel Emelie 1964 BootThe Best For Extreme DestinationsHas your footwear braved the Alaskan wilderness? One reviewer trusted Sorel’s Emelie boot on a camping trip in the Last Frontier, and the sturdy leather shoes didn’t disappoint.The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars; 67 reviews on AmazonWhat They’re Saying: “I bought these to camp with my husband in the woods of Alaska and they were perfect! Super comfortable and kept my feet dry in the rain! Easy to lace up and fit well with my warm thick socks! Would definitely buy another pair!” — AndyShadow, Moosejaw.com reviewerSOREL Emelie 1964 Booties, $, available at AmazonDanner Jag Waterproof Hiking BootThe Best CompromiseEven if you’re not climbing Mt. Everest, it’s still nice to have a sturdy, waterproof option for spending your days outdoors. Enter Danner’s Jag boot: a low-impact, rugged shoe that offers a little bit of everything: protection from the elements, comfort after miles of walking, and enough style points for everyday wear.The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars, 92 ratings on AmazonWhat They’re Saying: “I am an avid hiker on my downtime and also am a natural resource specialist for work, so I have been in desperate need of a good hiking boot without breaking the bank (and I was hoping for a more versatile look with the Danner Jag).I was nervous to go with this boot as there were not many reviews from those who purchased them for extensive hiking, so I will break down what found:The break-in of these boots was incredible. No matter what the quality I almost always get blisters when breaking in new boots, but not so with the Danner Jag. I wore them around town for a couple of days, then wore them for work (I hike/bushwack for work around 7 miles a day, so no small thing) for a week and they worked great. No blisters or sore feet at the end of the day.I haven’t fully tested the capability of the waterproofness of these boots, but they stood up to muck pretty well. Based on the fabric and when crossing a couple of streams they don’t appear to have the same waterproofness of other boots I’ve had in the past. However, they breathe well so there’s a tradeoff there.The grip of the tread works wonderfully on dry, rocky trails, fall leaves, and mucky surfaces. However be cautious on slick, wet surfaces such as stream rocks — the tread does not seem to grip well on wet uneven surfaces.Overall I am satisfied with my purchase considering what I was looking for. May not be the 100% best hardcore hiking boot but the ease of the break-in, the comfort, and the stylish appearance was worth some of the other drawbacks. Hoping they stand up to the test of time!” — Madison Ball, Amazon.com reviewerDanner Jag Waterproof Hiking Boot, $, available at AmazonScarpa Zodiac Plus GTX Backpacking BootThe Most Structured BootWe’d normally never recommend a shoe that reviewers find to be rigid, but when traversing mountainous terrain, a slightly stiff exterior can be a welcome layer of protection against unpredictable, rugged surfaces. More than one Backcountry reviewer went into rapturous detail about the boots’ tough, summit-ready properties.The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars; 5 reviews on Backcountry.comWhat They’re Saying: “I needed a solid mid hiker for high-mountain backpacking and off-trail hiking in general. I prefer leather uppers for longevity and maintenance. The Zodiac fits absolutely perfectly and is so comfortable right out of the box. The stiffness is also perfect for what I need it, rough terrain, but I don’t feel they are overly stiff like mountaineering boots. I have a slightly wider foot (not enough for a wide, though) and the slightly wider toe-box is great. I have worn it on some varied, muddy, rough terrain and absolutely love my purchase! This is BY FAR the best and most comfortable hiking boot I have ever owned, and I’ve owned a few. The traction and stability are amazing! I truly love this boot!” — Liv, Backcountry.com reviewerScarpa Zodiac Plus GTX Backpacking Boot, $, available at BackcountryKuru Chicane BootsBest For Foot IssuesThis Utah-based footwear imprint is beloved for a proprietary sole technology that cups the footbed and creates superior support. The label’s Chicane shoe offers a high cuff for ankle protection and a roomy toe box to accommodate foot issues like hammertoes and bunions. Reviewers that spend long days on their feet found them to be nothing short of miraculous.The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars; 1,060 reviews on KuruFootwear.comWhat They’re Saying: “I literally wear these all the time. My go to everyday shoe. I have boney toes and a narrow heel. I also have chronic achilles tendonitis. These provide support and cushioning. My toes are so much happier. They look a bit funky and I like that. Also make my size 10.5 feet appear smaller which is an added BONUS.” — MrsM, KuruFootwear.com reviewer Kuru Chicane Shoe, $, available at KuruMerrell Moab 2 Gore-Tex Hiking Boot Most ComfortableWhile many of the boots in this round-up have high comfort ratings, Merrell’s beloved Moab boot seems to take the cake — almost every review led with a mention of the shoe’s foot-hugging properties.The Hype: 4.8 out of 5 stars; 6 reviews on REI.comWhat They’re Saying: “I am so happy with these boots! I started hiking pretty regular in January this year and I [recently] decided it’s time for better shoes. I went to REI in Rancho Cucamonga and [tried on] every brand [and] these Merrells were so comfortable. Yesterday I took them on their first hike, 11+ miles, and let me tell you to from the first step to the last I was so happy. They were so comfortable and had such great grip and durability. I love these boots and have never been more pleased with a purchase in my life — I can’t wait to get more on miles on these boots — I’m ready for my next hike with a big smile. My Merrells rock, literally! Thank you REI!!!” — Brat, REI.com reviewerMerrell Moab 2 Hiking Boots, $, available at REIL.L. Bean Waterproof Katahdin Hiking BootsBest Vintage Style (With Modern Engineering)Looking for a throwback-styled boot with all of the advantages of modern footwear technology? Look no further than L.L. Bean’s nostalgic Katahdin boot. It boasts a waterproof construction and cushy EVA midsole for a supportive fit, while a suede upper gives it that vintage-inspired je ne sais quois.The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars; 47 reviews on L.L. BeanWhat They’re Saying: “Overall, I found them super comfortable with good traction, plus they’re real cute. (I’ll mention this a few times more.) These boots are truly waterproof, too. I misjudged the depth of one portion of lake I walked through and ended up in ankle-deep water and my feet got very minimally wet, likely from water coming over the top of the ankle, but still dried fast. I wore these to dinner on a patio one evening in about 35 degrees F (plus snow!) and they kept my feet warm and dry with medium weight socks, plus looked cute! On the flip side, on our longer hikes, the temperatures were about 65 degrees F and sunny and my feet weren’t overly warm either but was wearing light-weight socks. Love the color contrast of the cognac with the bright blue and yellow accents. They work well with hiking apparel or just a casual fall or winter outfit. I found myself wearing them all the time on the trip regardless of the hikes we were doing because they look great and are comfortable.” — Linebackerbarbie, LLBean.com reviewerL.L. Bean Waterproof Katahdin Hiking Boots, $, available at L.L. BeanLike what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?The Best Affordable Boots For Winter 202121 Comfortable Boots We’ve Actually Clomped AroundWe Can’t Get Enough Of These Sturdy Combat Boots
