Shop the best boots and other footwear options for hiking
Find a variety of options to wear on your next summer hike.
Purchasing a new pair of boots or shoes for taking on any of the hundreds of beautiful trails across the United States can come with an overwhelming amount of options. Advancements in technology and investment in hiking apparel have led to complex designs, features and advantages in hiking footwear that may leave new buyers frozen with options.
The Washington Trails Association, a nonprofit focused on encouraging exploration and mobilizing hikers, provides guidance for those looking for new footwear as they conquer any number of scenic and challenging trails at America's over 400 national parks and beyond.
The first decision a new consumer needs to make would be between boots and shoes. While boots offer a sturdy base for carrying heavy weight and ankle protection, trail runner shoes are easy to take on and off, are lightweight and dry easier when exposed to the elements.
"Trail runners are basically running shoes that have been beefed up with more aggressive support and traction to deal with the more variable conditions of trails vs. roads," said the association's guide.
The guide also offers hiking shoes as an in-between option between boots and shoes, which are "designed with more structural support and longer-lasting soles."
For an extremely sized down option, the guide suggests sandals or five-toed shoes. While pursuing this option sacrifices ankle protection, according to the guide, some prefer this route for a lightweight option that acts as a barefoot experience.
As for the waterproofing question, the Washington Trails Association guide said waterproofing can be helpful, but also has issues staying effective with wear.
Find a variety of options to wear on your next summer hike here:
Shop the best hiking boots and footwear for the trail
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Hiking boots
Timberland Mens Anti-Fatigue Hiking Waterproof Leather Mt. Maddsen
With over 14,000 reviews and an average 4.5-star rating, the Timberland boots provide "anti-fatigue comfort," according to the product description.
- $89.99
- $120.00
- Amazon
Orthofeet Women's Orthopedic Leather Dakota Hiking Boots
In order to keep dry, these boots use multiple mechanics in the leather and exterior for water-proofing.
- $139.95
- $160.00
- Amazon
Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Boot
These durable boots come in a suede leather to withstand the elements and heavy use.
- $7499
- $100.00
- Amazon
Columbia Men's Newton Ridge Plus Wp Hiking Shoe
This boot mitigates potential overheating with a mesh tounge to air out the feet.
- $75.07
- $100.00
- Amazon
NORTIV 8 Men's Waterproof Hiking Boots
If ankle protection is your priority, these boots focus on ankle support with an "enhanced arch," according to the description.
- $39.99
- $49.99
- Amazon
Trail Runners
Saucony Women's Peregrine 11 Trail Running Shoe
Trail runners offer a lightweight option when taking on the outdoors with speed.
- $74.95
- $120.00
- Amazon
WHITIN Men's Minimalist Trail Runner
The wide base on these shoes allow for comfort while navigating trails, and comes with a removeable sock liner.
- $49.99
- $59.99
- Amazon
ALTRA Women's Lone Peak 7 Trail Running Shoe
The rubber soles on these shoes will act take pressure off of the hard or uneven trail.
- $89.93
- $149.96
- Amazon
Five-toed lightweight shoes
3T BAREFOOT MAX Water Shoe
The minimalist approach includes an experience that focuses on grip and traction while hiking.
- $36.57
- $49.99
- Amazon
Joomra Women's Minimalist Trail Running Barefoot Shoes
This shoe comes with a reflective strip so visibility to others remains high while using them in the night.
- $42.99
- $59.99
- Amazon
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