With so many hiking trails and adventures covering almost every terrain type and climate imaginable, it’s vitally important you choose the right pair of boots to make the journey that much more enjoyable and unforgettable.
Take it from us, there’s no easier way to ruin a great trip than by having the wrong footwear. Luckily for you we’ve put together a list of top notch hiking boots that has something for every type of hiker and terrain.
So, wherever you plan on roaming in 2019, do it with the right hiking boots on your feet. Here’s our top picks for your future adventures:
# | Name | Category | Price Range | Price | More Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
#1 | Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX | Midweight | $$ | ||
#2 | Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX | Midweight | $$ | ||
#3 | HOKA ONE ONE Tor Ultra Hi WP | Lightweight | $$ | ||
#4 | Vasque St. Elias GTX | Heavyweight | $$ | ||
#5 | Lowa Renegade GTX Mid | Midweight | $$ | ||
#6 | Salewa Mountain Trainer Mid GTX | Midweight | $$ | ||
#7 | Arc’teryx Bora2 Mid GTX | Midweight | $$$ | ||
#8 | Adidas Terrex Scope High GTX | Lightweight | $$ | ||
#9 | KEEN Targhee III Mid WP | Lightweight | $ | ||
#10 | Asolo Fugitive GTX | Heavyweight | $$ | ||
#11 | Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II WP | Lightweight | $ | ||
#12 | La Sportiva Nucleo High GTX | Lightweight | $$ |
Searching for a hiking boot that ticks all the boxes? Look no further than the time-tested Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX. Blending fantastic comfort, support and durability this go-anywhere boot has everything you need for serious day hiking and backpacking.
For off trail or technical terrain, and even for winter backpacking it’s a great option, offering exceptional waterproofing and traction that a mountain goat would be proud of.
Weighing in at almost 3 lbs it’s slightly heavy, so if you’re looking for a lighter option check out Salomon’s Quest 4D 3 Mid GTX.
Offering amazing performance in mountain and rocky terrain as well as on the trail this quality boot has the traction and stability needed to keep you safe and secure..
Whether you’re planning on tackling day hikes or extended backpacking trips you can’t go wrong with Scarpa’s Zodiac Plus GTX.
This boot is possibly slight overkill for what’s needed on light trails but if you’re likely to be making some steep climbs and wobbly descents especially with weight on your back then you’ll be happy to be partnered with these semi-stiff and protective foot friends.
Hurray! Hoka One One signature cushioning is now available to hikers in the Tor Ultra Hi WP Shoe. Providing unrivaled underfoot comfort in the hiking boot category along with excellent stability, and still remaining extremely lightweight.
The only downsides are the durability and waterproofing which are still good but aren’t quite as strong compared to some other boots out there. However, for lightweight adventures you won’t find a better boot!
Don’t be fooled, Vasque St. Elias GTX may look like an old school clunker from afar but it’s a really modern and high quality boot loved by many hikers out there.
This all-leather boot is not only extremely comfortable and supportive and performs superbly in a number of elements making it a great choice for many types of hikers.
Most of the boots in this list, are lighter, and offer similar levels of performance using synthetic materials rather than full leather such as Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX. However, for performance and comfort you can’t go wrong with this beauty.
This sturdy, light and traditional looking boot offers great stability and water resistance which is why it’s popular with many hikers.
It’s downsides are that it’s not quite as nimble as some of it’s counterparts on this list.
The lacing system is a bit fidgety and it’s not quite as durable as other boots.
But if you need a boot that breaks in quickly or you’re planning on carrying a mid-heavy pack and need protection from rocky trails a pair of Lowa Renegade GTX mids will serve you well.
Designed for bumpy and rocky trails this protective and stable boot will keep you going even through harsh weather conditions.
One of the best features is the lacing system, a nod to the company’s climbing gear heritage, which goes down all the way to the toes. Perfect for those who need to adjust the fit of the boot for a wide or narrow foot.
Probably overkill for a regular trail where it can feel a bit heavy and stiff. However, if you’re going to be traversing rocky trails and rough tracks you can’t go wrong with these fantastic boots from Salewa.
This boot is a fantastic choice for rocky and tricky terrain offering great stability, traction and foot support. It also looks great with a modern and nimble design.
It’s unique 2 part construction has a removable inner stretch bootie resulting a virtually seamless upper.
The main downfall with this boot is breathability where it falls slightly short compared to other boots, and it’s maybe a bit pricey as well. However, you get what you pay for and there’s no denying this is a top quality hiking boot.
Built for ascending rocky terrain these boots offer stability and breathability combined with the stickiest rubber traction ever!
It’s an impressive fast and light pair of boots that overs considerable protection considering it’s weight class, and is the perfect option when precise footwork is needed on steep climbs and hikes.
It falls short in regards to the ankle support which is a bit loose and flexible but overall for those after a high performing day hiking boot it’s a great option.
The KEEN III Mid WP delivers great value offering superb comfort, toe protection and a tough exterior at a very affordable price.
Best for day hiking and moderate backpacking trips this popular boot delivers a lot of protection considering it’s weight, including good ankle support.
It’s a step down in terms of stability, ankle support and traction from other boots such as Lowa Renegade GTX mid but for the price you pay it’s a quality option that won’t break the bank.
The popular and tough Asolo Fugitive GTX is a fantastic hiking boot that is a good option in all seasons and conditions.
Following a traditional style boot design these boots offer a quality fit and lots of comfort with a focus on protection from rocky trails.
The downside is that with the burly construction comes added weight which is not ideal for long distance trips.
Overall it’s an excellent boot that will suit those after extra stiffness and protection on the trail.
This hiking boot is a fantastic budget friendly option. Offering decent build quality, this boot not only performs well in regards to waterproofing it’s also comfortable right out the box.
The downsides are that the quality doesn’t match up to most of it’s more expensive counterparts, with limited breathability and average ankle support. Those looking for a top quality trekking boot should look elsewhere.
However, if you’re after an affordable and quality option then this boot is a great choice for you.
With it’s Nubuck leather upper and Gore-Tex lining La Sportiva’s Nucleo High GTX is a tough yet flexible hiking boot, that has much to offer. With great traction and protection you’ll be descending, ascending and scrambling through the trail with ease.
However, the boot falls slightly short when it comes to support and comfort. Plus the waterproofing and leather make it quite warm, so not recommended in summer and humid climates.
Overall, if you’re looking for a quality and durable hiking boot you can’t go wrong with La Sportiva Nucleo High GTX.
Here’s the video from REI again to help you make the right choice for your hiking boots:
# | Name | Category | Price Range | Price | More Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
#1 | Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX | Midweight | $$ | ||
#2 | Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX | Midweight | $$ | ||
#3 | HOKA ONE ONE Tor Ultra Hi WP | Lightweight | $$ | ||
#4 | Vasque St. Elias GTX | Heavyweight | $$ | ||
#5 | Lowa Renegade GTX Mid | Midweight | $$ | ||
#6 | Salewa Mountain Trainer Mid GTX | Midweight | $$ | ||
#7 | Arc’teryx Bora2 Mid GTX | Midweight | $$$ | ||
#8 | Adidas Terrex Scope High GTX | Lightweight | $$ | ||
#9 | KEEN Targhee III Mid WP | Lightweight | $ | ||
#10 | Asolo Fugitive GTX | Heavyweight | $$ | ||
#11 | Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II WP | Lightweight | $ | ||
#12 | La Sportiva Nucleo High GTX | Lightweight | $$ |
I was raised in Edinburgh, Scotland with plenty of green spaces around me, and for as long as I can remember I've always had a passion for the outdoors.
Whether it's going for a long hike, playing football, rafting or simply discovering a cool new place you'll likely find me outside somewhere.
Discover Outside is a space for me to create guides and hopefully help others enjoy the outdoors too!
