Best Products Style Shoes The 16 Best Hiking Shoes and Boots of 2023 We love the Danner Mountain 600s and the Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX shoes. By Lauren Breedlove Lauren Breedlove Instagram Twitter Website Lauren Breedlove is a New York-based travel writer, photographer, and content creator who focuses on off-the-beaten-path outdoor adventures. Her work has been featured in Afar, Time magazine, TravelPulse, Popsugar, Travel + Leisure, Elite Daily, and Thrillist. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines Updated on November 5, 2022 Fact checked by Nick Blackmer Fact checked by Nick Blackmer Nick Blackmer is a librarian, fact checker, and researcher with more than 25 years’ experience in consumer-oriented content. Travel + Leisure Fact Checking Process Share Tweet Pin Email We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products—learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Courtesy of Backcountry, REI, and Amazon Comfort is key when exploring the great outdoors on foot. But there's much more to great hiking shoes and boots, and having appropriate footwear can make or break your hiking experience. There's nothing like theof trekking insocks and shoes after encountering a surprise stream crossing or trudging the last few miles back to the trailhead sporting painful blisters. You don't want to find yourself on a more technical trail with tread that can't cut it, either. Luckily, most of this can be avoided by choosing the right pair of hiking shoes or boots for you and your needs. Whether you're in search of a lightweight option that will have you moving at the speed of light (well, almost) or something with extra ankle support for long-distance treks, this list will have you covered. Our top picks are the Danner Mountain 600s for women and the Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX for men. But there are a lot of options out there, so to help narrow it down, we researched dozens of hiking shoes and boots and spoke to Bennett Grimes, Senior Product Manager for REI's Innovation Solutions and Footwear Co-op brands and consumer-led products expert, for his input. These are the best hiking shoes and boots to shop for women: Best Overall: Danner Mountain 600s at Amazon Best Waterproof: La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX Hiking Boots at REI Best Sandal: Chaco Mega Z Cloud Sandal at Backcountry at REI Best Breathable: REI Co-op Flash Hiking Boots at REI Best Traction: Salomon Quest 4 GTX at Amazon Best For Winter: Oboz Bridger 7-inch Insulated Waterproof Boots at Amazon Best Arch Support: Merrell Women's Moab 2 Mid GTX Hiking Boot at Amazon Best Budget: Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Shoe at Amazon These are the best hiking shoes and boots to shop for men: Best Overall: Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX at Amazon Best Waterproof: Vasque St Elias FG GTX Hiking Boot at Backcountry Best Sandal: Bedrock Cairn 3D Adventure Sandals at REI Best Breathable: Hoka One One Sky Kaha at REI Best Traction: La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX Hiking Boots at Amazon Best For Winter: Xpeti Men's Thermator 8-inch Waterproof Hiking Boots at Amazon Best Arch Support: Salomon Quest 4 GTX at REI Best Budget: Merrell Men's Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot at Amazon Best Overall Danner Mountain 600 Waterproof Hiking Boot REI View On Amazon View On Zappos View On REI Why We Love It: They're ideal for almost any skill level. What to Consider: While they provide good warmth, they are not insulated for more extreme temperatures. What do we love most about these hiking boots? Out-of-the-box comfort—the Danner Mountain 600s do not require any of that "wear them around the house'' breaking-in. As stylish as they are practical, these boots are made for versatility and are great for everything from blazing a full day on the trail or running a few errands to grabbing a beer downtown or taking the dog for a walk. Crafted in the Pacific Northwest, the Mountain 600s stand ready for adventure at any given moment and are equipped to handle the wild, changing conditions of their home region–rainy, cold, slippery, or totally sunny days. Made with both waterproof Vibram SPE in the midsole and Vibram Fuga on the outsole, they'll provide fantastic traction on any terrain without having to skimp on cushion. The suede portion of the boots is treated with Danner Dry waterproof protection, so go ahead and cross that stream or trek up that rock slide. Although they're not insulated, they manage to keep your feet plenty warm in many types of weather. The Mountain 600s are ideal for almost any type of hike and won't leave you with any pesky hotspots. They're also lightweight and fit most types of feet. And in general, Danner boots are an investment that's well worth it; you won't have to replace them for years and years to come. Price at time of publish: $210 Sizes: 5-11 | Materials: Full-grain leather or suede, Vibram Fuga, Danner Dry | Weight per pair: 1 pound, 14 ounces Best Waterproof La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX Hiking Boots REI View On REI View On Backcountry.com View On Campsaver.com Why We Love It: The standout traction provides an extra feeling of security on slippery slopes. What to Consider: They aren't especially versatile for wear off the trails. Get caught in the rain or cross a stream with no problem in the La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX Hiking Boots. "Keeping your feet dry will be one of the most important features when choosing a boot," REI's Grimes says. And the Nucleo High boots have answered that call with Nano-Cell technology and Gore-Tex Surround waterproof membranes that not only keep feet dry, but are somehow breathable, too. Water stays out and sweat escapes. They come in both regular and wide sizes, making them a great choice for most types of feet. This durable duo is lightweight and packs a cushioned sole, ankle support, and excellent traction into each boot. In addition to waterproofing, the soles are so grippy you'll feel secure in even the wettest conditions. Price at time of publish: $229 Sizes: 6-11 (regular and wide) | Materials: Nubuck leather, Vibram Nano XS-Trek Rubber, Gore-tex | Weight per pair: 1 pound, 6 ounces Best Sandal Chaco Mega Z Cloud Sandal - Women's BackCountry View On Backcountry.com Why We Love it: The cushiony sole provides a level of comfort unexpected from a sandal. What to Consider: You'll still need another pair of boots or other hiking shoes if you plan on hiking in cool weather.. Prepare to rock the classic "Chaco tan" because you won't want to take these adventure sandals off. The cushiony Cloud sole is the feature highlight, creating extra comfort for your active pursuits. You'll feel stable navigating trails with the grippy rubber outsole and tailored fit with adjustable straps. No break-in required, these sandals are ready for any venture you can conjure, whether it's a day hike or kayak session or a combination of both. Those straps won't dig in and give you blisters when your feet geteither, so this set is comfortable, lightweight, and grippy. You'll find several colors and patterns to choose from as well. Price at time of publish: $100 Sizes: 6-11 | Materials: Rubber, Luvseat polyurethane, polyester jacquard webbing | Weight per pair: 1 pound, 6 ounces 10 Best Cute Hiking Shoes and Boots to Take You From Trail to Town Best Breathable REI Co-op Flash Hiking Boots - Women's REI View On REI Why We Love it: They're not just breathable — they're also waterproof. What to Consider: They run a little narrow, so they're not the best option for those with wide feet. With more of a sneaker design, the lightweight, waterproof REI Co-op Flash Hiking Boots use recycled material to keep your feet dry on any trail. "REI's Flash Boots are made with our exclusive HydroWall waterproofing technology and our FirmaKnit upper materials to create a great balance of breathability and waterproofness," Bennett shared. That sock-like knit fabric is part of what makes these hiking boots comfortable straight out of the box. The sturdy soles offer plenty of cushion for almost all foot types as well as that waterproof traction that will have you traversing all kinds of terrain without issue. The design eliminates any worries of moisture getting trapped in the shoe and keeps the air flowing to your feet. Price at time of publish: $150 Sizes: 6-11 | Materials: Molded nylon, rubber TerraGrip, recycled polyester FirmaKnit | Weight per pair: 1 pound, 13 ounces Best Traction Salomon Women's Quest 4 Gore-tex Hiking Boots Amazon View On Amazon View On REI View OnWhy We Love it: They can handle any terrain. What to Consider: They are relatively heavy for boots that aren't winter-specific. These boots are designed for hikers and backpackers who like to push the limits. They hit at the mid-calf, providing extra support, preventing most of those pesky (and painful) ankle rolls that occasionally happen on the trail. The tread on the soles is nothing short of impressive, with ultimate traction thanks to the Contagrip TD rubber. All of that said, the inspiration for the Salomon Quest 4 are actually trail runners, so they still maintain flexibility, allowing you to stay surprisingly spry. Keep your spry feet dry as well; these hikers are waterproof, too. Price at time of publish: $230 Sizes: 5-11 | Materials: Leather, textile, Gore-tex, Contagrip TD rubber | Weight per pair: 2 pounds 6 ounces Best For Winter Oboz Women's Bridger 7" Insulated B-Dry Hiking Boot REI View On Amazon View On REI Why We Love it: They're made to accommodate snowshoes and spikes. What to Consider: They're not great for use in any temperatures other than cold ones. The Oboz Bridger 7-inch Insulated Waterproof Boots are proof that winter is a fantastic time to explore, too. Warm and waterproof, they're made for winter hiking, snowshoeing, sledding, or pretty much any snow adventure you choose. The winterized rubber soles and lugs have excellent traction on their own for snowy and icy conditions, but add some microspikes and you might just be unstoppable. And between the Thinsulate liner and wooly bits at the top of the boot, your feet will stay cozy and warm while still maintaining breathability. Price at time of publish: $200 Sizes: 6-11 | Materials: Waterproof nubuck leather, tricot mesh, winterized rubber, 200g 3M Thinsulate | Weight per pair: 2 pounds, 9 ounces The 10 Most Comfortable Hiking Boots of 2023 Best Arch Support Merrell Women's Moab 2 Mid Gore-Tex Hiking Boot Amazon View On Amazon View On Merrell.com Why We Love it: The contoured footbed is removable, providing an extra level of customization.. What to Consider: The waterproofing could use some improvement. These everyday boots can go box to trail with no breaking in required and offer extra support while doing so. Your foot's arch supports your weight while hiking; those with high arches will have trouble absorbing shock during various physical activities, adding unnecessary strain to muscles and joints. Venture through uneven terrain with these Merrell insoles that have additional cushioning due to the molded nylon arch shank, which is great for increasing arch support and shock absorption without adding weight. The support goes past the arch too, with heel reinforcement adding to the allure. As an added bonus, the Kinetic Fit Advanced contoured footbed can be removed for those who don't need that additional feature, making these boots great for almost anyone. Give your arches some love with these Merrell hikers…your feet will thank you. Price at time of publish: $165 Sizes: 5-12 (regular and medium width) | Materials: Synthetic leather, Vibram TC5+, foam midsole | Weight per pair: 2 pounds Best Budget Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Boot Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Columbia.com View On Dsw.com Why We Love it: They're lightweight and versatile, perfect for hiking through all terrains. What to Consider: These boots may be waterproof, but they won't keep your feet warm if they get too. Consider extra thick socks if you plan to hikeor snowy areas. With multi-terrain traction soles, these boots keep you secure no matter where the trail takes you. You'll feel comfortable hiking through snow, climbing rocks, and dipping your toes into light streams. While we don't recommend submerging these boots entirely, they are waterproof and will keep your feet dry throughout your hike. Plus, the reinforced toe will add extra protection from the elements without making your foot feel cramped. Price at time of publish: $100 Sizes: 5-12 (regular and medium width for most sizes) | Materials: Leather, mesh, rubber | Weight per pair: 1 pound, 12 ounces The Best Men's Hiking Boots and Shoes Best Overall Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boot 4.9 REI View On Amazon View On REI View On Backcountry.com Why We Love it: The gusseted tongue stays right where it belongs while keeping all sorts of debris out. What to Consider: It's not a great choice for those with wider feet. A footwear cocktail with all the best features mixed in, the Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX boots are a fantastic accomplice to anything from a day hike to a multi-day backpacking trip. The ankle support helps when lugging an overnight pack, and the high-performance foamin absorbing shock. The boots are equipped to handle easy paths or technical trails, rocky orterrain, uphill or downhill trekking, and everything in between. The thoughtful design garners attention to things we didn't even realize would be useful on the trails. This is where the gusseted tongue comes into play—the style keeps it where it's supposed to be, front and center, while also keeping debris like small rocks and dirt from making its way into your boot. Additionally, the traction is a star highlight with this pair of waterproof hikers. Loose rocks, muddy areas, and uneven surfaces are seemingly no match for the specialty lugs and Mud Contagrip. Price at time of publish: $165 Sizes: 7-14 (regular and medium width for most sizes) | Materials: Leather, textile, rubber, Gore-tex | Weight per pair: 2 pounds Best Waterproof Vasque St Elias FG GTX Hiking Boot BackCountry View On Amazon View On Backcountry.com View OnWhy We Love it: This pair is particularly durable. What to Consider: They are some of the heavier hiking boots on our list. The classic leather design of the Vasque St Elias FG GTX Hiking Boots makes these both stylish and effective while being exceptionally waterproof from bottom to top. The Gore-tex membrane, waterproof nubuck leather, and moisture-wicking lining above the ankle work as a collective shield in rain, creek crossings, and surprise winter weather. And you're probably not going to roll your ankles in these boots; the height keeps them in place with sturdy support, giving you confidence on any type of trail. An update from the original St. Elias boot, the new version has sprinkled in some comfort and functionality upgrades, while somehow making them a little lighter at the same time. The added rubber toe cap aims to protect your boot and your toes from rocks, roots, and much more. Price at time of publish: $220 Sizes: 7-14 (regular and medium width for most sizes) | Materials: Leather, Gore-tex, rubber | Weight per pair: 2 pounds, 15 ounces Best Sandal Bedrock Sandals Cairn 3D Adventure Sandals - Men's REI CO.OP View On REI Why We Love it: They're made with 100 percent vegan materials. What to Consider: The thong strap design leaves the foot more exposed than other hiking sandals. The Bedrock Cairn 3D Adventure Sandals deliver the best bits of a hiking boot, in a sandal. They're lightweight, have a molded footbed for cushioning, and feature key arch and toe support. Three points of adjustment on the straps allows for tailoring the fit to your specific feet, ideal forconditions. We've all worn those sandals that as soon as they getit's a slip and slide situation in the footbed. This isn't the case with these; the geo-pattern design prevents most slippage to keep you rockin' and rollin' on the trail. Oh, and they're made with 100 percent vegan materials. Price at time of publish: $125 Sizes: 5-14 | Materials: Rubber Vibram XS Trek Regolith outsole, polyester, nylon | Weight per pair: 1 pound, 1 ounce Best Breathable Hoka One Sky Kaha Gore-tex Hiking Boot - Men's Rei View On REI Why We Love it: They're very lightweight considering the size and the features. What to Consider: They're not the best choice for those with wide feet. The Hoka One One Sky Kaha Hiking Boot looks like a sneaker and performs like a boot, and they can be used for both hiking and trail running effectively. Despite the thicker sole, these boots are fairly lightweight. The Gore-tex membrane is waterproof, but that doesn't mean you'll be stuck with sweaty feet; Hoka's membrane design lets air out without allowing moisture inside. Those prone to sweaty feet can feel comfortable whether hiking on a hot, sunny day, or getting caught in an impromptu rainstorm. The 5-millimeter lugs and Vibram outsoles do a great job gripping to most terrain, too, whether it's a muddy trail, loose dirt, or a steeper rock slide. Price at time of publish: $220 Sizes: 8-14 | Materials: Full-grain leather, Gore-tex, Vibram Megagrip rubber | Weight per pair: 1 pound, 2 ounces The Most Comfortable Sandals for Men Best Traction La Sportiva Mens Nucleo High II GTX Hiking Boot Amazon View On Amazon Why We Love it: The soles' angled lugs act like a brake system on steeper terrain. What to Consider: They're not especially suited for easier, beginner-type hikes. Out-of-the-box comfort and superior traction make the La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX hiking boots an all-around excellent choice, particularly for situations like scrambling and river-crossings, where grip is critical. There's a reason these hikers are a favorite amongst both men and women–they give you confidence to hike how and where you want to. The impact brake system means the soles have angled lugs, which naturally allow them to stay gripped to the ground, acting as actual "brakes" that come in handy especially on steeper terrain. Additionally, these boots are exceptionally waterproof and breathable, primed for keeping you dry and comfortable along any trail. Price at time of publish: $229 Sizes: 6-13.5 (regular and wide) | Materials: Nubuck leather, Gore-tex Surround, Vibram Nano XS-Trek rubber compound | Weight per pair: 2 pounds, 1 ounce Best For Winter XPETI Men’s Thermator Mid-Rise Lightweight Hiking Boots Amazon View On Amazon Why We Love it: They are good in warmer conditions, too, meaning they can act as your year-round boots. What to Consider: They might not be the most durable pair. The Thermator's 200 grams of Thinsulate insulation do the trick for winter temps down to -13 degrees Fahrenheit, and the high, above-ankle design provides extra molded support and keeps snow out. The boots' waterproofing is impressive and includes a mesh lining that wicks moisture out so that your feet stay dry in a breathable environment. Take all that cozy warmth and venture outdoors with confidence due to the aggressive traction, which features 7-millimeter, multi-directional lugs—just what the winter hiking doctor ordered for superior grip capabilities. Despite all of these highlights, they're still lightweight, so they won't hold you back. Although these boots are fantastic in wintry conditions, they make a stellar year-round hiking boot as well. Price at time of publish: $78 Sizes: 7-14 | Materials: Rubber outsole, X-Dry membrane, fabric, and synthetic | Weight per pair: 1 pound, 2 ounces Best Arch Support Salomon Quest 4 GTX Hiking Boots 5 REI View On Zappos View On Zappos View On REI Why We Love it: They're flexible even with all the support features. What to Consider: They are a little heavy. With excellent support for those with high arches, the Salomon Quest 4 GTX offers a nice combination of heel and overall foot reinforcement while keeping flexibility a priority in the boot. The interior cushioning feels like a hug for your feet. All that support is noticeable when carrying a large pack for overnight hiking trips too. As an update to the previous model, designers have thrown in a fresh ADV-C 4D Chassis, aimed at preventing joint pain and inflammation. The waterproof capabilities act as an extension of comfort too, keeping your feet warm and dry, as well as supported. Navigate trails with the boot's signature stability over loose dirt,or muddy conditions, and rocky terrain. Price at time of publish: $230 Sizes: 7-14 | Materials: Leather, textile, foam, Gore-tex membrane, Contagrip TD rubber | Weight per pair: 2 pounds, 14 ounces Best Budget Merrell Men's Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot 5 Zappos View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Walmart Why We Love it: They come in wide and traditional sizes to get the perfect fit. What to Consider: These boots are more water-resistant than waterproof and shouldn't be fully submerged. Merrell is a favorite of many outdoor enthusiasts for a reason. Coming in at an accessible price, the brand's mid-height hiking boot has all the quality craftsmanship that fans have come to expect. They're the perfect lightweight option for everyday use, long-distance hikes, trail running and more. Made from durable leather with a protective toe cap, these hiking boots will keep you comfortable on your next adventure, whatever that may be. With over a dozen colors to choose from, wide and traditional size options, and this low price-point, any hiker can find their perfect pair. Price at time of publish: $145 Sizes: 7-15 | Materials: Leather, synthetic soles | Weight per pair: 2 pounds, 2 ounces Tips for Buying Hiking Shoes and Boots Determine the types of trails you will be hiking You want to narrow down your hiking shoe or boot options based on what kinds of trekking you plan on doing. Knowing if you want lower-cut hiking shoes, mid-cut day hikers, or full-on backpacking boots will help. Hiking shoes will be lightweight but offer less support, though they are typically suitable for shorter day hikes. Hiking boots will beef up the support with mid to high ankle height and extra stability, making them ideal for day hikes of any length and shorter backpacking trips. Backpacking boots are excellent for overnight trips where you'll be lugging a hefty pack along trails. They offer more ankle support, traction, and cushioning designed to help you go the distance. Try them on for comfort This may seem like the most obvious tip, but it's also the most important. "What's the point of buying a shoe if it doesn't feel just right on your foot?" REI's Grimes says. "A good rule of thumb when trying on shoes and boots for the first time is to find a pair that you can almost forget is on your foot. All hiking footwear is made differently, so it's smart to try multiple to see which experience feels best to you." When you slip into your hiking shoe and boot contenders, make sure you're wearing hiking specific socks, as that can affect the fit. Although sizing can be tricky, most hiking boots should fit a touch big (usually half a size) to accommodate thicker socks. That being said, it does not ring true for every boot, so start with your usual street shoe size and work from there. Trying them on at the end of the day is also key, since most people's feet swell a touch throughout. Make sure you have space approximately the width of your thumb between your big toe and the tip of the boot—your toes shouldn't jam into the front when walking downhill. If you order online, walk around your home to make sure the boots don't put uncomfortable pressure anywhere, which can lead to blisters and hotspots with use. That's a surprise you don't want to encounter on mile three out of seven on the trail. Arch support for people with flat feet or high arches will also be crucial when trying hiking shoes on for comfort. To avoid pain and injury on the trial, make sure to hone in on shoes or boots that provide extra support both in the arch and the heel with a footbed that has a firm insole. Additionally, insole inserts can be purchased to tailor your boot to your specific support needs. Consider the shape of your feet; do you have narrow or wide feet? This will help you find the right shoes for maximum comfort too. "More often than not, if you can feel something that seems 'off' at first try on, that feeling will only get more exacerbated through extended wear," Grimes shared. "Comfort for most people is a balance of how the shoe fits and how the shoe feels under the foot. For underfoot comfort, there are a lot of options from maximum cushion to very little cushion. Maximum cushion is good for people who like the feeling of floating above the trail, and very little cushion is good for people who want to feel exactly where their feet are going. Of course there can be the best of both worlds too." Choose the right materials Grimes suggests asking yourself a few questions about the conditions you will encounter on your adventures after finding a few options that fit the comfort bill. "Is the majority of the adventure in a hot humid climate? Breathability might be your number one requirement. Is it going to be soggy andfor days at a time?" Dialing in on the conditions you will primarily be using your hiking shoes or boots in will ultimately keep you the most comfortable. If winter hiking is your main focus, waterproofing and insulation are going to be crucial. Insulated pairs for winter hiking are usually equipped with 200 grams, 400 grams, or 600 grams of Thinsulate. Base your search on how cold the conditions you will be trekking in; 200 grams is ideal warmth down to -20 degrees Fahrenheit, 400 grams is cozy down to -40 degrees Fahrenheit, and 600 grams of Thinsulate typically works down to -60 degrees Fahrenheit when actively moving. If waterproofing is a priority, look for Gore-tex membrane in the design as well as eVent in order to have breathability for vapors to be released while still keeping waterproof abilities. This will reduce those sweaty sock situations and uncomfortable moisture getting trapped. For traction, lugs on the rubber outsole are important and measured in millimeters. Backpacking boots with solid grip typically have lugs that are between 5 and 7 millimeters. Frequently Asked Questions How should I break in new hiking boots? More and more hiking shoes and boots (in general, "hiking shoes" refers to more sneaker-like options or those with less ankle support, while "hiking boots" go above the ankle) are designed to tackle the trails straight out of the box. However, some boots require a "break-in" period that can range anywhere from a day of wearing them around the house to sporting them on a handful of shorter hikes before they reach their optimal flexibility and comfort level. Typically, backpacking or mountaineering boots have a stiffer design initially. The best way to break in any hiking shoe or boot is to build up your time wearing them. Start by wearing them in the house or on a short walk around the park. Then, take them on a slightly longer nature trail before working your way up to a first day hike in them. Breaking them in before your first real adventure can make a big difference, as you don't want to get stuck in the midst of a hike with painful blisters or foot pain. How often should I buy new hiking shoes? REI's Grimes shared that replacing shoes or boots depends on various factors. "The amount of wear, conditions worn, weight of the person and/or backpack, construction materials, and the build of the shoe/boot all play into it. The general rule for wear is between 300-700 miles of use."The type of trails you take your boots on will play into their lifespan, as well as the weather they endure. Waterproofing doesn't last forever either; if your boots start leaking that's a great sign to think about purchasing some new ones. Worn tread and cracked midsoles are two other things to look out for when you think your hikers have reached the end of the line. When your hiking boots have stopped performing the way you need them to, it's probably time to get some new ones. How can I clean my hiking boots? Keeping hiking boots clean can help increase their longevity. Laces can be thrown in the laundry, yes, but the rest of your boot needs attention too. Dirt, mud, mold, and water can ruin the boot's materials such as leather and fabric, shortening their lifespan. Dislodge small rocks from the traction and wash off mud or dirt from the outsoles. Use an approved boot cleaner for your specific type of hiking footwear and a brush to gently remove the offending dirt before rinsing clean. For quicker drying, remove the insoles and place everything in a well-ventilated, room temperature place. If you have a pair of full-grain leather boots on the upper section, you may want to consider conditioning them as well if they are becoming cracked. Should I pick shoes or boots for hiking? Whether you hike wearing hiking shoes or boots will be up to how long you plan to hike, where you're hiking, and what the terrain is like. Will you be walking through water or snow? Is the area rocky? Will you be hitting the trail for multiple days or just an afternoon? Hiking boots are usually more durable and more supportive for your feet and ankles, making them a great choice for tough terrains and weather. Hiking shoes, on the other hand, are generally more lightweight, which can be great for day hiking (and when trying to make your packing list as light as possible). Why Trust Travel + Leisure Travel + Leisure writers are product and shopping experts who draw on research and first-hand experience to curate the best, up-to-date collections of items for readers. A hiking enthusiast and travel writer, Lauren Breedlove used some of her personal experience both with finding the right hiking boot, as well as using it on a variety of trails all over the world. She also scoured the internet, researching and selecting the best women's and men's hiking shoes and boots. She interviewed REI Co-op's Senior Product Manager of Innovation & Footwear to gather expert insights. With all these factors, she curated this list of hiking shoes and boots for men and women. The Best Winter Hiking Boots Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week. Updated by Taylor Fox Taylor Fox Instagram Taylor Fox is a Commerce Updates Writer at Travel + Leisure where she tests, researches, and writes about travel products. Taylor holds a Master’s in Geography and has been a writer and editor for over seven years. learn more Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit