20 Best Boots for Hiking and Backpacking in 2024

1. Salewa Wildfire Edge Mid GTX

$229.95

The standout feature of these boots is undoubtedly the GORE-TEX lining. The waterproofing technology effectively seals out moisture while still allowing for breathability, ensuring that your feet remain dry and comfortable even in wet conditions.

Another impressive aspect of these boots is the Vibram Megagrip outsole. This high-quality sole provides excellent traction on various surfaces, from rocky scrambles to steep descents. The aggressive lugs dig into the ground, offering a secure and stable feel that inspires confidence on challenging trails.The ankle support of the Wildfire Edge Mid GTX is also noteworthy.

The sturdy cuff provides ample protection without compromising flexibility, ensuring that your ankles are well-supported without feeling restricted. This feature is particularly beneficial for those with a history of ankle injuries or for hiking on uneven terrain.The fit of these boots is true to size and can be customized through the lacing system. The break-in period is minimal, and I found the boots to be comfortable right out of the box. Overall good product.

If you’re looking for something lighter, the Keen Targhee II Mid is a better choice.

2. Mammut Trovat Advanced High GTX

$299.00

The Mammut Trovat is the real deal when it comes to hiking boots. The standout feature is hands down the GORE-TEX lining – it keeps your feet bone dry even when you’re slogging through puddles and streams. Another thing that really impressed me is the Vibram Apptrail outsole. These things grip like crazy on sketchy terrain.

The nubuck leather upper is tough as nails too. It’s going to take some serious abuse to wear these boots out.

A couple potential downsides to keep in mind – the leather upper requires some extra TLC and break-in time compared to synthetic options. And at the higher end of the price spectrum, these boots are an investment. But for the level of performance and durability you get, I think it’s money well spent.

Overall, if you want a boot that can handle the toughest trails and worst weather, the Mammut Trovat is a top-notch choice. It’s a little heavy, but the comfort, support, and protection make up for it in my book. Highly recommended for the serious hiker looking to upgrade their footwear game.

3. Merrell Moab 2

$89.99

Okay we hear you; the Merrell isn’t it anymore and their newer products aren’t as good as they were but honestly this boot does have value for its money. Sliding your feet into the Merrell Moab 2 is a reminder of what has made these shoes so popular for so long. It’s truly a comfortable boot with a cushioned collar and tongue, supportive footbed, and enough flexibility to take straight to the trail.

One noticeable area of improvement in this latest Moab shoe is the refined insole. You now get decent arch support, and the molded heel cup holds you nicely in place. Moreover, there is extra padding in the heel that offers a surprising amount of trail isolation and underfoot protection.

The lightweight and budget-friendly end of the hiking shoe and boot market is teeming with options, but the Merrell Moab 2 retains its place as one of the greats. The Moab’s long-time competitor is the Keen Targhee, which is one of only a few shoes that can compete in terms of popularity.

A recommended budget option.

4. La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid

$118.49

The La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid is a top-of-the-line hiking boot designed for fast-and-light mountain adventures. As one of the best hiking boots of 2024, it offers an impressive combination of performance, comfort, and durability.

Weighing in at just 1 lb 14 oz, it’s an excellent choice for hikers and backpackers who prioritize minimizing weight without sacrificing support and protection. The boot’s upper is made from a durable, abrasion-resistant mesh and microfiber material, which helps keep the weight down while still providing good coverage and protection for your feet.

The boot’s midsole features La Sportiva’s proprietary FriXion XT V-Groove 2 rubber compound, which provides excellent traction on a variety of surfaces, including wet and dry rock, mud, and loose gravel. The outsole also features a multi-directional lug pattern that helps to provide stability and grip on uneven terrain.

Another key feature of the Ultra Raptor II Mid is its Gore-Tex lining, which provides reliable waterproofing and breathability. This makes the boot well-suited for hiking in wet conditions or crossing streams and rivers.

Overall, the La Sportiva Raptor is an excellent choice for hikers and backpackers who want a lightweight, high-performance boot that can handle tough mountain terrain.

5. KEEN Targhee II

$129.95

The Keen Targhee III is a solid choice for light to medium backpacking trips and rugged day hikes and costs $130 retail. It has a nubuck leather and mesh upper that covers the KEEN. Dry waterproof breathable membrane. The sole consists of a dual-density compression-molded EVA midsole, a torsion stability ESS, and a proprietary rubber outsole.

The tongue is well padded, the footbed feels balanced, and the roomy toe box keeps toes fresh on long descents with plenty of room for hiking socks. Foot protection is superior to every model in this review, with a beefy rubber toe cover and stiff soles to quell discomfort on pointy, rocky terrain.

Yes, the Targhee II has a positive reputation throughout the world of hiking, but this does not stem from its durability. Many user reviews of this product report delamination of the sole as the number one issue with this model but it seems like the 11,000 purchases on Amazon must mean something.

6. Vasque Men’s Talus AT UD

$118.99

The Vasque Men’s Talus AT UD is a solid choice for hikers looking for a durable, well-performing boot. Here are the key points about this model:Pros:

• Durable leather and mesh upper provides excellent protection and breathability
• Vibram Nuasi outsole offers great traction on various terrains
• Dual-density EVA midsole delivers cushioning and stability

Cons:

• May be heavier than some other hiking boots
• Leather upper requires more break-in time compared to synthetic materials
• Not fully waterproof, only water-resistant

The Talus AT UD strikes a nice balance between protection, comfort and performance. The leather and mesh upper keeps your feet shielded while allowing airflow to prevent overheating. Vasque’s use of a Vibram outsole provides reliable grip on both smooth and rugged surfaces.

While not the lightest boot out there, the Talus AT UD still feels nimble underfoot thanks to the dual-density EVA midsole. This cushioning helps reduce fatigue on long days on the trail. However, the leather upper does require some break-in to achieve maximum comfort.

7. Salomon Quest Gore-Tex

$161.13

This model builds on the success of the earlier Quest models, with the addition of some notable new technologies that increase stability and comfort, as well as a weight savings of nearly half a pound. This boot is suitable for day hikes and easier trails, though it really shines for the backpackers who want the best support and stability they can find for hiking in challenging terrain or when wearing a backpacking pack. With all the same performance in a lighter package and with great stability, the Quest 4 Gore-Tex is even more appealing than previous iterations and deserves the credit that it gets from everyone.

The basis for the stability in this boot comes down to the ADV-C 4D Chassis, which imparts structure to the boot. This stabilizing insert was developed through biomechanical studies to give more support to the outer foot and is designed to provide support without reducing flexibility and to reduce the likelihood of ankle injuries.

8. Ecco Mens Track 25 Hiking Boots

$174.20

Modern styling meets Scandinavian design perfection in this robust men’s hiking boot that’s fit to tackle almost any terrain. The stylish uppers are crafted from specially tanned full-grain leather and nubuck hide, so it’s strong, supple and soft, allowing the foot to move naturally.

A simple lace closure system ensures a secure fit, while the GORE-TEX® waterproof layer keeps feet dry all day. Don’t worry about hot, tired feet, either, as the unique ECCO Comfort Fibre System™ keeps fresh air circulating naturally for a cooler internal climate. You won’t miss a step, thanks to the deep-cut tread and flexible, stable platform of exclusively designed twin-component PU/TPU outsole.

Overall, a great boot for hiking with a mid-ranged price and excellent comfort.

9. Oboz Bridger

$183.75

The Oboz Bridger Mid Waterproof is a well-made, aggressive all-leather hiking boot that will hold up to lots of trail miles with a large pack. It’s available in regular and wide sizes, has a very durable leather upper, and a lacing system that pulls the heel in snug for a great fit. The waterproof/breathable membrane keeps water out of socks, and the Granite Peak carbon rubber outsole with aggressive lugs helps this boot gain traction of hard and loose surfaces alike.

The Oboz Bridger Mid are tough and durable, but because of this you might take some time to break into them. Other than that, this is a sturdy, durable, and very water-resistant boot that’s built to last.

If you want an all-leather, durable, well-made boot, we’d also point you toward the Lowa Renegade GTX Mid, which bested the Bridger in many ways, although it’s slightly heavier than the Bridger.

10. LOWA High Rise

$233.09

People who have worn these boots claim that they’ve lasted the harshest of conditions for 12 years!

The Lowa hiking boots comes with premium nubuck leather upper, combined with a breathable synthetic textile lining for comfort. It also features a removable textile-lined padded insole incorporating Dura PU technology for effective shock absorption and cushioning.

These boots also incorporate Goretex technology for waterproofing and temperature control, ensuring a comfortable experience in various conditions. The durable Vibram Evo Trac rubber sole offers reliable grip and traction on diverse terrains, making them suitable for a range of hiking adventures.

Overall, a bang for the buck with the money that you’d be paying for it. Imagine $200/12 years, that’s the value that Lowa brings to you.

11. Asolo Fugitive GTX

$259.49

The Asolo Fugitive has been a popular midweight hiking boot for more than a decade, and for good reason. A relatively stiff midsole and forefoot paired up with a tall but flexible ankle collar make it unique.

Boots with this much foot support usually have a more substantial upper that stabilizes the ankle more. And that’s why some folks love it! The light upper feels great on your foot, the high ankle collar is great for water and snow protection, but the stiff midsole supports the foot like a heavier boot.

This is a great boot for backpacking if you value foot support more than ankle stability. Because it is phenomenally waterproof, it works great for wet-weather activities with lots of mud and for winter day hiking.

If you’re still having doubts about this boot, read this article posted in 2010 – ASOLO Fugitive GTX Boots Combat Tested in Afghanistan – ITS Tactical which speaks depth as to how well-designed this boot was and continues to be.

12. Salewa Crow GTX

$264.58

The Crow GTX is a versatile mountaineering boot with an abrasion-resistant fabric upper and waterproof GORE-TEX® protection.

Designed for mixed summer use on general alpine terrain and alpine trekking, the Crow GTX has a crampon-compatible Vibram New Mulaz sole – for Combi crampons – that offers grip on rock and traction in mixed mountain terrain and snow. The GORE-TEX® Performance Comfort lining delivers optimized climate comfort should the weather close in on you and there’s a full rubber rand for protection against rock and scree.

The Crow GTX integrates SALEWA technologies to offer the Alpine Fit 100% blister free guarantee: 3F System for firm ankle and heel support, climbing system to ensure that it fits perfectly around your foot and Flex Collar for comfort during descents.

Overall, a versatile men’s mountaineering boot with an abrasion-resistant fabric upper and great waterproof capabilities.

13. Lowa Tibet GTx

$325.31

The Lowa Tibet GTX is a quintessential workhorse of a walking boot, with sturdy lined leather uppers, a full rubber wraparound rand and a chunky, grippy outsole. In terms of stiffness, it’s rated as a B1 boot, which makes it perfect for year-round hiking and hillwalking – providing masses of stability and support, plus enough stiffness to take a strap-on crampon in winter conditions.

If you prefer a traditional hillwalking boot to flimsier trainer-hikers or modern synthetic mountain boots and generally wear one boot all year round rather than switching up your footwear in winter, this is a very compelling option. 

And while it’s extremely comfortable and well cushioned, its burly build does mean the Tibet isn’t the lightest either. Compared to a flexible, lightweight trainer-hiker, these boots can leave you feeling a little leg-weary by the end of a long day. On the other hand, they give you more protection and are likely to last far longer than flimsier hiking footwear.

Overall, a great option for hiking.

14. Zamberlan 996 Vioz GT

$334.95

Time to indulge in some Italian craftsmanship with the Zamberlan 996 Vioz GT which is coincidentally the bestselling boots by Zamberlan.

The Zamberlan 996 Vioz GTX boots are made in Italy, and Italian-made boots have a world-wide reputation for quality. The 996 Vioz GTX boots use full-grain leather uppers. The stitching is tough and impeccable.

Take a closer look at the leather uppers here. The main portion of the boot is made from one piece of leather. This means there are no seams along the sides of the boot. This also means that sharp sticks and rocks in off-trail forests don’t snag and tear at seams. Zamberlan takes this design a bit farther than most competitors by placing the rear seams behind the Zamberlan 996 VIOZ GTX Review: ‘Pure Awesomeness’ – Man Makes Firee heel — sticks will slide past the seams as you hike!

It also has a Hydrobloc treatment which means that it repels water as well as works with the Gore-Tex to help breathability, making them perfect for backpacking in wet/muddy terrain.

You should also check on the review of this shoe by Man Makes Fire – Zamberlan 996 VIOZ GTX Review: ‘Pure Awesomeness’ – Man Makes Fire, very insightful and just cements the points made about this Italian masterpiece.

15. La Sportiva Mens Karakorum

$338.95

Designed for the intense level of NOLS and Outward Bound mountaineering courses, the La Sportiva Karakorum Mountaineering Boot delivers superior support and rugged durability for our long climbs and alpine expeditions.

That upper is made of 2.8-mm-thick, silicon-impregnated leather from Italy’s 230-year-old Perwanger Tannery. It’s armor-tough and functionally waterproof. The upper has no membrane, making it exceptionally breathable.

Testers reported dry feet in standard wet-hiking conditions—even stomping up a stream in New York’s Adirondacks (the boots will eventually leak if submerged for a long period). A honeycomb grid in the midsole creates shock-absorbing air pockets that didn’t break down under the heaviest pounding, like the EVA used in lighter boots will, and it’s covered with a high-density nylon plate that provides torsional stability.

Overall, the La Sportiva Karakorum Mountaineering Boots are versatile leather boots perfect for light duty mountaineering and backpacking, or various types of outdoor work situations where you need durable support and all-day comfort!

16. Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX

$348.95

Less than an actual mountain boot, this mid-weight hiking boot will handle trail miles with ease, whether on day hikes or extended distance backpacking trips. The Sierra High Route. The Haute Route. The Bailey Range Traverse. Mount Whitney’s Mountaineer’s Route. These iconic and popular treks involve lots of on-trail travel and off-trail boulder hopping, scree slogging, snow walking, and rock scrambling. These types of terrain are where the Zodiac Plus shines most brightly. If you need the stability and traction of a mountain boot with the weight of a mid-weight hiking shoe, then this model is for you.

Overall, the Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX excels in mountain terrain where excellent traction and stability are essential to keep you safe and secure.

17. Asolo TPS 520 GV EVO

$360.00

When you need a bushwalking boot you can rely upon day after day on the track, year after year, it’s hard to go past a full leather. The TPS 520 is a beautiful rendition of the concept. The Asolo TPS 520 features a new TPS sole, designed in collaboration with Vibram which enhances the Triple Power Structure technology that makes this boot a reliable favorite. A dual-density PU midsole is injected directly onto the rubber outsole to make a single element sole that withstands even the toughest treks.

Other features include:

• Water-resistant, full-grain leather upper with Gore-Tex lining for breathable protection from the elements.
• TPS polyurethane midsole incorporates three shock absorbers to improve comfort under high impact areas of the foot.
• Asolo/Vibram rubber traction outsole has a strong, versatile grip.
• Asoflex shank provides underfoot stability.
• Ideal for hiking

Overall, this is best suited for backpackers with a heavy pack over uneven ground.

18. Scarpa Kinesis Pro GTX

$398.95

The Scarpa Kinesis Pro is a heavyweight backpacking boot built to carry heavy loads and travel the roughest terrain. While this boot is more than is necessary for many hikers, the support for your feet and ankles is unmatched. The Kinesis Pro fits wide feet better than the similar Asolo Power Matic 200. Both are excellent heavyweight boots.

The Scarpa Kinesis Pro is most at home carrying heavy loads through rough terrain. Most hikers find a lighter midweight boot adequate for their needs these days, but some still hump massive loads, or appreciate a stiff, durable boot that will last for many years.

This is the boot to buy if you seek a traditional heavy backpacking boot for carrying a heavy pack through rough terrain. 

19. Danner Mountain Light II 

$439.95

Thirty years of hiking boot greatness. The iconic look of the one-piece leather upper with contrasting red laces is firmly imprinted in most people’s minds when they think of a quality hiking boot. The Mountain Light looks slick and timeless, but don’t let that fool you. This boot is designed for distance. The seamless leather upper actually provides excellent water resistance and, when paired with the Gore-Tex lining, offers 100% waterproofing and breathability.

The fibreglass shank & Vibram sole are ready for any adventure across rough and varied terrain. Handmade in the USA to extremely high standards, the boots can even be recrafted when repairs are needed.

The Danner Mountain Light II has a slightly narrower fit than the original, it also comes with Airthotic insoles for added comfort, and the leather is still full-grain but slightly more supple for a quicker break-in period.

Best for hiking if you have a decent budget.

20. Lowa Men’s Renegade GTX Mid 

$216.71

The Lowa Renegade GTX Mid is a classic hiking boot that has stood the test of time. Here are the key points about this popular model:

• Durable nubuck leather upper provides excellent protection and support
• GORE-TEX lining ensures reliable waterproofing and breathability
• Vibram outsole offers great traction on various terrains
• Comfortable right out of the box with minimal break-in needed

Cons:

• On the heavier side compared to some lightweight hiking boots
• May feel a bit stiff and less flexible than more modern designs
• More expensive than some competitors

The Lowa Renegade GTX Mid is a go-to choice for hikers seeking a sturdy, supportive boot that can handle tough conditions. The full-grain nubuck leather upper is highly durable and protective, while the GORE-TEX lining keeps water out without compromising breathability. Underfoot, the Renegade features a dual-density polyurethane midsole for cushioning and a Vibram outsole with self-cleaning lugs for reliable traction. This combination provides a stable, confidence-inspiring ride on rocky trails and uneven terrain.

The main drawbacks are the boot’s weight and price point. At around 3 lbs per pair, the Renegade is heavier than some lightweight hiking shoes and trail runners. And with an MSRP of $255, it’s an investment compared to more budget-friendly options.

If you don’t mind the extra weight and cost, it’s an excellent choice for day hikes and backpacking trips.

Kenetrek Everstep Orthopedic

$624.95

Kenetrek has taken its most serious boot platform and built-in an additional brace system and a nineteen-degree toe rocker that allows the boot to take the bulk of your ankle and foot movement, sparing you the wear, tear, and pain.

Some of Kenetrek’s customers have had surgeries, a series of foot and ankle issues, or just spent most of their lives pursuing activities that led to overuse… and they all will tell you the EverStep boot is the most comfortable, pain-free solution on the market. Actively prescribed to Veterans around the country for injury rehab, to replace post-op care Cam Boots, and for full time, everyday work or play, the EverStep is getting hundreds of Veterans back on their feet and staying there… and they’ll do the same for you!