Finding the right hiking boots can make or break your outdoor adventure. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a challenging mountain trek, the boots on your feet determine how comfortable and confident you’ll feel on the trail. We’ve rounded up the ten best hiking boot brands that have proven themselves in 2025, combining expert testing with real-world performance to help you choose your next pair.
1. Salomon
Backpackers and trail runners keep coming back to Salomon for one simple reason: these boots deliver exactly what you need without the extra weight. The X Ultra 4 and Quest 4 GTX models strike that sweet spot between feather-light design and rock-solid construction.
What sets them apart is the aggressive outsole that grips practically any surface you encounter. Whether you’re scrambling over wet rocks or navigating steep mountain passes, your feet stay planted and secure.
The waterproof protection means puddles and stream crossings won’t slow you down. Long-distance travelers especially appreciate how these boots perform mile after mile without causing hot spots or blisters, making them reliable companions for both quick day hikes and multi-week adventures across challenging terrain.
2. Merrell
Ever slipped on a pair of boots that felt perfect from the very first step? That’s the Merrell magic. Their legendary Moab series has earned its reputation by eliminating that dreaded break-in period that makes new boots a nightmare.
City sidewalks or rocky mountain paths—these versatile boots handle everything with ease. Travelers love having one dependable pair that transitions seamlessly from urban exploration to wilderness wandering.
The secret lies in Merrell’s attention to how feet actually move and flex throughout the day. Budget-conscious hikers also appreciate the quality-to-price ratio. You’re getting boots that last season after season without emptying your wallet, which explains why the Moab continues dominating trails worldwide.
3. HOKA
Remember the first time you tried running shoes with serious cushioning? HOKA brought that same cloud-walking sensation to hiking boots, and outdoor enthusiasts are absolutely thrilled. The Anacapa and Kaha models feel like walking on marshmallows—but marshmallows with incredible grip and support.
Covering serious mileage becomes surprisingly enjoyable when your feet aren’t screaming by lunchtime. That signature thick midsole absorbs impact on rocky descents and provides bounce on uphill climbs.
Travelers who rack up the miles especially notice the difference when they swap from traditional stiff boots to HOKA’s comfort-first approach. Your knees and back will thank you after those long trail days when everyone else is limping back to camp.
4. Lowa
German engineering isn’t just for cars—Lowa proves it applies to hiking boots too. The Renegade GTX Mid has achieved almost legendary status among serious hikers who demand boots that simply won’t quit, no matter what terrain throws at them.
That precision fit means your heel stays locked in place while your toes have room to spread naturally on descents. Uneven terrain becomes less intimidating when you’ve got superior ankle support working overtime to keep you stable.
Waterproof protection holds up through countless stream crossings and rainy trail days. Hikers worldwide trust these boots for expeditions where equipment failure isn’t an option, and that trust has been earned through decades of consistent performance across every continent and climate.
5. Scarpa
Handcrafted in Italy, Scarpa boots blend old-world artistry with cutting-edge mountain technology. Each pair represents generations of bootmaking knowledge passed down through Italian workshops, resulting in footwear that serious mountaineers depend on for technical ascents.
The rugged materials can withstand abuse that would destroy lesser boots. Sharp rocks, icy slopes, and brutal weather conditions barely leave a mark on these tough-as-nails designs.
What really catches your eye is how something so functional can look so elegant—these aren’t clunky blocks on your feet. Long-term dependability means you’re investing in boots that might outlast your hiking career. Hikers who demand both performance and quality craftsmanship find exactly what they’re looking for in Scarpa’s technical lineup.
6. La Sportiva
Steep, gnarly terrain is where La Sportiva truly shines. This Italian brand built its reputation on boots that grip like gecko feet when you’re scrambling across exposed rock faces or navigating scree-covered slopes that would send other boots sliding.
The TX Hike series exemplifies their approach to technical footwear—every design choice prioritizes traction and stability. Alpine trekkers appreciate how confident they feel making moves that would seem sketchy in ordinary boots.
Adventure travelers tackling challenging routes need gear they can trust completely, and La Sportiva delivers that peace of mind. The mountaineering heritage shows in every stitch and sole pattern. When the trail gets vertical and your heart rate climbs, these boots keep you connected to the mountain.
7. KEEN
Those distinctive bumper toes make KEEN boots instantly recognizable on the trail. But it’s the generous toe box that makes comfort-focused hikers sing their praises—your toes can actually wiggle and spread naturally instead of being crammed together like sardines.
The Targhee and NXIS collections excel in soggy, unpredictable conditions where lesser boots would leave you with soaked, miserable feet. Grippy soles maintain traction on slippery rocks and muddy paths.
Solid ankle support prevents rolls and twists on uneven ground. Breathable materials keep things comfortable even during sweaty summer hikes. Travelers who prioritize all-day comfort over ultralight minimalism find their perfect match in KEEN’s approach to hiking footwear that actually feels good from sunrise to sunset.
8. Danner
Classic American craftsmanship meets modern trail demands in every Danner boot. The Mountain 600 and Trail 2650 lines prove you don’t have to choose between looking good and performing well—these boots nail both objectives with style to spare.
Urban adventurers appreciate boots that work equally well on city streets and wilderness trails. Why pack multiple pairs when one versatile option handles everything from coffee shop strolls to summit pushes?
That heritage aesthetic turns heads, but the modern technology underneath keeps your feet happy on serious hikes. Travelers wanting one do-it-all boot find their answer here. Danner’s reputation spans decades because they’ve consistently delivered boots that last, combining traditional quality with innovations that today’s hikers actually need and appreciate.
9. Columbia
Not everyone needs bombproof mountaineering boots for their weekend nature walks. Columbia understands this perfectly, offering reliable hiking boots at prices that won’t make your wallet cry. Their Omni-Tech waterproofing keeps feet dry without the premium price tag of fancier brands.
Lightweight midsoles mean you’re not dragging around unnecessary weight on moderate trails and day hikes. Casual travelers and weekend warriors get exactly what they need without paying for features they’ll never use.
Wide availability means you can actually try them on locally instead of gambling with online orders. Durability surprises people who assume affordable equals flimsy—these boots hold up remarkably well for their price point. Columbia proves that getting outdoors doesn’t require expensive gear investments.
10. Oboz
Did you know your boot purchase can help reforest the planet? Montana-based Oboz plants a tree for every pair sold, combining environmental responsibility with seriously capable hiking footwear. Their Bridger and Sawtooth lines deliver everything you’d expect from premium boots—sturdy traction, excellent arch support, and reliable waterproofing.
That arch support particularly stands out for hikers with foot issues who struggle finding comfortable boots. The traction patterns grip confidently across varied terrain without excessive weight.
Comfort and sustainability make a powerful combination that appeals to environmentally conscious adventurers. You’re not sacrificing performance for principles—these boots genuinely compete with any brand on this list while leaving the world a little greener with each purchase.
