The Best Hiking Boots of 2024, Tested by Experts

Choosing hiking boots is a lot like choosing a travel buddy: the “best” one is the one that doesn’t make you regret your decisions
halfway up a rocky switchback. In 2024, expert testers across major U.S. gear and lifestyle publications kept landing on the same truth:
modern hiking boots are getting lighter, more cushioned, and more specificmeaning the perfect pair depends on your terrain,
your pack weight, and your feet (which, inconveniently, are unique snowflakes).

This guide synthesizes findings from 10–15 reputable U.S. outlets that test footwear in the real worldmud, scree, rain, and “why is
this trail basically stairs?”and translates it into a practical, no-nonsense list of 2024’s standout hiking boots. No brand worship.
No magical claims. Just what’s consistently performed well in expert hands (and on expert blisters).

How “Expert-Tested” Hiking Boots Usually Get Tested

Testing methods vary by publication, but the best programs share a few habits: they put boots on different foot shapes, log real miles
across different terrain, and score the stuff that actually matters after hour threetraction, stability, hot spots, waterproofing,
breathability, and durability. Some teams also track testing locations and total mileage, and many compare boots side-by-side to spot
“great in the store” imposters.

• Comfort over time: Fit out of the box, break-in curve, pressure points, toe bang on descents.
• Support & stability: How the boot behaves with a pack, on off-camber trails, and on loose rock.
• Traction: Lug depth, rubber grip on wet stone, braking on steep dirt, confidence on gravel.
• Weather handling: Waterproof membranes vs. fast-drying uppers, plus how sweaty feet feel at mile 6.
• Build quality: Seam durability, toe rand toughness, midsole compression, outsole wear.

Quick Picks: The Best Hiking Boots of 2024 (By Category)

Here are the models that showed up repeatedly in 2024 expert roundups and testing-based guidesplus why each one earned its reputation.
Think of this as your short list before you start obsessing over millimeters of lug depth (we’ve all been there).

Best Overall Balance: Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX

If one boot screams “I can do most hikes without drama,” it’s the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX. Expert testers praised it
for blending a lightweight, sneaker-ish feel with the kind of support and grip that holds up on longer days. It’s a smart pick for hikers
who want speed and stability without hauling a tank on each foot.

• Best for: Day hikes, fast hikers, mixed terrain, people who want a boot that feels agile.
• Why it wins: Strong all-around performancesupport, traction, and waterproof protection in a relatively light package.
• Watch-outs: Some hikers prefer roomier toe boxes; try on with your hiking socks.

Best Budget (That Doesn’t Feel “Budget”): Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof

The Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof is the boot equivalent of a reliable diner breakfast: it’s not trying to be fancy,
but it hits the spot every time. Experts repeatedly ranked it as a value leader because it’s comfortable, widely available, and friendly
to newer hikers who don’t want to spend a fortune before they even know if they like hiking.

• Best for: Beginners, casual hikers, weekend trails, “I want comfort now” shoppers.
• Why it wins: Consistent comfort/value reputation and a forgiving ride for many foot shapes.
• Watch-outs: Not the stiffest platform for heavy packs or very technical terrain.

Best for Backpacking & Heavy Loads: Salomon Quest 4 GTX

When the trail gets rough and your pack gets ambitious, the Salomon Quest 4 GTX shows up like a friend who brought a
headlamp, extra snacks, and a printed map. In expert roundups, it’s a common “do-it-all, especially with weight” pick thanks to its
supportive build and confidence-inspiring traction.

• Best for: Multi-day trips, heavier packs, rugged routes, hikers who want maximum stability.
• Why it wins: Big support, protective build, and reliable performance when terrain gets chaotic.
• Watch-outs: Heavier and warmer than lighter mids; may feel like overkill for mellow trails.

Best Traditional “All-Day” Comfort: Lowa Renegade GTX Mid

The Lowa Renegade GTX Mid is a long-time favorite that kept its crown in expert recommendations for good reason: it’s
known for comfort, solid support, and a relatively approachable break-in for a more traditional hiking boot. If you want a classic,
go-anywhere boot that doesn’t feel like a stiff leather museum piece, this one belongs on your try-on list.

• Best for: Hikers who want a classic boot feel, mixed terrain, moderate backpacking.
• Why it wins: Repeatedly praised for comfort and versatility across a range of hikers.
• Watch-outs: Fit varies by foot shapetry sizes and widths if possible.

Most Cushioned (Cloud Energy, But Make It Trails): Hoka Kaha 2 GTX

If your knees have opinions, listen to them. The Hoka Kaha 2 GTX stands out for plush cushioning that helps reduce trail
poundingespecially on long descents where your quads start bargaining with the universe. Experts often highlight it for comfort and
protective ride quality.

• Best for: Long days, hikers who love cushioning, rough descents, comfort-first shoppers.
• Why it wins: Soft, protective underfoot feel that keeps legs fresher.
• Watch-outs: Bulky profile; not everyone loves a high-stack feel on technical footing.

Most Supportive & Protective (Without Going Full Mountaineer): Oboz Bridger Mid

The Oboz Bridger Mid shows up in 2024 “support” categories because it’s built for hikers who want structure. It’s the
kind of boot that makes ankles feel more secure and feet feel more protected when the trail turns into a rock garden disguised as a path.

• Best for: Rocky terrain, hikers wanting more structure, moderate loads, protective feel.
• Why it wins: Stability and support are the headline; it’s built to take trail abuse.
• Watch-outs: Heavier than lightweight mids; can feel warm in hot climates.

Best for Tough, Technical Hikes: Danner Crag Rat EVO

If your “hike” includes scrambling, sharp rock, and moments where you question your hobbies, the Danner Crag Rat EVO is
a serious contender. Experts point to it as a boot for demanding terrainmore technical, more protective, and more “I mean business”
than typical day-hike footwear.

• Best for: Technical routes, rugged rock, high protection needs, demanding terrain.
• Why it wins: Built to handle tough hikes where lighter boots can feel undergunned.
• Watch-outs: Price and stiffness; not a casual stroll boot.

Best for Wet Weather (Waterproof + Confidence): La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX

Waterproof boots are a tradeoff: you gain protection from puddles and wet brush, but you can sacrifice some breathability. The
La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX is frequently recommended for hikers who want that waterproof confidence without giving up
a performance-oriented fit and trail-ready feel. It’s a strong “serious hiking” option for rainier regions and shoulder-season trips.

• Best for: Wet trails, muddy seasons, hikers who want waterproof protection with performance handling.
• Why it wins: Repeatedly appears as a backpacking-capable, waterproof standout.
• Watch-outs: La Sportiva fits can run precise; sizing matters.

Best Wide/Roomy Feel: Keen (Targhee Line / Roomy-Toe Options)

Wide feet deserve joy, too. Keen’s hiking boots show up in expert lists for their roomy toe box feel and comfort-forward fit. If your toes
like to splay naturallyor you’ve ever finished a hike feeling like your pinky toe filed a formal complaintKeen is worth a try.

• Best for: Wider feet, hikers who want toe room, comfort seekers.
• Why it wins: Reputation for roomier fit and all-day comfort.
• Watch-outs: Not every Keen model is the same; try on the exact boot you’re buying.

Best “Natural” Stride Feel (Zero Drop / Toe Room Fans): Altra Lone Peak Hiker

The Altra Lone Peak Hiker keeps popping up in “comfort” and “wide-foot-friendly” conversations because it leans into a
roomier toe box and a more natural-feeling platform. It’s a favorite among hikers who dislike cramped toes and prefer footwear that feels
more like a capable trail shoe with added protection.

• Best for: Toe room lovers, hikers who prefer a more natural foot shape, comfort-first walkers.
• Why it wins: Repeated mentions for comfort and roomy forefoot design.
• Watch-outs: If you’re new to this style, ease inyour calves may notice the difference.

Best Winter-Ready Day Hiking Boot: Danner Arctic 600

If you hike when it’s cold enough that your water bottle looks nervous, an insulated option like the Danner Arctic 600
is commonly recommended for winter day hikes. It’s built for cold-weather comfort and traction when the ground is frozen and your
enthusiasm is… still there, somehow.

• Best for: Cold-weather day hikes, winter trails, shoulder season slush.
• Why it wins: Warmth and winter-focused performance in a hiking-friendly build.
• Watch-outs: Too warm for summer; choose based on your climate.

How to Choose the Right Hiking Boot (Without Losing Your Mind)

1) Match the boot to your hiking “reality,” not your hiking “fantasy”

If you mostly do local day hikes on maintained trails, you’ll likely be happiest in a lighter, more flexible boot (or even a hiking shoe).
If you carry heavier packs, hike off-trail, or deal with lots of loose rock, a more supportive boot can reduce fatigue and improve stability.

2) Waterproof vs. non-waterproof: pick your inconvenience

Waterproof boots help in rain, wet brush, and muddy trails, but they can feel warmer and less breathable. Non-waterproof options often dry
faster after stream splashes and feel coolerat the cost of wet socks when conditions turn sloppy. There’s no universal right answer,
only the kind of discomfort you’d prefer to avoid.

3) Fit is king (and the king is picky)

• Toe room: You should be able to wiggle toes; descents punish tight toe boxes.
• Heel hold: Your heel shouldn’t lift dramatically when you walk uphill.
• Arch support: “Feels fine” in the store can become “why am I limping?” at mile 5.
• Try-on timing: Try boots later in the day when feet are slightly swollen (like they will be on the trail).

4) Don’t ignore socks and lacing

The right socks can prevent hot spots and manage moisture; the right lacing can stop heel slip and toe bang. Many experts emphasize that
traction isn’t only outsole rubberit’s also how securely your foot is held in the boot. If your foot is sliding, your “grip” is already compromised.

Care Tips to Make Boots Last (and Smell Less Like Regret)

• Clean after mud days: Let mud dry, brush it off, then wipe with a damp cloth. Caked mud can break down materials.
• Dry properly: Remove insoles, loosen laces, and air dry away from direct heat (no hair-dryer roasting).
• Re-waterproof as needed: DWR coatings wear off; refresh them if water stops beading on the upper.
• Rotate if possible: If you hike often, alternating pairs extends lifespan and improves drying time.

Trail-Test Experiences (500+ Words): What These Boots Feel Like in Real Life

Here’s the stuff that doesn’t show up on a spec sheetthe moments when boots either earn your trust or get demoted to “yard-work shoes.”

Imagine a classic Saturday: you start in cool morning shade, feeling unstoppable. In a boot like the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX,
the first thing you notice is how quickly you forget you’re wearing boots at all. The stride feels snappy, and the boot doesn’t fight you
when the trail turns into a series of quick steps over roots. When the path tilts sideways (because of course it does), a stable mid and
secure heel hold matter more than any marketing buzzword. A good boot feels like it’s quietly coaching your foot: “Stay centered. Don’t
panic. I’ve got you.”

Then comes the long descentgravelly, steep, and just technical enough to make you pay attention. This is where toe room and braking traction
earn their paycheck. If your toes are jammed into the front, you’ll learn a new kind of math: how many steps until the bottom, multiplied by
how much you hate your life right now. A more cushioned option like the Hoka Kaha 2 GTX can feel like it takes the edge off
repetitive impact. Your legs don’t magically become younger, but the pounding feels less personal.

On a wet day, waterproofing becomes either a blessing or a sweaty compromise. When puddles are shallow and brush is soaked, a waterproof boot
like the La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX keeps you focused on the trail instead of your socks. But if the weather warms up, you’ll
appreciate why some experts note the breathability tradeoff: your feet can feel like they’re hosting a small, humid conference. That’s not a flaw
so much as the laws of physics being rude.

Now picture a multi-day trip with a heavier pack. Your priorities change fast. You stop caring about shaving ounces and start caring about stability
on tired ankles. A boot like the Salomon Quest 4 GTX feels like turning up the “support” dial. When you step on a loose rock, you’re
less likely to get that ankle-wobble surprise that makes your heart do a backflip. The tradeoff is weightyou know you’re wearing serious footwear
but if your route is rugged, that weight can feel like a reasonable tax for confidence.

Fit quirks show up in specific moments. If you have wider feet, a roomier-toe option from Keen’s hiking line can feel instantly more
relaxed, especially on long days when feet swell. That extra space isn’t just comfortit can reduce blisters caused by constant rubbing. Meanwhile,
a “natural” style like the Altra Lone Peak Hiker can feel liberating if you hate cramped forefoots. On mellow trails, it’s easy to love.
On steeper terrain, you might find yourself paying closer attention to foot placement if you’re used to stiffer, more structured boots. (Translation:
your feet are doing more work, which some hikers love and others would like to unsubscribe from.)

And then there are the tough, technical daysscrambling, sharp rock, and “is this still a trail?” energy. A boot like the Danner Crag Rat EVO
feels purpose-built here. The protection and structure can make you feel safer and more precise, like you’ve upgraded from “outdoor enthusiast” to
“person who owns a compass and knows how to use it.” It’s probably not the boot you’d choose for casual park loops, but on rugged terrain, it can be
the difference between moving confidently and moving cautiously.

The biggest takeaway from 2024’s expert testing isn’t that there’s one perfect bootit’s that the best hiking boots are the ones that match your hikes.
Get the fit right, pick the right category for your terrain, and your boots will do the best thing footwear can do: disappear, so you can actually enjoy
the hike.

Final Word

If you want a safe, widely loved starting point, try the boots that repeatedly win “best overall” and “best value” slots: the
Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX for balanced performance and the Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof for comfort-forward value.
If you carry weight or hike rough terrain, step up to the Salomon Quest 4 GTX or a more supportive model like the
Oboz Bridger Mid. And if you’re a wide-foot hiker, prioritize toe room firstbecause nothing ruins a view like your toes filing a complaint.