10 Best Hiking Shoes Men 2026 in the United States

The Merrell Men's Moab 3 Hiking Shoe is designed for those serious about hiking, offering a blend of comfort, durability, and stability. It's an ankle-height shoe that provides good support without restricting movement. The upper is made from pigskin leather and mesh, ensuring breathability and durability while also featuring 100% recycled laces and webbing, which is a plus for environmentally conscious hikers. The bellows tongue effectively keeps out debris, making it suitable for varied terrains.

The insole is designed for medium support with reinforced heel cushioning, which should provide comfort during longer hikes. The EVA foam midsole aids in stability and comfort, reducing strain on the feet. The Vibram TC5+ rubber sole is praised for excellent traction, making it reliable for different surfaces. The shoe is relatively lightweight, which is beneficial for long-distance hiking, but it might lack the robustness needed for extreme terrain conditions.

The ankle support is good due to its shaft height but may not be adequate for those needing higher support. The Merrell Air Cushion in the heel adds to the shock absorption and stability, enhancing comfort. It’s a solid choice for hikers looking for a comfortable, eco-friendly shoe with good traction and support, although it may not be ideal for very wet environments or extreme terrains.

The Salomon Men’s XA PRO 3D Gore-Tex shoes are designed as rugged hiking shoes well-suited for challenging outdoor trails. They feature a waterproof Gore-Tex membrane that keeps your feet dry and protected from wind, while still allowing breathability for comfort throughout the day. The advanced 3D chassis between the sole layers provides solid stability and cushioning, which helps when walking on uneven or rocky terrain.

Their Contagrip rubber outsole offers strong grip on various surfaces, including loose gravel, making these shoes reliable on mixed trails. The reinforced toe cap adds extra protection against bumps and scrapes, which is a plus for rough environments. The materials combine synthetic and textile fabrics, balancing durability with flexibility. The low-profile design suggests moderate ankle stability rather than high support like hiking boots.

These shoes are ideal if you want waterproof, comfortable, and stable footwear for active trail hiking or fast-paced trekking where rugged traction is important. If you need heavy-duty ankle protection for very steep or technical terrain, you might want to consider higher-cut boots. The shoes provide a strong mix of comfort, protection, and grip suitable for most hiking adventures.

The Merrell Men's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is a solid choice for hikers looking for a reliable mid-height boot that offers good ankle support without feeling too heavy. Its waterproof membrane effectively keeps water out while allowing your feet to breathe, which is great for wet or variable trail conditions. The upper combines durable pigskin leather with breathable mesh, providing a balance of protection and ventilation.

Comfort is enhanced by a removable insole with reinforced heel cushioning and a lightweight EVA foam midsole that offers stability and shock absorption, thanks in part to Merrell's Air Cushion technology in the heel. Traction is dependable with the Vibram TC5+ rubber sole, suitable for a variety of terrains. The boot also features a protective toe cap and a bellows tongue to keep debris out, contributing to a secure fit.

At around 11.7 ounces, it is not the lightest option available, which might be noticeable on long hikes if you prefer ultra-light footwear. The shaft circumference is fairly standard, so it should fit comfortably for most, but those with unusually wide calves might want to try them on first. This boot fits well within the mid-range hiking shoe category, making it a versatile and durable option for casual to moderate trail use.