Whether you’re an everyday walker or a keen adventurer taking on mountain hiking challenges such as the Three Peaks, the boots you wear make all the difference. We know that shopping for the perfect shoe can be frustrating, which is why we’ve compiled a list of the top 9 best men’s hiking boots for all eventualities.
Depending on what adventure you’re planning next, you’ll want to think about the type of material that’s going to work for you. Leather is a sturdy and durable material that is no doubt going to stand the test of time, but it can be restrictive and difficult to break in if you’re in need of some shoes as soon as possible. If you’re planning a big hike, we recommend investing in leather for their warmth, but if you go for a synthetic or textile boot, make sure they have waterproof technology that will stop you from getting soggy feet.
All the best men’s hiking boots will come with some form of waterproof technology, so if you’re planning on hiking during wet weather, we recommend opting for a boot with a Gore-tex lining if you want to keep those toes dry. You’ll also want to opt for a sturdy sole, especially if walking on rocky or rough terrain, and if you have any foot injuries then a high ankle will provide the extra support you need when walking.
Other than that, it’s completely down to style and budget. For a good quality boot that will last you more than just one hiking trip, we recommend budgeting around the £150.00 mark. There are cheaper boots out there for those who just want something for daily use, or more expensive ones for those who have an usual foot shape and may need something more specialist. We’ll walk you in the right direction with our top 9 men’s hiking boots on the market today…
These high cut boots are the ideal shoe for maximum ankle support which makes them great for backpackers carrying a lot of weight on their shoulders. The Salomon Quest 4D 2 GTX boots are made from Nubuck leather and synthetics with a ContraGrip rubber sole which is perfect for walking on slippery terrain. With their Gore-Tex technology and good toe protection, they are a great all-purpose boot for adventurers and daily walkers alike but we wouldn’t invest in them just to walk the dog.
If you’re going on a long walk, comfort is bound to be your main concern and boy are these some of the best men’s hiking boots for comfort! The Low Renegade GTX Mid Boot is incredibly soft with plenty of movement in the toes so you can forget about blisters and sweaty feet! They are made from Nubuck leather but customers have claimed they have very little break in time which is ideal for those last minute purchasers. Their trusty Vibram soles wear well, however the material of this boot is not ideal for rough and rocky terrain.
If you are a keen hill climber, then the Keen Galleo Mid Boot will serve you well. Its PU heel cushion and EVA foam foot bed make them good for comfort and shock-absorbing when going uphill; and the protective rubber toe protects the feet when walking downhill. Despite this boot not having the classic Gore-Tex lining and Vibram soles, this is a tough old boot which is a cut above the rest when it comes to intensive walking.
If you struggle to find shoes that fit well, then check out the Scarpa Men’s Peak Gore-Tex Boot. These are great for men with narrower feet and are made from Condura & suede for ease of movement. Users say the insoles are stay comfortable and bouncy even after multiple walks and you have the added reassurance of the trusty Gore-Tex waterproofing for all year round use, making their £165.00 price tag totally worth it. The soles are chunky which provide great grip and they are high cut making them perfect for all types of hiking.
The Aku Alterra GTX is loved by many for their snug and ergonomic fit and this is a shoe that feels like it was personally designed for you. These boots cradle your foot and have laces that give to avoid tension when walking, making them the perfect fit all round. Made from Suede with Vibram soles and integrated Gore-tex technology, these boots will stand the test of time and can take a beating from rocky terrain on more intense hikes.
If you can never find boots that you like the look of, then the Salomon X Ultra Mid 2 GTX are the best men’s hiking boots for stylish walking. These boots are made from a combination of leather, polyester and mesh, making them is breathable and flexible. They do a great job at hugging your feet for a supportive fit and users have praised this boot for its comfort with no blisters after walking in them. This is a great adventure boot with toe caps that have been described as ‘indestructible’ by some users and if you are a style-conscious hiker, you’ll be pleased to know these boots come in a wide range of different colours.
If you struggle to find boots that fit, then this Yorkshire boot maker can provide you with the best men’s hiking boots for wide feet. The Altberg Kisdon Boot has extra width at the front as well as extended lacing down the boot that makes it easier to take them on and off. You get all the mod-cons of a decent hiking boot but these boots come in at £214.99 due to the extra volume. Although this seems a little unfair, if you are a keen hiker then investing in the perfect fit is worth it.
If you’re going to be hiking up a mountain with a large backpack, then you’ll want the stability of these men’s hiking boots, and if the Salomon Quest 4D 2 GTX boots are just far too pricey for you then these are the best alternative. The North Face Men’s Verbera Backpacker GTX boots are great for rocky terrain and light snowy conditions with a sturdy but cushioned sole that eases the pressure when carrying a heavy backpack. They are considered a proper mountain boot that will keep your feet dry, however they are more of a “one walk wonder” which may not last as long as some other boots.
If you’re more of a frequent walker on less intense trails then this is the shoe for you. The Merrel Moab 2 Mid WP boots are super lightweight with comfy insoles. Customers have noted that the soles seem a bit ‘high’ to begin with but that these adapt after a couple of wears. These are not ideal for mountains but if you like casual walks then these provide stability and grip on sloping hills. At just under £100 we think these boots are the perfect budget buy for everyday walkers.
Get the family kitted out too with our list of the Best Kids Hiking Boots
