Introduction
Choosing the right hiking boots can be daunting. There are hundreds of footwear companies out there, and a certain boot that may be the glass slipper for your friend may leave you needing toe surgery.
Your feet are your most important piece of hiking equipment, and the wrong boots can turn a dream trek into a painful nightmare. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a serious trail enthusiast, finding the perfect hiking boots is crucial for comfort, support, and preventing injuries.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about selecting the best hiking boots in 2025. Get ready to step up your hiking game and discover boots that will carry you through every mile with confidence and comfort!
First, some helpful tips…
We’ve seen many people get hung up on selecting the right pair of boots without taking standard pieces of advice that come with selecting any type of footwear. Following these tips could save you a world of (literal) pain:
- Break them in. The best shoe still needs your magic touch to conform to your exact foot shape. You should try to do a few short trails (1-3 miles) with new boots before attempting a longer trail.
- Try to shop in store when possible. If that’s not an option, consider purchasing a half size up and down and returning the worse fits.
- Walk on uneven terrain when trying on shoes. Your mountain isn’t a carpeted flat surface, so utilize the terrain ramps in store.
- Watch out for hot spots/rubbing. Just because the boot gets 5 stars from thousands of reviewers on Amazon doesn’t mean it’s the perfect fit for you. If it’s rubbing against the heel now it will feel ten times worse on the trail.
- Wear the right socks. You want to test your boots with the socks you would wear on trail.
Key Features to Consider When Buying Hiking Boots
- Material considerations (leather vs. synthetic)
- There are pros and cons to both. Leather is often more durable, naturally waterproof, and can essentially last indefinitely. Synthetic boots are usually more flexible right out of the box, lighter, breathable and thus comfier to wear over time, but not waterproof and can wear down quickly. Pick the boot that feels best.
- Weight and packability
- A heavier boot may be more stable but you will feel every extra ounce at the end of a long day. We recommend choosing the lightest boot possible where you still feel stable, which brings us to…
- Ankle support levels
- We generally recommend boots with ankle support, especially for beginners or challenging terrain. A boot with ankle support will minimize ankle rolling during a misstep and could save you from a sprained ankle. That being said, if you are going for speed, on easier terrain, or are experienced, you may be interested in a hiking shoe or even a lighter trail runner.
Top Hiking Boot Brands of 2025
So with that, what are the best hiking boots of 2025?
1. Salomon Quest 4 GTX
$230 on Amazon
- Best for: All-around performance, tough terrains, long hikes
- Why: The Quest 4 GTX has long been a favorite for serious hikers, and the 2024/2025 version refines the boot with a new, improved fit. The boot is durable, stable, and features a Gore-Tex waterproof membrane. The midsole provides great cushioning, and the grip is exceptional on both rocky and muddy surfaces.
Where to Buy:
Salomon Quest 4 GTX on Amazon (Men’s)
Salomon Quest 4 GTX on Amazon (Women’s)
2. Asolo Falcon GV
$260 on Amazon
- Best for: Versatile hiking, alpine treks, mixed terrain
- Why: The Falcon GV is a more technical boot than most typical hiking boots, blending durability with comfort. It has a waterproof Gore-Tex lining, a supportive midsole, and a Vibram sole for excellent grip. The boot is lightweight yet highly supportive, making it great for both short and extended hikes. The rugged construction also makes it suitable for a mix of terrains, including alpine or rocky paths.
Where to Buy:
3. Hoka One One Kaha 2 GTX
$240 at REI
- Best for: Cushioning and comfort on long-distance hikes
- Why: Hoka is known for its maximalist cushioning, and the Kaha 2 GTX is no different. If you’re tackling long trails or carrying heavy packs, these boots provide excellent support and plush comfort. The waterproof Gore-Tex lining keeps you dry, and the boot’s stability and grip are perfect for varied conditions.
Where to Buy
Hoka One One Kaha 2 GTX at REI
4. Merrell Moab 3 Mid GTX
$170 on Amazon
- Best for: Comfort, day hikes, casual hiking
- Why: Merrell’s Moab series has always been known for comfort, and the Moab 3 Mid GTX continues that tradition with a modern twist. It’s an ideal boot for shorter hikes or less technical terrain. The boot offers great arch support, a roomy toe box, and a solid Vibram outsole for traction, plus it’s waterproof.
Where to Buy
Merrell Men’s Moab 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boot on Amazon (Men’s)
Merrell Women’s Moab 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boot on Amazon (Women’s)
5. Columbia Fairbanks Omni-Heat
$125 on Amazon
- Best for: Cold-weather hiking
- Why: If you’re planning on hiking in colder climates, the Columbia Fairbanks boots, with their innovative Omni-Heat technology, are a great option. They provide warmth and waterproofing, plus a solid grip on slippery surfaces. They’re also pretty lightweight for winter boots, so they won’t slow you down too much on longer treks.
Where to Buy
Columbia Fairbanks Omni-Heat on Amazon (Men’s)
Conclusion
By understanding your specific needs, considering key features, and investing in quality footwear, you’ll transform your hiking experience from good to extraordinary!
Don’t wait – your next adventure is calling. Find the hiking boots that will become your trusted trail companions!