The current trend in hiking shoes leans toward lightweight designs that prioritize comfort and speed, moving away from the bulkiness of traditional boots. In recent years, many backpackers have opted for lighter shoes that enhance flexibility while providing the strength needed for long-distance hikes, making them feel less tired.

In this guide, you’ll find five top hiking shoes, ranging from ultralight options for fast-paced trails to more supportive choices for rugged terrain. And for those who love exploring even beyond the trails, Vessi provides an excellent option for casual outdoor adventures, ensuring dry and comfortable steps no matter the weather.

Let’s dive into the top picks that offer the perfect performance, comfort, and durability balance for your next hike.

1. Vessi Stormburst High Top

If you love hiking but don’t always stick to rough, technical trails, the Vessi Stormburst High Top is a solid choice. It’s the perfect middle ground between adventure and everyday wear—great for light hikes, misty forest walks, or those unexpected downpours.

With its 100% waterproof Dyma-tex® material, your feet stay dry no matter the weather, while the high-traction sole helps you stay steady on wet or uneven ground. If your idea of hiking leans more toward casual exploration rather than scaling rocky peaks, this lightweight alternative to traditional boots has you covered.

Pros

• 100% waterproof protection
  
• Lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear
  
• Stylish enough for everyday use
  
• Grippy sole for wet and uneven surfaces

Cons

• Not designed for rugged hiking trails
  

2. Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX

The Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX is a lightweight, stable hiking shoe built for day hikes and overnight treks. It features an improved chassis for better support, a roomier toe box for comfort, and responsive cushioning for long trails.

While high-performing, the fit may not suit everyone—some find the midfoot snug, the arch restrictive, or the quick-lace system tricky. The raised ankle collar might also irritate. If possible, try them on first, but for those wanting a durable, waterproof hiking shoe with great traction, this is a strong choice.

Pros

• Lightweight and agile
  
• Waterproof Gore-Tex® protection
  
• Great traction on various terrains
  
• Comfortable toe box for long hikes

Cons

• Midfoot fit may feel tight for some
• The quick-lace system isn’t for everyone
  
• Raised ankle collar may cause irritation

3. Merrell Moab 3

If you're a hiker looking for a reliable yet budget-friendly option, the Merrell Moab 3 is worth considering. While it's not designed for intense mountain trails, it provides excellent comfort and durability for casual hikes.

The shoe’s cushioning helps reduce foot fatigue, making long walks feel less strenuous. Merrell has also upgraded this latest version with recycled materials, improved support, and better traction while retaining the features that have made the Moab 3 a favourite among hikers.

Pros

• Affordable and durable
• Excellent cushioning for all-day comfort
  
• Good traction on various terrains

Cons

• Not ideal for rugged, technical trails
  
• It can feel a bit bulky compared to lighter hiking shoes

4. Hoka Speedgoat 6

The Hoka Speedgoat 6 is a perfect shoe for people who prefer trail runners instead of heavy boots. It has a soft padding that ensures the right cushioning on hard surfaces and an outsole that provides a good grip on delicate terrains. It improves stability by making the midsole denser and the upper heavier, but it loses some of the earlier models' comfort.

However, general breathability suffers somewhat due to reinforcement of the materials used, although the shoe remains lightweight and durable. For a dependable, comfortable trail runner with a good grip, the Speedgoat 6 is a tough competitor.

Pros

• Excellent grip on various terrains
  
• Lightweight yet supportive
  
• Durable upper for long-lasting wear

Cons

• Less breathable than previous versions
  
• Firmer midsole reduces the plush feel

5. La Sportiva Spire GTX 

The La Sportiva Spire GTX offers a durable and stable alternative to traditional hiking boots for hikers tackling rugged terrain. Inspired by the brand’s climbing expertise, it blends agility with the toughness for long treks. Its waterproof Gore-Tex membrane keeps feet dry, while the sturdy outsole delivers excellent grip on rocky and uneven trails.

However, the Spire GTX is heavier than some lightweight options, which may not appeal to long-distance hikers. Its premium price point is another factor, especially when compared to full hiking boots. That said, if you need a rugged, trail-ready hiking shoe with solid protection and support, the Spire GTX is a reliable investment for serious backpackers.

Pros

• Excellent traction on rocky trails
• Waterproof and highly durable
  
• Supportive for long hikes

Cons

• Heavier than some competitors
  
• High price point

Hiking Shoe Buying Advice

1. Hiking Footwear Categories

a) Hiking Shoes
Hiking shoes are generally recommended for light or day hikes for day trails. They are more durable and offer protection to the feet when walking or running on more rugged terrains than sneakers. Usually made from leather and nylon, they protect the feet from anything on the ground along the trail. Some models have rubber toe caps and firm midsoles, especially when you are out on rough terrain.

b) Trail Running Shoes
When it comes to speed over stability, trail running shoes are the top choice for hikers who prefer agility over firm support.  Popular models like Altra Lone Peak and Hoka Speedgoat excel in this category, with the latter being lighter and ideal for long-distance hikers. While they are comfortable and easy to use, they provide little protection to the ankles and are unsuitable for rugged terrains. However, the trail runners are the most appropriate shoes if the intended hiking is on fair trails with less equipment.

c) Approach Shoes
Approach shoes are primarily designed for climbers and technical hikers navigating rocky terrain and steep slopes. They are designed with a thick rubber sole in order to enhance friction with the ground. While they can handle short hikes, they are less suited for long backpacking trips and may struggle on softer ground.  However, the approach shoes yield a secure, solid tread if you come across off-trail cross-country travel or even scrambling.

2. Weight

Technical hiking shoes are gradually trending towards lightweight features, offering more comfort for long-distance trails. Many shoes on the market today are much lighter than regular leather hiking boots and weigh less than 2 pounds per pair. This weight difference would significantly impact your hiking experience, especially making lightweight shoes more favourable for day hikes and short treks. Despite the negative effects on durability, hikers have noted that the use of lighter shoes has many positive effects, especially when worn together with lightweight equipment.

3. Stability and Support

Hiking shoes have evolved alongside the push for lighter gear, shifting from stiff, heavy designs to more flexible and agile options. While they still offer some rigidity for stability, many models now prioritize a more natural, responsive feel. If you're tackling flatter trails, lightweight hiking shoes provide the support you need without weighing you down. But for tougher hikes, where rough terrain and a heavier pack come into play, opting for a sturdier pair can make all the difference in comfort and stability.

4. Waterproofing

When selecting hiking shoes, it's important to consider whether water resistance is necessary. Waterproof shoes help protect against splashes and shallow crossings but can also add weight and reduce breathability. For hiking in hot, dry conditions—especially during summer—opting for non-waterproof shoes to keep your feet cool is best. However, waterproof versions are better if you're trekking through wet or alpine environments. Many hiking shoes come in waterproof and non-waterproof options, with the waterproof versions typically priced slightly higher.

5. Breathability

Waterproof liners, while convenient, are less breathable than non-waterproof options. These membranes can trap moisture, leading to discomfort. However, not all waterproof shoes and boots offer the same level of ventilation—those made with mesh and lighter materials allow better airflow, helping to regulate moisture inside your shoes. Considering breathability is essential, especially for warm-weather hikes, as it directly impacts comfort.

6. Lacing Systems

A shoe’s lacing system ensures a secure fit and overall comfort. If these lacing systems are poorly developed, you will adjust as you hike, which can cause discomfort. A good lacing system will ensure that the foot part of the shoe is firmly fixed and easily adjustable when closed but not to ease out over some time.  It is also true that the lacing mechanisms of the shoes you select can also help make a big difference in the kind of hiking experience you get.

7. Hiking Shoe "Upper" Materials

When choosing the right hiking shoes, the upper materials require extra attention as they are protective and long-lasting. Leather, synthetic combination, or mesh are some of the common choices available in the market. Leather uppers are durable and have a good waterproofing quality but may be bulkier. Synthetic materials are lighter, sometimes more breathable, and dry faster than natural fibers. Shoes with mesh uppers offer excellent airflow but may be less durable. Choose materials that best suit your hiking environment.

8. Outsoles and Traction

The outsole plays a key role in keeping you steady on different terrains. Shoes with deep lugs and high-quality rubber offer better grip and stability, whether on rocky trails or muddy paths. The tread pattern also greatly affects how well your shoes perform on wet or dry ground. Choosing a shoe with strong traction can make all the difference if you often hike on slippery or uneven surfaces.

Final take 

Finding the right hiking shoe balances comfort, durability, and performance to match your adventure style. Whether you prefer ultralight trail runners, supportive hiking shoes, or versatile waterproof sneakers like Vessi, there’s an option for every kind of explorer. The key is to choose footwear that keeps you comfortable and confident on the trails, no matter the terrain or weather. So, lace up, step out, and enjoy the journey ahead!