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BEST BOYS HIKING BOOTS OF 2026

Updated
Updated
BEST OF THE BEST
Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof
Lightweight, Waterproof Comfort
Weight: 2.4 lbs
Material: Leather and mesh
Outsole: Vibram

The Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots are the latest in Merrell's line of high-performance outdoor footwear. Known for their exceptional comfort and durability, these boots are designed to keep your feet dry and comfortable during long hikes.

The waterproof membrane ensures that your feet stay dry even in wet conditions, while the lightweight construction makes them easy to wear for extended periods. The boots also feature a contoured footbed with added zonal arch and heel support, providing excellent stability and comfort.

The Vibram outsole offers superior traction on both wet and dry surfaces, making these boots a reliable choice for any hiking adventure.

PROS
  • Excellent waterproofing
  • Comfortable for long hikes
  • Great traction on various terrains
CONS
  • May require break-in period
  • Slightly higher price point
BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK
Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX
Durable, All-Terrain Performance
Weight: 1.94 lbs
Material: Synthetic and textile
Outsole: Contagrip® MA

The Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX Hiking Boots are engineered for serious hikers who need reliable footwear for challenging terrains. These boots are made with GORE-TEX waterproof technology, ensuring your feet stay dry in any weather condition.

The Advanced Chassis™ is surrounded by foam cushioning for comfort, connects directly to the sole to stabilize your heel, and is reinforced by a solid rubber outsole for a secure grip. The boots also feature a Sensifit™ system that cradles the foot and provides a precise and secure fit.

The Contagrip® MA outsole is designed for a variety of surfaces, offering excellent traction whether you’re on wet, dry, hard, or loose terrain.

PROS
  • Excellent grip on all terrains
  • Comfortable and stable
  • Effective waterproofing
CONS
  • Pricey
  • Can be stiff initially
KEEN Targhee III Mid Waterproof
Breathable, Cushioned Stability
Weight: 1.75 lbs
Material: Leather and mesh
Outsole: KEEN All-Terrain rubber

The KEEN Targhee III Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots are a popular choice among hikers for their balance of breathability, comfort, and stability. These boots feature a KEEN.DRY waterproof breathable membrane that keeps your feet dry while allowing moisture to escape.

The mid-cut height provides ankle support without restricting movement. The boots also have a dual-density EVA midsole for cushioning and a removable, metatomical footbed for personalized comfort. The KEEN All-Terrain rubber outsole offers excellent traction on various surfaces, ensuring you can confidently tackle any trail.

With their durable construction and thoughtful design, the Targhee III Mid Waterproof Boots are built to last and keep you comfortable on long hikes.

PROS
  • Breathable and waterproof
  • Comfortable cushioning
  • Good ankle support
CONS
  • Can feel heavy
  • May run small
Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof
Supportive, Rugged Reliability
Weight: 1.9 lbs
Material: Leather and suede
Outsole: Omni-Grip™ rubber

The Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boots are built for hikers who need a reliable and rugged boot for challenging outdoor conditions. These boots feature a waterproof, seam-sealed construction that keeps your feet dry in wet environments.

The durable leather and suede upper provide long-lasting wear, while the lightweight midsole offers superior cushioning and high energy return. The boots also have an Omni-Grip™ non-marking rubber outsole that provides excellent traction on a variety of surfaces.

With their combination of support, durability, and waterproof protection, the Newton Ridge Plus II boots are ideal for tackling tough trails.

PROS
  • Rugged and durable
  • Excellent waterproofing
  • Good traction
CONS
  • Heavy for some users
  • Can be stiff at first
Adidas Terrex Swift R2 GTX
Lightweight, Cushioned Agility
Weight: 1.5 lbs
Material: Synthetic
Outsole: Traxion rubber

The Adidas Terrex Swift R2 GTX Hiking Boots are designed for hikers who need lightweight agility and cushioned comfort. These boots feature a GORE-TEX lining that provides waterproof protection while allowing your feet to breathe.

The lightweight design ensures quick and easy movement, making them ideal for fast-paced hikes. The boots also have an EVA midsole for cushioning and a molded sockliner for added comfort. The Traxion outsole provides excellent grip on a variety of surfaces, ensuring you can tackle any trail with confidence.

With their combination of lightweight construction, cushioning, and waterproof protection, the Terrex Swift R2 GTX boots are perfect for active hikers.

PROS
  • Lightweight and agile
  • Comfortable cushioning
  • Effective waterproofing
CONS
  • Not as durable as heavier boots
  • Can be narrow for some

How our picks compare

SpecificationMerrell Moab 3 Mid WaterproofSalomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTXKEEN Targhee III Mid WaterproofColumbia Newton Ridge Plus II WaterproofAdidas Terrex Swift R2 GTX
Weight2.4 lbs1.94 lbs1.75 lbs1.9 lbs1.5 lbs
MaterialLeather and meshSynthetic and textileLeather and meshLeather and suedeSynthetic
OutsoleVibramContagrip® MAKEEN All-Terrain rubberOmni-Grip™ rubberTraxion rubber