The Best Hiking Boots of 2025

The Best Hiking Boots of 2025

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Choosing the right hiking boot is critical for your adventures. Whether striding over a local dayhike or postholing a section of an iconic, multiday backpacking trip, there’s a hiking boot meant just for you. The goal of this guide is to help you find the best hiking boot for your needs among the rainbow of footwear on the market.

Hiking boots vary dramatically, from heavy, supportive leather boots to ultralight boots based on trail running DNA. For this guide, a range of selections will help you find the right boot based on terrain, weather, and personal preference. It’s worth noting that many hikers prefer the lightweight benefits of trail running shoes or dedicated hiking shoes. If you have strong ankles and carry light loads, consider checking out the https://gearjunkie.com/footwear/best-hiking-shoes">best hiking shoes instead of boots.

But I, and many of our editors, prefer boots for many uses. My top choice for general hiking is the https://rei.pxf.io/c/381569/1448521/17195?tt=cl&mi&pw=7185&subId1=bw-a2fa3d4c-9b25|xid:fr1747769120868aab&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F238131%2Fsalomon-quest-4-gore-tex-hiking-boots-mens" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Salomon Quest 4. Another Salomon model, the https://rei.pxf.io/c/381569/1448521/17195?u=https%253A%252F%252Fwww.rei.com%252Fproduct%252F245046%252Fsalomon-x-ultra-5-mid-gore-tex-hiking-boots-mens&subId3=bw-80229eff-d4e8|xid:fr1747769120868jhi" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">X Ultra 5 Mid GTX is my favorite lightweight hiker. The https://rei.pxf.io/c/381569/1448521/17195?tt=cl&mi&pw=7185&subId1=gjbgfootwearhikingboots&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F237596%2Fmerrell-moab-3-mid-waterproof-hiking-boots-mens">Merrell Moab Mid 3 Waterproof gets the job done on a budget.

This guide has evolved over 5 years of hard product testing to include the best boots of 2025. It will update four more times this year as our team continues to put miles on trails during the summer.

Editor’s Note: This guide received an update on May 21, 2025. The https://rei.pxf.io/c/381569/1448521/17195?tt=cl&mi&pw=7185&subId1=bw-a2fa3d4c-9b25|xid:fr1747769120868aab&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F238131%2Fsalomon-quest-4-gore-tex-hiking-boots-mens">Salomon Quest 4 earns our top slot after years of testing and heated debate among editors. The newly released https://rei.pxf.io/c/381569/1448521/17195?u=https%253A%252F%252Fwww.rei.com%252Fproduct%252F245046%252Fsalomon-x-ultra-5-mid-gore-tex-hiking-boots-mens&subId3=bw-80229eff-d4e8|xid:fr1747769120868jhi">Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX takes over as best lightweight hiking boot.

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The Best Hiking Boots of 2025

      

            

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Best Overall Hiking Boot

                           

               https://rei.pxf.io/c/381569/1448521/17195?tt=cl&mi&pw=7185&subId1=&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F238131%2Fsalomon-quest-4-gore-tex-hiking-boots-mens" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">Salomon Quest 4 GORE-TEX
            

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               limits.As a real hiking boot, the Quest 4 is exceptional. It has a moderately stiff sole, a robust build, grippy outsole, and great support. Some testers consider it on the heavier side of hiking boots, but after spending literally hundreds of miles in it, I think this is one of the more perfectly balanced hiking boots on the market.During the tour du Mont Blanc, it held up to long sections of snow, steep rock and mud, and even rushing, knee-deep creek crossings. It feels great on the foot, protecting it from abuse.This is a serious boot that is designed for backpacking with heavy loads. If you're seeking a shoe for super casual day hikes and quick warm-weather jaunts, the Quest 4 isn't it. But this article is meant for hiking and backpacking, so if you plan to take these out on long days or carry a decent amount of weight, they're a great choice.The outsole of the Quest 4 has an aggressive tread and widely spaced lugs. Rugged trail conditions should be no problem for these boots — sand, mud, snow, and scree are all well within the capabilities of the Quest 4.One of the key characteristics of the Quest 4 is its tall ankle height. The high-top design is especially handy while hiking through muck or shallow streams. One of our testers wore these on very deep stream crossings coupled with gaiters, and they stayed incredibly dry in thigh-deep water.While hauling a fully stuffed backpacking pack, the tall cuff offers noticeable protection against rolling an ankle. However, it also limits mobility and feels a bit clunky for those accustomed to shoes.Though the Quest 4s are stiff through the sole, they do soften up and break in relatively quickly. A GORE-TEX membrane and water-resistant upper reliably keep moisture out, but the boot's overall breathability does suffer as a result. This boot runs a little large with a roomy toebox that can easily accommodate wider feet.Overall, Salomon's top-of-the-line Quest 4 is an outstanding backpacking boot. If you plan to trek for many miles through variable terrain with plenty of cargo on your back, these are the best hiking boots we'd recommend. For those looking for something lighter, several great options follow.">
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                  https://rei.pxf.io/c/381569/1448521/17195?tt=cl&mi&pw=7185&subId1=&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F238131%2Fsalomon-quest-4-gore-tex-hiking-boots-mens" class="avantlink-buy-button" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">CHECK MEN'S PRICE AT REI – Men'shttps://rei.pxf.io/c/381569/1448521/17195?tt=el&merchant_id&website_id&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F187456%2Fsalomon-quest-4-gore-tex-hiking-boots-womens&subId1=gjbgfootwearhikingboots" class="avantlink-buy-button" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">CHECK WOMEN'S PRICE AT REI – Women's               

            

         

      

               

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Best Budget Hiking Boots

                           

               https://rei.pxf.io/c/381569/1448521/17195?tt=cl&mi&pw=7185&subId1=gjbgfootwearhikingboots&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F237596%2Fmerrell-moab-3-mid-waterproof-hiking-boots-mens" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof
            

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https://schema.org/Offer">https://rei.pxf.io/c/381569/1448521/17195?tt=cl&mi&pw=7185&subId1=gjbgfootwearhikingboots&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F237596%2Fmerrell-moab-3-mid-waterproof-hiking-boots-mens" class="avantlink-buy-button" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">$150 at REI – Men'shttps://schema.org/InStock">

https://schema.org/Offer">https://rei.pxf.io/c/381569/1448521/17195?tt=cl&mi&pw=7185&subId1=gjbgfootwearhikingboots&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F237486%2Fmerrell-moab-3-mid-waterproof-hiking-boots-womens" class="avantlink-buy-button" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">$150 at REI – Women'shttps://schema.org/InStock">

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0987X515B/?tag=gjbgfootwearhikingboots-20" class="amazon-buy-button" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">Check Men's Price at Amazon – Men's

https://schema.org/Offer">https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0987X2CXX/?tag=gjbgfootwearhikingboots-20" class="amazon-buy-button" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">$112 at Amazon – Women'shttps://schema.org/InStock">

               

            

         

      

               

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Best Lightweight Hiking Boots

                           

               https://rei.pxf.io/c/381569/1448521/17195?u=https%253A%252F%252Fwww.rei.com%252Fproduct%252F245046%252Fsalomon-x-ultra-5-mid-gore-tex-hiking-boots-mens" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX
            

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               dry.At just under a pound per boot (1 pound, 15.5 ounces per pair — a bit heavier than the previous model), the X Ultra 5 Mid GTX is quite light for a supportive, mid-height hiker with technical capabilities. Overall, they're a fabulous choice for those who want support in a lightweight boot.The video below dives into details about the previous iteration of the X Ultra 5, which is very similar..">
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                  https://rei.pxf.io/c/381569/1448521/17195?u=https%253A%252F%252Fwww.rei.com%252Fproduct%252F245046%252Fsalomon-x-ultra-5-mid-gore-tex-hiking-boots-mens" class="regular-buy-button" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">Check Price at REIhttps://rei.pxf.io/c/381569/1448521/17195?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F245050%2Fsalomon-x-ultra-5-mid-gore-tex-hiking-boots-womens&subId3=bw-fbbf8b9f-0f96|xid:fr1747667695244eac" class="regular-buy-button" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">Check Price (Women's) at REI               

            

         

      

               

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Best Hiking Boot-Shoe Crossover

                           

               https://rei.pxf.io/c/381569/1448521/17195?tt=cl&mi&pw=7185&subId1=gjbgfootwearhikingboots&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F235093%2Fhoka-speedgoat-6-mid-gtx-trail-shoes-mens%3F" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">HOKA  Speedgoat 6 Mid GTX
            

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               5.It's worth noting that we're approaching "hiking shoe" territory with these. If this is your jam, definitely check out GearJunkie's guide to the best hiking shoes here.If you're used to hiking in a hightop leather boot, the Speedgoats may look a little underpowered with their all-synthetic uppers, cushy midsole, and elastic ankle cuff. Compared to your daddy's Danners, they aren't going to be getting a resole or lasting a generation, but they are usable and comfortable right out of the box if you size them correctly. That's one of the biggest advantages of choosing a more shoe-like boot. These fit snugly in the heel, allow for some toe splay up front, and fit very true to size.The ankle cuff on the 6 is quite a departure from the 5, erring on the side of breathability with an elastic and Velcro closure system, whereas the Speedgoat 5 had a higher ankle cuff. The new closure functions like a gaiter — it comfortably cinches snugly around the ankle and keeps out pebbles and sand as well or better than any high-top boots. They do not have as much ankle support as the 5s, so if ankle stability is an issue for you, take a look at the HOKA Anacapa Mid if you're still keen on the HOKA fit, or the Salomon Ultra 5 Mid.The mid version of the Speedgoat comes with a GORE-TEX liner, and this is the source of a real gripe. GORE-TEX is breathable, but having no liner at all is even more breathable. Our tester definitely noticed his feet sweating on hotter days. With the elastic ankle cuff, the waterproof portion of the shoe isn't actually that high up the ankle, so it doesn't take much of a puddle or very deep snow for water to get in over the top and into the shoe. So why have the GORE-TEX liner at all? To be fair, our team tested these mainly in the desert region of eastern California, and an East Coaster or someone in the Pacific Northwest has a lot more moisture in the air and on the grass to deal with. I wish there were an option to have the Mid without the liner. The Vibram rubber outsole provides plenty of grip on smooth rock surfaces and ball-bearing gravel, on uphill slogs and downhill charges. What really stands out about hiking in the Speedgoats is how step for step, they just feel more like a running shoe than a hiker. Even without cranking on the laces, the heel feels locked in without movement to cause hot spots. This is especially apparent on the downhill. The ideal fit is a snug, stable heel, with room up front for your feet to swell and splay as the miles stack up, and enough arch to prevent your foot from sliding to the front of the boot on the downhill. The Speedgoat 6 fits our lead tester well, and he was able to experience the sublime balance of security and roominess. While everyone's foot is different, I think there's a good chance you'll get a similar ride.If you're trail shoe curious or just want to see what all the HOKA fuss is about, the Speedgoat 6 Mid GTX is a good entry point to the comfy-out-of-the-box experience you get from a lightweight hiker. And for those in the know, they're a great winter alternative for your favorite HOKA Speedgoat trail running shoes.">
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https://schema.org/Offer">https://rei.pxf.io/c/381569/1448521/17195?tt=cl&mi&pw=7185&subId1=&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F235166%2Fhoka-speedgoat-6-mid-gtx-trail-shoes-womens" class="avantlink-buy-button" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">$180 at REI – Women'shttps://schema.org/InStock">

               

            

         

      

               

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Best All-Leather Hiking Boot

                           

               https://meindlusa.com/collections/hiking/products/mfs-vakuum-hiker#specs-features?ctc=gjbgfootwearhikingboots" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">Meindl MFS-Vakuum Hiker
            

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                  https://meindlusa.com/collections/hiking/products/mfs-vakuum-hiker#specs-features?ctc=gjbgfootwearhikingboots" class="regular-buy-button" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">Check Price at Meindl               

            

         

      

               

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Best Hiking Boot for Narrow Feet

                           

               https://backcountry.tnu8.net/c/381569/358742/5311?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbackcountry.com%2Fb%2Fscarpa-rush-2-mid-gtx-hiking-boot-mens%3F" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">SCARPA Rush 2 Pro Mid GTX
            

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               quickly.At about 1 pound, 10 ounces, these boots are some of the lightest in our guide, with some of the all-leather options weighing up to 4 pounds per pair. That weight adds up step after step over many miles, and the Rush 2 Pro mid still offers good protection despite its lightweight. The Rush 2 Pro Mid GTX is an excellent option for anyone who wants a supportive, breathable, warm-weather boot. Our testers recommend sizing up a half size from your regular boot size, especially if you have a wide foot.">
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         Best Overall Hiking Boot      

         
      

         

            
                        

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                  Salomon Quest 4 GORE-TEX               
                              

               
            

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         9.0      

   

   How we rate products ⓘ

         

            
         

            

   
   

      Specifications
   

   

      

                     
• 
                 Weight:
                                   2 lbs. 14.4 oz.                           

                     
• 
                 Waterproofing:
                                   Yes                           

                     
• 
                 Upper material:
                                   Leather and synthetic                           

                     
• 
                 Width:
                                   Standard                           

               

   

      

      

         Pros      

      

         

https://schema.org/ItemList" itemscope>
                           
• https://schema.org/ListItem" itemscope>
                                         
                                      Highly supportive
                 

                           
• https://schema.org/ListItem" itemscope>
                                         
                                      Ideal for backpacking with loads
                 

                           
• https://schema.org/ListItem" itemscope>
                                         
                                      Durable
                 

                           
• https://schema.org/ListItem" itemscope>
                                         
                                      Off-trail capable
                 

                     

      

   

         

      

         Cons      

      

         

https://schema.org/ItemList" itemscope>
                           
• https://schema.org/ListItem" itemscope>
                                         
                                      Heavier than lightweight day hikers
                 

                           
• https://schema.org/ListItem" itemscope>
                                         
                                      Too stiff and burly for light use
                 

                     

      

   

      

            

      

            https://schema.org/Review" itemscope>
         

https://schema.org/Person">
   Sean McCoy

      

         
      

         

   

Salomon makes a wide range of hiking boots, but the Quest is its elite model. The latest edition of the Quest is the fourth generation, and it's lighter, grippier, and more supportive than ever before. We tested the https://rei.pxf.io/c/381569/1448521/17195?tt=cl&mi&pw=7185&subId1=&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F238131%2Fsalomon-quest-4-gore-tex-hiking-boots-mens" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Quest 4 ($230) while hiking through the alpine desert of Western Colorado, as well as through the epic Tour du Mont Blanc through France, Italy, and Switzerland. Our team also used it off-trail as a hunting boot in the Rocky Mountains, pushing it to its limits.

As a real hiking boot, the Quest 4 is exceptional. It has a moderately stiff sole, a robust build, grippy outsole, and great support. Some testers consider it on the heavier side of hiking boots, but after spending literally hundreds of miles in it, I think this is one of the more perfectly balanced hiking boots on the market.

During the tour du Mont Blanc, it held up to long sections of snow, steep rock and mud, and even rushing, knee-deep creek crossings. It feels great on the foot, protecting it from abuse.

This is a serious boot that is designed for backpacking with heavy loads. If you're seeking a shoe for super casual day hikes and quick warm-weather jaunts, the Quest 4 isn't it. But this article is meant for hiking and backpacking, so if you plan to take these out on long days or carry a decent amount of weight, they’re a great choice.

The outsole of the Quest 4 has an aggressive tread and widely spaced lugs. Rugged trail conditions should be no problem for these boots — sand, mud, snow, and scree are all well within the capabilities of the Quest 4.

One of the key characteristics of the Quest 4 is its tall ankle height. The high-top design is especially handy while hiking through muck or shallow streams. One of our testers wore these on very deep stream crossings coupled with gaiters, and they stayed incredibly dry in thigh-deep water.

While hauling a fully stuffed backpacking pack, the tall cuff offers noticeable protection against rolling an ankle. However, it also limits mobility and feels a bit clunky for those accustomed to shoes.

Though the Quest 4s are stiff through the sole, they do soften up and break in relatively quickly. A GORE-TEX membrane and water-resistant upper reliably keep moisture out, but the boot's overall breathability does suffer as a result. This boot runs a little large with a roomy toebox that can easily accommodate wider feet.

Overall, Salomon's top-of-the-line Quest 4 is an outstanding backpacking boot. If you plan to trek for many miles through variable terrain with plenty of cargo on your back, these are the best hiking boots we'd recommend.

For those looking for something lighter, several great options follow.