Summer means long days, warm temps, and miles on the trail. And while we love a good pair of hiking boots, a hiking shoe is ideal for many trail adventures. They’re light and easy to move in, and they keep your feet cool. You’ll give up a bit of ankle support with a shoe, but many find that the increased comfort and performance are well worth the trade-off.
The footwear you choose for your adventure is arguably one of the most important elements of your kit, and it’s vital to find the shoe that works for you and the goals you have in mind. With so many brands and designs on the market, it can be difficult to choose which hiking shoe is best for you.
We hope this guide assists in wading through the masses of models out there, and helps you dial in on the perfect fit. Whether you’re staring down the barrel of a months-long thru-hike, or need something to walk the dog with every evening, there’s a shoe here for you.
With the traditional pressure to wear hiking boots for long treks wringing in his ears, current author Chris Carter set off on each trail of the Triple Crown (PCT, CDT, and AT) in lightweight hiking shoes — and never looked back. He’s now a firm believer in shoes’ ability to perform just as well as boots on extended journeys, and much prefers them for their lightweight mobility and long-term comfort.
Chris is always lacing up in the newest kicks as soon as they surface, testing the competition, and seeing if they deserve any real estate in this guide. He’s tested over 20 different models in the past year alone.
Scrambling across alpine scree in the San Juans, slogging up muddy Appalachian slopes, and plodding across the blistering African savanna, he put a multitude of different models through the wringer to bring you the streamlined selection you see today. Rest assured, each of the shoes below will carry you hundreds — if not thousands — of miles across brutal terrain.
Our included comparison chart allows for quick and easy comparison, while our comprehensive buyer’s guide and FAQ section will let you know exactly what to look for as you consider your options.
Editor’s Note: We refreshed this guide on May 17, 2024, covering the updated Altra Lone Peak 8, the technical La Sportiva TX4 EVO, and the sporty Adidas Terrex Free Hiker GORE-TEX 2.0 Low.
The Best Hiking Shoes of 2024
- Best Overall Hiking Shoes: Altra Lone Peak 8
- Best Budget Hiking Shoes: Merrell Moab 3
- Best Hiking Shoes for Style & Function: Danner Trail 2650
- Best Water Hiking Shoes: Astral TR1 Water Hiking Shoe
- Best Hiking Shoes for Summer Travel: Salomon X Ultra 4 Low
- Best Hiking Shoes for Technical Approaches: La Sportiva TX4 EVO
Altra Lone Peak 8
Specs
- Weight 1 lb., 3 oz.
- Material Quick-dry air mesh
- Best Use Trail Running, Thru-hiking
- Top Attributes Wide Toe Box, Zero Drop, MaxTrac Rubber Outsole
![The Best Hiking Shoes of 2024](https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2024/05/Screen-Shot-2024-05-16-at-3.08.16-PM.png)
Pros
- Roomy Toe Box
- Grippy Outsole
- Superior Drainage
Cons
- Minimal Cushion
- Zero Drop isn't for everyone
Merrell Moab 3
Specs
- Weight 2 lb., 1 oz.
- Material Pigskin leather and mesh
- Best use Day hikes
- Top attribute Durable, solid value
![The Best Hiking Shoes of 2024](https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2023/05/Merrell-Moab-3.jpg)
Pros
- Good value
- Impressive traction and stability for a low-cut hiking shoe
- Breathable
Cons
- A bit heavy
- Requires a break-in period for peak comfort
Danner Trail 2650
Specs
- Weight 1 lb., 8 oz.
- Material Leather
- Best use Day hikes, dry summer adventures, town-to-trail excursions
- Top attribute Out-of-the-box comfort, breathable, stylish
![The Best Hiking Shoes of 2024](https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2019/05/Danner-Trail-2650-scaled.jpg)
Pros
- Stylish
- Breathable
- Grippy outsole
Cons
- Expensive compared to other options
Astral TR1 Water Hiking Shoe
Specs
- Weight 1 lb., 5.2 oz.
- Material Ripstop 2-denier mesh with TPU overlays
- Best use Desert canyons, tropical trails, and trails with water crossings
- Top attribute Easy-draining and quick-drying
![The Best Hiking Shoes of 2024](https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2019/05/astral-tr1-water-hiking-shoe.jpg)
Pros
- Grippy outsole
- Roomy and comfortable toebox
- Great odor control
Cons
- Not the most supportive
Salomon X Ultra 4 Low Aero
Specs
- Weight 1 lb., 6.4 oz.
- Material Nylon mesh
- Best use Summer hiking and technical trails
- Top attribute Breathable and light with plenty of grip
![The Best Hiking Shoes of 2024](https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2022/11/x-ultra-4.jpg)
Pros
- Highly breathable
- Good traction
- Lightweight
Cons
- Not ideal for technical scrambling on rock and steep terrain
La Sportiva TX4 EVO
Specs
- Weight 1 lb., 12 oz.
- Material Nubuck leather
- Best use Technical approaches or rocky scrambles
- Top attribute Environmentally responsible construction and materials
![The Best Hiking Shoes of 2024](https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2023/05/Screen-Shot-2024-05-16-at-3.26.30-PM.png)
Pros
- Extremely sticky rubber
- Balance between comfort and support
- Durable and abrasion-resistant upper material
Cons
- Heavy
HOKA Speedgoat 5
Specs
- Weight 1 lb., 4.6 oz.
- Material Recycled engineered mesh
- Best use Technical trails and long thru-hikes
- Top attribute Maximum cushion and lightweight durability
![The Best Hiking Shoes of 2024](https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2022/11/hoka-speedgoat-5.jpg)
Pros
- Fantastic traction
- Lighter than previous models
- Superior cushion
- Durable
Cons
- Gusseted tongue is a little short
- Not as stable due to high stack height
Adidas Terrex Free Hiker GORE-TEX 2.0 Low
Specs
- Weight 2 lb., 1 oz.
- Material Abrasion-resistant upper
- Best use Trail running, Thru-hiking
- Top attributes Abrasion-resistant upper, cushioning, Continental outsoles
![The Best Hiking Shoes of 2024](https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2024/05/Screen-Shot-2024-05-16-at-3.43.02-PM.png)
Pros
- Lots of cushion
- Springy heels
- Advanced stability
Cons
- They look like Grampa’s lawn mowing shoes
Brooks Cascadia 17
Specs
- Weight 1 lb., 6 oz.
- Material Air mesh
- Best use Technical, slippery trails
- Top attribute Durable tacky outsole
![The Best Hiking Shoes of 2024](https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2023/08/Brooks-Cascadia-17.jpg)
Pros
- Stable
- Cushioned
- Articulated Rock Shield provides great protection but is still flexible
Cons
- A smidge heavier than previous iterations
- A bit stiff out of the box
Adidas Terrex Swift R3 GTX
Specs
- Weight 1 lb., 11.9 oz.
- Material Warp-knit textile
- Best use High mileage on marginal trails
- Top attribute Long-term value
![The Best Hiking Shoes of 2024](https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2023/05/Addidas-Terrex-Swift-R3-GTX.jpg)
Pros
- Highly capable on technical and slick terrain
- Supportive enough for heavy backpack loads
Cons
- Heavy
Oboz Sawtooth X Low
Specs
- Weight 1 lb., 15.6 oz.
- Material Oiled nubuck leather and CORDURA fabric mesh
- Best use Mid-to-high-mileage backpacking journeys with loads up to 50 lbs.
- Top attribute Versatility
![The Best Hiking Shoes of 2024](https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2023/05/Oboz-Sawtooth-X-Low.jpg)
Pros
- Grippy outsole
- Minimal break-in period
- Durable
Cons
- Heavier than others
- Take forever to dry out if they get wet
HOKA Anacapa 2 Low GTX
Specs
- Weight 1 lb., 14.7 oz.
- Material Recycled mesh
- Best use Technical hiking over sludgy, slippery terrain
- Top attribute Sustainable build with a tacky outsole
![The Best Hiking Shoes of 2024](https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2023/08/HOKA-Anacapa-2-Low-GTX.jpg)
Pros
- Sustainably made
- Sticky Vibram Megagrip outsole with self-cleaning lug pattern
- Plenty of cushion
Cons
- Runs a bit large
- Extended heel cushion isn't everyone's cup of tea
- Pretty heavy
Hiking Shoe Comparison Table
Hiking Shoe | Price | Material | Weight | Top Attribute |
---|---|---|---|---|
Altra Lone Peak 8 | $150 | Quick dry air mesh | 1 lb., 3 oz. | Wide toebox and zero drop |
Merrell Moab 3 | $120 | Pigskin leather and mesh | 2 lb. 1 oz. | Solid value |
Danner Trail 2650 | $170 | Leather | 1 lb. 8 oz. | Out-of-the-box comfort |
Astral TR1 Water Hiking Shoe | $130 | Ripstop 2-denier mesh with TPU overlays | 1 lb. 5.2 oz. | Easy-draining and quick-drying |
Salomon X Ultra 4 Low Aero | $140 | Nylon mesh | 1 lb. 6.4 oz. | Breathable and light with plenty of grip |
La Sportiva TX4 EVO | $159 | Nubuck leather | 1 lb. 12 oz. | Grippy rubber |
Hoka Speedgoat 5 | $155 | Recycled engineered mesh | 1 lb. 4.6 oz. | Maximum cushion |
Brooks Cascadia 17 | $140 | Air mesh | 1 lb. 6 oz. | Durable tacky outsole |
Adidas Terrex Free Hiker GORE-TEX 2.0 Low | $180 | Abrasion Resistant Synthetic | 2 lb., 1 oz. | Continental Outsoles |
Adidas Terrex Swift R3 GTX | $180 | Warp-knit textile | 1 lb. 11.9 oz. | Long-term value |
Oboz Sawtooth X Low | $135 | Oiled nubuck leather and CORDURA fabric mesh | 1 lb. 15.6 oz. | Versatility |
HOKA Anacapa 2 Low GTX | $180 | Recycled mesh | 1 lb. 14.7 oz. | Sustainable build with a tacky outsole |
![A man walks down a trail while wearing hiking boots](https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2023/08/ATP03371-e1692727927952-700x467.jpg)
How We Tested Hiking Shoes
In our search for the best hiking shoes, we spent months on the trail. From the dry Arizona desert to the hot and humid Appalachian Trail, and the Rocky Mountains — we’ve logged a lot of miles.
The recommendations on this list are the result of intensive testing and thorough observation. “Hiking” is a broad term, and not all people who hike have the same needs. While compiling our roundup, we considered the intended use of each individual model. We paid careful attention to comfort, stability, outsole traction and grip, and long-term durability.
Staff Writer Mallory Paige led the charge with this guide back in May 2019, accruing our initial selection of 10 shoes. A dedicated hiker and backpacker, Mallory is a seasoned pro in the world of hiking shoes.
Senior Editor Chris Carter took over the guide in August 2022, and has been rummaging around his shoe rack and combing the interwebs ever since to bring you the most current, deserving selection possible. Chris has thru-hiked the Triple Crown of long trails in the United States: the Pacific Crest Trail, the Continental Divide Trail, and the Appalachian Trail. He’s plodded back and forth across the country in countless different models of shoes and knows the importance of dialing in on the perfect fit for various adventures and terrain.
Most recently hiker and GearJunkie contributor Nick LeFort has been taking these shoes for a spin. Nick is a former boot fitter who knows his way around a Brannock device and can make solid recommendations for any foot shape.
Our hiking shoe testing process is ongoing. As we continue to wear and assess new models, we’ll update our recommendations for the best hiking shoes on a regular basis.
If you need to carry super heavy loads or are just looking for some more ankle support, be sure to check out our guide to the best hiking boots, and have a look at the best women’s hiking shoes for a women-specific perspective.
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Hiking Shoes
![ld-export-64f26bd4-07212021 ld-export-64f26bd4-07212021](https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2022/11/ld-export-64f26bd4-07212021-e1680292072564.jpeg)
From day hiking to thru-hiking, the right pair of hiking shoes can become the most beloved and essential piece of gear in your kit. As the primary contact between you and the trail, your shoes make your adventures possible, and it’s imperative that they’re reliable.
While some still prefer the ankle support and robust structure of hiking boots, more and more hikers and backpackers are opting for the weight savings and nimble performance of hiking shoes. For any hiking endeavor, good-quality shoes are more than capable of handling a wide variety of terrain.
Because there are so many styles and variables, selecting the best hiking shoes for your unique needs can be difficult. In this guide, we include everything you need to know to select a pair of shoes that will treat your feet well and instill confidence in your stride.
Hiking Shoes vs. Boots
![DSC03852 DSC03852](https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2022/11/DSC03852-e1680291995399.jpeg)
One of the main differences between hiking shoes and boots is the height. Whereas shoes have a below-the-ankle height, hiking boots offer full ankle support and high-top construction. What you give up in ankle support, you make up for in weight savings and out-of-the-box comfort.
Hiking shoes are great for day hikes, smooth trails, and anytime you want to go fast and light. For bigger backpacking trips with a heavier backpacking pack, you may want to consider a full hiking boot. That said, we know thru-hikers who swear by lightweight hiking shoes and day-trippers who won’t head out without their boots. It’s all about preference.
And while there isn’t a single best hiking shoe for everyone out there, we’ve broken down this list into categories to help find the best hiking shoe for you.
Weight
![A woman holds up a pair of hiking shoes in front of a waterfall](https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2023/08/ATP03617-2-e1692735424107-700x467.jpg)
In recent years, hiking shoe technology has moved toward low-profile and lightweight designs. Modern fabrics and soles manage to be thinner and lighter without sacrificing performance on the trail. For long hikes and thru-hikes, the benefits of a light pair of shoes only grow as the miles wear on.
While many burly hiking boots weigh over 4 pounds per pair, hiking shoes tend to weigh around 2 pounds or less. If you like to go fast on the trail, or if you plan to do some trail running in your hiking shoes, light is undoubtedly better.
Yes, shaving ounces sometimes does reduce long-term durability. However, lots of pairs of shoes on this list are more than capable of holding up just as long as a hefty pair of boots.
With modern materials and advancements in design, you don’t need to give up durability to cut weight and gain comfort. The shoes on this list range from speedy lightweight models, like Hoka’s Speedgoat 5s at 1 pound, 4.6 ounces, to beefy but stalwart shoes like the Oboz Sawtooth X Low, tipping the scales at 1 pound, 15.6 ounces.
![DSC07243 DSC07243](https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2022/11/DSC07243-e1680292352306.jpeg)
Comfort and Fit
Comfort is the most important factor for any pair of active footwear. The shape of the human foot varies wildly, and the shoe that feels comfortable to someone else might not be comfortable for you. Feet can be wide or narrow, arches can be high or flat, and heels can be bulbous or low volume.
When selecting a pair of hiking shoes, there is really no substitute for trying them on and paying attention to how they feel in action. Most people will want to seek out a fit that minimizes negative space but does not actively constrict or compress their feet or toes.
If your foot moves in the shoe, you’ll likely be dealing with blisters before long. In general, hiking shoes tend to be more comfortable than hiking boots. It’s totally possible to find a pair that you can happily wear all day long.
![A man stands next to a river while wearing hiking shoes](https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2023/08/ATP03423-e1692728028201-700x467.jpg)
Waterproof
There are pros and cons to hiking in a pair of shoes that are billed as “waterproof.” When hiking on muddy and wet terrain, waterproof hiking shoes help keep your feet dry and comfortable. When your feet are wet, you’ll be more likely to develop blisters and other foot issues.
However, waterproof hiking shoes also tend to be warmer and less breathable. Once wet, waterproof shoes usually take longer to fully dry.
Most waterproof hiking shoes include a membrane in their liner (GORE-TEX is the most common) that keeps water from reaching the inside of the shoe. In addition, many hiking shoes are treated with a durable water-repellent coating, which can be reapplied after it wears off.
While it is good to prioritize dry feet, it is also important to remember that by sealing moisture out, you’re also sealing it in. Shoes with a waterproof liner are prone to becoming hot and sweaty in warm or humid conditions. All hiking shoes will soak through if they get very wet or become fully submerged, even if they’re labeled as waterproof.
Durability and Materials
![DSC03827 DSC03827](https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2022/11/DSC03827-e1680291814602.jpeg)
The two primary areas of a hiking shoe that will suffer the most from wear are the upper and the outsole. On the top of the shoe, the upper is the material that determines how waterproof, durable, and breathable the shoe is overall.
Most hiking shoes include an upper made from nylon, mesh, leather, or a combination. Nylon is lightweight and breathable, but it may not hold up well to repeated abrasion.
Mesh tends to be the least hardy, but it is super breathable and makes a comfortable choice for the tongue of a shoe. Leather is significantly less breathable, and it is often found on heavier-duty hiking shoes because it holds up to wear.
Although heavier and burlier hiking shoes often have the advantage of durability, many modern lightweight options are impressively long-lasting, too. Softer rubber outsoles will wear through faster than dense, firm outsoles.
Hiking Shoes Lifespan
It’s important that you don’t wear your hiking shoes (or boots) for longer than you should. Just because your toes aren’t hanging out of holes on the side, doesn’t mean the shoe has more life in it. Each manufacturer recommends different mileage for each shoe, but as a general rule, you want to replace your hiking shoes after 300-800 miles.
Many trail running shoes-turned-hiking shoes (such as Altra’s Lone Peak and Brooks’ Cascadia) are not designed to handle the same level of abuse as dedicated hiking shoes. It’s a good idea to retire shoes like these after between 300 and 500 miles.
Stalwart hiking shoes (like Merrell’s Moab or Salomon’s X Ultra 4 Low Aero), crafted for endless days on trail wearing a heavy pack will last you between 500 and 800 miles before you should lay them to rest.
It’s important to keep a rough estimate of the number of miles on your hiking shoes to avoid injury on trail. We like to keep a running document on our computer with a list of what trips we’ve done on each shoe, and how many miles were added each time. This may not be necessary for you personally — but we clock a heck of a lot of miles each year and have several different shoes in rotation.
![A woman stands next to a river while wearing hiking shoes](https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2023/08/ATP03437-e1692728104970-700x467.jpg)
Stability and Support
A shoe’s support comes from the construction of its components, including the sole and the midsole. These underfoot layers can be thick and sturdy, or thin and floppy.
For hiking, most people prefer a shoe that is stiff and stable through the middle part of the foot, but slightly more flexible near the toe. This allows your foot to feel supported without sacrificing the ability to flex your toes.
Most hiking shoes have a low-cut ankle collar. If you are seeking lots of ankle support, hiking boots are probably a better choice.
Lacing Systems
![ATP04721 (1) ATP04721 (1)](https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2022/11/ATP04721-1-e1680292419748.jpeg)
The way a shoe laces up can make or break your big-mile adventure. Not being able to find a comfortably snug fit or fighting with constant loosening are both frustrating trail experiences.
Some shoes have a single-pull system. And while it looks delicate and breakable, we’ve had no issues with long-term durability. Many testers find this system allows for a dialed fit, and we appreciate the ability to make quick adjustments.
That said, it’s harder to create a more custom tightness with quick laces. They tend to provide the same tension across the entire foot. If you prefer to create pockets of snugness across your foot, go with a traditional lacing system.
Traction
![](https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2023/05/IMG_0628-scaled-e1685479441687-700x466.jpeg)
The bottom of a good hiking shoe will feature a firm and grippy outsole. Vibram is the most common manufacturer of outsoles, although some footwear companies make their own.
A sturdy outsole is a major feature that sets a hiking shoe apart from a sneaker or tennis shoe. On a wide range of surfaces from loose scree to slick rock, a good hiking shoe will maintain reliable traction.
Many hiking shoe soles are designed to specialize in certain types of terrain. If you’ll be regularly hiking through unstable surfaces like deep mud, you’ll want a sole with firm, large rubber lugs underfoot.
If you plan to do a lot of scrambling and smearing your feet on slabs of rock, a soft and sticky rubber sole with a flat toe edge is the way to go. Many entry-level hiking shoes will include a versatile sole that will perform fairly well on any hiking surface.
Some manufacturers have specific, niche approach shoes for technical rock scrambling on long approaches and walk-offs of big rock climbs. These shoes, like the La Sportiva TX4 in this guide, have super tacky rubber, and midsoles designed for smearing and adhering to rocks.
![Topo Designs Women's Boulder Pants Scramble](https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2023/04/Topo-5-700x467.jpg)
Breathability
A shoe’s breathability comes from the materials that make up its construction. Areas of open synthetic mesh and woven nylon will greatly increase breathability.
Meanwhile, large patches of leather and waterproof membranes like GORE-TEX will decrease breathability, but add significant durability. A breathable shoe will feel cooler and less sweaty over the course of a rigorous hiking day, but usually won’t last as long.
However, breathable shoes are more likely to soak through to your socks when hiking in the rain or trudging through puddles. Shoes billed as “waterproof” may feel hot and sweaty at times, but they also help keep mud and moisture from reaching your socks and feet.
![](https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2023/05/ATP01295-scaled-e1685480456805-700x467.jpg)
Price
The cost of hiking shoes varies, and it is possible to buy a quality pair without breaking the bank. There are many excellent and long-lasting pairs with reasonable price tags. However, you may find that some lower-priced shoes come with fewer features, such as a waterproof liner or a Vibram sole.
The general price range of modern shoes is about $75-200, although there are some exceptions. After lots and lots of testing, we have determined that the cost of a pair of hiking shoes is not necessarily a direct indicator of performance.
![A man looks through binoculars while wearing hiking boots](https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2023/08/ATP03456-e1692728351761-700x467.jpg)
FAQ
The best hiking shoes are the ones that fit your feet comfortably and allow you to enjoy your time on the trail. When combing through the options, your first priorities should be fit and comfort.
Durability, support, and traction are important, too, but ultimately none of that matters if the shoes hurt your feet.
Also, no single pair of hiking shoes will be the very best for every application. The materials, design, and tread pattern will add up to a set of strengths and weaknesses in every shoe.
The current momentum in hiking footwear has shifted away from bulky ankle-high boots in favor of nimble, lower-cut hiking shoes. Hiking boots are heavier, and weight carried on your feet can feel very uncomfortable at the end of a full day. Switching out a 4-pound pair of boots for a 2-pound pair of hiking shoes can make a huge difference in your performance.
Also, many hiking boots have very stiff soles that keep the foot from flexing properly. Many boots are constructed with nonbreathable materials, meaning that your feet are more likely to get sweaty and form blisters. That said, hiking boots can be a great option for those who prefer lots of ankle stability or underfoot stiffness.
Hiking shoes are generally similar in shape to a pair of trainers or tennis shoes. The difference is that hiking shoes are built with durable materials and feature an outsole that is made to grip dirt, rocks, and mud. Compared to boots, hiking shoes feel light, nimble, and somewhat less supportive.
![Two people walk through the desert while wearing hiking shoes](https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2023/08/ATP03387-e1692727982159-700x467.jpg)
That depends. Keep in mind that no pair of hiking shoes is entirely water-resistant. Although some are marketed this way, full submersion in a puddle for more than a few seconds will soak through just about any pair of hiking shoes. Also, because they are low cut around the ankle, water is prone to getting in at the top of the shoe anyway.
Still, waterproof shoes do include membranes, like GORE-TEX, that can keep a significant amount of moisture out. When walking through dewy grass or muddy trails, waterproof shoes will keep your socks and feet drier than non-waterproof shoes.
Shoes with waterproof membranes are less breathable. If you will be hiking in hot and dry areas, you’ll probably feel more comfortable in non-waterproof shoes.
![A man walks by a river with hiking shoes](https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2023/08/ATP03427-e1692728089885-700x467.jpg)
For the most part, sneakers are designed to perform on artificial surfaces such as asphalt or cement. Many sneakers have flimsy soles and lack the appropriate level of support that is needed for hiking on uneven terrain. Additionally, sneakers are less likely to hold up to the abrasion and wear that is common while hiking on rough trails.
If you plan to mostly walk on flat trails in urban parks or backyards, you’ll probably be just fine with sneakers. However, for hikes of any significant length — and especially backpacking — hiking shoes are a much better choice.
Barefoot shoes are designed to allow your foot to flex naturally with every step. Thanks to their thin and flexible materials, barefoot shoes let you feel the texture of the trail in the soles of your feet.
With each step, the tissues of your feet directly respond to the trail, conforming and contracting as needed. As the name suggests, the experience is similar to walking barefoot.
While barefoot shoes are known for helping hikers and runners develop strong feet, they do take some getting used to. If you have been hiking in boots or hiking shoes, the transition to barefoot shoes will need to be gradual. If you do too much barefoot shoe hiking too soon, you may experience discomfort or quickly develop an injury.
Barefoot shoes lack insulation. They also will not protect your feet from sharp objects underfoot and may be quick to wear out. While some experienced hikers have made the transition to barefoot shoes, we generally do not recommend them to beginners.
![DSC04029 (1) DSC04029 (1)](https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2022/11/DSC04029-1-e1680291721736.jpeg)
![](https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2023/05/DSC01980-scaled-e1685386060608.jpg)
The Best Hiking Boots of 2024
If you’re looking for the best hiking boots, look no further. We’ve tested dozens of hiking boots over hundreds of miles to help you stay happy and comfortable on the trail.
![](https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2021/04/HikingBootsforWomen_PCMattGranger_CampPhotos2021-scaled.jpg)
The Best Hiking Boots for Women in 2024
We tested the best women’s hiking boots of 2024 with options for every budget. Top picks include SCARPA, Merrell, and more!