5 Trail-Tested Hiking Boots That Reviewers Rave About 2025

In our testing the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid (8.5/10) stood out for its Contagrip outsole and reliable waterproofing, giving you confidence on wet, technical terrain. We found the lightweight construction makes quick ascents and scrambles feel noticeably less tiring, though the flexible collar and generous cuff padding trade off ankle support and a streamlined fit. During our review some hikers reported the model runs large—so we recommend sizing down about half a size—and the premium $314.15 price nudges its value down compared with cheaper rivals.

In our testing the ZODIAC PLUS GTX (7.5/10) impressed with outstanding traction—its aggressive sole gripped rock, mud and snowy approaches—which makes it a go-to for technical days. We found the supportive ankle and robust construction give confidence under load, but that beefy build also translates to a stiffer feel that can be fatiguing on long hikes. During our review the suede upper picked up dust and scuffs quickly, so expect to clean them often if you care about looks.

Our experience shows the Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid 2 is a lightweight, comfortable choice that showcases Altra's roomy toe box and zero-drop platform for a natural stride on easier trails. During our review it performed well for long days, but we noticed material wear after limited use and waterproofing that sometimes failed under prolonged wet conditions. If you prioritize comfort and a natural feel it's a solid pick, though the lack of ankle support makes it less suited to technical terrain and earns it a 7/10.

During our review the Targhee IV (8/10) impressed as a solid everyday hiker with a roomy toe box and KEEN.DRY waterproofing that kept our feet dry on damp approaches. We found the build uses durable materials that will hold up on rugged routes, but the shoe's extra weight becomes noticeable on longer outings and the outsole struggled a bit on slick wet rocks. If you have wider feet you'll appreciate the comfortable fit, though narrow-footed hikers may want a snugger option or consider sizing adjustments for a more secure feel.

In our testing the Lowa Renegade Gore-Tex Mid earned its high 9.5/10 rating by delivering rock-solid stability and exceptional Gore-Tex waterproofing that kept feet dry for multi-day outings. We found the fit comfortable right out of the box with minimal break-in, making it a great pick for hikers who prioritize support on uneven terrain. During longer hikes the lacing can loosen and the leather uppers run warm in hot conditions, but for the level of performance and competitive price this boot is hard to beat.