5 Trail-Tested Hiking Boots That Reviewers Rave About 2025
July 18, 2025
Overview
Conquer any trail with confidence in 2025 with our expert selection of trail-tested hiking boots! We've scoured reviews and analyzed performance to bring you the top boots that hikers are raving about. Whether you're a seasoned backpacker or a casual day-hiker, this guide provides detailed insights and recommendations to help you find the perfect footwear for your next outdoor adventure. Get ready to experience ultimate comfort, support, and durability on the trails.
In this guide
Our picks
The Best Overall Hiking Boots for Any Trail: Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid Hiking Boots, $314.15
The Most Durable Hiking Boot for Rugged Terrain: Targhee IV Hiking Shoe, $170.00
The Best Hiking Boots for Challenging Mountain Trails: ZODIAC PLUS GTX MEN'S, $244.30
The Best Lightweight Hiking Boots for Day Hikes: Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid 2, $144.00
The Best Hiking Boots for Wide Feet Comfort: Lowa Renegade Gore-Tex Mid Boots, $79.99
Hiking Boots for Challenging Terrain
Boots designed to provide superior support, traction, and protection for rugged mountain trails.
8.5
Listful
Score
Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid Hiking Boots
$314.15
In our testing, the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid Hiking Boots exhibited superb traction and waterproof reliability, making them ideal for versatile terrain. Their lightweight design enhances agility on the trail, although some hikers found the fit a bit large, suggesting sizing down by half. While these boots scored 8.5/10, some users mentioned a flexible collar that may not provide sufficient ankle support for everyone. Despite being on the pricier side, they remain a strong contender for those valuing performance.
The Good
• Lightweight design enhances agility on trails.
• Effective waterproofing keeps feet dry in wet conditions.
• Excellent traction on various terrains due to Contagrip outsole.
The Bad
• Flexible collar may lack sufficient ankle support for some hikers.
• Some users report the boots run large, recommending sizing down half a size.
• Padding around the cuff and tongue may feel excessive to some hikers.
Waterproof: true / Breathability: true / Traction: 9 / Comfort Level: 8
7.5
Listful
Score
ZODIAC PLUS GTX MEN'S
$244.30
While not the highest scorer at 7.5/10, the ZODIAC PLUS GTX Men's boots shine on rough terrains, including rock and mud, with excellent traction. During our review, we appreciated the lightweight waterproof design and supportive ankle fit. Nonetheless, the boot's stiffness might impact comfort over extended use, and the suede upper tends to absorb dust quickly. Although not immediately suitable for casual hikers, they are great for those needing robust performance and support.
The Good
• Provides excellent traction on various terrains, including rock, snow, and mud.
The Bad
• Some users find the boots too stiff, leading to discomfort during long hikes.
• The suede upper absorbs dust and grime quickly, making them look older than they really are.
Waterproof: true / Breathability: true / Traction: 9 / Comfort Level: 7
Lightweight Hiking Boots for Day Hikes
Comfortable and agile boots perfect for shorter hikes and maximizing ease of movement.
7
Listful
Score
Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid 2
$144.00
Navigating trails with the Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid 2 is a breeze, especially if comfort and natural stride are priorities, thanks to their 9.0 comfort rating. These lightweight boots promise a roomy toe design for added comfort, yet durability concerns were noted during our review, with materials showing wear quickly. While effective for short hikes, the waterproofing may fall short on prolonged wet adventures. These boots are ideal for those prioritizing comfort over technical support.
The Good
• Lightweight design enhances comfort during long hikes.
• Roomy toe box allows natural foot splay, increasing comfort.
• Zero-drop design promotes a natural stride.
The Bad
• Some users report durability issues with materials showing wear after limited use.
• Waterproofing may fail during prolonged exposure to wet conditions.
• Ankle support may be insufficient for technical terrains.
Waterproof: true / Breathability: true / Traction: 8.5 / Comfort Level: 9.0
Waterproof Hiking Boots to Stay Dry
Boots with superior waterproof and breathable designs to keep your feet dry in any weather.
8
Listful
Score
Targhee IV Hiking Shoe
$170.00
The Targhee IV Hiking Shoe, priced affordably and scoring 8/10, is a solid option for wide-footed hikers needing comfort and durability. Our review found its roomy toe box and waterproof protection admirable, but its heavier build might tire you on extended treks. Despite providing strong traction on dry surfaces, it falters slightly when faced with wet conditions. Ideal for budget-conscious hikers, this choice delivers excellent value albeit with minor fit considerations for narrow feet.
The Good
• The Targhee IV offers a roomy toe box, providing comfort for hikers with wider feet.
• The KEEN.DRY membrane provides waterproof protection, keeping feet dry in wet conditions.
• The boots are constructed with durable materials, enhancing their longevity on rugged trails.
The Bad
• The boots are heavier than some alternatives, which may lead to quicker fatigue on longer hikes.
• The traction is less effective on wet or slippery surfaces, making them less reliable in rainy conditions.
• The fit may be too wide for those with narrow feet, leading to a less secure feel.
Waterproof: true / Breathability: false / Traction: 7 / Comfort Level: 8
Hiking Boots for Wide Feet
Comfortable options to suit hikers with wider feet, ensuring a great fit and feel.
9.5
Listful
Score
Lowa Renegade Gore-Tex Mid Boots
$79.99
The Lowa Renegade Gore-Tex Mid Boots are our top-rated choice, scoring an impressive 9.5/10, combining stability, comfort, and waterproofing for a standout performance. We found the fit comfortable with minimal break-in time, though the leather uppers can be warm in hot climates. While the lacing system requires occasional tightening, these boots offer unparalleled support on uneven trails. Budget-conscious buyers may hesitate at the price, but the tremendous value they provide is hard to beat.
The Good
• Exceptional waterproofing keeps feet dry in wet conditions.
• Provides excellent stability and support on uneven terrain.
• Comfortable fit with minimal break-in period.
The Bad
• Lacing system may loosen during hikes, requiring adjustments.
• Leather uppers can feel hot and sweaty in high temperatures.
• Priced higher than some competitors, which may deter budget-conscious buyers.
Waterproof: true / Breathability: true / Traction: 8 / Comfort Level: 9
Discover More Guides
Topics
Create Your Custom
AI Shopping Guide
Get personalized product recommendations tailored to your specific needs and preferences with our intelligent AI guide creator.
AI-Powered Recommendations
Instant Results
Free to use • No account required
Share
More Guides
Latest Articles