There has never been a better time for hiking than now. The weather is right, for one. But also, hiking is one of the few activities that you can do without coming into much contact with others. And that’s a big bonus, given that right now, the U.S. has more cases of COVID-19 than any other country in the world, and health officials continue to ask us to take social distancing seriously.
But before you hit the trails this summer, you’ll want to find the right hiking boots — which isn’t as easy a task as you might think. You’ve got to consider how much ankle support you want, what materials you’re looking for (if you’re vegan, leather won’t work), how much traction you need, and more.
We’ve rounded up a few reviewer-backed hiking boots that will make your treks safer and comfier. A word of advice from REI: Once you receive a new pair, try them on at the end of a long day, or after a walk or run. Your feet will have naturally swelled a bit, which will give you a more accurate idea of how they’ll fit when you’re halfway to your summit. (That’s the last place you want to realize that you should have sized up.)
Merrell Moab 2
When we think filtered water, we think of the brand “Brita.” And when many trekkers think of reliable hiking boots, they think “Merrell.” The Moab has established itself as a go-to hiker, thanks to it’s comfortable padding and breathable mesh.
Gear Lab notes that they’re great for those new to traversing trails, and they’ll work on moderate to long day hikes.
Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Mid Waterproof, $, available at Merrell
Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX
The hiking community on Reddit is constantly raving about Salomon‘s offerings. Reviewers love this particular boot for its traction, comfort, and supreme water resistance. Fair warning, reviewers say they run a little big, so you may want to consider sizing down.
Salomon Salomon X ULTRA 3 MID GTX W, $, available at Salomon
Hoka One One Kaha Gore-Tex
The Hoka brand is known for comfort, and its hiking shoes are no exception. Because of their cushy soles, Gear Lab says they’re great for hardcore hikers who like to cover many miles a day with large backpacks. The only downside is they may take a while to break in, due to the narrow box toe.
Hoka One One HOKA ONE ONE Sky Kaha Hiking Boot – Women’s, $, available at Backcountry
L.L. Bean Women’s Alpine Hiking Boots
Although it took me a few winding walks in the woods to fully break in my L.L. Bean boots, it was worth it. Their grip is stellar so you won’t have to worry about losing your balance on tough trails, and their “internal rock plate” saves your tootsies from tough terrain. Plus, they’re chic.
L.L. Bean Women’s Alpine Hiking Boots, Nubuck, $, available at L.L. Bean
Keen Women’s Steens Vent Shoe
Some people don’t need or can’t tolerate too much ankle support. These leather booties ride low, and they’re lightweight and durable.
KEEN Keen Steens Vent Shoe, $, available at Keen
Eddie Bauer Lukla Pro Waterproof Lightweight Hiker
Another lower cut option, this pair is breathable, and will offer plenty of arch support as you traipse around the countryside.
Eddie Bauer Lukla Pro Waterproof Lightweight Hiker, $, available at Eddie Bauer
Ahnu Women’s Sugarpine Hiking Boot
This is Wild author Cheryl Strayed’s favorite brand. Plus, reviewers say they’re super sturdy.
“I’m famous for wearing the wrong boots and learned the hard way that you need the right boots,” Strayed told The Strategist. “The owners of this brand were fans of Wild, and they sent them to me, and I noticed two things about them. Right out of the box, they were the most comfortable boots I’ve ever owned. And whenever I’m somewhere and encounter any women wearing Ahnus, they will say, ‘Oh my god, aren’t they amazing?’ There’s a cult of Ahnu.”
Ahnu Ahnu Women’s Sugarpine Hiking Boot, $, available at Amazon
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