The Best Light Hiking Shoes of 2022
These models will have you jumping for joy as you hike.
Footwear
Our gear experts test the latest backpacking, trail running, hiking and camping boots and shoes in real trail conditions to help you find the best backcountry footwear to fit your needs. Whether you’re looking for a sturdy boot for stability on rocky trails or a lightweight minimalist trail running shoe, Backpacker has you covered with our comprehensive footwear reviews.
Boot Showdown: Mammut Sapuen High GTX vs. Vasque Breeze LT GTX
Which one of these highly-reviewed backpacking boots is for you?
Latest in Footwear
Outside Gear Spotlight: Danner Trail 2650 Mid GTX
Check out BACKPACKER Editors and Contributors's author page.
Outside Gear Spotlight: Salewa Mountain Trainer Lite Mid GTX
Check out BACKPACKER Editors and Contributors's author page.
Sponsored Content
First Look: inov-8 ROCFLY G 390
The first-ever Graphene foam hiking boot delivers unprecedented energy return and cushioning.
Outside Gear Spotlight: Salewa Mountain Trainer Mid GTX
Sometimes, you need a boot that can stand up to the toughest terrain.
What We’re Testing Now: A Hiking Boot Made for the Desert
The Erem Xerocole Expedition is dialed for sandy adventures.
What We’re Testing Now: Speed Through the Woods on This Supportive, Stable Trail Running Shoe
The Altra Superior 5 aids in a natural, comfortable stride.
Save Your Ankles With These Ultra-Supportive Boots
Bonus: the Scarpa Ribelle HD is crampon compatible.
Haul Any Load With These 6 Hiking Boots
When it comes to hiking in rough terrain with heavy packs, nothing beats the stability of our top six stalwart backpacking boots.
Fly Down the Path with These 5 Pieces of Trail Running Gear
Pick up the pace and cover more distance with this gear designed for speed.
Ecco Exohike Retro Hiker
Check out Jackie Bourgaize's author page.
What We’re Testing Now: This Ultralight Trail Running Shoe Doesn’t Skimp On Comfort
The adidas Terrex Speed Ultra provides plenty of cushion without the weight.
Best Hiking Boots of 2021
Nobody knows hiking boots like Backpacker. We sent testers around the world with the latest boots and shoes to see how they perform in varied conditions. These 10 rose to the top.
These 5 Multisport Shoes Are Ready for Any Adventure
Double your fun with a pair of shoes that's ready to pull double duty.
How to Decide Which Hiking Shoes to Buy
Happy feet equal a happy hiker. Make strides toward your goals with the right shoe.
Sponsored Content
First Look: VECTIV™ Exploris Mid FUTURELIGHT™
The VECTIV™ Exploris Mid FUTURELIGHT™ is a new mid boot from The North Face, featuring the VECTIV™ propulsion technology that makes up the backbone of their cutting-edge new line of trail shoes.
Sponsored Content
High Speed with Hillygoat
Endurance runner Hillary Allen is a specialist when it comes to charging hard on rough trail. The new VECTIV shoe line is helping get her where she needs to go, fast.
Mammut Sapuen High GTX
The best all-around footwear of 2021
Arc’teryx Norvan SL 2
The lightest footwear of 2021