The Best Men’s Hiking Shoes and Boots of 2023
16 testers tried 40 hikers. These ones came out on top.
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.
16 testers tried 40 hikers. These ones came out on top.
Twelve testers put 33 boots to rock, dirt, and sand. These nine vaulted to the top.
Writer and outdoor adventurer Elisabeth Kwak laces up her HOKA Anacapas and embarks on a challenge that helps her redefine success and discover a new identity as an outdoor athlete
Developed and tested on the Pacific Crest Trail—the new adidas TERREX Free Hiker 2.0 is your next long-distance shoe
There’s no faster way to ruin your first big trip than by wearing shoes or boot that aren't up to the task. We break down what beginners need to know about buying their first pair of trail shoes.
Libby DeLana never misses a day outdoors. Here’s what she’s learned—and here are the shoes that keep her going.
Shoes to get you moving down the trail—no matter the conditions
These boots are the only ones you’ll need all winter long
Who knew the famous comfort, durability, and versatility of the Merrell Moab could be improved?
I came for their looks. I stayed for their all-day comfort and all-terrain performance.
Put these world-class treks on your bucket list, and get the right footwear for success
For years, trail runners have been the footwear of choice for gram-counters. New boot designs aim to change that.
Scarpa is pushing approach shoes to new heights—and distances
Quality rubber is the most important part of your crag bag
Kicks for logging tarmac miles
Step up your cycling game with these road, gravel, and spin shoes
These hikers will help you carry your load and stay comfortable and secure, no matter the terrain
These rugged runners love to rally
This shoe brings carbon-plated speed to the masses
Which one of these highly-reviewed backpacking boots is for you?
These models will have you jumping for joy as you hike.
Check out BACKPACKER Editors and Contributors's author page.
Check out BACKPACKER Editors and Contributors's author page.
The first-ever Graphene foam hiking boot delivers unprecedented energy return and cushioning.
Sometimes, you need a boot that can stand up to the toughest terrain.
The Erem Xerocole Expedition is dialed for sandy adventures.
The Altra Superior 5 aids in a natural, comfortable stride.
Bonus: the Scarpa Ribelle HD is crampon compatible.
When it comes to hiking in rough terrain with heavy packs, nothing beats the stability of our top six stalwart backpacking boots.
Pick up the pace and cover more distance with this gear designed for speed.
Check out Jackie Bourgaize's author page.
The adidas Terrex Speed Ultra provides plenty of cushion without the weight.
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.
Double your fun with a pair of shoes that's ready to pull double duty.
Happy feet equal a happy hiker. Make strides toward your goals with the right shoe.
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.
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.
The best all-around footwear of 2021
The best camp shoe of 2021.
The most breathable footwear of 2021
The best value footwear of 2021
The lightest footwear of 2021
The best footwear for scrambling of 2021
The best cushioned footwear of 2021
The most versatile footwear of 2021
The footwear with best support of 2021
The best fitting footwear of 2021
Go beyond the jargon to find the perfect midsole for your hiking style.
The Tread Labs Pace Insole Kit let us dial in our fit no matter what pair we were wearing.
Get a grip on choosing the right outsole for your adventures.
Bust through snow, crust, and slush with this warm, toothy footwear.
Best features in a boot
Best ounce-for-ounce boot
Best for snowshoeing
Best for mountaineering
Most versatile winter boot
Warmest boots
Light-and-mighty boot
Most Breathable
Most Comfortable
Most Stable
Best Stride
Best Fit
Best All-Around Light Hiking Boot
Save on a minimalist, distance-crushing shoe.
Get a crazy-good hiking shoe for a crazy-low price.
Celebrate summer with an updated outdoor classic.
Do-anything shoe
Best sandal
Best footwear for technical terrain
Most protective footwear
Best footwear for big miles
Light but sturdiest footwear
Most versatile footwear
Most comfortable footwear
Most durable footwear
Most nimble footwear
Footwear with the best traction
Best for car campers