10 Best Men Hiking Shoe 2025 in the United States

The Merrell Men's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is a solid choice for hikers looking for a reliable, comfortable boot that can handle wet conditions. It features a waterproof membrane that keeps water out while allowing sweat to escape, making it great for damp trails. The combination of pigskin leather and mesh offers durability and breathability, and the boot includes a protective toe cap to shield feet from rocks or roots. Comfort is enhanced with a removable insole that provides medium support and reinforced heel cushioning, plus a shock-absorbing air cushion in the heel adds extra stability on uneven terrain.

The Vibram TC5+ rubber sole delivers good traction, which helps prevent slipping on various surfaces. Being a mid-height boot, it offers some ankle support without feeling too bulky. However, it weighs about 11.7 ounces, which is moderate—not the lightest option for those wanting very lightweight shoes for long hikes. While it provides decent arch support and stability, it may not be enough for hikers needing extra strong ankle protection or those tackling very rugged trails. The use of recycled materials like laces and mesh lining is a nice eco-friendly touch.

This boot is well-suited for casual to moderate hikers who want a dependable, waterproof shoe with good comfort and grip, but serious backpackers or those on very challenging terrain might look for something more specialized.

The Merrell Men's Moab 3 Hiking Shoe in size 9.5 and Walnut color offers a blend of comfort, durability, and performance. The pigskin leather and mesh upper, complemented by 100% recycled laces and webbing, make it a sustainable choice for eco-conscious hikers. The shoe’s fit and comfort are enhanced by the Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable contoured insole with reinforced heel cushioning, providing medium support. Additionally, the lightweight EVA foam midsole ensures stability and comfort for long hikes.

The Vibram TC5+ rubber sole provides excellent traction, making it suitable for various terrains. The protective toe cap and bellows tongue are great features that keep debris out and protect your feet from rough terrain. However, some users might find the shoe’s support and stability to be medium rather than robust, which may not be ideal for more challenging hikes. The weight of the shoe is reasonably balanced, but it might not be the lightest option available.

Furthermore, while the shoe offers some level of waterproofing due to its leather material, it might not be fully waterproof in extreme conditions. The Merrell Air Cushion in the heel effectively absorbs shock, adding to the comfort. This shoe is a solid choice for casual to moderate hiking but may not be the best for intense, high-altitude adventures.

The Timberland men's White Ledge Mid Waterproof Hiking Shoe in Wheat color and size 12 US offers several noteworthy features for hikers. Starting with fit and comfort, the shoe's EVA footbed and midsole provide cushioning, which most users will find comfortable for long hikes. Additionally, the fully gusseted tongue helps keep debris out, enhancing comfort further. However, some users may find the shoe slightly heavy, affecting long-term wear comfort for extended hikes.

The mid-height shaft offers good ankle support, which is essential for rough terrains, contributing to the shoe's stability. In terms of material, the waterproof Premium Timberland Leather ensures durability and resistance to wet conditions, making it suitable for various weather scenarios. The rustproof speed lace hardware is a practical feature, ensuring the laces remain functional and easy to adjust. The ReBOTL fabric lining, made from recycled materials, is an eco-friendly touch, although its comfort level may vary among users.

The rubber outsole provides reliable traction, which is crucial for maintaining grip on slippery or uneven surfaces. While the traction and outsole are robust, some users may find that extreme conditions require more aggressive tread patterns. The shoe's weight might be a concern for those who prefer lighter footwear for less strenuous hikes. To conclude, this Timberland hiking shoe excels in durability, waterproofing, and support, making it a solid choice for casual to moderate hiking activities. However, the weight and potential variability in comfort could be drawbacks for more demanding hikes or users with specific comfort needs.