And durability-wise, a minimalist shoe like the Speedgoat will pack out, abrade, and lose its cushion more quickly than a burly hiking-specific model. View cart for details. If you do choose to go with a lightweight trail runner, keep in mind that the tradeoff is decreased stability and support. If you like the look and feel of the TX4 but want something a little different, check out the mesh TX3 and TX Guide, the latter of which features a narrower, more cushioned build with the same climbing-inspired sole Read in-depth reviewSee the La Sportiva TX4. One key difference is the Altras zero-drop shape compared with the Cascadias more traditional 8-millimeter drop, which is ultimately a matter of personal preference (but it does mean the Altra has more cushioning, especially under the forefoot).See the Brooks Cascadia 16. For example, we found the Vaya to offer fairly unimpressive traction on wet terrain, whereas the Cross Hike excels in this environment. Hiking shoes typically have a full rubber toe cap, but trail runners sometimes have a trimmed-down version or none at allone of the compromises in opting for a minimalist shoe. Approach shoes, on the other hand, have exceptional protection with a standard wraparound rubber rand and stiff midsole and outsole. Shoes that use TPU underfoot are often less cushy than those with only EVA but will last longer and provide better protection and stability underfoot. Join DICKS Text Alerts to Receive Special Offers! But as with many minimalist options, we've had durability issues with various iterations of the Lone Peak (the rubber toe cap has a tendency to peel away from the upper), and the roomy toe box and zero-drop shape can detract from precision and stability. For these reasons, its our favorite pair of Arcteryx hiking footwear to date. Category: Trail runner/hiking shoeWeight: 1 lb. The softer-touch leather is lighter and more flexible than glossy, full-leather options and more durable than most nylons. 4.8 oz.Waterproof: NoWhat we like: Confidence-inspiring grip and protection in a lightweight package.What we dont: Stiffer than most of the hiking shoes here. Last year, they released an update to the much-loved shoe in the X Ultra 4 here. If the culprit is just the laces themselves, its an easy fix: there are a number of good quality replacement laces available. Pleaseenable JavaScript in your browser; it's quick and easy! Joining the Speedgoat above is another non-traditional hiker: La Sportiva's TX4. Most of the hiking shoes here come in both waterproof and non-waterproof versions. Women with hard-to-please feet will likely appreciate the accommodating toe box of the Sapphire, but the narrow heel wont work for everyone. Most day hikers will want to look elsewhere, but for backpackers and those frequently traveling off trail or above treeline in areas like the High Sierra or Colorado Rockies, the Spire offers an excellent combination of support, durability, and protection.See the La Sportiva Spire GTX. Throw in excellent grip, good breathability (for a waterproof design), and the top-shelf quality weve come to expect from this Italian climbing brand, and you have one of the more capable hiking shoes on the market. The Altras shorter stack height also puts you closer to the trail, which increases stability for many hikers (the Hoka can feel a little tippy and harder to trust on rocky terrain). In true Arcteryx form, durability is excellent (weve been very impressed with the Cordura mesh upper in a number of their designs), and the generous toe cap adds a noticeable boost in protection. Compared to Obozs Sawtooth (no longer featured on this list), the Sapphire has more crossover appeal but less protection and support overall. The leather upper and sturdy outsole arent particularly lightweight (especially compared to modern trail runner-inspired designs), but the benefits are excellent stability over rough terrain, great long-term durability, and impressive all-around protection for your foot. The third option has a relatively narrow focus: climbers or hikers that need a grippy shoe to tackle steep, rocky terrain (often part of the approach to a rock climb). Keep in mind that, like Vibram, Contagrip compounds can vary from shoe to shoe (there are a number of different compounds, including Contagrip MA, MD, and TA). Its slightly lighter than the X Ultra 4 GTX above at 1 pound 5.2 ounces, and forgoes some of the X Ultras stability and cushion with a softer and more streamlined midsole. Finally, the Sapphire feels stiffer and clunkier than more modern designs, and the Swiftcurrent outsole isnt as grippy as blends from Vibram or Contagrip (on the other hand, it lends more durability for use on pavement). For logging serious miles on tougher terrain, we prefer a firm and supportive midsole as opposed to too much cushioning. To compile our top picks, the female editors at Switchback Travel took to the trail, testing out everything from heavy-duty leather hikers to cushioned trail runners and approach shoes originally intended for climbing. Arcteryx has been experimenting with footwear for years, from the Bora2 hiking boots to the Norvan trail runners. However, while the TX4 is ideal if youre tackling a mix of cross-country and on-trail travel, it wouldnt be our first choice as a dedicated trail shoe. But for folks that dont need cutting-edge performance, the Moab 3 is a wonderful hiking shoe with a long and reputable track record to back it up. For some, this offers a locked-down feel but perhaps too roomy of a toe box; for others (ourselves included), its ideal in the forefoot but too tight at the arch. In true Hoka style, the Speedgoat features a super thick midsole that isolates you nicely from uneven terrain, and you still get ample firmness for covering serious ground. In the end, the Swift R3 falls a bit short of the competition, but it's nevertheless a capable and time-tested hiker.See the Adidas Terrex Swift R3 GTX. Scarpas new Rush collection For the best combination of protection and support on the trail, look no further than a hiking boot. However, trail runners are really not intended as backpacking footwear: the flexible midsoles dont provide much support on technical terrain or while carrying a heavy load, durability suffers, and you get very little toe and underfoot protection. However, soft midsoles have a tendency to break down over time, so expect these shoes to pack out more quickly than dedicated hiking shoes. Weve included one model on this list (the La Sportiva TX4), but for a complete look at the market, check out our article on the best approach shoes. ), its also a close match to its predecessor in terms of weight. What we dont: Pricey, on the stiffer side, and runs narrow. One standout is the running-inspired Trail 2650 Campo GTX, which I Winter weather calls for capable footwear, whether you're working outdoors, snowshoeing, or commuting to work. That said, its hard to argue with the myriad thru-hikers that routinely log 20-plus-mile days (with an overnight load) wearing the Speedgoat. Throughout the past year, we dreamed of returning to see the classic spires and tundra Danner Trail 2650 Campo GTX Hiking Shoe Review, A Year on the Road (Part 3): Tombstone Territorial Park, Back to Our Top Women's Hiking Shoe Picks, Back to Our Women's Hiking Shoe Comparison Table. If you go this route, weve found Gore-Tex models to work consistently well, and many in-house designs are similarly capable of keeping water out (breathability is a different story), including the Obozs B-Dry in the Sapphire Waterproof. To top it off, a Gore-Tex membrane keeps your feet protected from the elements (the shoe is also offered in a non-GTX version). Building on the success of the prior generation, the latest shoe Lets face it: it rains, and sometimes it pours. In a way that more casual footwear can never match, hiking and trail running footwear are leaps and bounds better when the going gets rocky, slippery, and steep. Among traditional day hiking options, the KEEN Targhee Vent and Merrell Moab 3 are two of the most popular shoes on the market. The version of the Trail 2650 included here isnt waterproof, but Danner also makes a GTX model for $210 and 1 pound 5 ounces per pair, along with a Mid GTX ($220) for those who want more ankle protection. If were planning on moving quickly on easy trail, softer cushioning is a better bet and commonly found in trail running designs like the Hoka Speedgoat. Recent iterations of the Cascadia have started to feel really dated compared to the more modern trail runner competition, but the 16 is a nice middle ground for hikers looking for an effective balance of agility and stability. In other words, those with finicky feet that need to fine-tune their laces to be comfortable may be better off avoiding quick-lace designs. Built as a trail runner, the Speedgoat 5 has been adopted by the thru-hiking community as a durable, capable shoe that can meet the demands of hikers and minimalist backpackers alike. All told, its a robust hiking shoe that offers much of the performance and durability of a leather design in a lighter and more nimble package. 3 oz.Waterproof: NoWhat we like: A classic thru-hiking shoe that offers a bit more stability than the Speedgoat above.What we dont: Fairly dated and fit will be too roomy for some. Depending on the design, midsoles vary from very thin (minimalist trail runner) to stiff and substantial (burly hiking shoe). The mesh upper of a trail runner also lacks around-the-foot protection and leaves your feet more vulnerable to roots and rocks. If youre headed out on technical terrain or with a heavy pack, models like the La Sportiva Spire and Moab 3 will offer noticeably more underfoot stability and isolation from the trail. The Hoka Speedgoat above has achieved legendary status among hikers (specifically the thru-hiking community), but there are some notable tradeoffs with the trail-running design. Like the Speedgoat above, Altras high-cushion, zero-drop Lone Peak was designed first as a running shoe and has since won the hearts of thru-hikers with its minimalist-yet-tough build. If a shoe has a poor lacing system that is prone to loosening, youll find yourself having to readjust constantly on the trail. But the Scarpa nevertheless offers some of the best on-trail performance and comfort of any model here Read in-depth reviewSee the Scarpa Rush Low GTX. Most often, hiking shoes are made with a mix of nylon, mesh, and leather to balance cost, weight-savings, and durability. Following suit, the outsole is impressively grippy andalthough non-traditionalwe found ourselves really appreciating the athletic and sprightly feel of the rockered sole. In terms of trail performance, you get far less protection from rocks and roots, and the flexible build translates to noticeably less stability on uneven ground (especially while carrying a load). Approach shoes are easy to spot: they have a large rubber toe rand, to-the-toe lacing, and a sticky, low-profile rubber compound underfoot for maximum grip on rock (look for shorter and more rounded lugs). Hiking shoes also are great options for folks needing a substantial shoe for daily wearjust be aware that the outsoles will wear faster on pavement. Finally, the absence of TPU is a good way to differentiate a trail running shoe from a hiking shoemost running designs forgo this plastic in order to stay flexible and cushioned, but the tradeoff is less stability and isolation from rough terrain. Category: Trail runnerWeight: 1 lb. Bringing the much-loved Moab (below) into the modern era, the Speed Low features a lightweight and cushioned design that will appeal to day hikers and weight-conscious backpackers alike. For those that prefer a more traditional hiking shoe, theres a lot to love about the Moab 3 Ventilator. The majority of the tread is quality Vibram rubber, but Hoka incorporated large sections of blown rubber in the middle of the design. Danner originally was known for its work boots, but the long-time footwear brand has made a nice transition to hikers of late. There seems to be a problem serving the request at this time, One stop shop for all things from your favorite brand, {"modules":["unloadOptimization","bandwidthDetection"],"unloadOptimization":{"browsers":{"Firefox":true,"Chrome":true}},"bandwidthDetection":{"url":"https://ir.ebaystatic.com/cr/v/c1/thirtysevens.jpg","maxViews":4,"imgSize":37,"expiry":300000,"timeout":250}}, Size 8 - adidas Terrex Free Hiker Primeblue Pink, Size 4 - adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V2 Israfil, Size 9 - adidas Terrex Free Hiker GTX Beige, Size 6.5 - adidas UltraBoost 5.0 DNA Blue Tint. The end result is a nimble and responsive shoe that still offers a step up in support and traction from trail runners like the Hoka Speedgoat or Altra Lone Peak above. Whether youre setting out on a casual day hike or hitting the trail with overnight gear, theres a hiking shoe up for the task. But in general, these designs are a bit long in the tooth compared to modern synthetic shoes. After viewing product detail pages, look here to find an easy way to navigate back to pages you are interested in. Slotting in toward the bottom of our list is the Merrell Siren Edge 3. 10.2 oz.Waterproof: YesWhat we like: Incredible performance for everything from easy trails to scrambling.What we dont: Heavy and pricey. Unlike the plush Salomon and Oboz, the Merrell streamlines its design, opting for minimal cushioning and a fairly sleek upper that result in great crossover appeal. And finally, wed be remiss not to point out that the Hoka aesthetic isnt for everyone. Thankfully, a good rain jacket can provide a solid layer of defense against the elements. But for traditionalists looking for a true leather hiker, it doesnt get much better than the Targhee, which also comes in a waterproof version for $165.See the KEEN Targhee Vent. We also specifically recommend a mid-height shoe for those needing extra protection around their ankles. For those who want a bit more support and protection, Hoka also offers an impressive lineup of hiking-specific footwear, including the Anacapa Low here. Thermoplastic polyurethane, shortened (mercifully) to TPU, is a durable plastic commonly found in performance-oriented hiking shoes. Category: Trail runner/hiking shoeWeight: 1 lb. On paper, its a fairly impressive and versatile shoe, and the price is right at just $110 (and $120 for the waterproof version). Like the Speedgoat and Lone Peak above, this shoe bridges the gap for speed-focused hikers with the support and protection you need for rugged trails alongside a hefty dose of cushioning for long days out. The end result is a hardwearing yet easy-to-wear hiking shoe that toes the line between weight-savings and on-trail performance better than mostand the price is right too at just $130. Category: Hiking shoeWeight: 1 lb. Vibram is the gold standard when it comes to outsole rubber, but not all Vibram compounds should be treated equally: The rubber manufacturer tailors their blends and designs for the specific footwear and brand. For more background information, see our womens hiking shoe comparison table and buying advice below the picks. The cushy, soft material takes some of the sting out of both your heel impact and forefoot spring and is also extremely lightweight. Adidas has expanded its hiking footwear line substantially in recent years, and the updated Terrex Swift R3 GTX is very capable on the trail. See the Salomon OUTpulse Low GTX. There are also a few hiking shoes that were designed specifically with women in mind, including the Oboz Sapphire, Salomon Vaya, and Merrell Siren Edge. Whats more, protection is solid with toe caps, generous rands, and burly nylon or leather uppers. Your recently viewed items and featured recommendations, Select the department you want to search in. Click For Details. Below, we spell out the pros and cons for the most common materials used for hiking footwear.Synthetic Nylon and Mesh We found the shoe to be on the stiff sideit loosened up a bit after a couple of days of backpacking in Utah's Canyon Country, but the break-in period wasnt fun and the stiffness remains noticeable. 2 oz.Waterproof: No (available)What we like: A sturdy and durable hiking shoe for just $105.What we dont: Sole is too firm; poor traction on wet surfaces. We're sorry, JavaScript is required to shop Kohls.com. Category: Approach shoeWeight: 1 lb. The type of material used will correlate directly with a shoe's longevity, water resistance, and ability to breathe. Finally, the Spire is only offered in a waterproof version, which is great for early-season snow and colder weather, but is prone to overheating on mid-summer days at low elevation. You get a tailored fit that reduces bulk and looks great for casual use, excellent stability with a nice combination of TPU and EVA foam in the midsole, and a long-lasting and protective nubuck leather upper. 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If moving fast trumps all else, wed recommend a trail running shoe. Lacking any protection on the front of your shoes can lead to a trip-ruining impact when you inevitably look up from the trail to enjoy the scenery. Read more about us. See the Oboz Sapphire Low Waterproof. The leather upper means you get a boost in protection and durability compared to synthetic designs like the Speed Low above, and mesh panels offer better ventilation than an all-leather model like the Oboz Sapphire below. It all adds up to an impressively capable design that undercuts most of the hiking-specific competition in weight. If You Find a Lower Price, Well Match It. But with robust materials, a stable heel cup, and a nylon shank, the Siren Edge is also surprisingly hardwearing, supportive, and protective on the trail. Enter the Aerios FL, which is super lightweight at just a pound-and-a-half per pair, waterproof with a Gore-Tex membrane, and tough with a burly toe cap and a large swath of TPU around the bottom portion. For more on the waterproofing debate, see our article Do You Need Waterproof Hiking Shoes? On rocky and muddy trails, weve found that traction and stability fall short of grippier and closer-fitting designs like the Hoka Speedgoat above and Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX below. In the end, its a tall order to recommend a single shoe for a range of hikers and hiking venues, but the Speed Low nails the all-around equation and gets our top spot for 2022Read in-depth reviewSee the Merrell Moab Speed Low. Given their increased coverage, boots are able to offer a more secure fit, better stability, and more protection overall. The sleek design is reminiscent of a Salomon shoe, and at 1 pound 8 ounces for the pair, the R3 GTX is relatively competitive weight-wise, too. The X Ultra has held our top spot for years running, but we were forced to reconsider after thoroughly testing the most recent version. Salomon is one brand that doesnt outsource their traction needs. In short, the Spire is about as close to backpacking-ready as a hiking shoe getswith a relatively high collar, La Sportiva goes so far as calling it a low-cut hiking boot. Get instructions now. Fit is also surprisingly similarboth shoes feature fairly roomy toe boxes that are great for accommodating swollen toes (if your feet are on the narrow side, it might be worth considering the Speedgoat instead). The Anacapa (also available in a mid-height version) features Hokas well-known springy midsole, a rockered shape for a smooth ride on the trail, and a beefed-up construction that includes durable nubuck leather and a Gore-Tex waterproof liner. The result is a shoe thats light and speedy on the trail but robust enough to tackle everything from third-class scrambling to hauling an overnight load. But while the OUTpulse Low GTX will get the job done for carrying a light pack on established trails, we dont recommend the shoe for particularly technical terrain or overnight loads. Now in its second iteration, the Ultra Raptor II provides chart-topping protection against rocks and roots by way of generous toe and heel caps and a full-length rock plate, along with incredible grip on everything from mud and loose talus to boulders and snow. Category: Trail runnerWeight: 1 lb. What we dont: Expensive, ungainly heel counter, and not the most stable shoe here. Further, if you do get water inside your shoe (not a difficult task with a low-top design), it doesnt drain as well and wont dry out nearly as quickly as a non-waterproof option. In 2022, the vast majority of hiking shoes come in both mens and womens versions. Android, Google Play and the Google Play logo are trademarks of Google Inc. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc. Get 15% off when you sign up for our emails, California Transparency in Supply Chains Act. Copyright 1995-2022 eBay Inc. All Rights Reserved. Finally, while the Cross Hikes sharp lugs bite nicely into soft terrain, traction does suffer on smooth, slippery surfaces like wet rocks. The truth about waterproof liners, even expensive Gore-Tex booties, is that they dont breathe welljust as a waterproof jacket wont be as breathable as a comparable non-waterproof version. Hiking trails, even well-maintained ones, are full of rocks, roots, and other potential hazards, so we almost always recommend a hiking shoe with some type of toe cap. Salomons X Ultra has been one of our favorite hiking shoes for years running, offering an exceptional combination of comfort, on-trail performance, and durability for everything from casual day hikes to long overnight missions. Its also wildly comfortable with Altras trademark zero-drop design and extra wide toe boxin fact, this is the shoe we recommend most for hikers that regularly suffer from hot spots and blisters. For most day hikersand even a good number of backpackers and thru-hikersa hiking shoe that falls just below the ankle is the perfect match. As a result, its common to find a mix of leather and nylon mesh for abrasion resistance and breathability, as seen on the Merrell Moab 3 and KEEN Targhee Vent. The Moab Speed Low will get the job done for the majority of day hikers and ultralight backpackers, but keep in mind that its far from the most supportive or durable shoe here. However, hiking boots still have their place, particularly for rugged terrain and schlepping a heavy multi-day load. This lends a lot of versatility: you get protection when you need it, but your shoe will still dry out quickly after a dousing. Nubuck Leather Comfort will start to suffer if the shoe is pushed too far, resulting in tired feet and sore ankles. 5 oz.Waterproof: No (available)What we like: Great on-trail performance in a lightweight build.What we dont: Not the most supportive or durable option. Regardless of the style, most of these shoes offer ample stability, protection, and traction for tackling rough trails with a load by way of stiff midsoles and outsoles, toe caps, and reinforced uppers. We include some great trail running and hybrid options here, but you can find more of our picks in our article on the best trail running shoes. These differences are enough for us to hesitate in moving the updated shoe any higher on our list, but if you can try it on before you purchase (and it fits), the latest X Ultra is undeniably a high-performance, quality option Read in-depth reviewSee the Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX. Merrell found a winning formula here, combining a comfortable fit with a sturdy yet lightweight feelall for an affordable $110. We use affiliate links andmay receive a small commission on purchases. The extra protection that comes with a waterproof and breathable membrane inserted into the shoe is a nice security blanket if you plan to hike in the mountains or in shoulder-season conditions, where wet feet can grow cold quickly. La Sportiva bills their Ultra Raptor as a mountain running shoe, but were big fans of this design for hikers venturing above treeline on rugged trails or cross-country terrain. Category: Hiking shoeWeight: 1 lb. All in all, were impressed with the direction that Danner is headed, and the Trail 2650 lineup has received rave reviews (from us included) since its release a few years back. For those that stick to the trail and travel light and fast, the Hoka is definitely worth a look. Category: Hiking shoeWeight: 1 lb. In theory, these shoes should keep your feet dry during creek crossings, surprise rainfall, or if you hit snow on an early-season trek. adidas Terrex Eastrail GORE-TEX Men's Hiking Shoes, adidas Response Super 2.0 Grade School Kids' Running Shoes. The relatively new Cross Hike joins the X Ultra (and plenty of others) in Salomons lineup and slots in as a slightly lighter and nimbler option for those who love to move fast. As long as the rest of your gear is equally light, there are very few sacrifices. Category: Hiking shoe/trail runnerWeight: 1 lb. 1.4 oz.Waterproof: No (available)What we like: Super light, cushioned, and wildly comfortable.What we dont: Durability issues; roomy fit lacks performance on technical terrain. If youre wary of outdoor brands shrink it and pink tendencies, the womens-only Oboz Sapphire is a nice solution. We tested the Aerios FL on the Grand Canyons multi-day Escalante Route, which included off-trail scrambling with a loaded pack. 8 oz.Waterproof: Yes (non-GTX available)What we like: Tough, supportive, and protective for the weight.What we dont: Stiff and difficult to break in. Gone are the days of hitting the trail in leather clunkerstrail-runner-inspired hiking shoes have all but taken over. This is exemplified in the world of hiking footwear, where, in just a couple short decades, weve gone from 4-pound leather boots being standard issue to the majority of hikers now wearing lightweight hiking shoes or trail runners. On the bright side, the rigidity translates to more support underfoot (especially helpful on tricky terrain or when carrying a load), and the Swift R3 is a noticeable savings compared to the similarly robust Spire above. But were big fans of the OUTpulse for moving quickly on easy trails, and with a low weight and modern looks, it has great crossover appeal as well. It's true that the drop in ounces sometimes impacts long-term durability, but there are still a number of compelling options for traditionalists, including the leather Merrell Moab 3 and KEEN Targhee. And at only 1 pound 3 ounces for the pair, it wont weigh you down as much as the hiking-specific shoes here. Made of full-grain leather but given a brushed finish that has a suede-like feel, nubuck leather is a common sight on heavier-duty hiking shoes. Whats more, the thin, knit-like upper wont hold up to heavy use, and we question the efficacy of pairing a waterproof membrane with such a low-profile design (water can easily get in at the ankle). Compared to traditional hiking boots, hiking shoes are characterized by their low-top design, which translates to less weight on your feet for covering ground quickly. Simply put, waterproof membranes restrict a shoes ability to pull moisture away from your sweaty feet as efficiently as a non-waterproof upper. One of the biggest trends we see across the board in the outdoor space is the move towards lighter-weight gear. Accelerate your Rewards and earn 2 points for every $1 on qualified purchases with a ScoreRewards credit card.

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