13 best trekking boots

*Overview of the best according to the editors of Healthy Food Near Me. About selection criteria. This material is subjective, is not an advertisement and does not serve as a guide to the purchase. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

High-quality trekking shoes will not only provide maximum comfort during hiking over rough terrain, but will also be able to protect the ankle from dislocation, sprain and even fracture. At the same time, you need to choose shoes not so much by their appearance and brand fame, but by the features of the cut, the shape of the last and the level of comfort for the user.

Choosing boots for trekking: what you need to pay attention to

When choosing boots for trekking, the following points should be considered:

1. Height.

2. Top material.

3. Sole construction.

4. Additional factors.

Three types of trekking boots are distinguished by height – low, medium and high. In the first case, the shoes do not fix the ankle and give the foot more freedom. This is ideal for light trekking in the forest, but completely unacceptable shoes for routes in mountainous terrain. Models with an average height provide ankle fixation and protect it from dislocations. These shoes are recommended for long walks with small backpacks (15-40 kg). High boots protect the foot as much as possible, but slightly limit mobility. These shoes are recommended for difficult routes in mountainous terrain.

Uppers can be made from a variety of natural and synthetic materials. The general state of comfort (air exchange, moisture removal, stable temperature indicators) will depend on their quality. There is only a leather upper, only a synthetic and a combination. Also, many manufacturers use various membrane materials that provide improved moisture removal from the foot and protection from getting wet.

The quality of the sole is evaluated according to two criteria:

1. Appearance

2. Design.

Outside, the sole should have a good tread pattern with a certain pattern, which provides high quality grip on the terrain and natural drainage of water and dirt (similar to high-quality car tires). The sole itself should consist of at least three layers – a tread, a shock absorber and an inner one. A good shock absorber ensures even distribution of the load and protects the foot from damage when walking on stones, tree roots and other hard objects.

Additional factors that may influence the choice of a particular model of trekking boots include the seasonality of hiking and the features of the terrain and the prevailing climate. Shoes for traveling through the Siberian taiga in the middle of summer will be fundamentally different from boots for climbing mountains in the autumn-winter period.

How we ranked the best trekking boots

When ranking the top 13 trekking boots, we relied on the following factors:

1. The quality of materials.

2. Use of innovative technologies for user comfort and safety.

3. Reviews of real travelers who conquered hiking trails of varying difficulty in shoes of a particular model.

4. Brand awareness and manufacturer specialization were also taken into account. When comparing two similar models, the preference was given to a company that was originally engaged in the manufacture of shoes, clothing and other accessories for tourists.

Let’s take a closer look at the 13 best models of trekking boots that made it to our TOP.

Rating of the best trekking boots

ASOLO Greenwood

Rating: 4.9

ASOLO Greenwood is a mid-height trekking boot that is perfect for long hikes over rough terrain with medium mountainous terrain, or a great solution for outdoor enthusiasts.

Among the features of the shoes it is worth noting the following:

1. The upper is made of thick leather from the elite Italian manufacturer Perwanger. The material thickness of 2.2-2.4 mm provides increased wear resistance and mechanical strength, while the seamless cut increases performance and provides additional comfort to the foot.

2. The toe is reinforced with a thick rubber overlay that protects the foot and effectively absorbs impacts.

3. The Vibram outsole with Megagrip technology provides a high degree of grip on the surface, including wet stones and tree roots.

Despite the fact that the leather upper is practically waterproof, the shoes are additionally impregnated with a moisture-repellent composition, which allows you to use trekking boots in all weather conditions and even wade small streams. The use of a membrane from the world famous manufacturer Gore-Tex provides the foot with good air exchange and moisture removal.

We singled out this model for its practicality, versatility and high performance.

Dolomite Condor Cross Nbk Gtx Olive

Rating: 4.8

The Dolomite Condor Cross Nbk Gtx Olive high trekking boots are designed for long hikes in mountainous terrain in all weather conditions.

The upper of the shoe is made of natural nubuck with a thickness of about 2 mm, which is additionally impregnated with a water-repellent composition, which makes the boots waterproof. The presence of an edge made of durable rubber around the entire perimeter provides additional protection and effective shock absorption.

The multi-layer sole of medium hardness optimally combines high performance, good grip on various types of surfaces and effective protection of the foot from damage when walking on sharp stones and uneven ground.

These trekking boots differ from most competitors in their price group with a unique orthopedic block and an insole that evenly distributes the load on the foot, which is important during a long transition over rough terrain with a heavy backpack.

We believe that among the high trekking boots designed for long hikes in extreme conditions, the Dolomite Condor Cross Nbk Gtx Olive leads the way in terms of practicality, comfort and value.

ASOLO Lagazuoi

Rating: 4.7

ASOLO Lagazuoi trekking boots combine classic fit with high performance.

Key features of the model include the following:

1. Upper made of dense nubuck with a thickness of about 2.4 mm. The material has high mechanical strength and water repellency.

2. Durable rubber edging around the entire circumference, which plays the role of a shock absorber when walking on rocky embankments, additionally protecting the foot in case of accidental impacts.

3. Vibram’s Ascent outsole has increased stiffness and high traction on a variety of surfaces.

4. The presence of the Gore-Tex membrane provides additional comfort to the foot, providing high-quality ventilation, moisture removal and water resistance.

5. Anti-Shock insert in the heel helps to distribute the load and effectively dampens vibration when walking on uneven ground.

Taking into account all the main characteristics and high performance, we recommend ASOLO Lagazuoi trekking boots to all fans of hiking, as well as climbers and extreme sports enthusiasts.

I’m UTAH TOP GTX

Rating: 4.7

The Aku UTAH TOP GTX is a highly durable shoe designed for long hikes in mountainous terrain. The manufacturer perfectly combined practicality and comfort in this model. The upper is made of waterproof nubuck 2.6 mm thick. This is a high-strength material that will not lose its qualities even when used in extreme conditions. The one-piece upper and insole (no seams) provide extra comfort for the foot.

The self-cleaning tread outsole provides excellent grip on a variety of surfaces, including wet rocks and tree roots. The Custom Fit IMS 164 insole provides comfort and evenly distributes the load throughout the foot.

Having studied all the advantages and features of this model of trekking boots, we can safely recommend such shoes to lovers of outdoor activities, tourists and hunters. In it, you can equally comfortably walk along mountain trails and wade through the rubble in the taiga, while the trip will not be overshadowed by rain and other weather surprises.

SALEWA Mtn Trainer Mid

Rating: 4.7

SALEWA Mtn Trainer Mid are men’s trekking boots designed specifically for mountain hikers and climbers. The shoes are perfect for hiking on routes of medium difficulty, as well as for overcoming sections of Via Ferrata.

Boots features:

1. 3F technology provides a secure fit for the foot with maximum comfort for the user.

2. High cushioning thanks to the Bilight Midsole with nylon inserts.

3. The Gore-Tex membrane provides good ventilation and moisture removal from the boot.

4. The Vibram WTC outsole has a pronounced aggressive tread pattern and high density, which guarantees high-quality grip and increased abrasion resistance.

Despite the fact that this shoe model first appeared in 2015, it remains relevant today. At the same time, the manufacturer slightly updates the appearance of the boots, leaving all the main technological solutions unchanged.

Scarpa Kailash Trek GTX Shark

Rating: 4.7

The Scarpa Kailash Trek GTX Shark is a versatile trekking boot designed for easy trails over rough terrain.

The upper is made of suede with a thickness of about 1.8 mm with additional reinforcement of synthetic inserts. The use of a wear-resistant Gore-Tex membrane ensures effective ventilation of the shoe and prevents it from getting wet. The manufacturer uses metal fittings that can withstand high loads.

Separately, it is worth considering the sole from Vibram. The tread is very embossed with an aggressive pattern and multidirectional three-dimensional elements. The outsole itself is not too hard to the touch and quite pliable, which provides high grip with the surface, and also allows you to stay on wet stones.

In the heel area there is an external reinforcement and a special polymer insert that provides support for the foot and perfectly dampens vibration.

We recommend the Scarpa Kailash Trek GTX Shark precisely because of its versatility, as such boots will be comfortable on a hike, during outdoor recreation, when crossing mountainous terrain for a short time, as well as when worn in urban conditions.

Meindl Alpine Trek GTX

Rating: 4.6

Trekking boots Meindl Alpine Trek GTX are designed specifically for fans of hiking and long hikes, Nordic walking enthusiasts and just active people. The German shoe manufacturer guarantees high wear resistance and maximum comfort for the wearer.

Features of the model:

1. The combined top with the Gore-Tex membrane provides effective ventilation of boots and keeps high moisture resistance.

2. Metal fittings withstand increased loads.

3. Light weight provides additional comfort when walking.

4. The rubberized rim around the entire perimeter protects the foot and dampens vibrations well, which is important when walking on stone mounds.

Meindl Alpine Trek GTX is one of the few models of trekking shoes that is not produced in the unisex format, like most manufacturers, but separately for women and men. In our opinion, these are worthy shoes for use in extreme conditions, up to hiking in the mountains on routes of medium and high difficulty.

ASOLO Fugitive

Rating: 4.5

ASOLO Fugitive are men’s trekking boots designed for summer tourism. The shoes have high performance and low weight (690 grams semi-pair), which makes them the best solution for light trekking on familiar routes or just for outdoor recreation.

Key features of the shoe:

1. 1.8mm waterproof suede and durable nylon upper.

2. The presence of the Gore-Tex membrane provides breathability and additional protection against water.

3. The Asolo Syncro outsole provides high-quality grip on different types of soil.

4. Anatomic Lite 2 insole and multi-layered midsole keep the foot in the correct position and evenly distribute the load.

We recommend ASOLO Fugitive shoes for lovers of outdoor activities and hiking in the spring and autumn. These boots fully justify their price, which is especially true for people who do not have the opportunity or need to spend money on higher-class trekking boots.

Dolomite Tofana

Rating: 4.5

Dolomite Tofana men’s mid-height trekking boots are designed for mountain trekking and long hikes along routes of medium difficulty in the autumn-spring period.

The upper of the shoe is made of waterproof thick leather 2 mm thick, which provides the shoe with increased resistance to wear. The manufacturer used the Gor-Tex membrane, which provides improved moisture removal and ventilation for maximum comfort. The rubber rim around the entire perimeter plays the role of a bumper, effectively shock absorbing upon impact.

The outsole from Vibram with a pronounced aggressive multidirectional tread provides high quality grip on the surface. According to many users, the boots do not slip on frozen tree roots and on wet stones.

Despite the fact that the Dolomite Tofana shoes were designed for serious hiking, the boots are made in a classic design and have a stylish and attractive appearance, so we can recommend them for everyday wear in urban environments.

Lasportiva Garnet GTX

Rating: 4.5

Lasportiva Garnet GTX is a versatile trekking boot that is suitable for light trekking and short hikes, as well as for everyday wear in urban areas.

The salient features of the model include:

1. Combination upper made of dense natural leather and wear-resistant Cordura impregnated with moisture-proof impregnation from Du Pont.

2. Additional toe protection 1.4 mm thick.

3. Flexible Vibram outsole with honeycomb pattern for comfortable movement on hard surfaces and rugged terrain.

4. The lacing system is a two-stage variable, which allows you to tighten the boots, taking into account the individual preferences of the user and the anatomical features of the ankle.

5. Membrane from Gore-Tex provides breathability and efficient moisture removal.

We recommend Lasportiva Garnet GTX to anyone who loves long walks and wants to feel as comfortable as possible, but does not see the point in purchasing shoes for medium or heavy trekking.

Hanwag Makra Low GTX

Rating: 4.4

Hanwag Makra Low GTX is a low trekking boot designed specifically for hiking and light mountain trekking. The model differs in the thought over design and high strength qualities. The upper is made primarily from high-strength nylon, which is complemented by natural waterproof suede inserts. The presence of external and internal inserts made of thermopolyurethane, together with an orthopedic insole, form the correct position of the foot, its support and protection while walking.

The multilayer sole made of polyurethane foam and EVA of different densities provides comfortable load distribution and effective vibration damping, which is important when walking on mountain trails. The tread with a large number of three-dimensional elements provides high-quality traction with the soil.

The light weight of the shoe (880 g) allows you not to feel it on your foot and comfortably move along the route.

Low cost and good performance allow us to recommend Hanwag Makra Low GTX trekking boots for forest walks and mountain hiking.

SALOMON Quest 4D 3 GTX

Rating: 4.4

Men’s high boots Quest 4D 3 GTX from the French company SALOMON are well known to fans of long hikes and extreme recreation. The model is positioned as a demi-season, but practice has shown the possibility of using shoes all year round, even in winter (at temperatures not lower than -10 degrees).

What is special about this shoe model:

1. The top is made of dense natural nubuck with nylon inserts of increased durability.

2. TPU overlays provide toe and heel protection and keep the foot in the correct position when trekking.

3. Gore-Tex membrane for good ventilation and moisture wicking.

4. Thanks to the Ortolite multi-layered orthopedic insole, maximum comfort for the foot is achieved. The insole itself is removable and has a layer of quick-drying material.

5. The quick lacing system (nubuck loops, 3 pairs of plastic loops and 3 pairs of metal hooks in the upper part) allows you to conveniently tighten the boot depending on the user’s preference.

6. The proprietary Advanced Shassis 4D outsole provides high-quality traction with the ground, and evenly distributes the load on the feet from the backpack.

SALOMON Quest 4D 3 GTX is one of the most recognizable trekking boots in the entire line of the company. Since its release, the first renovation of the model took place in 2015 and has not changed so far, which indicates their high level of quality and thoughtful design. We recommend these shoes to lovers of long forest hikes, including in the lowlands of the mountains.

Enter Tibet GTX

Rating: 4.4

Lowa Tibet GTX boots are a real classic of hiking shoes from a German manufacturer. The model has been on the market for almost 15 years, during which time it has become very popular and recognizable due to its characteristic design and positive feedback from users.

The upper is made of dense waterproof nubuck, and the presence of membrane materials from Gore-Tex provide high-quality ventilation and moisture removal for maximum comfort in all weather conditions.

The shoes have a special TPU insert. Which provides a stable stable position of the foot at almost any angle of inclination, and an asymmetric setting fixes the ankle in the correct position.

Vibram’s Masai outsole is designed specifically for trekking shoes. It has a special shape and a self-cleaning tread, which ensures high-quality fixation with almost any surface – from a forest path to a wet stone on the lakeshore.

The Lowa Tibet GTX is a quality mid-height trekking boot that we recommend to all long hikers, backpackers, fishermen and hunters.

Summing up

All the considered models of trekking boots were included in our rating for a reason. Despite some common points (for example, Vibram soles or Gore-Tex membranes are used almost everywhere), each pair of shoes has its own characteristics, advantages and nuances.

The main thing is to choose shoes for specific loads:

1. When it comes to hiking in the mountains with a hint of mountaineering or difficult routes, then you should take a closer look at the Aku UTAH TOP GTX or the SALEWA Mtn Trainer Mid.

2. Forest and mid-mountain hikers will appreciate the Dolomite Tofana (autumn-spring) or the Dolomite Condor Cross Nbk Gtx Olive.

3. For fans of outdoor recreation and short trips with a tent for 1-3 days, ASOLO Fugitive trekking boots or

4. Separately, we want to note the only shoes from our TOP, which are available in two versions – for men and women. This is the Alpine Trek GTX model from the German manufacturer Meindl.

We approached the formation of our rating in the most versatile way, which allowed us to choose shoes for all types of trekking and hiking – from easy summer walks along forest paths to multi-day hikes across rough terrain or along mountain trails. And what specific shoes you choose depends on specific habits and individual preferences.

Attention! This material is subjective, is not an advertisement and does not serve as a guide to the purchase. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.