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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. 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. But after testing the Siren Edge during multiple day hikes, we hesitate to give it our wholehearted recommendation. Because both midsole types have valid applications and TPU is more expensive, its common for a manufacturer to use a TPU frame or heel for stability and toughness and add in EVA underfoot to increase comfort. The design also translates to a rather clunky feelthe Siren Edge is much less nimble and flexible than similarly lightweight shoes like the Hoka Speedgoat above. 5.2 oz.Waterproof: Yes (non-GTX available)What we like: Lightweight, agile, and grippy, with great crossover appeal.What we dont: Doesnt stand out in support or durability. However, the Aerios FL isnt cheap at $170, and keep in mind that Arcteryx shoes run noticeably narrow (one of our female testers has struck out with Arc'teryx shoes for this reason).See the Arc'teryx Aerios FL GTX. Join DICKS Text Alerts to Receive Special Offers! But in general, these designs are a bit long in the tooth compared to modern synthetic shoes. The shoe felt a bit stiff at firstparticularly under the heelbut it broke in nicely and ended up being comfortable during long days on the trail. This is good news for most hikers, who will want the added performance for tricky terrain or while carrying a load. However, soft midsoles have a tendency to break down over time, so expect these shoes to pack out more quickly than dedicated hiking shoes. But if you stick mostly to established trails and prioritize cushy comfort and a nimble feel, the Anacapa is well worth a try.See the Hoka Anacapa Low GTX. 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See the Salomon OUTpulse Low GTX. Not all non-waterproof shoes should be treated equally, however. All in all, the Moab 3 Ventilator is a hardwearing and time-tested solution for day hikers and casual overnighters alike. Last year, they released an update to the much-loved shoe in the X Ultra 4 here. Category: Hiking shoeWeight: 1 lb. The majority of our favorite hiking shoes (and almost all modern designs) are made with synthetic materials, which provide a hard-to-beat balance of weight, durability, protection, and breathability. 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. But for easy day hikes or experienced backpackers, it's hard to knock the comfort you get with a flexible build and cushioning underfoot. 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). 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. Join DICKS Text Alerts to Receive Special Offers! For these reasons, its our favorite pair of Arcteryx hiking footwear to date. 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. Some shoes have much larger and sharper lugs underfoot for serious grip in mud, while others prioritize sticky rubber for scrambling over rocks. In the end, if youre looking to prioritize durability and protection above all else, a leather hiking shoe is a good choice. 6.9 oz.Waterproof: YesWhat we like: A sprightly hiking shoe with impressive grip on soft terrain.What we dont: Less durable than the X Ultra and subpar traction on wet rock. 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. The womens options here range from $60 to $399 and run the gamut Salomons hiking lineup is undoubtedly extensive, running the gamut from robust backpacking-ready boots for mileage-heavy objectives to light and responsive low-top offerings for day hiking. 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. ), its also a close match to its predecessor in terms of weight. Although the shoe offers fantastic stability and durability for the weight, the main tradeoff is comfort: The stiff materials (notably underfoot) resulted in significant foot pain, even after the break-in period. Below, we spell out the pros and cons for the most common materials used for hiking footwear.Synthetic Nylon and Mesh All told, the Aerios is lighter than most hiking shoes, more protective than a trail runner, and more comfortable than the average approach shoe. 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). Second, while the dotty tread is incredible on rock (and surprisingly snow, too), it doesn't bite as well into dirt or mud as the sharp lugs of a true hiking model. Blown rubber is common on road running footwear and is almost foam-like in feel. 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. 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. The result is a fast-moving shoe that nicely mixes a trail runner-like feel with the added structure of a hiker. Over the past decade, one of the most significant advances in hiking shoes has been the move to lighter-weight designs. We recommend checking out Superfeet insoles for their wide selection of options and trusted reputation in daily shoes, ski boots, and hiking footwear. 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. 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. 8.6 oz.Waterproof: YesWhat we like: Comfortable and great crossover appeal.What we dont: Stiff and some might find the heel too narrow. Most often, hiking shoes are made with a mix of nylon, mesh, and leather to balance cost, weight-savings, and durability. That said, for anything but the most rugged of trails or the heaviest loads, we still find ourselves reaching for a hiking shoe. 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. 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. Some models, including the Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX, have a single-pull lacing system. As long as the rest of your gear is equally light, there are very few sacrifices. The cushy, soft material takes some of the sting out of both your heel impact and forefoot spring and is also extremely lightweight. View cart for details. Among traditional day hiking options, the KEEN Targhee Vent and Merrell Moab 3 are two of the most popular shoes on the market. 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). Youll have to decide for yourself, but both are viable options for day hiking, backpacking, and non-alpine peak bagging. But for most, a lightweight trail runner-inspired shoe is the best choice for day hikes, peak bagging, and quick overnight trips. As more and more hikers push their mileage and speed, the need for nimble yet protective footwear is paramount. What we dont: Expensive, ungainly heel counter, and not the most stable shoe here. 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. If you do choose to go with a lightweight trail runner, keep in mind that the tradeoff is decreased stability and support. 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. These shoes have more flexible midsoles, and the large dose of cushioning underfoot is great for comfort but offers less structure for off-camber sections of trail. Top subscription boxes right to your door, 1996-2022, Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. 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. 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. In place of the stiff midsole and burly rubber common among many traditional designs, the Lone Peak uses thick cushioning to isolate your foot from uneven terrain, resulting in a shoe thats both lightweight and protective. Our main concern with the Anacapa is durability and, more specifically, the longevity of its outsole. 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. But for all the Ultra Raptors strengths, its not our shoe of choice for most trails. Both offer a nice array of trail-ready features like tacky and aggressive rubber outsoles, drainage ports in the upper, and attachment points for gaiters. 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. Approach shoes, on the other hand, have exceptional protection with a standard wraparound rubber rand and stiff midsole and outsole. If you havent yet noticed a trend in our picks, the Salomon Cross Hike should make things abundantly clear. We also specifically recommend a mid-height shoe for those needing extra protection around their ankles. 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. Note that synthetic materials dont conform to your foot over time as well as leather, but in most cases, the overall fit is still comfortable and snug. As a result, our pair has already received pretty significant damage from rocky trail use. The midsole of your hiking shoe functions to cushion your stride, working as a shock absorber from impacts and providing a stable base so your feet dont have to work so hard on off-camber terrain. Click For Details. 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). 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. Further, some hikers might want their feet closer to the ground, although weve been surprised by the Anacapas stable (read: not tippy) feel. 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. 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. 2022 Kohls, Inc. KOHLS and Kohls brand names are trademarks owned by KIN, Inc. All rights reserved. 2 oz.Waterproof: No (available)What we like: Light and nimble without sacrificing protection or traction. If you are using a screen reader and are having problems using this website, please call. 7.6 oz. These materials are not as well-known for their durability, but they do a great job cutting weight and are generally easy to break in. Category: Hiking shoe/trail runnerWeight: 1 lb. 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. EVA foam midsoles are a common sight on running and hiking footwear. And finally, wed be remiss not to point out that the Hoka aesthetic isnt for everyone. Among thru-hikers, the Lone Peaks biggest competitor is the Speedgoat above. But the Spire isnt for everyone: At $199, its the most expensive pick on this list, even topping the high-end Arcteryx Aerios FL below. To top it off, weve been particularly blown away by the TX4s leather upper, which has withstood an incredible amount of abuse with no signs of wearing down (youll likely need a resole long before the upper starts to deteriorate). Instead, they use their in-house Contagrip for all of their hiking and trail running models. 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. 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. In the end, both the Altra and Hoka are legendary in their own right, and a final decision will likely come down to preferences on fit and cushioning.See the Altra Lone Peak 6. But for greater comfort and versatility for the odd section of trail running, many will prefer the more flexible Cross Hike, which also features Salomon's convenient Quicklace closure. 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. For example, despite having the appearance of a trail runner, the Scarpa Rush Low GTX incorporates a stiff TPU heel frame, along with a burly sole that prioritizes durability and traction on wet terrain. Pleaseenable JavaScript in your browser; it's quick and easy! Ample cushion makes the shoe comfortable enough to wear all day, and a sock-like construction keeps the foot snug while sealing out trail debris. For some, this might not make a difference, but for others, its what separates comfort from misery. Approach Shoes Further, we found the X Ultra 4 to have an odd combination of stiffness in the heel and flexibility in the midfoot, which can result in sore feet. With a hiking-shoe-meets-trail-runner build, the OUTpulse has appeal for everything from long day hikes to shorter trail runs. This lends a lot of versatility: you get protection when you need it, but your shoe will still dry out quickly after a dousing. If you think the Lone Peak looks more like a trail runner than a hiking shoe, youre not mistaken. One of the hallmarks of a hiking shoe is good traction on a variety of terrain. 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. 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. Category: Hiking shoeWeight: 1 lb. Further, the collar rides fairly low, resulting in less ankle support than shoes like the La Sportiva Spire above and X Ultra 4 below, and the thick tongue is reminiscent of gym shoes of yore. 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. 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. 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. Exclusions and minimum order values may apply. If youre thinking about going with a trail running shoe for hiking, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind. 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). We tested the Aerios FL on the Grand Canyons multi-day Escalante Route, which included off-trail scrambling with a loaded pack. A sticky Vibram sole means you get confidence-inspiring traction on rock, and the generous rubber rand and stiff midsole provide critical protection and stability while boulder hopping or scrambling up slabs. The Trail 2650 is comfortable right out of the box, grippy with a Vibram outsole, and competitively light (especially for a partial-leather design) at 1 pound 2 ounces per pair. As with all clothing and footwear, your best bet is to try on before buying. Finally, while the Cross Hikes sharp lugs bite nicely into soft terrain, traction does suffer on smooth, slippery surfaces like wet rocks. Additionally, there are restrictions on the use of coupon codes. 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. 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. 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. The majority of the tread is quality Vibram rubber, but Hoka incorporated large sections of blown rubber in the middle of the design. Footwear that features thinner fabrics and a lot of mesh will increase moisture transfer and airflow, which will keep feet less sweaty in hot weather as well as dry out soggy socks far more quickly. KEEN's Targhee Vent is a classic hiking shoe that goes head-to-head with designs like Merrell's Moab 3 above. 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. But if your hikes include a lot of scrambling or rock hopping, an approach shoe can be an excellent choice. Second, although the Ultra Raptor is built with a mesh upper, it has a tendency to absorb rather than drain water, which makes for a heavy shoe after creek or snow crossings. 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. Importantly, the shoe retains the outgoing versions fantastic mix of agility, durability, and protection, and theres enough cushioning underfoot for full days with a loaded pack. 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. 5.2 oz.Waterproof: YesWhat we like: Light, tough, and extremely well-built. Category: Trail runnerWeight: 1 lb. The sole feels like a hiking boot, toe and protection around the side of the foot are impressive (similar to designs like the Spire above and Cross Hike below, the collar is fairly high for a low-top shoe), and the Gore-Tex lining is waterproof without feeling swampy. Easily overlooked, lacesas well as the lacing system of hooks and eyeletsplay an essential role in fit and comfort. Just like with running shoes, the stock insoles that come with nearly every hiking shoe are generally fairly cheap. 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. 4.8 oz.Waterproof: No (available)What we like: Incredibly capable in mountain terrain, including top-notch protection and grip.What we dont: Relatively stiff and clunky; mesh upper retains water. Accelerate your Rewards and earn 2 points for every $1 on qualified purchases with a ScoreRewards credit card. Category: Hiking shoeWeight: 1 lb. 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. In 2022, these shoes generally take on one of two forms: the majority are lightweight, trail-runner-inspired shoes, while more traditional holdouts are leather designs reminiscent of a hiking boot (but with a low top). Earn One Point for Every $1 and get a $10 Reward for Every 300 Points. On the other end of the spectrum, the Speed Low feels decidedly firmer and more planted than the even lighter Speedgoat below, although you dont get the Hokas snug and sock-like feel (we noticed a bit of movement at the heel with the Merrells). 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. For more on the waterproofing debate, see our article Do You Need Waterproof Hiking Shoes? If youre wary of outdoor brands shrink it and pink tendencies, the womens-only Oboz Sapphire is a nice solution. We use affiliate links andmay receive a small commission on purchases. These shoes can be plenty comfortable on day hikes but arent what we typically recommend as a daily driver: the tread isn't as secure on muddy trails, and theyre stiffer than most hiking shoes, which will result in discomfort on high-mileage days. 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. 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. Whats more, protection is solid with toe caps, generous rands, and burly nylon or leather uppers. Merrell found a winning formula here, combining a comfortable fit with a sturdy yet lightweight feelall for an affordable $110. 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. In general, womens shoes are designed to fit narrower heels and higher arches, come in womens-specific sizes and widths, and are offered in a different set of colorways. However, hiking boots still have their place, particularly for rugged terrain and schlepping a heavy multi-day load. Of all the outdoor activities we cover here at Switchback Travel, hiking isdearest to our hearts. Weve worn the Rush Low for everything from day hikes in Patagonia to climbing approaches in Zion, and much prefer it to the newest X Ultra (below): The fit is more accommodating in the midfoot without being too roomy in the forefoot, and the combination of stability and cushion is far superior to the Salomons rigid heel and flexible midfoot. Nubuck Leather Exclusions Apply. 10 oz.Waterproof: No (available)What we like: A great all-around shoe for an affordable price.What we dont: Heavy and not built for technical terrain. The thickly cushioned yet relatively stiff midsole offers a great balance of comfort, protection, and support, which comes in handy for high-mileage days and off-trail scrambling. Comfort will start to suffer if the shoe is pushed too far, resulting in tired feet and sore ankles. For more background information, see our womens hiking shoe comparison table and buying advice below the picks. Category: Trail runner/hiking shoeWeight: 1 lb. Most include EVA, TPU, or a combination of both.EVA 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. But if the system design doesnt hold your foot very well, we recommend looking elsewhere. And despite its trail-runner-esque appearance, the Merrell still offers a healthy amount of protection and supportincluding a generous toe and heel cap and firm midsolealong with a capable Vibram outsole. Second, with a rather stiff and heavy build (1 lb. If moving fast trumps all else, wed recommend a trail running shoe. 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. Thankfully, a good rain jacket can provide a solid layer of defense against the elements. Finally, it manages to do what most hiking shoes dont: look good in the process. That said, we found it to be less stablenot great news for new hikers or if youre carrying a lot of weightand a step down in all-out durability (the upper started to delaminate after some rough use). 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.