When it comes to finding the best hiking boots of 2021, you’ve got a lot of top-quality footwear to choose from. From GORE-TEX boots to breathable hiking shoes, you can find the perfect fit for wherever the trail takes you.
What to Look for in a Hiking Boot
The most important part of choosing a hiking boot is the fit. You can have all of the features in the world but if the hiking boot rubs you the wrong way, you’ll have unhappy feet. There should be no rubbing, hot spots, or pinching when you put on a hiking boot. Always try on shoes before you buy.
Other factors to consider include:
- Hiking boot or shoe? Boots provide more ankle support and can handle heavy loads (ideal for backpacking), but they are typically hotter and heavier than shoes.
- Construction. Pay attention to the materials of the shoe. How is the midsole constructed? EVA offers more cushion while polyurethane is more durable. Are the seams glued or sewn? Glued seams will need to be replaced faster, but are more cost-effective. What material is the boot made of? Leather is more durable, but it doesn’t breathe as well as mesh.
- Waterproof or not? Depending on where you do the bulk of your hiking, you may or may not want a waterproof boot. GORE-TEX (also called GTX) is the gold standard of waterproofing. However, waterproofing decreases breathability and isn’t ideal for hot hiking environments.
- Tread. Look at the bottom of the shoe and examine the lug patterns. Thick, further-spaced lugs can grip dirt and shed mud. These are ideal for backpacking and wet environments. More closely spaced treads are ideal for rocky terrain.
Best Hiking Boots of 2021
Now that you know what to look for, it’s time to dive into the best hiking boots of 2021 for both men and women.
Adidas Terrex Trailmaker Mid GORE-TEX Hiking Shoes
The stable, water-shedding Adidas Terrex Trailmaker lets you move light and fast through the alpine. The high-top support gives you the stability you need without the weight of a traditional hiking boot. Exclusive Traxion Outsole technology means this grippy high-top hiking shoe is ready for rocks, mud, and dirt.
Lowa Renegade GORE-TEX Mid Men’s Boot
These workhorse hiking boots are exceptionally durable and stand up to years of abuse. The GORE-TEX technology keeps water and snow out while the soles actively work to grip virtually any surface. You can take the Lowa Renegade Mid boots anywhere.
Scarpa Maverick Mid GORE-TEX Hiking Shoes
Designed for the light and fast hiker that still wants the stability of a boot, these Scarpa Maverick shoes deliver comfort. The ACTIVimpact technology system does double-duty to absorb shock and keep your legs fresh mile after mile. Combine that with GORE-TEX membranes and vegan leather, and you’ve got the ultimate lightweight hiking boot.
Danner Jag Wool Boots
If you want a fashion-forward hiking boot that transitions seamlessly from town to trail, then look no further than the Danner Jag Wool Boots. Featuring suede leather and abrasion-resistant nylon, these boots can handle the trail and still look fresh for that post-hike meal in town. As one of the most lightweight hiking boots on this list, they are the ideal choice for an all-around hiking boot.
Lowa Locarno GTX Qc WS Boots
For a supportive, shock-absorbing hiking boot that’s also waterproof and lightweight, the Lowa Locarno GTX is it. This hiking boot features a sleek MONOWRAP design that not only performs like a reliable Lowa boot but transitions well to the town too. Perfect for the casual hiker that wants to get outside for a quick after-work hike.
Adidas Terrex Trailmaker GORE-TEX Hiking Shoes
If you’re looking for a hybrid for hiking and trail running, then look no further than the Adidas Terrex Trailmaker. The EVA frame provides plenty of lateral stability while providing ample cushion for impact. The GTX layer makes splashing through puddles and small streams a dry affair. What sets this hiking shoe apart is its lightweight runner design.
Danner Trail 2650 Hiking Shoes
This is an excellent catch-all hiking shoe. The Danner Trail 2650 for women lets you jump on a plane, tackle a hike, and then wander through a picture-perfect mountain town afterward. This highly versatile hiking shoe is suitable for more than just walking down dirt. The mesh exterior breathes exceptionally well while the sole provides plenty of flex and cushion to handle any terrain.
Danner Inquire Mid Insulated Boots
The Danner Inquire Boot for women is a hiker’s best friend. The PrimaLoft Aerogel toe cap and Plyolite sole work in tandem to provide ample support without the added weight. Ideal for backpackers and hikers alike, the Vibram Inquire Outsole utilizes multi-directional lugs and Megagrip technology to hold on to any terrain. Ideal for the weekend warrior and casual hiker alike, the Inquire is one of the most versatile boot on the market.
The best hiking boots of 2021 feature top-of-the-line footwear tech to keep your tootsies feeling fresh on the trail. This lineup of hiking boots has something for every type of adventurer.
Article written by Meg Atteberry
Meg Atteberry wants to empower you to have the ultimate outdoor adventure. She loves to use her writing work to help people level up their outdoor skills. You can find her climbing, camping, and hiking across her home in Colorado and the American Southwest. When she’s not out exploring, she’s at home cooking up delicious meals from around the globe and curling up with a good Sci-Fi book. You can follow Meg’s adventures at Fox in the Forest.
