Which are the best shoes and boots for mountain hiking?
When heading out on steep mountain trails, choosing the right pair of hiking boots is essential. Whether you're setting off on a multi-day trek or just a short high-altitude escape, well-suited footwear provides support, comfort, and grip across varied terrain. Depending on the type of outing, it's important to opt for specific models: trekking boots for long-distance routes, lightweight shoes for fast hikes, or robust mountain boots for technical trails.
A selection of men's and women's hiking shoes
This guide presents a handpicked selection of the best men’s and women’s hiking shoes and boots for mountain adventures. Each model, with different cuff heights, stands out for its unique features and innovative technologies, tailored to the needs of outdoor enthusiasts.
La Sportiva Akyra II: a versatile fast hiking shoe
The La Sportiva Akyra II is an ideal choice for enthusiasts of fast-hiking. Its three-layer construction featuring 3D Grid™ technology in KPU ensures enhanced durability and excellent support, while maintaining good breathability. The 5 mm Ortholite insole and injected EVA midsole effectively absorb shocks, providing optimal comfort on long hikes. Thanks to its Dual Compound Frixion Red outsole with Impact Brake System, this speed hiking shoe delivers outstanding grip across varied terrain.
Main features:
- Three-layer construction with 3D Grid™ technology for optimal support
- 5 mm Ortholite insole and injected EVA midsole for lasting comfort
- Dual Compound Frixion Red outsole with Impact Brake System for maximum grip
Salomon X Ultra 360: a grippy fast hiking shoe
Inspired by the brand’s iconic models, the Salomon X Ultra 360 combines stability, protection, and environmental responsibility. Its Advanced Chassis™ provides foot stability on rugged terrain, while the midsole includes 8% recycled materials. With its all-terrain grip and high-performance cushioning, this pair is an excellent choice for hikers looking for a versatile walking shoe.
Main features:
- Advanced Chassis™ for enhanced stability on rugged terrain
- Midsole containing 8% recycled materials to reduce environmental footprint
- All-terrain grip and high-performance cushioning for hiking comfort
Scarpa Zodiac: a lightweight and comfortable approach shoe
The Scarpa Zodiac is an ideal approach shoe for rocky terrain, thanks to its Vibram sole and Drumlin sole block. Its water-repellent suede leather upper offers protection from moisture while remaining pleasantly flexible. The Sock-Fit system ensures a precise and comfortable fit, perfect for multi-day hikes. A rubber toe cap reinforces the front of the shoe, ensuring greater durability.
Main features:
- Vibram sole and Drumlin sole block for optimal grip
- Water-repellent suede leather upper for better protection against moisture
- Sock-Fit system for a precise and comfortable fit
La Sportiva TX4 Evo: leather approach shoe
This model stands out with its reinforced suede leather upper and patented Resole Platform insert, allowing for easy resoling. Its Vibram MegaGrip outsole with Impact Brake System provides reliable traction on technical terrain. With climbing-inspired lacing and a Climbing Zone at the front, this mountain shoe is ideal for reaching climbing spots via steep and rocky trails.
Main features:
- Reinforced suede leather upper and patented Resole Platform insert for easy resoling
- Vibram MegaGrip outsole with Impact Brake System for maximum traction
- Climbing-inspired lacing and Climbing Zone for enhanced precision
Millet Ubic Mid Gore-Tex: a trekking boot with reliable grip
The Millet Ubic Mid Gore-Tex stands out for its versatility. Its mid-cut upper provides good ankle support, while the Gore-Tex membrane ensures full waterproof protection. Equipped with a Vibram XS Trek outsole, it delivers improved grip across various types of terrain. This model is well-suited for long-distance hikes, offering both comfort and durability.
Main features:
- Mid-cut upper for reliable ankle support
- Gore-Tex membrane for full waterproof protection
- Vibram XS Trek outsole providing grip on a variety of terrains
Lowa Renegade Evo Gore-Tex Mid: a boot for long-distance hiking
This Lowa classic offers the perfect balance of comfort, support, and flexibility. Its Vibram sole and Gore-Tex membrane deliver excellent grip and reliable waterproofness. The optimised lacing system, divided into three zones, allows for a precise fit tailored to different foot shapes. An excellent choice for hikers looking for a dependable boot for long-distance trekking.
Main features:
- Vibram sole and Gore-Tex membrane for grip and waterproof protection
- Three-zone lacing system for optimal fit
- Versatile design suitable for long-distance hikes
Salewa MTN Trainer 2 Mid Gore-Tex: a flexible and lightweight hiking boot
This model combines durability with flexibility. Its tough suede leather upper and Gore-Tex membrane provide both protection and breathability. The rubber rand shields against impacts on rocky ground, while the self-cleaning Vibram outsole ensures excellent traction, even on wet surfaces. Thanks to its 3F system, this boot offers solid support while allowing great freedom of movement.
Main features:
- Durable suede leather and Gore-Tex membrane for effective protection
- Rubber rand for enhanced durability
- Self-cleaning Vibram outsole for traction on wet terrain
Scarpa Moraine Mid Pro Gore-Tex: a hiking boot for every outing
Featuring an oiled Nubuck leather upper and breathable mesh, the Scarpa Moraine Mid Pro Gore-Tex combines comfort and durability. Its integrated RECCO system is a real safety asset. The Presa HIK-04 outsole provides optimal grip on all surfaces, making this walking boot a reliable companion for all your outdoor adventures.
Main features:
- Oiled Nubuck leather upper and breathable mesh for comfort
- Integrated RECCO system for enhanced safety
- Presa HIK-04 outsole providing grip on all surfaces
Salewa Alp Trainer 2 Mid Gore-Tex: waterproof and breathable hiking boot
The Alp Trainer 2 Mid GTX stands out thanks to its Gore-Tex Extended Comfort technology and suede leather upper, which make this hiking boot fully waterproof. Its rubber rand offers effective protection against wear and tear. The climbing-inspired lacing system ensures a precise fit, while the Vibram Hike sole provides optimal grip on all types of terrain. A model perfectly suited to hikers looking for a lightweight, high-performance boot.
Main features:
- Gore-Tex Extended Comfort technology for optimal protection
- Rubber rand and suede leather upper for enhanced durability
- Vibram Hike sole providing grip on a variety of terrains
Asolo Freney Evo LTH GV II: Crampon-Compatible Hiking Boot
The Freney Evo LTH GV II is designed for rugged terrain and alpine hikes. Its water-repellent Perwanger leather upper and PFC-free Gore-Tex membrane provide reliable waterproof protection. The midsole effectively absorbs shock to reduce fatigue, while the Vibram 1229 Mulaz outsole offers improved grip on technical surfaces. An excellent choice for high-altitude mountain enthusiasts. Additionally, this model is compatible with hybrid crampons thanks to its rear welt.
Main features:
- Water-repellent Perwanger leather upper and PFC-free Gore-Tex membrane for waterproof protection
- Shock-absorbing midsole for enhanced comfort
- Vibram 1229 Mulaz outsole ensuring grip on challenging terrain
