Last updated on February 13th, 2024
Are you planning to start hiking but confused about which hiking boots to choose? If you’re a beginner, you need to consider several factors before buying hiking boots, such as comfort, durability, and support.
In this blog post, we will provide you with an ultimate guide to the best hiking boots for beginners. We’ll also discuss the difference between hiking boots and hiking shoes, whether hiking boots should be tight or loose, and if sneakers are good for hiking. So, let’s get started and find the perfect hiking boots for you.
7 Best Hiking Boots for Beginners
- Vasque Breeze LT NTX Hiking boots
- Keen Women’s Targhee III Mid Waterproof Hiking boots
- Lowa Renegade GTX Mid-Hiking Boots
- Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Mid WP Hiking boots
- Danner Mountain 600 Mid-Hiking boots
- Keen Men’s Targhee III Mid Waterproof Hiking boots
- Foxelli Men’s Hiking Boots
1. Vasque Breeze LT NTX Hiking boots:
Looking for a hiking boot that is environmentally friendly, comfortable, and durable? Look no further than the Vasque Breeze LT NTX Hiking boots.
These boots are made with 70% post-consumer recycled mesh, 1.2mm suede, and TPU yarn mesh upper, making them a great eco-friendly choice for outdoor enthusiasts. The waterproof membrane is also made with recycled materials, ensuring you stay dry while being environmentally conscious.
The Vasque Breeze LT NTX Hiking boots feature a lace-up closure that provides a secure and comfortable fit, as well as an anatomical high-rebound footbed that adds extra comfort and support. The Enduralast midsole adds stability and cushioning, making these boots ideal for long hikes on rugged terrain.
Pros:
- Eco-friendly materials
- Waterproof membrane
- Comfortable and supportive footbed
Cons:
- May not fit true to size for some customers
- Not suitable for extreme weather conditions
- May not provide enough ankle support for some hikers
2. Keen Women’s Targhee III Mid Waterproof Hiking boots:
If you’re looking for a hiking boot that provides waterproof protection, superior traction, and excellent support, the Keen Women’s Targhee III Mid Waterproof Hiking boots are an excellent choice.
These boots are made with a KEEN.DRY waterproof breathable membrane, which keeps your feet dry and comfortable all day long by allowing vapor out without letting water in.
The KEEN ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole provides a high traction grip in muddy environments and on rocky surfaces, and the non-marking rubber outsole leaves no trace or imprint when walking indoors.
The external support shank and mid-cut height add ankle support and balance on uneven surfaces, and the contoured heel provides next-level stability.
The mid-profile upper ensures a comfortable and secure fit, and the padded tongue and collar add extra comfort. The removable metatomical footbed design provides excellent arch support and cradles to the natural contours of the foot, ensuring maximum comfort during long hikes.
Pros:
- Waterproof protection
- Superior traction on muddy and rocky surfaces
- Excellent support and stability
- Comfortable fit with padded tongue and collar
- The removable metatomical footbed provides excellent arch support
Cons:
- May run narrow for some users
- Not suitable for extreme winter conditions
3. Lowa Renegade GTX Mid-Hiking Boots:
The Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boots are high-quality hiking boots that are perfect for those who want comfort and durability on the trail.
These boots are made from 100% leather with a rubber sole, and the shaft measures approximately 4.75″ from the arch. The corded lace-up vamp and speed-lacing grommets at the top allow for a secure fit, and the padded tongue and collar provide extra comfort.
One of the standout features of these boots is the waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex membrane, which keeps your feet dry while allowing moisture to escape.
The breathable Climate Control footbed also helps keep your feet cool and dry on hot days. Additionally, the full-length nylon stabilizing shank provides excellent support and stability on uneven terrain.
Pros:
- Durable leather construction
- Waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex membrane
- Climate Control footbed keeps feet cool and dry
- Full-length nylon stabilizing shank provides excellent support
Cons:
- May require a break-in period
- Pricey compared to other options
4. Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Mid WP Hiking boots:
The Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Mid WP Hiking boots are designed to provide exceptional performance and comfort on the trails.
These boots feature a waterproof membrane that seals out water while allowing moisture to escape, keeping your feet dry and comfortable in any weather. The pigskin leather and mesh upper, along with 100% recycled laces and webbing, offer a durable and sustainable design.
The Bellows tongue helps to keep debris out of your boots, while the protective toe cap provides added durability and protection.
The Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable contoured insole with reinforced heel cushioning provides medium support and comfort. The molded nylon arch shank and Merrell Air Cushion in the heel absorb shock and add stability, while the lightweight EVA foam midsole provides stability and comfort.
The Vibram TC5+ rubber sole delivers exceptional traction on any surface, making these boots suitable for a wide range of outdoor activities.
Pros:
- Waterproof membrane keeps feet dry
- Durable and sustainable design
- Bellows tongue keeps debris out
- Cushioned insole provides support and comfort
- Vibram rubber sole provides excellent traction
Cons:
- May not provide enough ankle support for some hikers
- May require some break-in time
- Sizing can be inconsistent
5. Danner Mountain 600 Mid-Hiking boots:
These boots are designed for outdoor enthusiasts who require a durable and comfortable hiking boot that can handle a variety of terrains.
The waterproof suede and full-grain leather upper provide protection from the elements, while the Danner Dry waterproof protection ensures your feet stay dry no matter the conditions.
The Vibram Fuga outsole with Megagrip technology offers superior grip on both wet and dry surfaces, making these boots a great choice for hiking in any weather. The cushioning open-cell OrthoLite footbed and Vibram SPE midsole provide maximum rebound, comfort, and support, allowing you to hike for long distances without experiencing foot fatigue.
The TPU heel frame enhances support and stability, reducing the risk of ankle injuries, while the nylon shank adds extra support and protection. These boots also feature a mid-cut design that provides additional ankle support and protection from debris.
Pros:
- Waterproof protection keeps feet dry in wet conditions
- Vibram Fuga outsole with Megagrip technology provides excellent traction on wet and dry surfaces
- Cushioning OrthoLite footbed and Vibram SPE midsole offer maximum comfort and support
- TPU heel frame and nylon shank add support and stability
- Mid-cut design provides additional ankle support and protection from debris
Cons:
- May run small and require a size up
- Suede and leather upper may require more maintenance to keep clean and looking new
6. Keen Men’s Targhee III Mid Waterproof Hiking boots:
The Keen Men’s Targhee III Mid Waterproof Hiking boots are designed to provide the perfect combination of performance and comfort for outdoor enthusiasts. These boots feature a 100% fabric construction with a rubber sole, ensuring they can withstand even the toughest terrain.
Thanks to the KEEN.DRY waterproof breathable membrane, these boots keep your feet dry and comfortable all day. This technology allows vapor to escape without letting water in, making them ideal for hiking in wet conditions.
The KEEN ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole provides high traction grip in muddy environments and on rocky surfaces, while the non-marking rubber outsoles ensure no trace or imprints are left when walking indoors.
The external support shank and mid-cut height add ankle support and balance on uneven surfaces, while the contoured heel provides next-level stability.
In terms of fit, these boots feature a mid-profile upper for comfort and a secure fit with a padded tongue and collar. Additionally, the removable metatomical footbed design provides excellent arch support and cradles to the natural contours of the foot.
Pros:
- Waterproof
- High traction grip
- Ankle support and balance
- Comfortable fit with excellent arch support
Cons:
- May run narrow
7. Foxelli Men’s Hiking Boots:
The Foxelli Men’s Hiking Boots are made from a combination of suede leather and breathable mesh, offering a perfect balance of waterproofing and breathability.
The KingTex waterproof membrane ensures your feet stay dry, even in harsh weather conditions, while the breathable mesh collar and gusseted tongue allow for better air circulation, keeping your feet comfortable and sweat-free.
These boots are designed with lightweight materials and a soft foam innersole for optimal comfort, allowing you to hike for extended periods without discomfort.
The high-quality rubber soles provide excellent traction and stability on wet or muddy surfaces, preventing slips and falls. With their stylish design and additional pairs of colorful non-slip shoelaces, the Foxelli Men’s Hiking Boots offer both performance and aesthetics.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Stylish design
- Provides long-lasting comfort and energy return
Cons:
- Limited ankle support
- May not be suitable for extremely cold weather conditions.
What Is the Difference Between a Hiking Boot and a Hiking Shoe?
Hiking boots and hiking shoes differ in their design and purpose. Hiking boots are designed to provide ankle support and protection on rough terrains. They usually have a high-cut design that covers the ankles, providing stability and reducing the risk of injuries.
On the other hand, hiking shoes are lightweight and have a low-cut design, making them suitable for day hikes on easy terrains. Hiking shoes offer less ankle support than hiking boots, but they are more breathable and comfortable, making them a great option for beginners.
Should Hiking Boots Be Tight or Loose?
Hiking boots should not be too tight or too loose. They should fit comfortably, allowing your feet to move and breathe while providing enough support and protection.
A tight hiking boot can cause blisters and hot spots, while a loose one can cause foot fatigue and instability. To find the perfect fit, try on different sizes and styles, and make sure to wear them with the socks you plan to wear on your hike.
Are Sneakers Good for Hiking?
Sneakers are not the best option for hiking, especially for beginners. They lack the support, durability, and protection that hiking boots or shoes offer, making them unsuitable for rough terrains and long hikes.
Sneakers also have a smooth sole, which can slip on wet or rocky surfaces, increasing the risk of injuries. If you’re planning to go hiking, it’s always better to invest in a good pair of hiking boots or shoes that are designed to withstand the challenges of hiking.
You can read our buying guide on the Best hiking boots for women
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the right hiking boots is crucial for a safe and comfortable hiking experience, especially for beginners. The seven best hiking boots for beginners that we discussed in this blog post are popular among hikers because of their comfort, durability, and support.
When buying hiking boots, make sure to consider factors such as fit, comfort, and protection. Remember that hiking boots and hiking shoes differ in their design and purpose, and sneakers are not the best option for hiking. With the right pair of hiking boots, you can enjoy your hiking adventure without any discomfort or injuries.
Tyler Looney is an avid hiking enthusiast and the author of HikingBootsPros.com, a website dedicated to providing helpful insights and advice on choosing the best hiking boots. His expertise and passion for hiking have made him a valuable resource for both beginner and experienced hikers alike.