Last updated on February 11th, 2024
When it comes to finding the perfect footwear for your outdoor adventures, versatility is key. That’s why we’re here to help you discover the best hiking boots that also excel in the realm of running.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the top nine hiking boots that are well-suited for running, answering burning questions such as whether hiking boots are good for running and whether hiking shoes can double as running shoes.
So, lace up your boots, and let’s dive in!
Top 9 Best Hiking Boots for Running:
1. Skechers Men’s Hiking Boots:
The Skechers Men’s Hiking Boots are tough shoes made for exploring outdoors. These boots are designed to keep your feet comfy and safe during your adventures.
They come with special features like strong laces and sturdy soles to give you a good grip on different surfaces. Plus, they’re made with materials that can handle rough terrain, so you can hike without worrying about your boots falling apart.
The Skechers Men’s Hiking Boots are perfect for anyone who loves spending time outside, whether you’re walking through the woods or climbing up a mountain. So, if you’re looking for reliable and comfortable hiking boots, these could be the perfect fit for you.
Pros:
Waterproof, durable, and supportive.
Cons:
Limited color options.
2. Timberland Men’s Anti-Fatigue Hiking Boots:
The Timberland Men’s Anti-Fatigue Hiking Boots boots are made for men who love hiking and outdoor adventures. They’re designed to keep your feet comfortable and supported, so you can focus on enjoying the great outdoors.
With a sturdy construction and durable materials, these boots are built to last. The waterproof design means you don’t have to worry about soggy socks when you encounter puddles or rain on the trail.
The anti-fatigue technology in the midsole helps reduce foot fatigue, so you can keep exploring all day long without feeling tired. Plus, the rugged outsole provides excellent traction on various terrains, giving you stability and confidence with every step.
Pros:
Lightweight, durable midsole; Waterproof construction; Adjustable fit; Versatile style
Cons:
Limited color options
3. Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot:
The Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is a reliable choice for women with plantar fasciitis. The waterproof membrane seals out water while allowing moisture to escape, keeping your feet dry and comfortable.
The pigskin leather and mesh upper provide durability and breathability, and the metal hook’s traditional lace closure ensures a secure fit.
With features like the protective toe cap, molded nylon arch shank, and Merrell Air Cushion in the heel, these boots offer stability and support on the trails.
Pros:
Waterproof; Breathable; Secure fit; Toe protection; Arch support; Stable and comfortable
Cons:
Slightly heavier compared to other models
4. NORTIV 8 Men’s Ankle High Waterproof Hiking Boots:
Step into comfort and durability with the NORTIV 8 Men’s Ankle High Waterproof Hiking Boots. These boots are designed to provide all-day comfort, making them an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
The removable and shock-absorbent cushioned insoles offer exceptional support for your feet, ensuring a comfortable hiking or running experience.
Featuring lightweight and flexible EVA midsoles, these boots reduce foot fatigue and provide superior cushioning and energy return. The high-quality rubber soles are fully slip-proof and offer advanced traction for stability on challenging terrains. Say goodbye to slipping and falling on wet or muddy surfaces!
These boots are perfect for a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, hunting, camping, climbing, cycling, fishing, running, backpacking, trekking, mountaineering, and traveling. They are designed to withstand the demands of rugged environments, ensuring long-lasting performance and reliability.
Pros:
Comfortable, lightweight, and slip-proof.
Cons:
Limited color options.
5. KEEN Women’s Terradora 2 Hiking Boots:
Get ready to conquer the trails with the KEEN Women’s Terradora 2 Hiking Boots. These boots feature KEEN.DRY waterproof breathable membrane, keeping your feet dry and comfortable throughout the day by allowing vapor to escape without letting water in. No more worrying about wet and uncomfortable feet during your outdoor adventures!
With 4mm multi-directional lugs and KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole, these boots offer increased traction on and off the trails. Whether you’re navigating through rocky terrains or muddy paths, you can rely on the superior grip provided by these boots.
The breathable mesh lining and removable dual-density footbed with arch support ensure long-lasting cushioning and comfort.
The KEEN’s KonnectFit heel capture system delivers a locked-in feel, while the built-in stability shank provides lightweight support on uneven surfaces. Designed specifically for women, these boots offer a more narrow and precise fit, ensuring optimal performance and comfort.
Pros:
Waterproof, traction, comfortable fit.
Cons:
Limited color options.
6. KEEN Women’s Targhee 3 Low-Height Waterproof Hiking Shoes:
Experience ultimate comfort and protection with the KEEN Women’s Targhee 3 Low Height Waterproof Hiking Shoes. These shoes feature the KEEN.DRY waterproof breathable membrane, keeping your feet dry and comfortable all day long. The membrane allows vapor to escape while preventing water from entering the shoe.
The KEEN ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole provides a high traction grip, even in muddy environments and on rocky surfaces. You can confidently navigate through challenging terrains without worrying about slipping or losing stability. The external support shank ensures balance on uneven surfaces, while the contoured heel enhances stability.
These shoes are built with a low-profile upper for comfort and mobility. The padded tongue and collar provide additional support and cushioning. The removable metatomical footbed with excellent arch support cradles the natural contours of your foot, ensuring long-lasting comfort and support.
Pros:
Waterproof, traction, excellent support.
Cons:
Limited color options.
7. KEEN Men’s Targhee 2 Low Height Waterproof Hiking Shoes:
The KEEN Men’s Targhee 2 Low Height Waterproof Hiking Shoes offer exceptional performance and comfort for outdoor enthusiasts. Featuring the KEEN.DRY waterproof breathable membrane, these shoes keep your feet dry and comfortable by allowing vapor to escape without letting water in.
The KEEN ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole provides a high traction grip on muddy surfaces and rocky terrains. You can confidently traverse challenging landscapes without compromising stability. The external support shank delivers balance on uneven surfaces, while the contoured heel enhances stability.
These shoes are designed with a low-profile upper for flexibility and freedom of movement. The padded tongue and collar provide extra support and cushioning, reducing fatigue during long hikes.
The removable metatomical footbed with excellent arch support cradles the natural contours of your foot, ensuring all-day comfort and support.
Pros:
Waterproof, traction, excellent support.
Cons:
Limited color options.
8. Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot:
Embark on your outdoor adventures with the Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot. These boots feature a waterproof membrane that seals out water while allowing moisture to escape, keeping your feet dry and comfortable in various weather conditions. The pigskin leather and mesh upper provide durability and breathability for long-lasting performance.
Equipped with a metal hook traditional lace closure, these boots offer a secure and adjustable fit, ensuring stability and support during your hikes. The bellow’s tongue keeps out debris, protecting your feet from rocks, dirt, and other elements.
The Merrell Air Cushion in the heel absorbs shock and adds stability, reducing the impact on your feet and joints. The molded nylon arch shank provides additional support and enhances stability on uneven terrains. With a lightweight EVA foam midsole, these boots offer stability and comfort without weighing you down.
Pros:
Waterproof, durable, shock absorption.
Cons:
Limited color options.
9. Merrell Men’s Alverstone Mid-Hiking Boot:
Experience comfort and performance with the Merrell Men’s Alverstone Mid-Hiking Boot. The suede leather and mesh upper offer a combination of durability and breathability, allowing your feet to stay comfortable and ventilated during your outdoor pursuits.
Featuring the Merrell Air Cushion in the heel, these boots absorb shock and provide stability, reducing fatigue and discomfort. The Merrell Kinetic Fit BASE removable contoured footbed offers flexible support, conforming to the shape of your foot for a customized fit.
These boots are designed with a focus on fit, featuring a shaft that measures approximately ankle-high from the arch for optimal support. The rubber sole provides reliable traction on various terrains, ensuring a secure grip and preventing slips and falls.
Pros:
Comfortable, shock absorption, reliable traction.
Cons:
Limited color options.
Are Hiking Boots Good For Running?
When it comes to running, hiking boots may not be the first choice that comes to mind. However, certain hiking boots are specifically designed to offer the versatility needed for both hiking and running activities.
The Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus Hiking Boots and the Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Hiking Boots, for example, are excellent options for individuals who want durable hiking boots that can handle the demands of running.
These boots feature lightweight midsoles that provide cushioning and energy return, ensuring comfort and support during your runs.
With their advanced traction rubber outsoles, you can confidently navigate various terrains, whether you’re hiking or running. While hiking boots may not offer the same level of flexibility as running shoes, the right pair can still provide adequate comfort and stability for running purposes.
Are Hiking Shoes Good Running Shoes?
Hiking shoes are primarily designed to provide support and protection during hiking adventures. However, some hiking shoes can also serve as suitable running shoes.
The KEEN Women’s Terradora 2 Hiking Boots and the KEEN Women’s Targhee 3 Low Height Waterproof Hiking Shoes, for instance, are excellent choices for women who enjoy both hiking and running.
These shoes feature waterproof membranes to keep your feet dry and breathable mesh linings for enhanced comfort. The rubber outsoles offer reliable traction on various terrains, ensuring a secure grip during your runs.
While hiking shoes may not provide the same level of cushioning and flexibility as dedicated running shoes, they can still be a viable option for individuals who want a versatile shoe that can handle both hiking and running activities.
Have a look at our article: Best hiking boots for Rainforest
Conclusion:
In conclusion, finding the best hiking boots for running requires a careful balance between durability, comfort, and versatility.
The Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus Hiking Boots and the Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Hiking Boots stand out for their classic mountaineering style, advanced technology, and exceptional traction.
The NORTIV 8 Men’s Ankle High Waterproof Hiking Boots offer all-day comfort and slip-proof performance, making them ideal for outdoor activities.
The KEEN Women’s Terradora 2 Hiking Boots and the KEEN Women’s Targhee 3 Low Height Waterproof Hiking Shoes provide waterproof protection and reliable traction for both hiking and running adventures.
Lastly, the Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot and the Merrell Men’s Alverstone Mid Hiking Boot combine durability, stability, and support for those seeking a reliable companion on the trails.
Remember to consider your specific needs and preferences when choosing the best hiking boots for running, ensuring that you find the perfect fit for your outdoor pursuits.
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.