Are you planning to go on a hiking adventure? Then, choosing the right pair of hiking boots is crucial to ensure your comfort and safety during your outdoor journey. However, finding the perfect pair of hiking boots that fit your budget can be a daunting task.
That’s why we have compiled a list of the 5 best hiking boots under 200 dollars that offer the perfect combination of comfort, durability, and affordability. In this blog post, we will discuss what 3 season hiking boots are, the best brand names of hiking boots, and whether hiking boots are worth the investment.
5 Best Hiking Boots Under 200
- Salewa Boy’s Trekking & Hiking Boots
- Salewa Wildfire 2 – Women’s Hiking Boots
- La Sportiva Mens Ultra Raptor II Hiking Boots
- Salewa Wildfire Edge Approach Hiking Shoe
- Salomon Men’s X Ultra 4 Hiking Boots
Salewa Boy’s Trekking & Hiking Boots
Whether you’re hitting the trails for a day hike or embarking on a multi-day trek, these boots have got you covered. One of the standout features of these boots is their construction.
Made in the USA or imported with high-quality materials, they’re built to last. The Ethylene Vinyl Acetate sole offers excellent traction on a variety of surfaces, so you can feel confident navigating rocky terrain, slippery slopes, or muddy trails.
In terms of comfort, these boots do not disappoint. They offer a snug and secure fit, with ample padding and support for your feet and ankles.
I particularly appreciate the breathable mesh lining, which helps to keep my feet cool and dry even on hot summer hikes. Overall, I would highly recommend the Salewa Boy’s Trekking & Hiking Boots to any young hiker looking for a durable, comfortable, and reliable pair of boots to take on their next adventure.
Pros:
- Durable construction
- Comfortable fit
- Suitable for all types of terrain
Cons:
- Some users have noted that these boots can run small
Salewa Wildfire 2 – Women’s Hiking Boots
I highly recommend the Salewa Wildfire 2 hiking boots. Not only are they stylish with their sleek design, but they also offer a range of features that make them stand out from other hiking boots on the market.
The rubber sole on these boots provides excellent traction, giving me the confidence to hike on all types of terrain. The switch fit adjustment allows for a customized fit, which is essential for any hiker. I also appreciate the Kevlar Cable Wrapping Net, which provides added support and protection.
The stretch gaiter is a nice touch, keeping debris out of the boots and ensuring my feet stay clean and dry. The reinforced and adds an extra layer of durability, which is especially important for those who hike frequently.
Finally, the climbing lacing system is a game-changer, providing a more precise and comfortable fit. Overall, the Salewa Wildfire 2 hiking boots are an excellent investment for any female hiker.
Pros:
- Stylish design
- Rubber sole for excellent traction
- Switchfit adjustment for a customized fit
- Kevlar Cable Wrapping Net for added support and protection
- Stretch gaiter to keep debris out
- Reinforced rand for durability
- Climbing lacing system for a precise fit
Cons:
- Pricier than some other hiking boots on the market
- May take some time to break in
La Sportiva Mens Ultra Raptor II Hiking Boots
The La Sportiva Men’s Ultra Raptor II Hiking Boots are my go-to choice for off-road adventures. With a balanced combination of protection, stability, and traction, these boots are perfect for runners and light hikers who may encounter challenging trails.
The rubber sole offers excellent grip on any type of terrain, while the compression-molded EVA midsole provides ample cushioning and shock absorption. The reinforced heel cup offers much-needed stability for high mileage days on rugged and rocky trails, and the innovative lacing system distributes tension evenly over the foot for a supportive fit and feel.
These boots feature High-Weave AirMesh fabrics that keep your feet cool on hot days and offer abrasion resistance against sharp trail objects.
The Mudguard Microfiber fabric on the lower edge of the shoe keeps out the mud when puddle hopping. However, the boots do run small, so users with small or normal feet should buy 1/2 size up, and those with large feet should buy 1 size up. Users who hike long distances, use thick socks, or are new to La Sportiva may consider an additional 1/2 size up.
Pros:
- Excellent traction and stability on any terrain
- Reinforced heel cup provides stability for high mileage days
- Innovative lacing system for a supportive fit and feel
- Breathable AirMesh fabrics keep feet cool
- Mudguard Microfiber fabric keeps out mud
Cons:
- Runs small, and may require sizing up
Salewa Wildfire Edge Approach Hiking Shoe
The Salewa Wildfire Edge Approach Hiking Shoe is my go-to for taking on challenging trails and approaches. The shoe is crafted with a 1.6mm suede leather upper that is both durable and flexible, allowing me to move comfortably and confidently over rough terrain.
The Exa Shell Over Injected 3D Cage and 3F System with Kevlar Cables provide excellent support and stability, making sure my foot stays secure even on the toughest climbs.
The breathable mesh lining and MFF+ footbed ensure that my feet stay comfortable and cool during long days on the trail. The edging plate insole and EVA midsole provide ample cushioning and support, reducing foot fatigue and keeping me going for longer.
Pros:
- Durable suede leather upper
- Excellent support and stability
- Breathable mesh lining and footbed for added comfort
Cons:
- Slightly heavy
- May take some time to break in the first few times you wear them
Salomon Men’s X Ultra 4 Hiking Boots
Looking for a hiking boot that’s both waterproof and agile? Check out Salomon Men’s X Ultra 4 Hiking Boots, which offer a combination of trail running shoe agility and technical hiking stability.
The mid-height design is perfect for protecting your feet on any terrain, and the Contagrip MA outsole ensures that you won’t slip even when the ground is wet or slippery.
Whether you’re tackling a local day hike or a multi-day adventure, Salomon has the shoes and boots you need to go the distance. With over 70 years of experience creating outdoor sports gear, Salomon is a trusted brand for hiking, running, backpacking, skiing, and more.
Pros:
- Waterproof protection
- All-terrain grip
- Agile design for technical hikes
- Trusted brand
Cons:
- May not be suitable for heavy backpacking
- Sizing may be inconsistent
- May require some breaking in
How Often Should You Buy Hiking Boots?
Hiking boots are essential gear for every hiking enthusiast, but the question is, how often should you buy them? Well, the answer depends on several factors such as frequency of use, terrain, weather, and your budget.
Typically, hiking boots can last for about 500 miles or 6 months to a year, depending on how often you use them. If you’re an occasional hiker, you can get away with replacing your boots every few years.
However, if you hike regularly or on challenging terrains, it’s best to replace them every year or as soon as they show signs of wear and tear.
Signs That Indicate It’s Time to Replace Your Hiking Boots
It’s crucial to keep an eye out for signs that indicate it’s time to replace your hiking boots. Some of the signs include worn-out soles, tears in the upper part of the boot, loose stitching, and decreased support.
If your boots start to feel uncomfortable or don’t provide adequate support, it’s best to replace them to prevent foot injuries.
How Comfortable Should Hiking Boots Be?
Comfort is key when it comes to hiking boots. Ill-fitting boots can cause blisters, hot spots, and other foot injuries, which can ruin your hiking experience.
When choosing hiking boots, it’s crucial to get the right fit, which means trying them on with the socks you plan to wear and walking around in them. Your boots should fit snugly but not be too tight or too loose, and there should be enough room in the toe box to wiggle your toes.
Features to Look for in Comfortable Hiking Boots
To ensure maximum comfort, there are several features to look for in hiking boots. These include:
- Padding and cushioning: Look for boots with ample padding and cushioning to provide comfort and support.
- Breathability: Hiking boots with breathable materials, such as mesh or Gore-Tex, allow your feet to breathe and prevent them from getting sweaty and uncomfortable.
- Arch support: Good arch support helps distribute your weight evenly and prevent foot fatigue.
- Heel support: A sturdy heel counter provides support and stability, reducing the risk of ankle injuries.
- Flexibility: Hiking boots should be flexible enough to allow your feet to move naturally while still providing support.
Do You Need to Wear Hiking Boots?
Breaking in your hiking boots is crucial to ensure maximum comfort and prevent foot injuries. New hiking boots can feel stiff and uncomfortable, so it’s best to wear them in before hitting the trails.
However, the amount of time it takes to break in your boots depends on several factors, such as the material and construction of the boot, the frequency of use, and your foot type.
Tips for Breaking in Hiking Boots
Here are some tips to help break in your hiking boots:
- Wear them around the house: Start by wearing your new boots around the house for short periods to get your feet accustomed to them.
- Take them on short hikes: Gradually increase the length of time you wear your boots and take them on short hikes to help break them in.
- Use boot stretchers: If your boots feel too tight, you can use boot stretchers to stretch them out.
- Wear them with hiking socks: Wear your boots with the hiking socks you plan to use on your hiking trip to ensure a good fit.
- Don’t rush the process: It’s essential to take your time and not rush the process of breaking in your hiking boots. Rushing it can result in foot injuries and ruin your hiking experience.
You can read out our list of best hiking boots under 100
Conclusion
In conclusion, investing in a good pair of hiking boots can make all the difference on your next outdoor adventure. When shopping for the best hiking boots under $200, consider key factors such as durability, comfort, fit, and support.
Remember to break in your boots before hitting the trails, and replace them every 300-500 miles or as soon as you notice any signs of wear and tear. With the right pair of hiking boots, you’ll be ready to tackle any terrain with confidence and comfort.
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.