The 30 best hiking shoe brands
Merrell, Salomon and Nike lead our ranking of 30 hiking shoe brands. Compare what each brand makes, visit its official site, or shop it online.
Hiking Shoe brands, ranked
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1
Merrell
Merrell is a leading hiking apparel company that makes clothing and footwear for people who enjoy hiking and other outdoor activities. They started by making hiking shoes and later expanded and added additional items to their catalog. The brand uses premium and highly durable materials in making its products. They also have footwear and clothes for casual wear and have a separate collection specially designed for kids.
Website: merrell.com |Brands like Merrell
Popularity 10.0/10
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2
Salomon
Salomon is a well-known manufacturer of ski boots, skis, and snowboards. The company creates, manufactures, and sells the best quality goods for skiing, snowboarding, trail running, and hiking. Salomon's more outstanding goods are meant to improve athletes' mountain performance. Their items will ensure that you enjoy winter sports to the fullest, whether on the slopes or anywhere else. With top-notch gear, Salmon makes your love of winter sports a reality.
Website: salomon.com |Brands like Salomon
Popularity 9.8/10
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3
Nike
Blue Ribbon Sports was a sportswear company founded in 1964. After launching the Nike shoe brand, the company was rebranded as Nike in 1978. Its popularity exploded in the late 80s when it started acquiring numerous shoe companies and including a variety in its product line. In 1996, it opened a bar for extreme sports like mountain biking. Today, it is one of the most famous sports companies in the world.
Website: nike.com |Brands like Nike
Popularity 5.3/10
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4
adidas
Adi Dassler had the goal to provide athletes with only the best. In 1949, he registered a shoe that later became one of the precursors of modern Adidas shoes. In 1954, he introduced the screw-in studs for lightweight football boots that propelled the German football team to victory in the World Cup. Adidas became a household name and gained the trust of athletes. Today, Adidas enjoys global acclaim as it continues to provide premium-quality equipment.
Website: adidas.com |Brands like adidas
Popularity 5.2/10
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5
New Balance
As people are getting healthier daily, the concept of workout is evolving simultaneously. Most people now opt for extreme workouts using the gym or within the comfort of their homes. To do a comfortable Workout session, people need proper accessories and clothing. New Balance is a brand to serve all health freaks with comfortable clothing and accessories to help them have a practical workout session. From apparel to shoes to various accessories, the experts at New Balance offer users a wide range of functional products.
Website: newbalance.com |Brands like New Balance
Popularity 4.0/10
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6
Skechers
Footwears are an essential part of our daily life. Without footwear, we find it hard to go outside to some other place. Sketchers is the brand with the most unique and high-quality products that can make you feel good and look good at the same time. They not only provide footwear accessories but also trendy and fashionable apparel. With its unique design and concept, Sketchers dominate the area of fashion in shoes and outfits.
Website: skechers.com |Brands like Skechers
Popularity 2.8/10
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7
Converse
Sneakers? It’s Converse! The lifestyle footwear brand, widespread among the youth, is known for its skating shoes and apparel. Their latest DRKSHDW is the most iconic shoe and backpack collection, following Rick Owens’ signature skin palette. From high tops, low tops to platforms, their assorted collection can be bought from the brand website! They also encourage you to find your own Converse color, which means they support diversity and quirkiness. Owning a Converse is now the trend!
Website: converse.com |Brands like Converse
Popularity 2.8/10
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8
KEEN
Keen is a Portland, Oregon-based footwear and accessory business. Their footwear may not be the most attractive you've ever seen, but it is undeniably the best shoe for outdoor sports like boating and hiking. Every time they leave the house, outdoor aficionados insist on wearing Keens. There is a Keen boot for everyone out there, thanks to their vast product range.
Website: keenfootwear.com |Brands like KEEN
Popularity 2.7/10
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9
Timberland
Fashion is a field that has the capability to make changes to the world we live in. It is a symbol of the society we are currently present and helps us to make a difference. Timberland has taken the responsibility...
Website: timberland.com |Brands like Timberland
Popularity 2.4/10
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10
Camel
Camel Store is an outdoor gear and apparel manufacturing company used in various activities like running and hiking. Their products are made from durable material to withstand rigorous use while also looking fashionable. The company uses breathable and comfortable fabric...
Website: camelstore.com |Brands like Camel
Popularity 2.2/10
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11
NOBRAND
Nobrand is a renowned footwear brand from Europe that makes stylish and comfortable loafers and sneakers for both men and women. They use breathable and high-quality materials, and the shoes are handmade by artisans from Portugal. The brand has a...
Website: nobrand.pt |Brands like NOBRAND
Popularity 2.1/10
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12
FILA
Fitness, work, and professionalism is all that one can discover at Fila! Discover all their premium apparel collections at sensible rates on their website or store outlets. Celebrating its 110th anniversary, the brand has collaborated with prominent fashion brands releasing...
Website: fila.com |Brands like FILA
Popularity 1.7/10
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13
Karrimor
Karrimor is meant for the people who love the great outdoors. It is not advised to go on an adventure without equipment. If you are someone who is an active person who likes to live in the outside world, then...
Website: karrimor.com |Brands like Karrimor
Popularity 1.6/10
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14
Vibram
Vibram has been a market leader for many years. Its zeal for research and invention and its one-of-a-kind production technique has resulted in various items ranging from mountain climbing shoes to casual footwear and technical hiking boots to casual sandals....
Website: us.vibram.com |Brands like Vibram
Popularity 1.5/10
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15
Danner
Danner has been producing high-quality luxury shoes since 1932. They are comfy and ultra-supportive, and men and women may wear them all day and night for exploration, adventure, and hard labor. Shoes, socks, backpacks, belts, T-shirts, and handbags were distributed....
Website: danner.com |Brands like Danner
Popularity 1.5/10
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16
Hoka One One
Hoka One One is a French-based sports shoe business that develops and sells running shoes. The company initially earned notoriety in the running world by manufacturing shoes with larger outsoles, nicknamed "maximalist" shoes because of their additional cushioning. Hoka makes...
Website: hokaoneone.com |Brands like Hoka One One
Popularity 1.5/10
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17
& Other Stories
& Other Stories might sound like a weird name for a clothing brand, but that does not change the fact that the company has been manufacturing some of the best clothes people have ever seen. They believe in telling fashion...
Website: stories.com |Brands like & Other Stories
Popularity 1.3/10
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18
Teva
Teva Footwear presents new collections and unique shoe ideas that make your mobility comfier. Their collection includes all types of variations that come in the footwear department. With the motto of free to roam, Teva Footwear distributes a great mix...
Website: teva.com |Brands like Teva
Popularity 1.3/10
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19
La Sportiva
With an experience of over eight decades, La Sportiva is a family-run, mountain-based company. They provide innovative products which are suitable for your outdoor expedition. They have a product line for men, women, kids, footwear and clothing, and many more....
Website: sportiva.com |Brands like La Sportiva
Popularity 1.3/10
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20
RBX
RBX active is an activewear brand that makes stylish and comfortable fitness apparel for health and fitness enthusiasts at affordable prices. The brand offers products for all genders, and its catalog also has clothing for plus-size people. They also carry...
Website: rbxactive.com |Brands like RBX
Popularity 1.2/10
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21
Altra
Altra was founded by a high school cross-country athlete duo. Their love for footwear pushed them to innovate shoes that were not an impediment to free jogs and runs. Shoes are categorized based on requirements: hikes, gym training, walking shoes,...
Website: altrarunning.com |Brands like Altra
Popularity 1.1/10
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22
Oboz
Inspired by the mountain trails at Bozeman, a group of passionate designers at Oboz made the ideal footwear that is perfect for hikers, runners, bikers, and practically everyone. Their iconic footwear is designed to mirror the lovely simplicity of a...
Website: obozfootwear.com |Brands like Oboz
Popularity 1.1/10
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23
SCARPA
Scarpa is an Italian company that makes equipment for backcountry skiing, freeride skiing, telemark skiing, mountaineering, trekking, trail running, and climbing. They were the first to use lightweight plastic boots, and they used some of the world's most groundbreaking design...
Website: scarpa.com |Brands like SCARPA
Popularity 1.1/10
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24
LOWA
LOWA has been making premium outdoor boots and shoes since 1923, combining excellent quality and fit via innovative design and patented technology. Lorenz Wagner, a Bavarian cobbler, establishes LOWA and begins producing heavy labor brogues for his Jetzendorf neighbors. With...
Website: lowaboots.com |Brands like LOWA
Popularity 1.1/10
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25
Northside
Northside footwear manufacturing company was founded in 1985, and since then, it has been based in the small Pacific Northwest town of Marysville, Washington. All the products are designed to provide maximum comfort and are highly durable. Boots for hiking...
Website: northsideusa.com |Brands like Northside
Popularity 1.1/10
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26
Saucony
Saucony aims to provide innovative, exclusive running shoes for men and women. They want to empower the human spirit, with every stride, on every run, and in every community. Founded in 1988, Saucony has been loyal to the sport for...
Website: saucony.com |Brands like Saucony
Popularity 1.1/10
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27
Chaco
Accoutre yourself for water, terrain, and any hiking trip with Chacos eco-friendly footwear. Custom-make your unique sandals, flip flops, slides, shoes, and boots that are made for unrivaled durability and rugged good looks for everyone, including your pet. They believe...
Website: chacos.com |Brands like Chaco
Popularity 1.0/10
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28
Dreams
Dreams manufacture fabulous, creative, and reasonably priced beds. They develop and produce their collections, from mattresses to bases and headboards. They employ the best materials and oldest established production procedures to supply their clients with the most excellent quality products...
Website: dreams.co.uk |Brands like Dreams
Popularity 1.0/10
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29
Finn Comfort
Finn Comfort USA, Inc. is the US subsidiary of the German shoe manufacturer based in Detmold, Germany, that dates back to 1908. The company designs and produces high-quality shoes made from handcrafted leather with a focus on comfort and premium...
Website: finncomfortusa.net |Brands like Finn Comfort
Popularity 1.0/10
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30
Nike ACG
Nike ACG is a globally recognized brand that produces high-quality footwear and accessories. It has a sports schedule with sustainable, innovative, and diversified items. Nike's inventive goods never fail to astonish their customers. There is Jordan, football wear, gym &...
Website: nike.com |Brands like Nike ACG
Popularity 0.9/10
Official websites and social accounts
| Brand | Website | X / Twitter | YouTube | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Merrell | merrell.com | /merrell | – | @merrelloutside | MerrellOutside |
| Salomon | salomon.com | /Salomon | salomon | @salomonsports | officialsalomon |
| Nike | nike.com | – | – | – | – |
| adidas | adidas.com | – | – | – | – |
| New Balance | newbalance.com | – | – | – | – |
| Skechers | skechers.com | /SKECHERS | skechers | @SKECHERSUSA | – |
| Converse | converse.com | – | – | – | – |
| KEEN | keenfootwear.com | /keen | keen | @keen | KEENoutdoor |
| Timberland | timberland.com | /timberland | timberland | – | – |
| Camel | camelstore.com | /CAMELOutdoor | – | @CamelOutdoor | UCXMpWom4aT9MYg1ewiPEZPA |
Hiking Shoes Buying Guide
Hiking shoes are an essential piece of gear for anyone who enjoys the outdoors. They provide support, traction, and protection for your feet and ankles, keeping you comfortable and safe on rugged terrain. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the right hiking shoes for you? In this guide, we'll break down everything you need to know to make an informed decision.
1. Consider the Type of Hiking You'll Be Doing
The first thing to consider when buying hiking shoes is the type of hiking you'll be doing. Will you be mostly hiking in dry, rocky terrain or wet, muddy trails? Will you be carrying a heavy backpack or traveling light? Different types of hiking require different types of shoes, so it's important to pick the right ones for your needs. Here are some general guidelines:
- Day hikes: For shorter hikes on well-maintained trails, lightweight hiking shoes or trail runners are a good choice. Look for shoes with good traction and a comfortable fit, but you don't need a lot of ankle support.
- Backpacking: If you'll be carrying a heavy backpack or hiking for multiple days, you'll need more support and protection from your shoes. Look for mid-cut or high-cut boots with good ankle support and a sturdy sole for traction.
- Wet environments: If you'll be hiking in wet, marshy areas or crossing streams, look for hiking shoes with waterproof membranes or materials to keep your feet dry.
- Rocky terrain: For hikes on rough, rocky terrain, look for shoes with a durable sole and a protective toe cap to prevent stubs and bruises.
2. Focus on Fit
The fit of your hiking shoes is perhaps the most important factor to consider. Ill-fitting shoes can cause blisters, sore feet, and even injuries. Here are some tips for finding the right fit:
- Try on shoes at the end of the day when your feet are slightly swollen.
- Make sure there's enough room in the toe box for your toes to move around a bit. They shouldn't feel cramped or squished.
- Pay attention to the width of the shoe, as well. Some brands offer different widths to accommodate wider or narrower feet.
- Walk around in the shoes and make sure your heel doesn't slip or rub against the back of the shoe.
It's also important to break in your hiking shoes before hitting the trails. Wear them around the house or on short walks to help soften up the materials and ensure a comfortable fit.
3. Consider the Materials
Hiking shoes can be made from a variety of materials, each with their own pros and cons. Here are some common materials you'll see:
- Leather: Leather hiking shoes are durable and offer excellent support and protection. They also tend to be heavier and require more break-in time.
- Synthetic: Synthetic materials like nylon, mesh, and Gore-Tex are often used in hiking shoes for their lightweight and breathable properties. They may not be as durable as leather, but they dry faster and are usually more affordable.
- Waterproof membranes: Some hiking shoes have waterproof membranes like Gore-Tex or eVent to keep your feet dry in wet environments. These membranes can add weight to the shoes and may make them less breathable, so it's a trade-off to consider.
4. Look for Good Traction
You don't want to slip and slide on the trails, so good traction is key. Look for hiking shoes with aggressive, multidirectional lugs on the sole to help grip the terrain. Vibram soles are a popular choice for their durable and sticky traction. Some shoes also have specialized rubber compounds for better grip on wet rocks or muddy trails.
5. Consider Ankle Support
Whether or not you need ankle support in your hiking shoes depends on the type of hiking you'll be doing. If you'll be carrying a heavy backpack or traversing rugged, uneven terrain, you'll want shoes with taller ankle collars to help prevent sprains and twists. Lower-cut shoes are more flexible and lighter weight, but may not offer enough support for all hiking situations.
6. Don't Forget About Comfort
Lastly, don't forget about comfort when choosing your hiking shoes. You may love the look or features of a certain shoe, but if they're not comfortable, you'll be miserable on the trails. Look for shoes with ample cushioning in the footbed and midsole, and make sure the shoes are breathable enough to keep your feet from getting too hot and sweaty. Again, always try on shoes and walk around in them before making a decision.
Conclusion
With the right hiking shoes, you'll be able to tackle any trail with confidence and comfort. Consider the type of hiking you'll be doing, focus on fit and materials, look for good traction and ankle support, and prioritize comfort. With these factors in mind, you'll be sure to find the perfect hiking shoes for your needs.
