What are the Best Brands for Hiking Boots & Shoes?

Altra: Best Brand for Zero Drop Shoes 

Altra specializes in running shoes, not hiking shoes. However, some hikers absolutely swear by Altra's wide toe boxes and "zero drop" from heel to toe—especially thru-hikers. The brand has a extra-roomy fit and removes the extra heel cushioning and mid-foot structure of traditional running shoes to encourage "natural" landings on the balls of your feet. If you prefer a snug or narrow fit, walk on your heels, or want foot or ankle support, steer clear of this brand. Altra's philosophy is that people should rely on their lower bodies—not their shoes—for cushioning, stability, and support. This is one of the best brands for hikers who don't want a standard fit or a traditional hiking shoe.

See my full Altra brand review

Asolo: Best Brand for Stiff & Narrow Hiking Boots  

Based in Italy, Asolo is one of the best hiking boot brands for stiff hiking and backpacking boots with narrow fits. Most hikers don’t need burly boots that are rigid from heel to toe. Asolos are made for the few who do—trail crews, wildland fire fighters, and backpackers with heavy packs. The average day hiker, casual hiker, or ultralight backpacker probably wants lighter, more flexible footwear. Most Asolos are brutes designed for tough trails, 14ers, off trail hikes, and summer treks to Alpine summits.

HOKA: Best Brand for Max Cushion 

HOKA is the best brand for trail running shoes and lightweight hiking boots with maximum cushioning. Dominating the "max cushion" niche, Hokas feature super-sized foam midsoles that make you feel like you're hiking on mini-mattresses. They're also known for a rocker shape that helps roll you forward into your next step. Not everybody loves their unique look and feel. However, Hoka fans love that plush cushioning, which is surprisingly supportive for its weight. If you're looking for lightweight footwear with as much cushioning as possible, there's a good chance HOKA is the best brand for you. 

See my full HOKA brand review

KEEN: Best Brand for Wide Feet 

Based in Portland, Oregon, KEEN is one of the best hiking boot brands for wide feet. Hikers like KEEN's comfort and its roomy fit with wide toe boxes. Its boots and shoes are primarily built for day hiking. Backpacking and tough terrain may expose that brand's average support and durability. Overall, though, KEEN is a good brand for the average day hiker and for men and women who want extra wiggle room for their toes.

See my full KEEN brand review

La Sportiva: Best Brand for Rocky Trails 

La Sportiva is another Italian brand with a primo line up of hiking boots, hiking shoes, and trail running shoes that excel on rocky terrain. That’s what happens when a climbing shoe company gets into running and hiking footwear. La Sportivas generally boast good weight: support ratios and grippy outsoles for tehnical trails. It's also one of the best brands for hikers with narrow feet. (Although, they began offering a few wides in 2021). Sportiva often costs a little extra. However, it's one of the few brands that's strong across the board with good hiking boots, hiking shoes, and trail running shoes. 

See my full La Sportiva brand review

LOWA: Best Brand for Classic Hiking Boots

LOWA is a German brand known for classic, leather hiking boots like the best-selling Renegade. Lowas feature premium leather, TPU frames for added stability, and firm TPU midsoles that last longer than the softer, cheaper EVA foam that most brands use. That scores points for support and durability. Lowa hiking boots generally feel firm underfoot with plenty of lateral support and above average ankle support. It recently added some lightweight footwear—and seems to have done that well, too. Overall, Lowa is one of the best hiking boot brands for hikers who want good stability, support, and durability. 

See my full LOWA brand review

Merrell: Best Budget Brand

Merrell is a budget brand that's popular with hikers who care more about price than support or weight savings. Many beginners and casual hikers prefer Merrells' "out of the box comfort" to more supportive hiking boots and hiking shoes. It's also one of the best brands for hikers with wide feet. Serious hikers and backpackers probably should target brands with better support, waterproofing, and build quality. However, Merrells make good "trail to town" shoes, and they should be a step up from hiking in your sneakers or cross trainers. It's the most popular brand for budget-oriented hikers. 

See my full Merrell brand review

Oboz: Best Brand for Comfort & Durability

Montana-based Oboz is one of the best brands for mid-duty hiking boots and hiking shoes. Their sturdy hiking boots and hiking sholes are known for the brand's expensive O Fit insoles, which provide cushioning and almost orthotic support for better comfort than most brands. Oboz hiking boots and shoes are not only comfortable, but also supportive, durable, and moderately priced. It's not the best brand for lightweight fans. However, Oboz offers great bang for your buck, and it's one of the best brands for hikers who value comfort, support, and durability over weight savings.

See my full Oboz brand review

Salomon: Best Brand Across the Board

If forced to choose the best brand for hiking boots and hiking shoes, Salomon would get my vote. Salomon stands out for offering better support at lighter weights than other brands. That means they work for more hiking styles than most brands. It's also the rare brand that's strong in all categories—backpacking boots, lightweight hiking boots, hiking shoes, and trail running shoes. Salomons even fit a range of feet with their regular sizes running slightly narrow and wides available in their best-sellers. Salomon is a good brand for men and women who want both stability and agility and a balance between weight savings and support. 

See my full Salomon brand review

Scarpa 

Scarpa is another Italian brand that makes world-class climbing shoes, mountaineering boots, and hiking footwear. For hikers, Scarpa's strongest niche is probably their Alpine trekking and backpacking boots. However, recreational hikers and backpackers should start with the Scarpa "Rush" series for light-but-supportive hiking boots and shoes. Scarpas aren't the best choice for casual hikers. But it's one of the best brands for hiking boots with great grip on rocky terrain, great support, and overall quality.

See my full Scarpa brand review

Topo Athletic: Best Brand for a Natural Fit 

Topo Athletic is one of the best brands for lightweight hiking boots and trail running shoes with low drop and wide toe boxes. The brand is similar to Altra. However, more support, a more secure fit, and better durability. The "Topo fit" strikes a balance between "natural" hiking footwear and more traditional cushioning and support. The American Podiatric Medical Association awarded Topo its Seal of Approval for promoting healthy feet. However, Topos are not only popular with podiatrists. Topo Athletic is a good brand for thru-hikers, fast packers, low drop fans, and hikers who prefer lightweight footwear with a little stability and support. 

See my full Topo Athletic brand review