Complete coverage
Hiking Boots
Mid-height hiking boots ranked on fit, grip, and waterproofing.
Hiking boots are fit-first purchases: the best-reviewed boot in the world is worthless if its last does not match your foot. After fit, the numbers that matter are weight per pair, outsole compound and lug depth for grip, and whether the waterproof membrane suits your climate. All ten boots below are mid-height waterproof models, the most versatile configuration for American trails.
Note that waterproof boots are warmer and slower to dry than non-waterproof versions; in hot desert hiking, many experienced hikers prefer breathable trail runners. For three-season hiking in variable weather, though, a waterproof mid remains the default recommendation.
Every guide on hiking boots
11 guides
Best of
The Best Hiking Boots (2027)
The best hiking boots for 2027: waterproof mid boots ranked on fit, comfort, grip, and value for day hikes and backpacking.
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For wide feet
The Best Hiking Boots for Wide Feet (2027)
The best hiking boots for wide feet in 2027: roomy toe boxes and generous lasts that end the pinch.
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For wet weather
The Best Waterproof Hiking Boots (2027)
The best waterproof hiking boots for 2027: membranes compared and the boots that actually keep water out.
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For beginners
The Best Hiking Boots for Beginners (2027)
The best hiking boots for beginners in 2027: comfortable, forgiving boots that need no expertise to enjoy.
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Review
Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Review (2027)
Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof · America's best-selling hiking boot, now in its third generation.
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Review
Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX Review (2027)
Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX · The current X Ultra: Matryx upper, All Terrain Contagrip, GORE-TEX.
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Review
KEEN Targhee III Mid Waterproof Review (2027)
KEEN Targhee III Mid Waterproof · The wide-foot favorite with a roomy toe box.
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Head to head
Merrell Moab 3 vs KEEN Targhee III (2027)
Head-to-head: Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof versus KEEN Targhee III Mid Waterproof on fit, comfort, weight, and durability.
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Head to head
Salomon X Ultra 5 vs Merrell Moab 3 (2027)
Head-to-head: Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX versus Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof, precision against comfort.
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Buying guide
Hiking Boots Buying Guide (2027)
How to choose hiking boots in 2027: fit, waterproofing, ankle height, weight, and outsoles explained.
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Fix it
Hiking Boots Hurt? Fixes (2027)
Why hiking boots cause pain and how to fix it: lacing techniques, insoles, socks, and fit diagnosis.
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