Our best bargain selection for day trekkers and light hikers who primarily stick to maintained routes is this Merrell Moab 2. This boot's popularity stems from its lightweight and comfy feel at an affordable price. Hence, it deserves a spot on our list of the best hiking boots available. For $145, you get superb underfoot cushioning, a dependable Vibram rubber outsole, and a waterproof shell (a Gore-Tex variant is available for an additional $165).

The original Merrell Moab was upgraded to the "Moab 2" model a few years back, and they made some changes to the tried-and-true design. A revised footbed with a higher arch, more cushioning beneath the heels, and a more weatherproof and durable suede top were all notable modifications.

Still, what are the Merrell Moab 2's disadvantages? The boots lack the support that some of the more expensive versions on our list provide. Second, it lacks the durability and longevity of some of the higher-end variants. Also, while the Moab is a robust trekking boot in general, its absence of quality substances means that these boots may need to be replaced sooner than we would like.

Ratings: 4.2 stars (from 1480 reviews)

Price: $145

Buy it at: https://www.rei.com/product/113822/

When we speak of Asolo, we immediately think of the legendary Fugitive GTX, which weighs over three pounds and has remained mostly unchanged for nearly ten years. The sleeker, more contemporary Asolo Falcon GV, on the other hand, represents the trend to which most hiking gears are obviously headed: lighter and more supportive than a typical soled shoe, but with genuine technical capabilities.

We tested the Falcon on a strenuous walk in Patagonia and were pleasantly surprised. It is well constructed, quite comfy, and capable of withstanding almost anything you throw at it.

The Asolo Falcon GV's primary disadvantage is its modest level of steadiness. If you are used to boots with a high cut and much more comfort, the Falcon is not for you. Also, when these boots are laced tightly, we have little difficulty hiking with a somewhat large load on our back through a variety of terrain - from gravel fields and rivers to steep rocky passes.

Ratings: 4.3 stars (from 910 reviews)

Price: $239.95 - $249.95

Buy it at: https://www.backcountry.com/asolo-falcon-gv-hiking-boot-mens

The Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid boots are among the best hiking boots we have ever tested. They are built like mountain running shoes - but with improved ankle support and protection. These boots provide an incredible blend of comfort and lightweight while still maintaining a protective toe box, a robust chassis, and an excellent well-grip lug design.

Even better, you will get Salomon's time-tested construction quality, which often holds up better to trail punishment than comparable boots in this lightness and price range. We strongly suggest the Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid for fast-paced day hikers, light backpackers, and even thru-hikers.

Naturally, the X Ultra's lightweight build entails certain trade-offs. The most noticeable difference is the absence of underfoot support, which is far thinner than that of the rugged Salomon Quest 4. Also, since the Salomon X Ultra is more flexible and sits lower on the ankle than the Quest, it provides less support on tricky terrain or while carrying a full load. However, in terms of durability, support, and traction, it outperforms comparable lighter choices like the Hoka One One and Altra below.

Ratings: 4.2 stars (from 906 reviews)

Price: $165

Buy it at: https://www.rei.com/product/122167/

The Lowa Renegade GTX is a type of lightweight hiking footwear with the appearance and feel of a typical hiking boot. In comparison to the more dynamic and contemporary Quest, the leather Lowa Renegade GTX provides a more secure connection to the floor and feels more rooted and solid. These boots sacrifice some of the Quest's delightful aspect and performance fit. Still, this trade-off is worthwhile, and suited to people carrying heavy loads (or seeking more underfoot protection on difficult routes).

Lowa reduced the weight by delegating certain stabilizing functions. This gives the Renegade the performance of a genuine hiking boot while only being under 2.5 pounds in weight. Even better, its leather exterior is rather thin, saving weight even more and reducing break-in time.

Unfortunately, all of this lightness comes at the expense of long-term durability. Users with heavy mileage have reported purchasing a new pair almost every year. However, many still return to these boots for their comfortable fit and the ideal combination of weight and comfort.

Ratings: 4.2 stars (from 899 reviews)

Price: $245

Buy it at: https://www.rei.com/product/789686/

With outstanding luxury, the KEEN Targhee series is a favorite for day hikes and offer immense convenience for backpacking treks. The KEEN Targhee III has always been on the marketplace ever since it was introduced in the autumn of 2017. But until today, it still provides excellent value. The boots are surprisingly durable, with a substantial toe cap and suede top, a relatively wide fit, and a neckline height that fits just above the ankle, providing adequate rollover protection.

Please remember that the KEEN Targhee III is a significant step down in terms of stability and ankle protection from other types of footwear like the Lowa Renegade. However, it still provides enough stability and traction for the majority of subalpine excursions.

The Targhee's primary competition is Merrell Moab 2, which has been a best-seller for years. While Targhee is more long-lasting due to its leather construction, the Moab is more comfortable on the trail, keeps you cooler due to its mesh structure, and charges $30 less.

Ratings: 4.1 stars (from 588 reviews)

Price: $174.95

Buy it at: https://www.rei.com/product/119905/

The Altra Lone Peak brand has established a significant fanbase throughout the years, making the thought of a pair of mid-height hiking boots quite fascinating. Indeed, the Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR combines several contemporary features, including ankle heights, wide toe boxes, substantial cushioning, and zero-drop construction. This blend results in immediate comfort (no break-in time required) and added support on tough terrain or while you are carrying a load.

We will confess that we were initially suspicious of this design at first, but the Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR proved to be a pretty solid piece and a terrific lightweight alternative for trail runners.

However, the Lone Peak ALL-WTHR has to make a few trade-offs. For us, the design flaws were apparent on our climb in Colorado; even with a small load, the boots felt sloppy and untrustworthy, and toe protection was woefully inadequate. Also, the synthetic top material is extremely thin, making it more prone to rips and early wear than other typical leather and heavier synthetic materials we mentioned before.

Ratings: 3.8 stars (from 192 reviews)

Price: $170

Buy it at: https://www.rei.com/product/184154/

If you are looking for a rugged boot that's capable of long day walking and backpacking, Salomon Quest 4 GTX is the whole deal. The fourth version of the Salomon Quest series includes an exceptional performance fit, a powerful stance, and high-quality lacing structures hooks - which lie at the rear of the ankle, effectively holding your heels in place.

In addition, the most recent model (launched in 2021) has an updated but very durable top. Also, the padding and support underfoot will please you on bumpy routes - when lugging a large load, or on days with high mileage. When combining all these features, we can say that the Salomon Quest 4 GTX is a robust boot that performs well in the wilderness.

Despite losing around an ounce per shoe in comparison to the previous edition, the Quest 4 remains firmly in our midweight classification. It's great for strenuous treks and backpacking adventures that include steep climbs and descents, as well as off-trail exploration with a large load. However, the boot is a little stiff and excessive for those who do not want additional protection - or like to travel quickly and lightly on well-maintained trails.

Ratings: 3.7 stars (from 180 reviews)

Price: $230

Buy it at: https://www.rei.com/product/206597/

The Ultra Raptor trail runners from La Sportiva have achieved legendary status in the mountain running sector - praised for their excellent levels of safety, durability, and stability, as well as their lightweight and trail-runner-inspired design. The La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX elevates the traditional style of hiking boots somewhat by incorporating an over-the-ankle sleeve and waterproof membrane. The result is a shoe that sits between mid-height trail runners and hiking boots, combining the finest qualities of both worlds.

All in all, the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX is an agile and swift alternative to footwear like the Zodiac Plus and Quest 4 for fast and light mountaineers. Some people also compare these La Sportiva boots to the Altra Lone Peaks ALL-WTHR Mid. While the Ultra Raptor is just a few grams thicker, it provides notably stronger protections around the foot thanks to wide toe caps and TPU heels, and the strong shank contributes significantly to stability. Also, the FriXion XF 2.0 sole is strong and well-suited for rock climbing.

Ratings: 4.4 stars (from 111 reviews)

Price: $175

Buy it at: https://www.rei.com/product/183605/

Hiking boots have become a lot more enjoyable in recent years. Hoka One One, a popular running shoe company renowned for its lightness and padded styles, has made a significant push into the hiking footwear industry.

Our favorite model from their selection is Hoka One One Anacapa Mid. It boasts Hoka's signature springy underfoot, a rockered form for a nice ride on the track, and a beefed-up structure with durable suede fabric and a Gore-Tex weather-proof layer. We were impressed with the Anacapa's fast-moving demeanor on a hiking trip in Colorado's San Juan Mountains. It combines a mountain runner-like feel with ample protection and a highly secure over-the-ankle lacing method.

Our primary issue with Hoka One One Anacapa Mid is its durability - especially the outsole's lifetime. While the treads are made of premium Vibram rubber, Hoka included significant parts of blown neoprene in the design's center. Blown rubber is a material that is often used in road running shoes and has an almost foam-like sensation. As a consequence, this pair has suffered from severe damage as a result of excessive trail usage on rough terrain.

Ratings: 4.1 stars (from 65 reviews)

Price: $180

Buy it at: https://www.rei.com/product/193468/

We chose to evaluate Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX for a hike across Peru's Cordillera Huayhuash's tough terrain, and were all quite impressed with the results. This boot combines the grip of a practice shoe on the rocks and pebbles - with the durability and sturdiness of a lightweight climbing boot. That is an unusual yet effective combination. Hence, the Zodiac fared quite well over a grueling ten days of on- and off-trail trekking, despite the fact that we were all carrying some hefty packs. The semi-stiff structure, high-quality materials, and robust protection instilled a feeling of empowerment on steep inclines and perilous descents.

The Salewa MTN Trainer and Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX are two of the greatest durable and severe hiking footwear. It is undeniable that Zodiac is comfier (weighs less than 9 ounces per pair), and somewhat more versatile for covering territory rapidly. Still, the MTN Trainer's sturdier design and 360-degree leather rand provide much more protection in the alpine, so consider both options to choose the best one for you.

Ratings: 4.1 stars (from 47 reviews)

Price: $299

Buy it at: https://www.rei.com/product/113529/