Looking for the best hike shoes? If so, the huge selection online certainly doesn't make it any easier. So we searched, looked at reviews and asked advice from fellow travellers. In the end, we selected these top 7 best hike shoes for you. So you can choose the best hiking shoes for your next hikes! We looked at value for money, best fit and product range of brands during our selection. Curious about which hike shoes would suit you best? Then be sure to read on!
Table of contents: The best hike shoes
How to choose the best hike shoes?
- Is there a difference between hike shoes for men or women?
- What should you pay attention to when choosing your hike shoes?
- What is the perfect fit for your hike shoes?
Top 7 best hike shoes of 2022 listed
1. Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX M | Unisex
2. Lowa Locarno GTX Mid | Women's
3. Lowa Renegade Mid GTX | Women's
4. Hanwag Banks GTX | Ladies
5. Hanwag Tatra II Wide GTX | Men's
6. Adidas Terrex A4X Gore-Tex | Men's
7. Meindl Tramin GTX | Ladies
Buy your hike shoes from a specialist shop
How to choose the best hike shoes?
We were those types who thought; trainers on and go... Fine of course if you can get through Thailand or Sri Lanka travels, but we had to quickly adjust this attitude after our trip through the dolomites. Because wet socks, -2 degrees and a long hike are not such a suitable combination. But which hike shoes should you choose?
Which hike shoes are best for you depends on several factors. Below, we briefly explain how to choose the best hike shoes for yourself. Because nothing is more annoying than wearing the ‘wrong’ shoes during a hike.
Is there a difference between hike shoes for men or women?
There is no big difference between hike shoe for men and hike shoes for women except the colour. However, hike shoes for men are often finished with a larger last and a wider fit. They also tend to weigh a bit more and may also have slightly higher ankle support.
However, we recommend you choose a hike shoe that best suits your fit. For example, as a woman, you can choose a ‘male hike shoe’ and as a man, you can choose a ‘female hike shoe’.
What should you pay attention to when choosing your hike shoes?
- Upper leather: The upper leather is the part of the shoe above the sole. There are different types of materials they use for this. Think leather, suede or mesh. For example, if your preference is for longer hikes, we recommend you look for hike shoes with a material that breathes. This way, your feet get air and moisture can escape.
- Insole: The insole is the removable base layer of your hike shoe. Opt for an insole that offers enough cushioning for you while walking.
- Midsole: The midsole sits between the outsole and the insole. We recommend choosing a hike shoe where the midsole offers enough cushioning and shock absorption, but is also strong enough to protect your feet from sharp objects from below.
- Outsole: The outsole forms the bottom of the shoe. You have hike shoes with thin and light soles but our preference is for somewhat heavier and sturdy outsoles.
- The category: hike shoes are divided into different categories. This is done through the ABCD system, which increases from light to heavy.
- Category A | low hiking boots: Shoes in this category are almost always low. You can compare them to ‘regular’ sturdy sports shoes.
- Category A/B | between hiking and mountain boots: These shoes are sort of a cross between a hiking and mountaineering shoe.
- Category B | the ‘classic’ mountaineering shoe: The familiar hike shoes with high shaft for extra ankle support.
- Category C | off-the-beaten-path mountain shoe: Is for experienced and avid mountaineers and alpinists. These shoes are hugely robust and sturdy.
- Category D | The shoe for on a glacier: Even sturdier and more robust than category C.
What is the perfect fit for your hike shoes?
When buying hike shoes, it is important to consider the points below:
- Movement space at toes: Make sure your toes are not quite at the front of the shoe. If you can just put a finger behind your Achilles tendon, you have the perfect size.
- Choose a shoe that fits the width of your foot: The midsole will not widen. Therefore, choose a shoe where your foot is perfectly supported from side to side.
- Wear your shoes indoors first: Always walk in with your shoes. Not 2 minutes but half an hour. Go clean up the laundry, vacuum or make dinner. That way you have enough time to check if you really make the right choice!
Read more | The Malerweg, one of the top 10 most beautiful hikes in Europe.
Read more | Top 5 things to do in Saxon Switzerland.
Top 7 best hike shoes of 2022 listed
Now that you know what to look out for, we share our top 7 best hike shoes. At the bottom of this list you will find the advantages for each shoe, the disadvantages and the price.
We regularly update this list so you will always see the best hike shoes of the moment.
1. Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX M | Unisex
The Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX M features special descent control technology. This makes the shoes ideal for tough descents and hikes. The sole features a special pattern, giving you a better grip. In addition, the shoes are waterproof and are also available as mid model.
Pros and cons:
- Category A
- Firm grip
- Waterproof
- Available in 1/3 sizes
- Similar to a regular sturdy trainer
2. Lowa Locarno GTX Mid | Women's
The Lowa Locarno GTX Mid are suitable for any terrain. These hike shoes are breathable and completely waterproof. This is because the shoes are equipped with a special Gore-Tex membrane that stops all water. The Lowa Locarno GTX Mid also have a cushioning midsole, are lightweight and comfortable. These shoes are also available as a low version.
Pros and cons:
- Category A/B
- Light and comfortable fit
- Waterproof and breathable
- Expensive price tag
3. Lowa Renegade Mid GTX | Women's
The Lowa Renegade Mid GTX are very comfortable and best suited to the slightly narrower and normal foot. Thanks to the special sole, you won't get tired feet either. The shoes are durable, robust and waterproof. Sounds ideal but keep in mind that these shoes are not suitable for heavy or very technical hikes. See all (including men's) Lowa Renegade Mid GTX variants at beaver.co.uk.
Pros and cons:
- Category A/B
- Narrow/normal and comfortable fit
- Monowrap Support Frame in the sole
- Waterproof and breathable
- Expensive price tag
4. Hanwag Banks GTX | Women's
In our opinion, the best hiking shoes from Hanwag are the Hanwag Banks GTX. These hike shoes have an awful lot of positive reviews. They are suitable for flat to medium terrain. These shoes are slightly more expensive but good value for money. The Hanwag Banks are fine, robust hiking shoes with a slightly wider fit and chunkier soles. In addition, they are fully waterproof and breathable. Unlike the LOWA hiking boots below, they are slightly wider in fit which means they may offer a little less support. They are also available as unisex & men shoe.
Pros and cons:
- Category A/B
- Wide and comfortable fit
- Waterproof and breathable
- Expensive price tag
5. Hanwag Tatra II Wide GTX | Men's
These category B hiking boots from Hanwag are made for uneven and wet terrain. This makes them suitable for long hikes at altitude, on rough terrain and on multi-day treks. These shoes are waterproof, comfortable and suitable for people with wide feet. With their rigid fit and wide fit, they offer plenty of support for your feet. They are also available as unisex & women shoe.
Pros and cons:
- Category B
- Wide and comfortable fit
- Special wide-legged
- Waterproof and breathable
- Has a vibram AW Integral sole
- Expensive price tag
6. Adidas Terrex A4X Gore-Tex | Men's
These adidas Terrex are not actually hike shoes but trail run shoes. These are shoes that can be compared to a sturdy trainer or running shoe. The shoes are perfect for a light hike on uneven terrain. They are waterproof, breathable and have a stable sole with plenty of grip. They are available in different variants for both men and women.
Pros and cons:
- Category A
- Comfortable fit
- Waterproof and breathable
- Similar to a regular sturdy trainer
7. Meindl Tramin GTX | Women's
The Meindl Tramin GTX for women has a wide fit. The shoes are also waterproof and lightweight. They are ideal for long hikes due to the cushioning effect of the EVA midsole. The hike shoe has an awful lot of positive reviews and is often mentioned online.
Pros and cons:
- Category A/B
- Wide and comfortable fit
- Waterproof and breathable
- Expensive price tag
Buy your hike shoes from a specialist shop
We recommend you choose hike shoes with high quality and comfort. This can make a big difference during a hike. So don't buy the first and best cheap hike shoes you can find, but look for hike shoes that fit you perfectly. Do you go on many different types of hikes? Don't focus on just one type of hiking shoe.
Online, you will find the largest selection. But in specialised shops you can actually see, feel and test the shoes on different materials. If you have any doubts or questions, we recommend you go to your nearest beaver shop to go. If you choose to buy your hike shoes online, always check reliable online webshops like the ones above. In addition, compare prices so you never pay too much!
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