When it comes to mountain adventures, safety stands as a cornerstone for all our excursions. In an environment where terrain and weather conditions can swiftly change, proper equipment becomes imperative to tackle any situation that may arise. Among the essential gear requiring careful consideration, footwear is foremost.
Hiking shoes play a crucial role in enhancing both safety and comfort during our mountain or nature explorations. Factors such as the type of sole and its characteristics, the durability of the upper material, and the terrain-responsive cushioning significantly influence the success of our journeys. However, navigating the market can be daunting, with a myriad of brands, technologies, and materials to choose from, making it challenging to discern the best options.
The RUNNEA team is excited to present a carefully curated selection of hiking shoes and walking boots. In the following list, you'll discover what we believe to be the most outstanding choices currently on the market. While we acknowledge the abundance of trail running shoes suitable for non-runners exploring mountains, our focus here is on models with greater structure, excellent cushioning, and exceptional durability. Stay tuned and don't miss out!
The 12 best hiking shoes for 2024
As the market continues to evolve, inundated with high-quality products and propelled by the emergence of new and effective technologies, navigating the selection process among various models becomes increasingly complex. Hence, to streamline your decision-making process, the RUNNEA team endeavors to present the top 12 mountain footwear options as of the beginning of 2024. From waterproof to non-waterproof variants, catering to diverse weights and preferences in cushioning, safety, and stability, these selections encompass a range of features to suit your needs.
New Balance Tektrel
The New Balance Tektrel is a hiking shoe designed with technologies and a style that also make it suitable for occasional mountain running. The upper combines synthetic and textile materials with a reinforced coating for enhanced durability. The midsole incorporates high-performance foam for comfortable cushioning, while the outsole is equipped with the brand's own AT Tread compound for versatile traction. It offers an 8-millimetre drop and a lightweight design at just 300 grams.
Adidas Terrex AX4 Gore-Tex
The adidas Terrex AX4 Gore-Tex are suitable for walking and hiking, and are now in their fourth edition. Featuring an updated design aimed at offering a more visually appealing shoe, they retain the same technological features as their predecessor. The most notable structural change is a less pronounced arch and a groove in the center of the sole, which provides the Terrex AX4 with improved flexibility.
ASICS Gel Sonoma 7 GTX
The ASICS Gel Sonoma 7 GTX is a trail running shoe that stands out for its versatility and comfort, and is ideal for those who are starting out in the world of trail running- especially if you need a quality shoe offering fantastic value for money.
- Surface: Trail
- Use: Training
- Cushion: Neutral
- Running gait: Neutral
- Drop: 8 mm
- Pace: Low
The North Face Vectiv Exploris 2
The new The North Face Vectiv Exploris 2 are one of the highest quality models for hiking & walking, especially for excursions in the mountains. This model boasts leather finishes with inspiration from their trail running models thanks to the latest generation Vectiv technology. A model of great fit and protection, with incredible grip and proven durability.
The North Face Vectiv Exploris 2
The North Face Vectiv Exploris 2
Merrell MQM 3 GORE-TEX
The Merrell MQM 3 GORE-TEX is the waterproof version of the third edition of one of the American company's best-selling shoes. A standout feature of the Merrell MQM 3 GTX is its exceptional comfort and convenience. It leverages the Merrell Air Cushion and Super Rebound Compound technologies to deliver superior shock absorption in the heel area, while also improving stability with each step. The shoe's waterproof GORE-TEX membrane ensures that no external elements can penetrate, keeping the foot in its natural state. Additionally, it features a protective toe cap designed to prevent injuries from roots and stones, which are common hazards when walking in the mountains.
Puma Explore NITRO
The Puma Explore Nitro features an innovative midsole where the foam is infused with nitrogen, blending this element with Puma's own technology, PROFOAMLITE. This creates an extremely lightweight foam that provides cushioning and enhances reactivity with each step. The quality extends to the outsole as well, which is made from the high-performance PUMAGRIP ATR rubber compound, specifically designed for mountain terrain. Additionally, the upper incorporates the adaptive OPTIFIT system, allowing for personalized fit adjustments. Together, these features create a shoe with a 6-millimetre drop and a lightweight profile.
Lafuma SHIFT GORE-TEX
The Lafuma SHIFT GORE-TEX are boots for hiking and walking that represent the most protective standard of the SHIFT range, designed for short to medium distances. They are notable for their low-cut design and minimalist aesthetics. Featuring a Gore-Tex membrane, they are fully waterproof, offering enhanced protection against water, moisture, and mud. These shoes are well-suited even for athletes weighing over 80-85 kilograms, ensuring a perfect fit.
HOKA Skyline-Float X
The HOKA Skyline-Float X hiking shoe incorporates plant-based components throughout its design: it features a soy-based insole, a midsole composed of 30% sugarcane material, a 90% organic Pebax plate, and a Vibram XS Trek rubber outsole. The shoe's upper is made from a breathable technical jacquard mesh, while the HOKA Skyline-Float X midsole utilizes dual-density EVA foam for added comfort. Moreover, the inclusion of the Pebax plate, along with the Vibram XS Trek outsole, ensures superior traction on uneven or steep terrains.
Salomon XA PRO 3D V9
The Salomon XA PRO 3D V9 is a versatile shoe for hiking and walking designed to face the most demanding and complete excursions. The high-performance EVA EnergyCell+ cushioning technology incorporated in its midsole, offers excellent cushioning while the upper, constructed through a 3D mesh, is a fabric of maximum strength and durability. They stand out for maintaining a high-traction All-Terrain Contagrip compound outsole, and an advanced low-profile 3D chassis. A set of around 360 grams of weight and 11 millimeters of drop that will not leave you disappointed.
Columbia Trailstorm Ascend
The Columbia Trailstorm Ascend is a hiking shoe that stands out for its versatility: it's good for trekking, trail hiking, and occasional trail running. The upper is made of a waterproof and breathable Omni-Tech mesh (with leather overlays) for durability and support. It also features the Navic Fit System technology that allows for a natural fit. The outsole is made of Omni-Grip rubber, a compound designed to provide traction at all times.
Chiruca Arenal 08
The new Chiruca Arenal 08 is recommended for hiking and trekking - as long as it is not overly technical terrain or steep. It incorporates a Gore-Tex membrane, and stands out for its great lightness. With an breathable mesh upper and a Gore-Tex Extended Comfort membrane that guarantees that our feet will stay dry- even when hiking in the rain. In addition, the midsole of the shoe has a phylon compound and the outsole is made of Vibram Megagrip, meaning we are guaranteed great durability and grip on a wide variety of surfaces.
Salewa Alp Trainer 2 Gore-Tex
The new Salewa Alp Trainer 2 Gore-Tex are made for hiking or trekking in areas with technical and mountainous profiles. In fact, they were tested in the Italian Dolomites. They are versatile hiking shoes/walking boots that include many of the technologies developed by the brand alongside waterproofing provided by the Gore-Tex membrane, and a durable Vibram sole.
Salewa Alp Trainer 2 Gore-Tex
Salewa Alp Trainer 2 Gore-Tex
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