10 of the Trendiest Hiking Boots

Gearing up for the summer hiking season? Check out some of the trendiest hiking shoes on the market this year (your feet will thank you). These hiking boots and shoes are popular for a reason—from redesigned classics to innovative new ideas, they all bring something to the table in terms of style and performance. Check out our list and let us know what your favorites are!

1. Danner - Mountain 600

If you’ve ever read Cheryl Strayed’s Wild or seen the film adaptation, then you know Danner hiking boots are a long-time classic. They are popular not just for their iconic looks, but their durability and performance on the trail as well. The Danner Mountain 600s are aesthetically inspired by some of the company’s most popular designs, with new innovative features, including a Vibram sole and a completely waterproof barrier. They provide excellent support on steep and rocky terrain and are a great all-around option. These boots can take a few hikes to break in, so try wearing them around your house for a few hours before hitting the trail. Try these on your next hike and feel like a total legend.

2. Lowa - Renegade II Mid GTX

These boots are an upgraded version of Lowa’s original Renegades, now sporting Monowrap construction for improved fit and comfort. They are also lighter than the original version, coming in at 2lb and 4oz. They are lined with GORE-TEX, making them waterproof and durable in wet and muddy conditions. They also feature a Vibram outsole for increased traction on mixed terrain and climate control to keep your feet cool and dry on those long summer days. The boots are a little on the pricy side, but their long-lasting performance makes them worth every penny.

3. Salomon - X Ultra 3 MID GTX

Packed full of cool features, these boots are a best seller for a reason. GORE-TEX keeps your feet dry, while chevron lugs improve traction, especially on soft or loose terrain. Salomon’s SensiFit™ technology provides a secure and custom fit for your foot. This boot performs fantastically on difficult terrain and descents due to its Descent Control technology, so don’t be afraid to take these on some of your toughest treks. Though they perform well on a variety of hikes, they are not mountaineering boots, so don’t expect them to keep your toes toasty in the middle of winter.

4. Hoka - ONE ONE Toa GTX

Looking for a lightweight and supportive shoe for your next backpacking trip? Weighing just 12.6oz, these boots will have you flying down the trail. They feature a Vibram hi-traction outsole and rubberized midsole foam for optimal cushioning and comfort. GORE-TEX booties protect feet from wet conditions while the synthetic upper part of the boot provides breathability. These shoes come in a variety of fun colors as well, adding a pop of vibrancy to any hiking outfit.

5. Salewa - Mountain Trainer Lite GTX

These lightweight trail runners were designed for alpine approaches and mountain use, made with durable fabric and a GORE-TEX lining for water resistance. This is a versatile shoe that performs well on a variety of different terrains due to Pomoca compound rubber and deep grooves and lugs. Climbing lacing and a flexible ankle cuff offer extra support on fast-paced adventures. If you’re not used to hiking without boots, however, take it easy on your first few outings to build up your ankle strength to prevent injury.

6. La Sportiva - Trango Tower GTX

These are three-season alpine boots designed for light mountaineering and alpine treks. They are a lightweight option, weighing only 25.4oz, made with high tenacity nylon and light PU thermal adhesive. They are lined with GORE-TEX for extra protection and feature La Sportiva’s Impact Brake System™ for added traction on those tricky descents. They are crampon compatible, so use them on your next glacier traverse or alpine adventure.

7. Columbia - Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof

The new and improved Newton Ridge Plus boots from Columbia are a favorite for their attractive design, high performance on rough terrain, and affordable price. Waterproof suede will keep your feet dry while Omni-grip traction will keep you from slipping on steep trails. The round toe and padded collar add to this boot’s overall comfort, making it perfect for long days on the trail, and mesh lining will keep you cool this summer.

8. Keen - Targhee II

With waterproof leather construction and mesh upper layers, these boots will keep your feet dry while simultaneously offering breathability. The carbon rubber outsole and multi-directional lugs ensure ultimate traction on rugged terrain. The Targhee also has heel and toe support features for maximized comfort and stability. Great for backpacking, day hiking, scrambling, and casual outings, these boots are versatile and perfect for any occasion.

9. Topo - Hydroventure 2 Trail Running Shoes

These waterproof and breathable trail runners will have you dancing down the trail. These shoes sport plenty of cool features to keep you comfortable and protected, including forefoot rock plates to protect against stone bruises. The Vibram Megagrip outsoles provide traction even in wet and muddy conditions, and dual-density midsoles ensure a cushion-like feel while you’re hiking or running. If you are in the market for a hiking shoe that performs just as well as the boots you’re used to, try these out on your next adventure. If you’re not used to hiking without boots, however, take it easy on your first few outings to build up your ankle strength to prevent injury.

10. Chaco - Classic Sandal

These classic sandals have been a popular outdoor footwear choice since the ‘80s for good reason. The streamlined and comfortable design makes it the perfect shoe for easy hikes (hello walks along the beach). They come with adjustable straps so that you can find the perfect fit, and the new Classics have an optimized rubber outsole for maximum traction. My favorite thing about these is that they come in so many different colors and designs and are available for all ages. Though I wouldn’t recommend these for rocky or strenuous hikes, they are a great summer option for light adventuring.

With so many awesome choices, it is understandable if you are having trouble choosing the hiking boots or shoes that best fit your needs. Reach out to a Camping & Hiking expert at Curated and we will help you pick the perfect pair (or two). Happy hiking!