The 5 Best Men’s Hiking Boots
Now more than ever, it can be tricky to find a pair of hiking boots that are both comfortable and on-trend. There’s no shame in picking up a pair of gothic boots for your strolls in Tompkins Square Park. Scott Wilkinson, communications director for the Pacific Crest Trail Association, says it’s “very crucial” to choose trail shoes that won’t cut off your feet’s circulation. He recommends buying boots that are a size larger than usual. There must be sufficient area for the toes to extend out and move freely. True backpackers and thru-hikers should take Wilkinson’s advise, as their feet are more likely to swell after a long walk and will benefit from a larger boot. The typical day hiker won’t need to go up a full size, but it’s best to be safe than sorry. (Thick socks will occupy more room in the toe box.) Anyway, before you buy a new pair of boots, it’s a good idea to try them on first. Don’t forget the wool socks that will keep your feet dry and avoid blisters.
We have compiled a comprehensive list of the best men’s hiking boots for every type of terrain and weather condition.
5. Meindl Mens Island Active MFS Wide Fit Walking / Hiking Boots
Meindl’s Wide Fit collection includes the Island MFS Active Wide Fit walking boot. It is contoured to provide a firm grip at the heel and is wider in the forefoot to accommodate wider feet. Here we have a wide width of the ever-popular Island MFS Active boot.
Over the years, Meindl’s international reputation has grown in large part due to the Island MFS Active mountain walking boot. The Island style is one of their most well-known designs, and for good reason: it’s the best walking boot for long-distance hiking on any surface. The boot’s construction from premium oiled Nubuck leather provides superior comfort, support, and longevity. The Island MFS Active is a waterproof, all-season shoe with a GORE-TEX liner, an adjustable Digafix lacing system, a Meindl Multigriff sole (by Vibram) for superior traction, and Memory Foam (MFS) technology for superior comfort. The MFS is effective because it employs multiple types of foam that, when warmed by the wearer’s body, conform to the unique shape of their feet. The Island MFS Active are an excellent all-around shoe, suitable for lengthy walks, mountaineering, snowshoeing, or any other outdoor activity.
Features:
- Colour: Brown
- Upper: Oiled Sil – Nubuck leather
- Lining: Gore-Tex®
- Footbed: Air-Active® Soft Print drysole
- Sole No. 3A: Meindl Multigriff® by Vibram®
- Wide Fit: Wider fit and more toe freedom with a firm grip on the heel. Meindl Wide Fit models are not as wide as Meindl Comfort Fit models.
- Memory Foam System (MFS)
- DiGAfix® lacing system
- Weight (Size UK 8): 880g / 31.04oz
4. GriSport Unisex Everest Walking / Hiking Boots
The Everest is Grisport’s best-selling backpacking boot for good reason: its luxurious waxed leather top and durable vibram sole exude rugged good looks.
Made in one of the world’s greenest factories at the foot of the Dolomites in Italy, where the sun provides 100 percent of the energy needed.
To get the best fit, order one size up if you’re in between sizes because the sizing runs small.
Features:
- Gender: Unisex Trekking Boot
- Materials: Upper Made From Waxed Leather
- Lining: Spotex Breathable/ Water Resistant Lined
- Heel and Sole: Vibram Rubber Sole
- Fastenings: Seven Hook Eyelet Lace Up
- Main Features: A Padded Ankle Collar
- Weight: 1205 g / 2.65 lb
- Collection: Backpacking
3. Meindl Mens Dovre Extreme MFS Wide Fit Walking / Hiking Boots
The Dovre Extreme GTX MFS is a Meindl boot, however it is part of their Wide Fit collection, therefore it has more room in the toes and a larger interior than their regular boots. In contrast to the Meindl Comfort Fit models, the Meindl Wide Fit models are narrower.
The Dovre Extreme GTX MFS has been lauded for its versatility despite being primarily intended as a hunting and field sports boot. The boot’s height and rigidity provide protection in muddy environments, but the shoe’s inherent flexibility makes it wearable right out of the box. Nubuck leather is used for the uppers, and a GORE-TEX membrane seals everything in to create a waterproof, breathable, and reliable structure. The Air-Active footbed insures that the footwear is constantly breathable and that any moisture is quickly evaporated. Comfort is a top priority for Meindl, thus they incorporated a Memory Foam System into this design. Different foams work together to cushion the foot and shape to the wearer’s foot when the temperature rises. This provides superior support in addition to a snug, personalised fit. The Meindl Multigriff sole by Vibram is the finishing touch on the Dovre Extreme GTX MFS, and it provides exceptional grip in wet and muddy conditions across a wide variety of terrain.
Features:
- Colour: Brown
- Upper: Nubuck leather with wax
- Lining: Gore-Tex®
- Footbed: Air-Active® Soft Print drysole
- Sole No.3A: Meindl Multigriff® by Vibram
- Wide Fit: Wider fit and more toe freedom with a firm grip on the heel. Meindl Wide Fit models are not as wide as Meindl Comfort Fit models.
- Memory Foam System (MFS)
- DiGAfix® lacing system
- Weight (Size UK 8): 980g / 34.56oz
2. Meindl Mens Nebraska Mid GTX Walking / Hiking Boots
Nebraska Mid GTX is a lightweight mid-cut walking boot that provides excellent comfort and excellent ankle support. The Nebraska Mid GTX has a traditional look and feel while being durable and long-lasting thanks to its uppers made of premium Nubuck leather and suede. The Air-Active footbed ensures the foot stays dry and promotes a healthy environment within the shoe, while the accompanying GORE-TEX liner provides great protection in rainy circumstances. The Nebraska Mid GTX is best suited for medium-level mountain ranges, trails, and easier terrains due to the Meindl Magic Light Trail sole’s superior traction on a wide variety of surfaces.
For shorter hikes and trails where mountaineering boots aren’t necessary, choose the Nebraska Mid GTX. This boot is built to last in any environment thanks to its durable outsole and waterproof GoreTex inside. Very cosy right out of the box.
Features:
- Colour: Mahogany
- Upper: Nubuk Leather / Suede
- Lining: Gore-Tex® waterproof protection
- Footbed: Air-Active®
- Sole No. 69: Non-slip Meindl Magic Light Trail rubber sole
- Standard Fit
- Weight (Size UK 8): 480g / 16.93oz
1. Meindl Mens Bhutan MFS Walking / Hiking Boots
The Bhutan MFS is an all-around great pair of walking boots, featuring a leather upper and a GoreTex interior, ideal for use in temperatures ranging from freezing to pleasantly warm. The Digafix provides reliable heel support, and the Memory Foam around the ankle enhances comfort. There is little break-in time necessary.
The Bhutan MFS is a refined version of the well-liked Meindl Burma boot, with the same supportive, long-lasting construction. This high-quality Nubuck leather boot will keep your feet safe and stable on any surface, making your daily strolls more enjoyable. The Memory Foam System (MFS) around the ankle provides a compression zone for optimal comfort, while the GORE-TEX lining keeps feet dry and protected from the elements. The Digafix lacing system allows for a customised fit, and the Air-Active footbed wicks away sweat.
Features:
- Colour: Dark Brown
- Upper: Nubuck leather with wax
- Lining: Gore-Tex® Performance Comfort Footwear
- Footbed: Air-Active®
- Sole No. 3B: Meindl Multigriff® by Vibram®
- Memory Foam System (MFS)
- DiGAfix® lacing system
- Standard Fit
- Weight (Size UK 8): 800g / 28.21oz
About Jackson Sports
In the heart of Belfast, you’ll find Jackson Sports, a top-tier national retailer specialising in outdoor gear for mountain and water sports.
Their goal is to provide you with the high-quality equipment they themselves use so you may have a fantastic time in the great outdoors.