Men’s Hiking Boots (A-Z)

Differentiating Men’s Hiking Boots from Hiking Shoes

Mid-boots, trail boots, or lightweight hiking boots will offer more support than a hiking shoe or trail running shoe, but are lighter than a traditional backpacking boot. Lightweight hikers can be appropriate for backpacking or heavier off-trail use based upon the condition of the hiker, pack weight and personal preference. The additional support that hiking boots provide over hiking shoes is helpful if you are carrying heavier loads, yet they are light enough to allow greater mileage on the trail. Bear in mind there is usually a trade-off between weight and durability.

Merrell Moab Ventilator Mid Hiking Boot

The Merrell Moab Ventilator Mid Hiking Boot makes no pretentions of being water resistant. In fact it has been compared to a “flip flop with ankle support.” The mesh and leather upper are designed to give superior ankle support. The Aegis antibacterial treatment of the mesh aids in comfort and reduces “funk.” The use of leather in the upper is minimized to give priority to ventilation, but enough boot structure remains to give strength where it is needed, including synthetic leather heal and toe cups for protection. Working our way from your sole to the ground, an Ortholite footbed is provided for comfort, the molded EVA footframe gives cushioning, and a Vibram outsole holds the trail in all conditions. Users give this boot a high rating for out-of-the-box fit and value for the money.

Asolo Fugitive GTX Hiking Boot

Many trail junkies find that the GORE-TEX lining of the Asolo Fugitive GTX Hiking Boots, together with their generally acclaimed comfort, are suitable for year-round wear. In fact, it’s not uncommon for these boots to be donned as daily footwear.

The Asolo Fugitive GTX is generally regarded as a well made, durable hiking boot, featuring double stitching at most or all seams, metal hardware for the lacing hooks, and a Cordura and leather exterior with a heavy rubber rand around the toe. The high, well padded ankle cuff works with the versatile lacing system to provide great ankle support. Asolo’s Duo Asoflex Technology, the layers between your foot and the outsole, claims to offer not only shock absorption, but anti-pronation and anti-supination support. The outsole is Asolo’s Synchro, a dual rubber compound.

The most common complaint with the boot is that it lacks traction, especially in wet conditions. Long term users report that this condition improves over time. They also report that the yellow and black rubber combination on previous models can be useful for signaling traffic if marooned alongside the highway. With its solid construction and light weight (3 lbs), Asolo Fugitive GTX boots are widely accepted as serious long-distance hiking and trekking footwear.