Top Trail Walking and Hiking Shoes

If you enjoy walking or running outdoors, you will benefit from a good pair of trail walking shoes on a gravel road or wet terrain.

Hiking, Adventure walking, or just jogging outside, a pair of the best trail walking and hiking shoes is the answer for you.


Why You Need Trail Walking and Hiking Shoes

It would be best to have proper Trial walking shoes for walking on uneven and dangerous trails. Hiding shoes are more suitable for longer hikes through much harsher environments because they offer better protection and resistance.

Trail and hiking shoes protect your feet from sharp objects, keep them dry, and help prevent slips on wet, slippery, or uneven outdoor terrains.


Trail Walking Shoe vs. Hiking Shoe

A Hiking shoe is a heavy shoe with a thick sole that provides ample protection against punctures and has a higher ankle to ensure ankle stability and protection. The Trail running or walking shoe is much more lightweight and has a less thick sole; therefore, they do not provide as much protection as a hiking boot and do not provide ankle support or stability.

  • Durability – A Hiking shoe only needs to be replaced every 1000 miles; a trail walking shoe will need to be replaced every 500 miles. A trail walking shoe is less tough or meant for heavy-duty off-trail walking, whereas a hiking shoe can be used for more harsh conditions.
  • Comfort – A Hiking boot tends to be heavy and offers a snug fit with less room for movement, while your trail walking shoe is more lightweight and flexible, offering your feet much more freedom and better ventilation.
  • Climate – A hiking boot can become warm and less breathable than a trail walking shoe, meaning your feet may sweat. A trail walking shoe is more suitable for warmer weather, whereas a hiking shoe does better in cooler climates.
  • Trail walking shoes are meant for something other than heavy-duty walking in harsh or freezing conditions; they are more suitable for less tough terrain and warmer weather.
  • Waterproofing – Most Hiking boots are completely waterproof, although some may get wet when fully submerged in water because of the seeping, and they take very long to dry. Not all Trail walking shoes are made to be waterproof, but they will dry very fast when wet because of their lightweight and breathable construction.
  • Breaking In – Where a Hiking Shoe or boot may take some time to be broken in because of its construction, the lightweight and flexible Trail walking shoe needs almost no break-in time.

Features of a Good Trail Walking Shoe

The availability of new-age material means that you don’t have to wear heavy trail shoes anymore; pay attention to the following:

  • Support -Arch supportive midsole that stabilizes the foot. Flexible construction to support foot movement on varying terrains.
  • Waterproofing -Waterproof or water-repelling since you may encounter wet or muddy places.
  • Uppers – Lightweight, breathable leather and synthetic cor textile uppers.
  • Cushioning – Proper cushioning in the midsole and insole that must offer excellent shock absorption
  • Outsole – A durable and lug rubber outsole for grip on slippery outdoor surfaces.

Reviews: Best Trail Walking Shoes

Here is a look at some of the top trail walking shoes you might want to consider:
We hope you love the trail shoes we recommend!
We may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page.


1

Stretch Trail Shoe

This is a very modern and sporty-looking pair of shoes and comes in four beautiful colors that go very well with mountainous terrain.
  • Made entirely from leather with a Vibram sole, this shoe comes with a Lycra neoprene stretch collar that makes wearing and taking off the shoes a breeze.
  • The elastic cord and lock lacing system make it quite safe in a tricky situation, with no margins left for error.
  • It also uses breathable mesh lining wicks to dry the feet, and M Select FRESH ensures no odor.
  • Hikers love these shoes as they find them as light as loafers, making climbing a lot less tiring.
  • This is a well-known shoe from a well-known brand, and it is quite comfortable.
  • It has an elegant design and a fabric lining on the inside for more comfort.
  • The mesh upper is breathable to ensure that the feet stay fresh all day, making it one of the best shoes to travel with.
  • The construction ensures that the shoe will not be sweaty or too hot.
  • It is waterproof enough to allow you to walk freely on the terrain.

2

Mid-Cut Waterproof Boot

This shoe contains E-Energy, which ensures that you enjoy walking without feeling fatigued on your feet.
  • They are heavily cushioned to ensure the user feels comfortable walking in them.
  • It is made from high-quality, top-notch leather.
  • It has a flexible and lightweight rubber sole.
  • Utilizing RollBar technology delivers excellent motion control, which makes these shoes very stable.
  • It is one of the trail walking shoes you would want to buy.
  • It has been designed with elegance and comfort.
  • It has suede leather material and moisture-wicking lining, and the outsole has an excellent grip.

3

Trail Walking Shoe

This shoe offers flexibility, comfort, and quality to the wearer.
  • They are incredibly light and some of the most comfortable shoes you’ll ever have.
  • They have a synthetic sole, and the material uses genuine leather that enhances its durability.
  • You can use this shoe in several terrains on the trails since it has an incredible grip to keep in contact with the ground.
  • It is also lightweight and absorbs shock entirely, so the user will enjoy the shoe’s comfort and elegance.
  • It will also mold into the perfect shape of the foot. In addition, the tongue and collar have been padded, which assures the wearers of total comfort and flexibility.

4

Trail Running Shoes

Here’s a short list of the features that make this shoe such a great one for trail hiking:
  • Many Width sizes to choose from: medium and up to extra-extra-wide (4E); in all sizes.
  • Supportive stability web in the midfoot.
  • “ABZORB” shock-absorbing cushioning technology that provides exceptional cushioning and durability.
  • C-CAP compression-molded EVA midsole for flexible cushioning.
  • A padded tongue and collar contribute to stability and a sense of security when walking.
  • This shoe is one of our choices in the most comfortable walking shoes.

5

Great Trail Hike Shoes

These great-looking trail walking and hiking shoes come in several attractive colors that gel with a rugged environment.
  • Leather and mesh, combined with a Vibram sole and a bellow tongue to keep the debris out while climbing, make it an ideal shoe to wear on a hike.
  • The air cushion heels provide stability and also protect from shocks.
  • This shoe also comes in a different wide-width selection.
  • It is a trendy shoe; people don’t just wear it for a hike.
  • It is designed with comfort, flexibility, and elegance.
  • What’s more about these shoes is that they are super light, weighing only 2.2 pounds.
  • Hikers will enjoy its stability and comfort. It is made with high-quality material that makes it durable and can withstand rugged terrains.
  • The shoe has a GEL cushioning and an upper that fits comfortably, ensuring that you feel comfortable all along.

6

Trail Running Shoes

The ASICS GEL-Venture is cheap for trail running and walking shoes.
  • It provides a great fit and everyday comfort.
  • It comes in wide-width sizes and up to size 15.
  • It provides stability and support to the wearer, and it is one of the best sellers of Asics.
  • The price range on this shoe is a great bargain.
  • Most trail runners users rate these shoes quite high on all parameters: comfort, design, grip, and durability.
  • Trail-specific outsole with reversed traction lugs, Rearfoot GEL Cushioning, and a rugged outsole ideal for various terrains.

7

Multifunctional Hiking Boots

The Salomon Hiking Boots are dated back to 1947 in the heart of the French Alps and the birthplace of modern alpinism; this company has a tradition and knowledge of manufacturing the best trail hiking shoes in the market.
  • The X Ultra boot is fashionable in look yet, made from durable materials.
  • It has injected EVA foam midsole and CONTRAGRIP traction outsole.
  • It is water-resistant using a fabric technology called GORE-TEX waterproof lining.
  • It is well reported that this boot is going a half size smaller, so please consider this.
  • Made out of durable materials, these hiking boots will last you for a long time.
  • They are very comfortable for walking & hiking, plus they have a roomy toe box.

8

Light Hiking Boot

These distinctly casual-looking shoes are made of canvas and come with a human-made sole.
  • Available in nearly a dozen colors, its shaft measures about 5.5″ from the arch, with respectively the heel and platform measuring 1″ and 0.5.”
  • Quite stylish and good-looking, this coming together of a combat boot with a high-top sneaker makes it possible to use it in daily life, apart from hiking.

9

Long Distance Hiking Shoes

A great-looking hiking shoe that comes in existing Dark Earth and Chilli Pepper colors.
  • This leather creation comes with a Vibram sole and is quite light at only 2 lb and 4oz.
  • Most people find this shoe as the most comfortable pair of hiking shoes.
  • This shoe has a wider toe box to accommodate natural foot expansion that happens during long trail walking.

10

Water proof Hiking Shoes

These trail shoes come in a breathable mesh textile combination that looks nice and stylish.
  • They have a non-marking rubber sole and molded EVA midsole.
  • A construction bellows tongue and an abrasion-resistant toe cap make it ideal for going up and down an undulating terrain.
  • It’s quite popular with serious hikers and holds its own very well in ice and snow conditions.

11

Waterproof Hiking Shoe

So Comfortable and lightweight that you can wear all day.
  • It is made from leather materials and breathable mesh lining treated with M-Select-FRESH to enhance the inner air circulation.
  • The durable Vibram sole offers the best grip and comfort on uneven terrain.
  • It provides the best absorption system for drying out sweat and a Uni-Fly system.
  • Its inner lining is treated for odor control.
  • It is low-cut, so you can even run with it very comfortably.

12

Zero Drop Trail Running Shoe

The Altra Lone Peak is my personal choice for trail running, walking, and hiking.
  • This shoe was designed to tackle the rockiest, rugged mountains and the most challenging terrain.
  • Dual-layer EVA midsole with A-Bound top layer fully cushioned combined with Zero Drop outsole.
  • TrailClaw outsole combines unique uphill and downhill lug traction for every trail condition.
  • This shoe has an anatomical FootShape toe box.
  • These are the new improvements to the previous version of this shoe:
  • Redesigned Upper
  • Improved Lacing System
  • Lighter Weight
  • Improved upper durability
  • Slightly firmer midsole

13

Waterproof Trail Running Shoes

  • The uppers are durable and resistant to weather elements.
  • Ther is a waterproof lining to keep you dry and comfortable.
  • A cushioned insole and supportive midsole keep your feet comfortable and supportive.
  • The rubber outsole has a lug tread design for slip resistance on outdoor terrains.

14

Lightweight Off Road Trail Walking Shoe

  • The Vivobarefoot® Primus Trek is a versatile leather walking shoe.
  • Uppers: Water-resistant leather.
  • Lace-up closure with durable, thick laces.
  • Lightly padded tongue and collar. Soft textile lining offers a great in-shoe feel.
  • Removable thermal insole with Outlast™ insulation.
  • All-terrain non-marking grippy rubber outsole.
  • Weight: 13 oz for a size 46 (US Men’s 12), width D – Medium.

15

Light Outdoor Hiking Shoes

  • Molded sockliner to enhance comfort and fit.
  • Lightweight EVA midsole for long-term cushioning.
  • Super high traction rubber outsole for optimal grip in wet conditions.

16

Trail Runners for High Arch Support

  • Imported trail running shoes.
  • Synthetic sole with Zero Drop/4MM Cushion best fit for high arches.
  • Mesh Upper, Breathable mesh lining textile and synthetic.
  • Trail Protect pad offers underfoot protection and high arch support.
  • Durable Vibram Outsole

17

Trail walking and Running Shoe

We have the Kanadia, a top trail walking and running shoe with SuperCloud cushioning for Adidas’ comfort.
  • Textile and synthetic uppers that are lightweight and breathable.
  • A durable and trail-specific rubber outsole that provides stability and traction with the Traxion design.
  • Air mesh uppers are reinforced with synthetic layer overlays for a better fit.
  • Inside is a comfortable

18

Hiking and Trail Walking Shoe

The Salomon Xa 3D pro is a top trail walking, hiking, and running shoe with some excellent stability features.
  • Textile and synthetic uppers with Sensi-Fit design and a quick lace-up system.
  • A 3D chassis that stabilizes the foot without sacrificing mobility in the forefoot.
  • An aggressive grip, Conti grip rubber outsole for all terrains that is also highly abrasion-resistant with a protective heel cap.
  • Available in a few neutral color options to select from.

19

Waterproof Trail Walker

The Terrex Swift R2 and Trailmaker from Adidas is another top-of-its-class trail walking and running shoe.
  • Some color selections are available for both men and women.
  • The uppers consist of textile and synthetic materials with a wtareproofGore Tex lining that is also highly breathable.
  • A molded comfort Ortholite sockliner which manages moisture on the inside.
  • Adiprene midsole for shock absorbency and a trail-specific lug rubber outsole.

Index Table: Trail Walking Shoes

No.ShoeMen ♂Women ♀FeaturesBrandScore
1Merrell® - Stretch Trail Shoe Chameleon 8 Chameleon 8
  • Vibram Outsole
  • Breathable
  • Waterproof
Merrell98.8
2New Balance® - Mid-Cut Waterproof Boot Dunham Cloud 779V1
  • Waterproof
  • Rubber Sole
  • Cushioned
New Balance98.6
3Vasque® - Trail Walking Shoe Juxt Grand Traverse
  • lightweight
  • Breathable
  • Shock Absorbent
Vasque94
4New Balance® - Trail Running Shoes MT690v2 WT620v2
  • Wider Widths
  • ABZORB Cushioning
  • EVA Midsole
New Balance95
5Merrell® - Great Trail Hike Shoes Moab 2 Moab 2
  • Flexible
  • Gel Cushioning
  • Vibram Outsole
Merrell97
6Asics® - Trail Running Shoes GEL Venture 8 GEL Venture 8
  • stability
  • Gel Cushioning
  • High Traction Outsole
Asics95
7Salomon® - Multifunctional Hiking Boots X Ultra Mid 3 GTX X Ultra Mid 3 GTX
  • Gore-Tex Lining
  • EVA Midsole
  • Contragrip Outsole
Salomon97
8Palladium® - Light Hiking Boot Pampa Pampa
  • Color Variety
  • High Top
  • Lightweight
Palladium93
9Vasque® - Long Distance Hiking Shoes Mantra 2.0 Mantra 2.0
  • Vibram Outsole
  • Wider Toe Box
Vasque93
10Keen® - Water proof Hiking Shoes Targhee 3 Versatrail
  • Dual Density Midsole
  • Stability Shank
  • Lightweight
Keen94
11Merrell® - Waterproof Hiking Shoe All Out Blaze All Out Blaze
  • Vibram Outsole
  • odor Control
Merrell95
12Altra® - Zero Drop Trail Running Shoe Lone Peak 5 Lone Peak 5
  • Trail Claw Outsole
  • Anatomical FootShape Toe Box
  • EVA Midsole
Altra97.9
13Salomon® - Waterproof Trail Running Shoes Speedcross 5 Speedcross 5
  • Contagrip
  • Sensifit cradles
Salomon97
14Vivobarefoot® - Lightweight Off Road Trail Walking Shoe Primus Treck Primus Treck
  • Lightweight
  • Minimalist
  • Water-Resistant
Vivobarefoot98
15Adidas® - Light Outdoor Hiking Shoes AX# AX3
  • Lightweight
  • EVA Midsole
Adidas96
16Merrell® - Trail Runners for High Arch Support Glove 5 Glove 5
  • Feel like glove
  • Vibram Outsole
Merrell97
17Adidas® - Trail walking and Running Shoe Kanadia Kanadia
  • Durable
  • High Traction
  • Trail Specific
Adidas98
18Salomon® - Hiking and Trail Walking Shoe Xa Pro 3D Xa Pro 3D
  • Aggressive Grip
  • Precise Fit
Salomon97
19Adidas® - Waterproof Trail Walker Terrex swift R2 Trail Maker
  • Gore-Tex Lined
  • Trail Specific Tread
  • Adiprene Midsole
Adidas98

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About the Author

David Alegeta

David is a long-distance hiker, a writer and an editor whose favorite topics include backpacking and trail running. He is an adventure athlete who covered over 20,000 miles. He frequently speaks to groups about the benefits of proper footwear and has written numerous articles on this subject. He lives in Dallas, Texas with his family.