14 Best Hiking Boots For Men: Waterproof & Lightweight (2026)

Choosing the right hiking boots for men comes down to a few non-negotiable factors: grip, support, waterproofing, and weight. Get any of those wrong, and you'll feel it within the first mile, blisters, soggy socks, or ankles that ache on every descent. Get them right, and you'll barely think about your feet at all, which is exactly the point.

We've tested and compared boots from brands like Berghaus, Craghoppers, and Magnum, all of which we stock here at MoreSports, alongside other top names to put together a list that actually helps you decide. Whether you're after a lightweight option for summer trail walking or a fully waterproof boot built for Scottish winters, there's something here for you.

Below, you'll find 14 of the best men's hiking boots for 2026, broken down by features, fit, and intended use. Each pick includes what we like, what we don't, and who it's best suited for, so you can spend less time scrolling and more time on the trail.

1. Salomon Quest 5 GORE-TEX

The Salomon Quest 5 GORE-TEX sits at the top of this list for good reason. It's one of the most well-rounded hiking boots for men available right now, combining serious ankle support with a comfortable, broken-in feel that many competing boots take weeks to achieve. If you want one boot that handles most conditions, this is a strong candidate.

Why it stands out

Salomon built the Quest 5 around their SensiFit construction, which wraps the upper snugly around your foot for a secure hold without creating pressure points. The GORE-TEX waterproof membrane keeps water out reliably, making it dependable on wet trails or in unpredictable weather. The Contagrip MA outsole delivers strong traction on both loose and wet surfaces, and the midsole provides enough cushioning to handle long days without your feet paying for it later.

The Quest 5 strikes a balance that's rare in this category: it performs like a technical boot but feels comfortable from the first wear.

An improved lacing system on this version makes it easier to get a precise fit across the instep, which matters considerably on steep descents when your foot can shift forward inside the boot.

Best for

This boot suits day hikers and multi-day trekkers who cover mixed terrain, from forest paths to rocky hillsides. It works particularly well for anyone who needs strong ankle stability but doesn't want the stiffness of a full mountaineering boot. You'll get the most out of it in conditions where the weather can turn without warning.

• Mixed terrain hiking
• Multi-day trips with a loaded pack
• Wet or unpredictable weather conditions
• Hikers who prioritise ankle support over minimal weight

Trade-offs

Weight is the main trade-off here. The Quest 5 is not the lightest option on this list, and if you're covering long, flat distances at speed, that extra weight becomes noticeable toward the end of the day. Some users also find the toe box slightly narrow, so if you have a wider foot, try them on before you commit.

Fit varies between colourways too, so it's worth checking sizing notes specific to the version you're buying.

Price range

Expect to pay between £160 and £185 in the UK for the Quest 5 GORE-TEX, depending on the colourway. That puts it in the mid-to-premium bracket, but for regular hikers, the waterproofing performance and long-term durability make that spend worthwhile.

2. Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GORE-TEX

The Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GORE-TEX takes everything people appreciate about the Quest 5 and strips it back for speed and agility. If you want lightweight hiking boots for men that still offer solid ankle support and waterproof protection, this boot deserves a close look. It's built for those who move fast on trail and don't want extra weight dragging on every step.

Why it stands out

Salomon redesigned the X Ultra 5 Mid with an updated chassis and a Contagrip TD outsole that bites into uneven ground without feeling rigid underfoot. The GORE-TEX lining keeps your feet dry across wet terrain, and the revised upper feels noticeably more flexible than its predecessor, making it easier to move at pace without the boot fighting you.

This is the boot to reach for when speed matters as much as protection.

Best for

This boot suits fast day hikers and trail runners who want ankle coverage without the bulk of a heavier build. It performs well on well-maintained trails and moderate terrain where you're covering ground quickly rather than carrying a loaded pack for several days running.

• Day hikes on mixed or rocky trails
• Fast-paced hiking where weight is a priority
• Mild to wet conditions where GORE-TEX earns its place

Trade-offs

The lighter construction means less cushioning underfoot compared to the Quest 5, so multi-day trips with a heavy pack will feel harder toward the end. Some hikers also note that the ankle collar sits slightly lower, which reduces support on loose or unstable ground.

Price range

Expect to pay between £140 and £165 in the UK, placing it at a slightly lower price point than the Quest 5 without giving up waterproof performance.

3. Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof

The Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof is one of the most popular and accessible hiking boots for men on the market. Its reputation for out-of-the-box comfort makes it a consistent bestseller among day hikers and weekend walkers who want a dependable boot without paying a premium price.

Why it stands out

Merrell uses their M-Select DRY waterproof membrane to keep your feet dry across wet ground and shallow stream crossings, which holds up reliably in typical UK weather. The Vibram TC5+ outsole delivers solid grip on both dry and damp surfaces, and the midsole balances cushioning with enough ground feel to stay comfortable across longer distances.

If you struggle with boots that take weeks to bed in, the Moab 3 is worth trying first.

Best for

This boot works well for casual to moderate hikers who cover well-marked trails and don't need the technical performance of a higher-end option. It also suits hikers with wider feet, as Merrell's roomy toe box accommodates broader foot shapes better than many alternatives on this list.

• Day walks on maintained or moderate trails
• First-time boot buyers who want immediate comfort
• Hikers with medium to wide feet

Trade-offs

The ankle support is moderate rather than firm, which means it won't cope well with heavily loaded multi-day treks on rough or unstable terrain. The M-Select DRY waterproofing also performs less reliably than a GORE-TEX membrane during prolonged wet conditions or deeper water crossings.

• Less suitable for technical or off-trail routes
• Not built for heavy backpacking loads

Price range

Expect to pay between £100 and £130 in the UK, making it one of the most competitive options on this list and a solid starting point if you're new to hiking footwear.

4. Hoka Kaha 3 GTX

The Hoka Kaha 3 GTX takes a different approach to hiking boots for men by leading with maximum cushioning as its defining feature. If your priority is keeping your feet fresh across a full day on the trail rather than shaving grams off your kit, this boot makes a strong case for itself.

Why it stands out

Hoka built the Kaha 3 around their oversized midsole technology, which absorbs impact on every step and reduces the cumulative fatigue that builds across longer routes. The GORE-TEX waterproof lining keeps moisture out reliably in wet conditions, while the Vibram Megagrip outsole delivers dependable traction on wet rock and muddy terrain without feeling stiff underfoot.

The cushioning level on the Kaha 3 genuinely changes how your feet feel at the end of a full day out, particularly on harder surfaces like compacted stone paths.

Best for

This boot suits hikers covering long distances on varied terrain who put comfort above all else. It works particularly well for anyone managing joint sensitivity or knee issues, where the extra cushioning reduces the impact load that accumulates over hours of walking.

• Long day hikes on mixed or hard-packed trails
• Hikers with knee, hip, or joint concerns
• Wet or unpredictable conditions where waterproofing is non-negotiable

Trade-offs

The substantial midsole adds noticeable weight, which becomes a factor on faster-paced routes where agility matters. Some hikers also find the wider platform sits awkwardly on narrow or technical trails where a closer ground connection would feel more precise.

Price range

Expect to pay between £170 and £195 in the UK, placing the Kaha 3 GTX firmly at the premium end of this list.

5. Lowa Renegade EVO GTX Mid

The Lowa Renegade EVO GTX Mid has built a strong reputation among experienced hikers over many years, and this updated version earns that loyalty. It combines German-engineered precision with a GORE-TEX Extended Comfort waterproof lining to produce one of the most reliable mid-cut boots available in 2026.

Why it stands out

Lowa redesigned the EVO version with an updated midsole compound that delivers noticeably better energy return compared to earlier Renegade iterations. The GORE-TEX Extended Comfort membrane manages moisture and temperature more effectively than standard waterproof linings, keeping your feet comfortable across both cold and warmer conditions. The Vibram EVO outsole grips confidently on loose rock, wet roots, and compacted earth.

Few hiking boots for men in this price bracket match the Renegade EVO for overall build quality and long-term durability.

Best for

This boot suits experienced hikers covering technical terrain who want footwear that lasts multiple seasons without losing its structure. It also works well for anyone carrying heavier packs on multi-day routes, where the supportive upper and stable platform reduce fatigue across consecutive days.

• Multi-day treks on mixed or technical terrain
• Hikers carrying loads of 15kg or more
• Anyone who values long-term durability over initial cost savings

Trade-offs

The break-in period is longer than most boots on this list, so plan to wear them on shorter walks before committing to a demanding route. The stiffer construction also makes them less suitable for flat, easy trails where a lighter boot would serve you better.

Price range

Expect to pay between £180 and £215 in the UK, reflecting the premium materials and craftsmanship that Lowa consistently delivers across their range.

6. Hoka Anacapa 2 Mid GTX

The Hoka Anacapa 2 Mid GTX sits in a different space than the Kaha 3. Where the Kaha 3 leads with maximum cushioning, the Anacapa 2 Mid GTX focuses on combining trail agility with waterproof protection in a package that feels considerably closer to a trail runner than a traditional hiking boot.

Why it stands out

Hoka built the Anacapa 2 Mid around a low-profile midsole that keeps you closer to the ground than most Hoka models, improving stability on uneven terrain without sacrificing the brand's signature cushioning feel. The GORE-TEX waterproof membrane delivers reliable protection in wet conditions, and the Vibram Megagrip outsole grips well on both wet rock and loose dirt. The breathable upper also manages temperature better than many waterproof hiking boots for men in this price bracket.

The Anacapa 2 Mid GTX is worth considering if you want a boot that handles wet conditions without feeling like a rigid fortress around your foot.

Best for

This boot suits hikers who cover moderate trails at a steady pace and want a more nimble feel underfoot. It works well for single-day outings in variable UK weather where waterproofing matters but heavy ankle stiffness would slow you down.

• Day hikes on moderate, mixed terrain
• Hikers who prefer a lower, more agile platform
• Wet conditions where GORE-TEX earns its place

Trade-offs

The ankle collar sits lower than boots like the Lowa Renegade EVO, so it offers less support on heavily loaded or technical routes. The midsole is less cushioned than the Kaha 3, which makes it a harder choice for long days on compacted stone paths.

Price range

Expect to pay between £150 and £175 in the UK, placing it comfortably in the mid-premium bracket for this style of waterproof hiking boot.

7. KEEN Targhee IV Mid Waterproof

The KEEN Targhee IV Mid Waterproof has a loyal following among hikers who prioritise comfort and foot volume over technical performance. KEEN designed this boot with a roomier toe box than most rivals on this list, making it a standout option if standard hiking boots for men squeeze your feet into a shape that doesn't suit you.

Why it stands out

KEEN's KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane sits below the ankle seam, keeping water out while allowing more breathability than some fully sealed alternatives. The ESS shank provides solid torsional rigidity underfoot, and the multi-directional lug outsole grips reliably on loose dirt, gravel, and wet terrain. A well-cushioned midsole absorbs impact effectively on longer days without building uncomfortable pressure across the forefoot.

The wider toe box sets the Targhee IV apart from most mid-cut hiking boots, making it a genuine first choice for anyone with broader or higher-volume feet.

Best for

This boot suits hikers with wide or high-volume feet who find most alternatives uncomfortable within the first hour. It also performs well on moderate trails in variable weather, where the waterproof lining earns its keep without the premium price of a GORE-TEX alternative.

• Day hikes on mixed or moderate terrain
• Hikers with wide feet or high arches
• Budget-conscious buyers who want reliable waterproofing

Trade-offs

The waterproof membrane breathes less efficiently than GORE-TEX in warm conditions, so your feet will feel warmer on summer routes. The ankle support is moderate, which limits this boot on heavily loaded or technical terrain.

Price range

Expect to pay between £120 and £145 in the UK, placing it firmly in the value-for-money bracket on this list without compromising on core waterproof performance.

8. La Sportiva Ultra Raptor 3 Mid GTX

The La Sportiva Ultra Raptor 3 Mid GTX is a trail-running-inspired hiking boot built for hikers who cover technical terrain at speed. It brings La Sportiva's decades of mountain footwear expertise into a mid-cut design that prioritises precision and grip on demanding ground.

Why it stands out

La Sportiva equipped the Ultra Raptor 3 Mid with their FriXion XF 2.0 outsole, which delivers exceptional grip on wet rock and loose scree where less aggressive lugs would slip. The GORE-TEX Surround lining waterproofs the boot while allowing ventilation from below, reducing the heat build-up that affects most sealed waterproof hiking boots for men during warmer months. A Gore Seamless Construction upper reduces the number of internal seams, cutting down on hotspots and friction across longer routes.

The FriXion XF 2.0 outsole is one of the most capable lug patterns available on a mid-cut boot, matching performance you would normally find on dedicated mountaineering footwear.

Best for

This boot suits technical hikers and mountain runners who move quickly on rocky or alpine terrain where grip and foot precision matter more than maximum cushioning. It performs best on off-trail or scrambling routes where the outsole separates it clearly from more trail-friendly alternatives.

• Fast-paced technical hiking and scrambling
• Rocky, alpine, or off-trail terrain
• Warm-weather routes where breathability matters

Trade-offs

The aggressive outsole wears faster on smooth, compacted surfaces like paved paths or gravel tracks. The narrower last also makes this a poor fit for anyone with wider feet.

Price range

Expect to pay between £160 and £195 in the UK, reflecting the technical mountain performance the Ultra Raptor 3 Mid consistently delivers on demanding terrain.

9. La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX

The La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX takes a different direction from the Ultra Raptor 3 Mid GTX by prioritising high-cut ankle coverage and long-distance comfort over trail-running agility. It fills a clear gap in La Sportiva's lineup for hikers who need substantial protection and support on extended mountain routes.

Why it stands out

La Sportiva built the Nucleo High II around a high-ankle upper that wraps further up your leg than most hiking boots for men, giving you noticeably more support on unstable or heavily loaded terrain. The GORE-TEX waterproof lining keeps moisture out reliably across prolonged wet conditions, and the Impact Brake System outsole delivers dependable grip on loose descents where traction matters most.

The high-cut design makes a genuine difference when you carry a heavy pack across multiple days, reducing the lateral movement that causes ankle fatigue on uneven ground.

Best for

This boot suits multi-day trekkers and backpackers who regularly carry heavier loads across mountain terrain. It performs best on long-distance routes where ankle support and waterproofing need to hold up across consecutive days of demanding conditions.

• Multi-day mountain trekking with a loaded pack
• Wet or alpine terrain requiring reliable waterproofing
• Hikers who need maximum ankle coverage

Trade-offs

The high-cut construction adds weight, which makes it less suited to fast-paced day hiking where agility matters. You will also find the break-in period longer than most mid-cut alternatives on this list.

Price range

Expect to pay between £165 and £200 in the UK for the Nucleo High II GTX.

10. Oboz Katabatic LT Mid GTX

The Oboz Katabatic LT Mid GTX doesn't attract the same attention as Salomon or Hoka, but it earns its place through genuine trail performance and a sustainable build that separates it from most waterproof mid-cut alternatives in this price bracket.

Why it stands out

Oboz built the Katabatic LT Mid around a BDry waterproof membrane that keeps moisture out reliably while allowing more breathability than some fully sealed alternatives. The lightweight chassis makes this one of the more agile mid-cut options on this list, and the nubuck leather and mesh upper balances durability with ventilation across warmer days. Oboz also plants a tree for every pair sold, which won't affect performance but reflects a consistent environmental commitment across the brand.

The Katabatic LT Mid GTX delivers a lighter feel than most waterproof hiking boots for men in this category without sacrificing the ankle support that matters on uneven ground.

Best for

This boot works well for day hikers and weekend walkers who cover moderate terrain in variable UK weather. It suits anyone who wants a reliable waterproof boot without carrying the extra weight that comes with more heavily cushioned or technical options.

• Day walks on mixed or moderate terrain
• Hikers who prioritise a lighter overall setup
• Variable or wet weather conditions

Trade-offs

The BDry membrane breathes less efficiently than GORE-TEX under sustained effort, so warm-weather routes will feel noticeably warmer inside the boot. Your outsole lugs are also less aggressive than La Sportiva or Salomon alternatives, making this a weaker choice on loose scree or technical scrambles.

Price range

Expect to pay between £130 and £155 in the UK, placing the Katabatic LT Mid GTX in a competitive mid-range position for waterproof hiking footwear.

11. adidas Terrex Skychaser AX5 Mid GTX

The adidas Terrex Skychaser AX5 Mid GTX brings a familiar name into a category where adidas doesn't always get the recognition it deserves. As a pair of waterproof hiking boots for men, it combines adidas's footwear construction experience with trail-specific features that hold up across a wide range of outdoor conditions.

Why it stands out

adidas built the Skychaser AX5 Mid around a GORE-TEX waterproof lining that keeps your feet dry on wet trails without adding unnecessary bulk to the overall package. The Continental rubber outsole delivers excellent grip on wet rock and slippery roots, the same compound adidas uses across their performance running range. The mid-cut upper provides solid ankle coverage, and the reinforced toe cap adds protection on rougher ground where your foot regularly contacts rocks and exposed roots.

The Continental rubber outsole is a genuine differentiator here, outperforming many standard lug compounds on wet, polished surfaces.

Best for

This boot suits day hikers who cover moderate to varied terrain and want reliable waterproofing paired with a brand they already trust. It works particularly well on wet or muddy UK trail conditions where the Continental outsole delivers a clear performance advantage over standard rubber compounds.

• Day hikes on moderate or mixed terrain
• Wet conditions where outsole grip is a priority
• Hikers who prefer a well-known brand with proven footwear expertise

Trade-offs

The ankle support is moderate rather than firm, so heavily loaded multi-day routes will expose its limitations. Some users also find the fit runs slightly narrow through the midfoot, so sizing up or trying before buying is worth considering.

Price range

Expect to pay between £120 and £150 in the UK, making the Skychaser AX5 Mid GTX a competitive mid-range option for waterproof trail footwear.

12. Altra Lone Peak Hiker 3

The Altra Lone Peak Hiker 3 takes a fundamentally different approach to hiking boots for men than everything else on this list. Altra builds their footwear around a zero-drop platform, meaning the heel sits at the same height as the forefoot, which changes how your foot strikes the ground and how your body distributes load across a full day on trail.

Why it stands out

Altra's FootShape toe box is the widest on this list, giving your toes full room to splay naturally with each step. This reduces pressure points and hotspots on longer routes in a way that standard boots cannot match. The Vibram Megagrip outsole delivers strong traction on wet rock and loose terrain, and the mid-cut upper provides enough ankle coverage for moderate trails without restricting the natural foot movement that zero-drop design encourages.

If you've spent years in conventional hiking boots and your feet ache by the end of the day, the Lone Peak Hiker 3 offers a genuinely different solution worth trying.

Best for

This boot suits hikers who prefer a more natural foot position and want maximum toe room across longer distances. It works best on well-maintained trails and moderate terrain where the zero-drop platform feels intuitive rather than demanding on your calves and Achilles.

• Day hikers with wide feet or bunions
• Natural movement advocates transitioning from trail runners

Trade-offs

The zero-drop construction requires an adjustment period, particularly if you're used to heavily cushioned, heeled boots. Your Achilles and calf muscles will work harder on initial outings until your body adapts to the new foot position.

Price range

Expect to pay between £130 and £155 in the UK for the Lone Peak Hiker 3.

13. Vivobarefoot Tracker Forest ESC

The Vivobarefoot Tracker Forest ESC is a barefoot-style hiking boot that goes further than the Altra Lone Peak Hiker 3 in stripping back conventional footwear conventions. Where most hiking boots for men add structure and cushioning, Vivobarefoot removes both, encouraging your foot to work as it would naturally across natural terrain.

Why it stands out

Vivobarefoot constructed the Tracker Forest ESC with an ultra-thin puncture-resistant sole that delivers maximum ground feel without exposing your foot to sharp debris. The ESC (Extra Sensory Connection) outsole uses a Geo Hex pattern that conforms to the ground beneath your feet, improving proprioception across uneven surfaces. The upper combines recycled materials with natural leather, keeping the overall build light while maintaining durability across rough terrain.

The level of ground feedback the Tracker Forest ESC delivers on technical woodland trails genuinely changes how you read and respond to the surface beneath you.

Best for

This boot suits barefoot enthusiasts and experienced minimalist hikers who want full sensory connection with the ground on forest and woodland routes. It works best for anyone who has already transitioned away from conventional footwear and understands how their body adapts to a zero-drop, zero-cushion build before heading out on demanding terrain.

Trade-offs

The absence of cushioning makes this a difficult first choice for anyone new to barefoot footwear. Your feet and lower legs need real time to adapt, and rushing that process will leave you sore. This boot also lacks waterproofing, which limits its practical use across wet UK conditions.

Price range

Expect to pay between £200 and £230 in the UK, making the Tracker Forest ESC the most expensive option on this list relative to its structural simplicity.

14. Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof

The Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof sits at the more accessible end of this list, offering reliable waterproofing and solid trail performance at a price that undercuts most of the competition. If your budget is the primary constraint and you want a dependable pair of hiking boots for men that handles UK weather without demanding a significant financial commitment, this boot makes a practical case.

Why it stands out

Columbia built the Newton Ridge Plus II around their Techlite midsole, which delivers a comfortable balance of cushioning and energy return underfoot across full days on the trail. The Omni-Grip non-marking outsole provides reliable traction on loose dirt, gravel, and wet forest paths, covering the terrain most day hikers encounter regularly. A waterproof full-grain leather and mesh upper keeps moisture out effectively in typical wet conditions, and the boot breaks in faster than most leather-heavy alternatives at this price point.

At this price bracket, the Newton Ridge Plus II consistently outperforms expectations for everyday trail walking.

Best for

This boot suits budget-conscious hikers who cover moderate, well-maintained trails in variable weather and don't need the technical performance of a premium GORE-TEX alternative.

• Day walks on maintained paths and forest trails
• Hikers who want waterproof leather construction at an entry-level price

Trade-offs

The waterproofing performs less reliably than GORE-TEX alternatives on prolonged or heavy rainfall. The outsole lugs also wear faster on compacted or paved surfaces, so mixed-use hikers will notice the tread degrading sooner than expected.

Price range

Expect to pay between £80 and £110 in the UK, making this the most affordable waterproof option on this list.

Ready to pick your pair

The right pair comes down to how and where you walk. If you cover wet, mixed terrain regularly, prioritise a GORE-TEX membrane and a proven outsole compound over everything else. If you carry a heavy pack across multiple days, focus on ankle support and midsole durability rather than chasing the lightest option available. And if comfort from the first wear matters most, the Merrell Moab 3 or Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II deliver that without a punishing break-in period.

Your terrain, your foot shape, and your budget all point toward a different answer, which is exactly why this list covers 14 hiking boots for men across every price bracket and intended use. You don't need to compromise on the wrong features. Browse the full range of men's hiking footwear and outdoor kit at MoreSports and find the pair built for the routes you actually walk.