For most people the Merrell Moab 3 is the one to buy: it is the best balance of comfort, performance and value in this group. If it is not quite right for you, the Salomon X Ultra 4 is the strong runner-up that suits a slightly different stride or budget.
Choosing a hiking shoe online is hard because every brand calls its foam responsive and every model is the most cushioned yet. What actually matters is a much shorter list, and we have done the legwork so you can skip straight to the pick that fits how you move. You do not need to spend a fortune, so we focused on shoes that punch well above their price.
Below are the options that consistently rise to the top across independent lab measurements and large pools of verified owner reviews. We have grouped them by the job each one does best, so you can jump to the right pick rather than reading all six.
Quick comparison
The picks, in detail
Merrell Moab 3
The best-selling hiking shoe for a reason: comfortable out of the box, roomy, and great value.
- Comfortable immediately
- Roomy fit
- Affordable
- Average wet grip
- Not the most durable
Salomon X Ultra 4
A nimble, grippy hiking shoe with excellent downhill stability and a precise fit.
- Great grip and downhill control
- Secure, precise fit
- Durable
- Narrow fit
- Firm
KEEN Targhee IV Low
A roomy, waterproof hiking shoe with KEEN's famously wide fit and protective toe.
- Very wide, roomy fit
- Waterproof and protective
- Durable
- Bulky
- Heavy
Adidas Terrex Swift R3
A fast, athletic hiking shoe with Continental rubber grip for day hikes and scrambling.
- Excellent Continental grip
- Athletic, light feel
- Durable
- Snug fit
- Less cushion
Merrell MQM 3
A light, fast hike-run hybrid for moving quickly over moderate trails.
- Light and fast
- Good grip
- Comfortable
- Less protection
- Thin cushioning
Salomon Sense Ride 5
Salomon's smooth, cushioned do-anything trail shoe that grips well without aggressive lugs.
- Smooth, versatile ride
- Good all-round grip
- Comfortable
- Not for deep mud
- Snug
How to choose
- Waterproof or breathable. Gore-Tex and similar membranes keep feet dry in wet conditions but run warm; mesh breathes better in summer heat.
- Grip and outsole. Look for a sticky rubber outsole (Vibram or Continental) with deep lugs for confident footing on rock and mud.
- Support vs weight. Light shoes move fast on day hikes; stiffer, more supportive shoes carry loads better on rough ground.
- Fit and toe protection. Leave room for toes on descents, lock the heel, and choose a protective toe cap for rocky trails.
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Related guides
Frequently asked questions
Do I need waterproof or breathable?
Waterproof membranes keep feet dry in wet, cold conditions but run warm. In hot, dry climates, breathable non-waterproof shoes are more comfortable and dry faster if soaked.
How should hiking footwear fit?
Snug in the heel and midfoot with room to wiggle toes. Try them on with hiking socks and size up if needed so toes do not jam on descents.
Is the Merrell Moab 3 worth it?
For most buyers, yes. The Merrell Moab 3 earned our top spot for offering the best overall balance in this group, which is why it is our first recommendation.
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