Walk with confidence: The best walking boots and hiking boots in 2024

Where to begin with these Moab Speed 2 Mid hiking boots? Coming in at our number one pick is these near bulletproof boots that don't just look the part, but play the part to the highest degree. Merrell struck gold when they released the Moab Speed 2, available as both a mid or a standard. This mid variation might well be the complete hiking boot.

A nylon ripstop and TPU upper ensures a firm and secure fit. This is then topped off with a state-of-the-art GORE-TEX waterproof membrane. Take it from us, nothing is getting through these boots. Believe it or not, the Merrell Moab Speed 2's are even made from 100% recycled materials, minus the EVA foam footbed (still 50% recycled).

Durability and waterproofing out the way, these shoes guarantee performance. The elite combination of a Vibram TC5+ outsole, a FloatPro™ Foam midsole, and Vibram traction lugs make for a near flawless ride. That outsole guarantees all-season traction, whether you're up in the rocky peaks or traversing gravelled flats. The foam midsole is built to be lightweight, so although these boots are beyond fortfied, they don't feel like they're weighing you down. These lugs increase traction even more and actively work to shed debris after each step.

Digital Writer Jack Barrell has worn the Merrell Moab Speed 2's and tested them out for himself, here's what he had to say: "I think the bar for great walking boots has been well and truly raised here by Merrell. Having worn the Moab Speed 2's, I really struggle to imagine a better pair of boots for hiking. I have to stress how secure these shoes feel, from walking at varying gradients and changing terrains, I never felt as if they could be compromised. Once you've worn them in a few times, that security turns into a familiar comfort.

"The boots are finished in a design that I find absolutely timeless. It's refreshing to see effort being made to build a set of hiking boots that aren't just capable, but look captivating and totally distinguishable from anything else. The Merrell Moab Speed 2's are a total head turner and well worth your money."

Salomon's X Ultra Mid 4 GTX is a hot commodity in the hiking community, and for good reason. This latest edition of a long line of brilliant boots is ideal for hitting the trails and gravel tracks.

Incredibly lightweight, the Ultra Mid 4 GTX weighs a mere 0.84 kilograms – much lighter than most competitor boots and nearly half a pound lighter than its previous iteration.

The Salomon Ultra Mid 4 GTX has supportive straps that secure the foot for improved support and stability. Its mid-top cut, ADV-C Chassis Midsole, and supple leather and textile upper material easily conform to your feet.

Fully synthetic, they require no break-in time, providing instant out-of-the-box, foot-friendly comfort and robust and reliable support without being rigid.

Moreover, the Contragrip rubber compound offers traction on all surface types, and the Gore-Tex liner ensures reliable breathability and waterproofing, keeping your socks dry even during deep stream crossings.

So, if you're after a boot that is as durable as it is lightweight and offers instant, out-of-the-box, long-lasting comfort, then the Salomon X Ultra Mid 4 GTX is the boot for you.

With over 90 years of expertise, LOWA – a military-grade boot brand – offers an unparalleled balance between durability and comfort. Their Renegade GTX Mid boot is a consistent bestseller, ideal for rugged terrain and longer treks with heavier loads.

While heavier than other boots on this list, its weight, Vibram soles and all-leather upper material make it less prone to wear and tear, promising longevity even on harsher trails.

Its full-length nylon shank and polyurethane Monowrap frame midsole impress when it comes to added support. Its tall ankle cuff and tight lace-up design secure the ankle, reducing injury risk and giving users peace of mind while navigating uneven terrain.

When it comes to performance, the Renegade GTX doesn't disappoint. Its rockered front sole ensures sufficient grip on rock slabs, mud, gravel and scree, making it a reliable choice for less-than-forgiving trails. The Gore-Tex water-resistant liner is a bonus, ensuring your feet stay dry even in wetter conditions.

For comfort, the Renegade GTX boasts a snug, form-fitting design with a felt and foam insole that moulds to the individual shape of your foot, enhancing the overall wearing experience. Wider sizes are also available, ensuring a comfortable fit for everyone. LOWA also offers a women's Renegade GTX boot, which you can find here.

Known for comfort, HOKA has gone above and beyond with the Anacapa 2 Mid GTX, offering a supremely plush, compression-moulded EVA midsole perfect for longer hikes and hard terrain.

Its swallowtail heel design is great for heel-striker hikers, and its generous fit accommodates and allows for medium feet. However, it must be said that the toe box is narrower.

The Anacapa 2 Mid GORE-TEX offers some seriously great ankle support for those carrying heavier loads, though it cannot compete with over-ankle boots.

Like many boots on this list, it is also water resistant; its Gore-Tex lining and tall boot height ensure your feet stay puddle-protected.

Designed with longevity in mind, KEEN’s Targhee IV is the latest and greatest in its line of walking boots. Ideal for extended hikes, modest loads, and rugged terrain, the boots offer instant comfort with a less-than-average break-in period straight out of the box.

Its multi-seam upper material, ample ankle cushioning, and improved oiled nubuck leather provide a soft, flexible shoe-like experience. The 100 per cent recycled lacing system allows for a personalised fit and optimal ankle support.

KEEN claims to have solved the delamination issue with the Targhee IV – a problem often faced with walking boots. It boasts a glue-free moulding process, ensuring its durability and longevity. 

While the KEEN Targhee IV provides a roomy sole, toe box, and signature toe bumper for extra support, we understand that not all feet are the same. So, for those with narrower feet, consider half a size down than your usual size for a more snug fit.

Regarding waterproofing, the boot is built with a reliable yet breathable KEEN DRY membrane, coupled with its moderate flood height, which makes for ideal protection when navigating deep puddles and streams. Care products such as Seam Grip and additional oil treatment on the nubuck leather upper are recommended for an even more thoroughly protected boot.

With exceptional ankle support, this Salomon boot is ideal for navigating rugged walks with heavier loads. Its cuff padding keeps a snug, supportive grip on the ankle, while the ADV-C 4D Chassis midsole support further enhances stability.

Like most boots on this list, the Quest 4 is lined with a breathable Gore-Tex membrane. This feature ensures reliable water resistance and provides peace of mind when ploughing through puddles.

Although the Quest 4 is significantly lighter than its predecessor, it is sill heavier for a walking boot. However, with its weight comes added durability – excellent for more demanding hikes.

So, for frequent hikers who know they’ll encounter wet weather and carry the extra weight that comes with multi-day hikers, Salomon’s Quest 4 is a fantastic boot that’ll have their backs no matter the conditions.

The second iteration of their Nucleo range, the High II GTX, is an excellent choice for hikers in areas prone to unpredictable English weather. With a 6.75-inch flood height and a reliable Gore-Tex waterproof lining, these boots will keep your feet dry even in deep puddles, streams, and water crossings.

However, even with the all-encompassing GTX membrane, this boot perfectly balances waterproofing and breathability. Its dual mesh-like panelling allows sweat and condensation to escape while maintaining breathability.

When on the descent, the Quest High II’s impact-breaking system, deep tread and sturdy lugs provide excellent grip on various surfaces, helping you navigate the less-than-ideal encounters with scree. However, it’s always good to have walking poles in your arsenal.

The boot’s rigid yet comfortable heel support and slightly narrower base width ensure reliable stability. Its side-by-side support also reduces the risk of ankle rolling. Its Vibram Nano tread and Nubuck leather upper make for an incredibly rugged boot for long-standing durability.

For those looking for an impressive balance between a robust boot and a reliable running trainer, Scarpa's Rush Mid 2 with invisible Gore-Tex lining is a brilliant boot that provides the durability of your classic boot and the lightweight speed of a running trainer.

Scarpa's Rush Mid 2's built-in EVA heel, PRESA outsole and midsole cushioning provide excellent shock absorption, making it ideal for those who want a smooth walking experience, even when carrying heavy loads or navigating rough terrain. 

If you encounter thick mud or especially bogging terrain, the SuperGum rubber and waterproof mesh upper ensure easy and – more importantly – dry navigation. Likewise, its handy heel-surrounding brake system is a huge help when descending more notable inclines.

While it doesn't offer nor can compete with the durability of the heavier boots on this list, its incredibly lightweight design minimises fatigue. It allows for quicker navigation of trails – ideal for those wanting to try the increasingly popular soft sport speed hiking.

Merrell's third iteration of their Moab boot is perfect for premium, all-day comfort. It is made of high-quality pigskin leather, has a mesh upper, and a durable Vibram outsole.

Requiring minimal break-in time, the Moab 3 provides immediate, all-encompassing comfort due to its enhanced cushioning, padded collar, and tongue. It is available in standard and wider sizes to accommodate different foot types. Additionally, its well-designed lacing system allows for a personalised, snug fit.

The Merrell Moab 3 boot is a reliable companion on rugged trails, thanks to its moulded nylon arch that provides substantial support. Its Vibram outsole, known for its excellent traction, further enhances its performance. However, the intricate lugging, designed for improved grip, can be a challenge in wet conditions as it tends to clog with mud, requiring extra cleaning.

Its invisible Gore-Tex lining keeps feet dry in shallow water crossings, and its robust rubber toe cap provides reliable grip and protection when traversing rocks. Likewise, the mesh upper allows ample breathability for hot days and summertime hikes.

So, if you're looking for a boot that prioritises comfort without sacrificing durability, the Merrell Moab 3 is a fantastic choice for casual and day hiking.

As a brand, La Sportiva is a favourite among our team at What’s the Best, offering a range of high-performance boots you can always count on for casual hiking and harsher, more off-trail trails. The Ultra Raptor II is no exception, combining the agility of trail running with the stability of your high-end hiking boot.

The Ultra Raptor II prioritises comfort with its padded panelling and snug upper, which gently cradles your foot, supports your ankle, and minimises friction. Its swift lacing system and hooked eyelets allow for a personalised fit. However, due to its narrower-than-most toe box, we recommend ordering a half size up from your usual size.

As for support, the boot boasts a 6.75-inch collar and FriXion XF 2.0 rubber sole for improved stability when traversing uneven terrain. This is only solidified by the MEMlex injection-moulded midsole and flexible nylon moulded TPU shank. Its toe bumper also eliminates stubbing when navigating rockier trails.

Gore-Tex lined, the boot is breathable and effectively watertight – the latter made all the more protected with its near-seven-inch flood height. So, the Ultra Raptor II is ideal for every season, effectively combating everything from spring streams, summer heat, heavy rainfall and deep winter snow.

La Sportiva also offers a women's version, which is available here.

While this may not resemble your typical walking boot – technically, you're right, it's not a full-on boot – it offers more than sufficient over-ankle protection for off-trail use. However, don't let its casual design fool you. This boot is a versatile companion, perfect for casual strolls and light day hikes, adapting to your various outdoor activities.

Featuring a bouncy foam midsole and lightweight laminate upper, this stylishly modern trainer-inspired boot offers a comfortably snug fit and agile performance. Its adaptive lacing system and flexible fit cater to several foot types, ensuring a comfortable experience tailored to you. However, a designated size for wide feet is currently unavailable.

Its PRIMEKNIT, GORE-TEX-lined upper provides reliable waterproofing, performing well at keeping moisture out in small streams and water crossings while maintaining a more than sufficient level of breathability for hot conditions. Likewise, its EVA stabilisation frame and impressive continental rubber outsole allow for sufficient traction when traversing particularly rocky paths.

However, perhaps most impressive is the delightful BOOST midsole, which not only provides exceptional loud-like comfort – you feel as if you're gliding – but it's also a brilliant feature for conserving energy on longer hikes.