The Best Hiking Shoes for Men

The Best Hiking Shoes for Men

hiking image by Galyna Andrushko from <a href='http://www.fotolia.com'>Fotolia.com</a>

For the active hiker who prefers shorter day hikes and lighter loads, a protective, lightweight hiking shoe is typically preferred instead of the heavier boot. When choosing the appropriate hiking shoe, look for the best fit, comfort and protection you can find while also considering the types of terrain you hike as well as the amount of load you carry. Some of the best rated hiking shoes for men are Keen Voyageur Low, Merrell Chameleon 3 Ventilator GTX and Lafuma XLight Mid OT.

Keen Voyageur Low

Keen Voyageur Low is a top-rated hiking shoe that consistently earns praise for its optimal stability, lightweight, traction and supportive features. This shoe provides top-notch durability and breathability with a leather upper that is constructed with polyester mesh ventilation and rubber toe guards. Though not water resistant, the Keen Voyageur Low dries quickly. It also provides sure footing on varied terrains with its 4mm multidirectional lugs on the outsoles.

Keen
926 NW 13th Avenue, Suite 210
Portland, OR 97209
(866) 676-5336
keenfootwear.com

Merrell Chameleon 3 Ventilator GTX

This shoe is built tough, with constructions like upper suede leather, mesh and Gore-Tex XCR insert, Vibram Chameleon and TC5 rubber sole, in-board compression foot frame and a Molded TPU insert shank. It is equipped with a Gore-Tex waterproof membrane, making it durable for even the roughest, most rugged and wettest terrain. Though tough and rigid, it maintains a lightweight and breathable feel, making the Chameleon 3 Ventilator GTX appropriate for those high-mileage day hikes.

Merrell
9300 Courtland Dr.
Rockford, MI 49351
800-288-3124
merrell.com

Lafuma XLight Mid OT

Lafuma XLight Mid OT received the Best All Around Boot 2009 title from Backpacker Magazine--and for good reason. This mid-cut hiker lives up to its extra lightweight name while providing excellent ankle support. It has features like synthetic suede and air mesh upper, removable EVA insole and a Vibram rubber outsole. Good for year-round hiking and backpacking, its waterproof and durable outsole dispenses much needed protection while treading on rocky, snowy or slick terrains. It is also equipped with a Twin Lace speed system with dual toggles to secure the athlete's rear foot and forefoot separately.

Backcountry Retail Store
2607 South 3200 West
Salt Lake City, UT 84119
800-409-4502
Backcountry.com/Lafuma

Article Written By Rona Aquino

Rona Aquino began writing professionally in 2008. As an avid marathon runner and outdoor enthusiast, she writes on topics of running, fitness and outdoor recreation for various publications. Aquino holds a Bachelor of Arts in communications and English from the University of Maryland College Park.

Write for Trails.com
  • Editor's Pick

    Backcountry Camping Tips

    Backcountry Camping Tips

    You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...

    More Backcountry Camping...
  • Popular Article

    Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

    Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

    Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...

    More Beach Camping...
  • Featured Video

    Common Sense Hiking Tips

    Common Sense Hiking Tips

    The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.

    More Camping Basics...

Outdoor Gear & Equipment

ALL NEW Trails Gear Store powered by:

Trail Finder

US Map

Search by Keyword