The Insider Picks team writes about stuff we think you'll like. Business Insider has affiliate partnerships, so we get a share of the revenue from your purchase.
Columbia
- When you're miles away from civilization, you rely on your gear, and no gear matters more than the boots on your feet.
- The Asolo TPS 520 GV hiking boots give you the support, water-resistance, and comfort you need to conquer any trail or mountain.
When I was sixteen years old, I went to Spain with a group of high school students to hike nearly two hundred miles of the venerable Camino de Santiago, a trek that traverses much of Northern Spain. While I'll never forget the laughs, the struggles, or stunning vistas, the memories of my feet are what left the most profound impression. Specifically, I mean the problems with my feet. I would not wish the plethora of savage blisters I developed on my worst enemy.
I had chosen what I thought was a decent pair of hiking boots before I set out for my Spanish odyssey, but in fact, I clearly selected a poor pair for my feet. I also probably didn't break the boots in nearly well enough. Despite the bloody mess my feet were in at the end of that trek, I went on to develop a profound love for hiking, mountaineering, and really for any outdoor activity. And you can bet I have never since bought or used a pair of boots I have not first researched well and tested thoroughly.
I've used that hard-earned knowledge to compile a guide to the best hiking boots, but first, here are some things to consider before you buy.
How to choose the right boots
Choosing the right hiking boots means first considering the environment in which you will primarily use them. Some boots are designed for use in snow and ice and are ideal when paired with crampons or spikes. Others are light and breathable and will keep your feet cool even in the heat of the desert. Some boots are ideal for jungle
Pay attention to material, tread pattern, weight, and design elements like the height of the rise and the lacing system. Every aspect of a boot either contributes to or detracts from its suitability for a given environment or activity, and only through a thoughtful assessment of planned uses and a close study of the boot itself can you be sure to find a proper pair.
For the record, if you're a serious hiker, climber, or camper, you're going to want to own a few pairs of boots. This is especially true if the seasons vary greatly in your area or if you travel for your treks.
Currently, I own four pairs, two of which I use the most often. I have been through seven or eight pairs over the years not counting the ones that shredded my feet back in Europe many years ago, so while I can't promise that one of these five pairs of hiking boots is the absolute best fit for you personally, I can guarantee they're all rugged, reliable footwear. Read on to see which of our top picks is best for you.
Here are the best men's hiking boots you can buy online:
- Best overall: Asolo TPS 520 GV Hiking Boots
- Best for winter: Columbia Daska Pass III Titanium Outdry Extreme Hiking Boots
- Best for any conditions: Salomon Men's Quest 4D 2 GTX Hiking Boots
- Best for on and off the trail: Timberland White Ledge Boots
- Best budget boots: Merrell Men's Moab Ventilator Mid Hiking Boots
- Best stylish boots: Danner Mountain Pass Hiking Boots
Updated on 11/29/18 by Owen Burke: Added the new version of our winter pick, the Columbia Daska Pass III, and the Danner Mountain Pass boots. Updated pricing and formatting.
Read on in the slides below to check out our top picks.
Find the best holiday deals on our Black Friday Deals and Cyber Monday Deals page. Subscribe to our newsletter.
Disclosure: This post is brought to you by the Insider Picks team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our commerce partners. We frequently receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising sales team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at insiderpicks@businessinsider.com.
Find all the best offers at our Coupons page.