Best Hiking Shoes In 2022
Hiking shoes offer many advantages in comparison to hiking boots. Most cases hiking shoes are often lighter, more comfortable, and easier to move in. But, finding the best hiking shoe for you can take some trial and error depending on your needs and the terrain you’ll be hiking in. So in this article I’m going to try and make your life a little easier. Below I’m going to cover what I’d say are the best hiking shoes in 2022 for various categories.
Best Hiking Shoes “Quick Look”
Waterproof Shoe: Salomon X Ultra 3 Low GTX
Cushioned Shoe: Speed Goat 4
“Jack of All Trades”: Merrell Moab 2 Ventilator
Lightweight: Altra Lone Peak 6
Budget Pick: Columbia Ivo Trail Breeze
Best Waterproof Shoe
Salomon X ULTRA 3 low GTX
- Weight: 1lb 10.8 oz
- Height: Ankle
- Waterproof: Gore-Tex
Bottom Line: Overall, great shoe that excels in support, comfort, and waterproofness. The shoe uses Gore-Tex waterproofing liners which work super well in the wet conditions. Also, it is a fairly comfortable shoe that is lightweight with great tread for those more difficult terrains. This shoe does run a little on the narrow side so I would recommend trying these shoes on in person or buying a half size up.
Best Cushioned shoe
Hoka ONE ONE Speed Goat 4
- Weight: 1 lb 8 oz
- Height: Ankle
- Waterproof: None
Bottom Line: Looking for a comfy shoe for hiking, look no further. Hoka One One focuses on two main things, maximum comfort while also providing a lightweight build. This trail shoe definitely does that and more. The speed goat 4 is the most comfortable shoe that I’ve tried so far and the Vibram bottom features pretty good traction for a trail shoe.
*Update: The speed goat 5 has recently been released however, I have not had a chance to try it out to really give good feedback on the shoe. If you have let me know what you think in the comments below!
“Jack of All Trades” Shoe
Merrell Moab 2 Ventilator
Check Price: Amazon / Bass Pro / REI
- Weight: 1 lb 15 oz
- Height: Over The Ankle
- Waterproof: None
Bottom Line: All around a classic choice for a hiking shoe that performs well. The shoe makes for a good durable and comfortable shoe for many conditions. The Moab is one of those hiking shoes that has built a reputation for reliability and has a large following.
Overall, this shoe meets my criteria for a good “Jack of All Trades” hiking shoe. A couple potential downsides is that the ventilator isn’t waterproof however, they do offer a waterproof version. Also, the shoe is a little heavier than the other options on this list.
Best Lightweight Shoe
Altra LP Alpine
- Weight: 1 lb 6.6 oz
- Height: Ankle
- Waterproof: No
Bottom Line: very comfortable shoe that provides extra room for the toe box. Made with 0 drop from heel to toe for a more minimalist barefoot shoe style. Features good tread for rocky and rough terrain. I actually like the LP Alpines over the Altra Lone Peak for hiking as they appear to have a bit more stability to them. The Lone Peaks are good shoes but I think the LP Alpines are a little better for hiking.
Best Budget shoe
Columbia Facet 15
Check Price: Amazon
- Weight: 1lb 10.25oz
- Height: Ankle
- Waterproof: No
Bottom Line: The Columbia Facet 15 is a decent hiking shoe. It has a nice looking retro type appearance. It is a very lightweight shoe with good stability that provides a mix of comfort and flexibility.
The shoe features omni grip which works well for all terrain. Overall, a fairly average shoe for a good price it isn’t the most durable shoe on this list. But, it makes for a good shoe for shorter hikes or a great stylish hiking shoe pick. The shoe does tend to run a bit small so you will want to try them on or get a half size bigger.
Conclusion
As you can see there are many hiking shoes that will work for various needs. There are many other shoes out there but these five are in my opinion the best hiking shoes for 2022 in these categories. Also, don’t forget to get some good hiking socks!
Let me know in the comments below what you think about the list, what hiking shoes you prefer to wear, and why?
