Field & Stream — The 7 Best Hiking Shoes of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Written By Clarissa Fedorovich

Read at FieldandStream.com.

By Lindsey Lapointe Updated Jan 4, 2024 9:27 AM

Whatever your outdoor adventures entail, finding the right hiking shoes can mean the difference between a comfortable foot and a blistered experience. Unlike a traditional hiking boot, hiking shoes feature a low-top design to keep your foot protected and comfortable over roots and rocks. However, just like all trails aren’t the same, hiking shoes vary as well.

While some cater to trail runners looking for lightweight hiking shoes that can handle dirt roads and packed trails, others are designed to handle rugged rock peaks and a range of temperatures and moisture. We’ve done the work to test and compile a list so you can find a pair that will ensure comfort and confidence on the trail. Here are the best hiking shoes for a variety of pursuits.

How We Picked the Best Hiking Shoes

As a New Hampshire based adventurer, my hiking shoes are exposed to everything from the steep and rocky trails of the White Mountain wilderness to the wooded rolling hills of our Lakes region to the muddy marshes on the coast. In order to choose the best hiking shoes, I pulled from my experience as a recreational hiker as well as a wilderness guide. These shoes were put to the test on a range of trails and terrain following the following methodology:

  • Brand Research and Shoe Selection: Through careful research, I selected a range of popular models from reputable brands. My goal was to choose a diverse selection that covered variety in fit, support, traction, and climate.

  • Field Testing: Each pair of shoes went through rigorous testing in the fall months in New England. Weather ranged from hot, summer-like days to late-fall brisk hiking. I selected an experienced male tester to aid me with the men’s category.

  • Evaluation: Our tested hiking shoes were evaluated on fit, comfort, versatility, and traction. Special attention was given to how well the outsole handled a variety of different surfaces, including a packed trail, mud, rock, slab, and gravel. 

  • User Reviews and Experiences: In order to make the final cut, I also talked with and interviewed peers with similar hiking expertise to get a broader range of feedback.

The testing lineup for our hiking shoes shootout. Lindsey Lapointe

Best Hiking Shoes: Reviews and Recommendations

Best Lightweight: Vasque Re: Connect Here Low

SEE IT

Specs

  • Weight Per Pair: 1.1 pound

  • Traction: X-shaped deep lugs

  • Waterproofing: Not waterproof 

Pros 

  • Ultralight

  • Comfortable midsole and heel rocker

  • Breathable and quick dry

Cons 

  • Not for cold environments

The Vasque Re Connect Here is an ultralight versatile outdoor shoe. I like the overall look with the high stack midsole and rocker heel, which reminded me of the Hoka styling. However, unlike Hoka’s Speedgoats, this lightweight shoe has a stiff recycled mesh as the body. I found it provided exceptional breathability while still being supportive as well as protective. The padded heel-fit collar and wrap-around form-fitting tongue provided a snug, comfortable fit that made this a go-to shoe for everything from a trip to the grocery store to a hike on my local trail. The traction is impressive for a sneaker with a deep lug system through the outsole. However, the lack of lug variety makes me concerned it might not hold up on technical terrain. In addition, while it’s a perfect summer or desert hiking sneaker, the breathable mesh sides make it less than ideal for cold weather. Overall, the Vasque Re Connect Here is the perfect lightweight trail runner for the hiker looking for a versatile springy sneaker that can handle moderately tough terrain.

Clarissa Fedorovich
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