The best hiking shoes per category

Hiking is an excellent way to stay active, explore the great outdoors, and enjoy breathtaking views. However, the right pair of hiking shoes is crucial to ensure a comfortable and safe experience on the trails. With countless brands and styles available, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect pair. To make your decision easier, we've compiled a list of the top 7 best hiking shoes and brands that are sure to keep your feet happy and protected on your next adventure.

Hiking shoes categories

Hiking is an incredible way to explore nature, stay fit, and experience breathtaking views. However, having the right pair of hiking shoes is crucial for a comfortable and safe experience on the trails. With countless brands and styles available, choosing the perfect pair can be overwhelming. Especially when you take into account there are four different categories of hiking shoes: A, B, C and D.

In category A you will find shoes that are nice and comfortable, for the easy hikes. Category B is suitable for slightly challenging terrain, and when the routes get a little longer.

Category C hiking shoes are already a lot sturdier, so make sure you can keep walking well even with heavier loads and longer routes. You can handle almost all terrains, although the shoes already become a bit less comfortable. The least comfortable shoes are those in category D. On the other hand, they protect you optimally when climbing during very challenging routes.

The best hiking shoes per category

Curious about the finest hiking shoes available? We'll list seven models from different brands, to help you make an informed choice:

Lowa Trek Evo

Lowa is a renowned brand in the outdoor footwear market, and the Trek Evo hiking shoe is a testament to their commitment to quality and performance. The Trek Evo offers excellent support, stability, and protection for various terrains. The shoe features a GORE-TEX waterproof lining to keep your feet dry, while the Vibram Evo outsole provides exceptional traction on slippery surfaces. The Trek Evo also includes a DuraPU midsole for added cushioning and comfort, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit throughout your hike. This is a category A/B hiking shoe.

Keen Terradora

The Keen Terradora is a versatile hiking shoe designed specifically for women, offering a perfect blend of comfort, support, and style. With a lightweight, breathable mesh upper, this shoe is ideal for warm weather hikes. The all-terrain rubber outsole delivers superior grip on various surfaces, while the cushioned EVA midsole provides excellent shock absorption. The Terradora also features a dual-density EVA footbed and a contoured heel lock for added support and stability, ensuring all-day comfort on the trails.  This is a category A hiking shoe.

Hanwag Banks GTX Lady

Hanwag is a well-respected brand in the hiking shoe market, and the Banks GTX Lady is an excellent choice for women seeking a durable and comfortable hiking shoe. This shoe features a GORE-TEX waterproof lining for wet conditions and a Vibram Endurance outsole for reliable traction on various terrains. The Banks GTX Lady also includes a cushioned midsole and a padded collar for added comfort and support, making it ideal for long hikes and backpacking trips. This is a category A hiking shoe.

Lowa Trek

The Lowa Trek hiking shoe is designed for durability and protection on rugged terrain. This shoe offers a combination of waterproof leather and Cordura fabric upper for added protection from the elements. The Vibram Apptrail outsole ensures excellent traction on various surfaces, while the double-injected DuraPU midsole provides lightweight support. The Trek also includes a climate-control footbed that wicks away moisture and promotes airflow, keeping your feet comfortable during your hike. This is a category A/B hiking shoe.

Quechua MH500

Quechua is a popular brand known for producing affordable yet high-quality outdoor gear, and the MH500 hiking shoe is no exception. This lightweight shoe offers a comfortable fit and excellent support for various hiking conditions. The CrossContact sole provides reliable grip on different surfaces, while the EVA midsole ensures excellent shock absorption and cushioning. The Quechua MH500 also features a waterproof and breathable membrane, keeping your feet dry and comfortable throughout your hike. This is a category C hiking shoe.

Lowa Explorer GTX Lo

The Lowa Explorer GTX Lo hiking shoe is designed for those who value comfort, support, and versatility. This shoe features a GORE-TEX waterproof lining and a durable synthetic upper, making it ideal for tackling various terrains and weather conditions. The Vibram Rock Trac Evo outsole offers reliable traction, while the cushioned midsole ensures a comfortable fit. The Explorer GTX Lo also includes a removable, breathable footbed for added comfort and support. This is a category C hiking shoe.

Hanwag Tatra

The Hanwag Tatra is a sturdy and reliable hiking shoe designed for long treks and challenging terrains. This shoe offers a combination of waterproof nubuck leather upper and a GORE-TEX lining for excellent protection from the elements. The Vibram AW Integral outsole ensures superior grip and stability on a variety of surfaces, while the cushioned midsole provides exceptional shock absorption and support. The Tatra also features a padded collar and tongue for added comfort, making it perfect for long hikes and backpacking trips.This is a category D hiking shoe.

Conclusion

The right pair of hiking shoes is essential for comfort and safety on the trails. The seven hiking shoes and brands listed above offer a variety of features to suit your individual needs. When choosing the perfect pair of hiking shoes, consider factors such as the type of terrain you'll be hiking, the weather conditions, and your personal preferences. With the right pair of hiking shoes, you'll be ready to tackle any trail with confidence and comfort.

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