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Best Hiking Boots for 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need

By ShopSavvy Team

Published: March 26th, 2024

🥾Preparing for a hike? The right pair of hiking boots can make or break your adventure. We've done the heavy lifting for you, diving into extensive research and multiple testing phases to bring you the best hiking boots for 2024.

We've got options for various needs and budgets, whether you're tackling tough alpine trails or enjoying a casual day hike. Let's get into it!

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Overall Best: Salomon Quest 4 GTX

Salomon Mens Quest 4Gtx High Rise Hiking Boots 12 Magnet/Black/Quarry

The Salomon Quest 4 GTX takes the lead as the best overall hiking boot for 2024. This versatile boot excels in comfort, durability, and performance. Designed for both men and women, it provides excellent cushioning and a sturdy build, making it ideal for long treks with heavier packs. The boot features Gore-Tex waterproofing to keep your feet dry, a wide toe box for added comfort, and a top-rated lacing system for a secure fit. Whether you're navigating technical terrains or enjoying casual hikes, the Quest 4 GTX offers top-notch traction and stability. According to user reviews, its balance of comfort and ruggedness makes it a standout choice for both novice and experienced hikers.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$229.90 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Quest 4 GTX Hiking Boots? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How do Salomon Quest 4 GTX boots fit compared to other hiking boots?

When it comes to the fit of Salomon Quest 4 GTX boots compared to others, they seem to stand out for their secure and comfortable feel, especially important for long hikes. Our research suggests that people really like the snug fit, which is partly due to Salomon's special lacing system that helps spread the pressure evenly across your feet. But keep in mind, they might run a bit large, so you might need to size down or try them on with your hiking socks for the best fit. These boots also have a high ankle cuff, which means they offer great ankle support and stability. This could be a big plus if you’re hitting rugged trails or carrying a heavy backpack. It's a feature that many folks highlight as a reason to choose these boots for serious hiking or backpacking. Although they're a bit heavier due to the high-rise design and solid build, many think it's a fair trade for the added support and toughness. If you often tackle challenging and varied trails, this could be a real benefit for you. The Gore-Tex membrane, as described by the manufacturer, is another feature that gets a thumbs up for waterproofing. According to feedback we've seen, hikers find it quite effective at keeping water out during wet trips. Just a head's up—some who've used them long-term say the waterproofing might fade with time. Regularly using waterproof treatments can help keep this feature in good shape. Overall, if you’re thinking about the Salomon Quest 4 GTX boots, paying attention to the fit is important. They generally offer a bit more room, excellent ankle support, and solid waterproofing, so they're great for tough trails. Depending on how you like your boots to fit and which socks you use, you may need to adjust the size a little to get it just right.

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What's the durability like for Salomon Quest 4 GTX boots?

Hey there! If you're curious about how durable the Salomon Quest 4 GTX boots are, here's the scoop based on our findings. ### Tough Out There From what we've gathered, these boots generally get a thumbs-up for being tough and ready for different hiking and backpacking adventures. Their build is pretty solid, with sturdy materials providing good support around the foot and ankle. The manufacturer pitches them for long hikes and rough terrains, and most folks back up these claims with positive reviews, especially when they're pushing through challenging environments. ### A Few Things to Watch Out For Now, not everything's perfect. Our research shows a couple of consistent hiccups. Some people have mentioned that the waterproofing doesn't always hold up as you'd hope. So, after some time, in seriously wet conditions, they might start letting water in, which can be a bummer. There's also a bit of chatter about the smaller parts like the laces and eyelets—apparently, they might not be the toughest part of the boots. A few folks have mentioned eyelets breaking and that the laces are kind of tricky to replace. These little issues can take a toll on how long the boots last if not sorted out. ### Dealing with the Bumps On the upside, [Salomon](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dsalomon%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) seems to have pretty solid customer service. If you run into a problem, they're reportedly pretty good at stepping in with replacements, which is nice to know. To make these boots last longer, you might want to think about a bit of extra care. Upgrading with better aftermarket parts like [insoles](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dinsoles%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) and laces, and just regular maintenance, could really help keep them kicking. ### Wrapping It Up Bottom line, the Salomon Quest 4 GTX boots are mostly known for their durable and reliable performance outdoors. Sure, there are mixed opinions on some of the finer details, but if you're after boots that can handle a tough trail, they're worth checking out. Just be sure to consider your own needs and routine care to get the most out of them!

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How is the ankle support in Salomon Quest 4 GTX boots?

The Salomon Quest 4 GTX boots seem to do a fantastic job when it comes to ankle support. From what we've found, they're often recommended for their high, somewhat stiff ankle collars that really help keep you steady on tough trails. Whether you're dealing with rocky paths or tackling steep climbs, these boots aim to keep you balanced and lower the chance of spraining your ankle. What's great about these boots is their sturdy construction, which provides excellent torsional rigidity. This means they help prevent your foot from twisting side to side—a big help when walking over uneven ground. If you're the type who hikes with a heavy pack over rugged terrain, these boots might just be what you need since they handle loads without making your feet unstable. Another handy feature is the multi-zone lacing system. You can tweak the fit to your liking so that your ankles are snugly wrapped, offering personalized support. This can come in handy on longer hikes or when you're carrying extra weight, and our research confirms that this flexibility doesn't mean you have to compromise on comfort. When it comes to feedback, the reviews are mostly positive. A lot of folks are happy with how the boots help prevent ankle rolls, which is super important if that's been an issue for you on uneven trails. Some have mentioned there's a bit of a break-in period, especially if you're used to lighter footwear, so that's something to consider if you're moving to more supportive boots. In short, the Salomon Quest 4 GTX boots are pretty well-regarded for their reliable ankle support and protection. They seem to cater well to both casual hikers and serious backpackers hitting challenging trails, making them a solid pick for anyone looking for stability and comfort on their outdoor adventures.

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Runner-up: Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX

SCARPA Men's Zodiac Plus GTX Waterproof Gore-Tex Boots for Backpacking and Hiking - Shark/Orange - 9-9.5

Coming in as our runner-up, the Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX combines rugged durability with a lightweight design, perfect for tackling challenging terrains. Featuring reliable waterproofing and excellent ankle support, it merges the best aspects of traditional boots and modern flexibility. Ideal for both fast-paced hikes and demanding treks, the Zodiac Plus GTX is praised by users for its comfort and versatility. Whether you're on a day hike or a multi-day expedition, these boots will keep your feet protected and supported.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$299.00 at Amazon

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Budget Pick: Merrell Moab 3 Mid WP

Merrell Women's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot (Black/Orchid, US Footwear Size System, Adult, Women, Numeric, Wide, 8)

The Merrell Moab 3 Mid WP stands out as our top budget pick, offering exceptional comfort and reliable performance without breaking the bank. Known for its waterproof protection and decent traction, this boot is perfect for maintained trails and casual hikes. It provides strong support, making it an excellent option for day hikes and casual overnighters. According to user feedback, the Moab 3 Mid WP delivers great value for its price, making it a go-to choice for budget-conscious hikers.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$65.00 at Amazon

Best for Alpine Conditions: Salewa Mountain Trainer Lite Mid GTX

Salewa Mountain Trainer Lite Mid GTX - Men's Black Out/Carrot 10.5

For those tackling technical alpine conditions, the Salewa Mountain Trainer Lite Mid GTX is our best pick. Offering a balance of flexibility and comfort, this boot is lightweight enough for extended periods in the mountains. While it sacrifices some protection for weight savings, it remains a top choice for climbers and hikers needing reliable performance in rugged environments. Reviewers highlight its exceptional grip and support, making it a trustworthy companion in challenging terrains.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$219.95 at Amazon

Best Lightweight Hiking Boot: Altra Lone Peak Hiker 2

ALTRA Men's Lone Peak Hiker 2 11.5 Black/Grey

The Altra Lone Peak Hiker 2 is designed for those who prioritize speed and lightweight backpacking. Resembling a trail running shoe, it excels in comfort and mobility while providing the durability and support required for hiking. Users appreciate its lightweight feel, but it may feel narrow for those with wider feet and can be less stable on technical terrain. Ideal for fast-paced hikes, this boot offers a comfortable and agile hiking experience.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$149.95 at Amazon

Best Max-Cushioned Hiking Boot: Hoka Anacapa 2 Mid GTX

For hikers who prioritize cushioning and comfort, the Hoka Anacapa 2 Mid GTX is our top recommendation. With its plush midsole and smooth ride, this boot is designed to keep you comfortable over long distances. It boasts waterproofing thanks to the Gore-Tex lining, although there are some potential durability concerns with the outsole and its unique swallowtail heel design. User reviews are generally positive, noting the exceptional comfort but cautioning about the unique design features that may not suit everyone.

Available at Amazon

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