Tired of the inevitable aching of your feet after a hike? Or perhaps you are just looking for a pair of hiking boots that are a bit less heavy and supportive.
Either way – we have made up a short list of the best hiking boots we could find that are lightweight and offer ankle support.
Being on your feet all day is tough on your toes, so you’re going to want a sturdy pair of hiking boots, that are comfortable, durable, and most importantly, supportive.
When you think about it, the boots you wear are really the most important piece of hiking equipment you need! How else will you trail those rocky roads and dusty paths?
Here are some of the best hiking boots that we could find for you…
1. SALOMON X ULTRA 3 MID GTX
A pair that come up time and time again is the Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX hiking boots. So, let’s get into why these are so highly recommended.
This boot is available in both men’s and women’s sizing but is said to run slightly narrower; so bearing this in mind it could be better to size up for a fit that will see the maximum potential of the shoe.
When it comes to the level of comfort:
- This shoe has a reinforced top arm of the Sensifit, which will hold your foot in place comfortably, especially when you are going downhill. No more squashed toes – these boots have you covered, holding your feet in perfect position no matter the terrain.
- Foam cushioning surrounds the Advanced Chassis in order to provide yet more comfort for your feet. The chassis is connected directly to the sole which helps to stabilize your heel; meaning that your heel and feet are not only protected but also not in any discomfort.
- The Sensifit technology provides a secure fit, keeping your feet comfortable and your ankle supported.
In regards to the level of grip, these boots excel. The ContraGrip technology used in the shoe uses the strengths of different shapes of rubber across the sole, resulting in greater control and flexibility for the wearer.
This makes it the perfect hiking boot to tackle technical hikes and rugged terrain. This sole is teamed with chevron lugs resulting in greater traction across your hike.
These boots even prevent debris from getting inside because of the gusseted tongue incorporated into the design.
Let’s talk about what these boots are made of.
The leather used is PU coated which helps to overall make the shoe stronger, and extend the durability of the product. There is a rubber toe cap to protect your toes as well as a protective heel to further support your feet.
The boots keep out moisture by using Goretex waterproof technology, increasing the breathability of the boot, and again adding to the comfort level of your feet.
Additionally, the shoe uses Engerycell EVA shock-absorbing foam which provides consistent support to your feet and ankles when faced with challenging terrain.
Overall, these hiking boots provide great support to the entire foot and ankle, whilst keeping you comfortable, in control, and having the ability to tackle any challenge you may stumble upon during a hike.
2. MERRELL MOAB 2 VENTILATOR MID
The next pair of hiking boots we want to talk about is the Merrell Moab 2 Ventilator Mids. This is another pair of boots that provide excellent ankle support while keeping you in total control during your hike.
These boots are also lightweight meaning you won’t be carrying any extra and unnecessary weight that is not needed on your trip.
The suede leather and mesh upper material of this shoe make them durable while also improving the ventilation of your foot as you hike. This keeps your feet feeling fresh across your trekking adventure, improving the quality of your trip and keeping you comfortable in the meantime.
No one enjoys the feeling of hot and cramped feet, and with these shoes, you don’t have to worry about that!
In addition to the breathability of this product, comfort is created and guaranteed because of the FIT.ECO+ blended EVA footbed, which provides a soft and cushioned effect for the soles of your feet.
This also helps when it comes to tough terrains that could often be harsh and painful. The result of this is yet more protection for your feet, preventing any pain from occurring where it is not needed.
These boots are also fantastic when it comes to grip. The Vibran TC5+ sole helps to grip surfaces with ease, keeping you in control of your movements as well as enabling you to be precise.
This is incredibly helpful when it comes to uneven ground or unknown terrain; you’ll be ready for whatever you may come across.
Any shock that may be caused to your feet due to challenging terrain you may face, can be lessened and absorbed through the Merrel Air Cushion in the heel of the boot, which increases the stability of the shoe as well.
This pair of hiking boots are excellent when considering stability. It is always important for a pair of hiking boots to have the ability to make you feel stable and sure of yourself as you are walking – for safety, ease, and comfort.
The EVA midsole helps to provide exactly that, as well as the air cushion in the heel we covered earlier. Each of these features contributes to the overall stability of the shoe.
While out on a hike, you want to know that your feet are protected. These boots have a protective rubber toe cap, as well as a closed-cell foam tongue that keeps debris from finding its way into your shoes.
This means that your feet are not only protected from the rugged terrains but also feel comforted at the same time; as well as providing support to the heel, ankle, and sole of your feet.
In conclusion, one of the shoes’ strongest features, is the protection it provides to your foot. This shoe supports the body during any terrain and absorbs any shock that might have usually caused injury through the cushioning used in the inside of the boot.
The shoes are comfortable whilst also being protective and fit for purpose while on your travels. If you’re looking for a comfy shoe that is also going to protect and support your feet, this is the boot for you.
3. SCARPA KAILASH
No products found.The final pair of hiking boots we are featuring today is the Scarpa Kailash boots. These shoes are lightweight, durable, and protective.
So, let’s get into the specifics:
- These boots pride themselves on being an all-purpose hiking shoe, that’s suitable for any terrain and any weather.
- They are made from brushed suede leather which keeps out the elements and protects your feet from the outdoors. This material is also waterproof, meaning that your feet and socks will not get soggy from any rain that may occur.
- The upper portion of the shoe is made from synthetic mesh which makes the shoes breathable by increasing the ventilation of air in and out of the shoe.
We all know there’s nothing worse than feeling like your feet are suffocating during your hike, and with these shoes, you will never experience that again.
The toe and the heel of the boot are reinforced with TPU rubber, used to stabilize the shoe and increase your control, while also providing protection. This means that the shoe is suitable for all types of paths and terrain and will keep your feet comfortable whilst being protected.
These boots carry a traditional lacing system, however, the eyelets are made from metal meaning they are going to be able to endure the tough hikes and weather conditions.
This also means that they provide a snug and secure fit and will stay tight to your foot for optimum control.
Inside the boot is a Gore-Tex lining, with a 5mm thick Comfort Flex+ insole. This means that your foot is cushioned and surrounded by safety, preventing injury whilst increasing the level of comfort that you feel while wearing the boots. This cushioning also provides support to the ankle as it softens and forceful shocks.
Because of the cushioning and insole, any slip while walking differing inclines is prevented and deduced, keeping you stable and comfortable.
The boots provide great traction and grip because of the Vibram Soles. This means less slipping, less tripping and gives you the ability to regain a sense of control if you should ever find yourself losing it.
All in all, these shoes are not only lightweight but breathable and comfortable when out on longer hikes. They are suitable for any weather condition as well as any type of terrain.
They are flexible whilst keeping the integrity of keeping your foot safe as well as letting you have complete control and stability. They provide protection and cushioning that not only comfort your feet but also help with the durability of the product.
