Men’s Hiking Boots

A pair of hiking boots on a trail with text "Hiking Boots"

Hiking in Comfort: Top Men’s Boots for Fall Outdoor Adventures

Fall is one of the most beautiful times of the year to explore the great outdoors. The weather is cool, the leaves are changing colors, and the animals are preparing for winter. Before heading out on the trails to enjoy nature at its finest, you should ensure you have the right type of hiking boots. Otherwise, you might have to cut your hike short.

You need stylish yet comfortable shoes that are durable enough to protect your feet. Let’s take a closer look at the various types of men’s hiking boots so you can find the perfect pair for your needs.

Finding the Perfect Hiking Boot

What makes the perfect hiking boot? First and foremost is comfort, of course. An ideal hiking boot would:

Be the right size. A well-fitted shoe should be snug, but it shouldn’t be too tight. There should be between ⅜ and ½ inch between the tip of your longest toe and the end of the shoe.
Be the right material. Choose the right material for what you’re looking for. Leather is sturdy, but it can be expensive (worth the investment for avid hikers). Faux leather may not last as long. Other materials such as synthetics and breathable waterproof material are alternative affordable options that will get the job done.

You’ll also want to consider features. Some features boots can have include:

Steel toes. Steel toes can help with safety, but they change the feel of the shoe. If you’re not used to wearing them, try them on first.
Thick soles. Thick soles may make your shoe heavier (making your hike a bit more tiring), but they’ll give added protection for anything you step on.

Hiking Boot Shopping Tips

Consider the Terrain

Light trails: If your hikes are mostly on easy trails, look for lightweight boots or hiking shoes with flexible soles.
Rough terrain: For rocky, uneven, or steep terrain, opt for mid- or high-cut boots with sturdier ankle support and tougher outsoles.

Check the Fit

Toe space: Make sure there’s about a thumb’s width of space at the front to avoid toe bumps on descents.
Heel lock: Your heel should stay in place to prevent blisters. Lace up tightly enough to keep your foot secure without cutting off circulation.
Try with socks: Wear the same hiking socks you plan to use, as they can affect fit.

Choose the Right Material

Leather: Durable and supportive, but it may require more break-in time. Great for long, rugged hikes.
Synthetic: Lighter and quicker to break in but may not last as long in tough conditions.

Waterproofing and Breathability

Look for waterproof materials like GORE-TEX if you’ll be hiking in wet conditions. For dry, hot climates, more breathable options like mesh might be a better fit.

Test for Traction

Check for a sturdy outsole with deep lugs that can handle slippery or uneven ground. A good grip is crucial for safety on tough trails.

Break Them In

Before your first long hike, wear the boots on shorter walks or around the house to break them in and ensure comfort on the trail.

Sturdy and Comfortable Lace-up Ankle Boots

Men’s ankle hiking boots are one of the most popular styles. These boots provide comfort, durability, and added support for the ankle area, which is extremely important when hiking the trails. We carry ankle boots from all your favorite brands, including Timberland, Columbia, Propet, Territory, and Pacific Mountain. Since comfort is essential when hiking, verify your shoe size and the width of your feet. Shoe Carnival offers an extensive selection of boots in various widths, including medium, wide, and extra wide.

Mid-Boots

Men’s hiking mid boots are another option from brands, such as Merrell, Northside, Eddie Bauer, and more. Depending on the type of trails you typically hike on, you may want to look for insulated, waterproof, or slip-resistant boots.

Shop Men’s Hiking Boots With Shoe Carnival

Now is the perfect time to shop for your next pair of men’s hiking boots. With stores in 35 states and Puerto Rico, you can find a Shoe Carnival store near you. Shopping in one of our stores allows you to try on numerous sizes and styles of men’s hiking boots for a comfortable fit. Don’t have time to shop in-store? Order online, and we deliver them to your door.