![]() ![]() But these are reasonable tradeoffs for casual hikers, and it’s hard to deny the price, which checks in a full $50 less than the Salomon above. ![]() And at 2 pounds 1 ounce for a pair, it feels a little slow and cumbersome compared with some lighter and nimbler alternatives (including the X Ultra 4 above). In terms of downsides, on rocky and muddy trails, we’ve found that the Moab’s traction and stability fall short of a performance shoe like the La Sportiva Spire below. For day hikers sticking to established trails, the Moab 3 is a great value. Merrell recently updated the Moab, including recycled materials, a new insole, and modest updates to cushioning and traction, but the formula largely remains the same. What has made this shoe so popular over the years? Most notably, it's the lightweight but planted feel, comfortable and well-padded fit, excellent durability, and attractive price point. These may not be your long-distance or fast-and-light hiking shoes, but there is a lot to like about Merrell’s flagship Moab 3. What we don’t: Not built for technical terrain. What we like: Great value for a very comfortable and well-built hiking shoe. See the Men's Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX See the Women's Salomon X Ultra 4 GTXīest Budget Hiking Shoe 2. All that said, if you can try it on before you purchase (and it fits), the latest X Ultra is undeniably a high-performance, quality option. What’s more, the raised collar around the front of the ankle can be a source of rubbing and discomfort for some users (in this case, it wasn’t a problem for our testers). For some, this offers a locked-down feel but perhaps too roomy of a toe box for others, it’s ideal in the forefoot but too tight at the arch. In short, some of our editors weren’t huge fans of the 4’s fit, which features a narrow midfoot, spacious forefoot, and hard-to-customize quick-pull lacing system. While the latest X Ultra 4 takes our top spot, it wasn’t a near-universal choice as in years past. Finally, at 1 pound 9 ounces for our men’s size 9, it’s competitively lightweight and nimble. Importantly, the shoe retains the outgoing version’s fantastic mix of agility, support, durability, and protection, and there’s enough cushioning underfoot for full days with a loaded pack. Beyond its sleeker and more modern look, the X Ultra 4 features a revised lacing system and chassis, along with a roomier fit in the toe box. Last year, they released an update to the much-loved shoe in the X Ultra 4 here. Salomon’s X Ultra has been one of our favorite hiking shoes for years, offering an exceptional combination of comfort, on-trail performance, and durability for everything from casual day hikes to ambitious overnight missions. What we don’t: Love-it-or-hate-it fit and comfort. What we like: Great balance of weight and on-trail performance. A Lightweight, Comfort-First Hiking Shoe: Altra Lone Peak 7īest Overall Hiking Shoe 1. ![]() Best Hiking Shoe for Off-Trail Scrambling: La Sportiva TX4.Best Shoe for Backpacking and Technical Trails: La Sportiva Spire GTX.Best Ultralight and Cushioned Hiking Shoe: Hoka Speedgoat 5.Best Budget Hiking Shoe: Merrell Moab 3.Best Overall Hiking Shoe: Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX.And if you prefer an over-the-ankle style, see our article on the best hiking boots. For more background information, see our hiking shoe comparison table and buying advice below the picks. Below are our favorite hiking shoes of 2023, from ultralight options for fast and light trips to more supportive models for carrying a full pack. You do lose some ankle support when carrying a heavy pack or traversing rocky trails, but the weight savings and feathery feel are worth it for many. The momentum in hiking footwear is moving away from bulky boots toward lightweight shoes and even trail runners that are faster and more comfortable. ![]()
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