One of the most beautiful things about hiking is that it isn’t seasonal. While fair weather wanderers might yearn for the refreshing climates of spring, or the warm breezes of summer, the weather that comes with both fall and winter can often make them more idyllic seasons for exploration. It’s the ultimate all-year-round activity.
For many, it’s about the views, the smells and having a coffee at the top of a mountain, while for others, it’s more about the challenge and putting it on Strava. Whatever the motive to get out and explore, the gear you do it in is essential; and while having a big GORE-TEX coat, a functional backpack with loads of pockets and a nice-looking Nalgene water bottle is all well and good, if you don’t have suitable footwear, you aren’t doing it right.
It’s for this reason HYPEBEAST has collated a list of some of its favourite hiking footwear currently on the market. From supportive ankle boots to streamlined and lighter options, we’ve got things covered from here on in.
Dubbed as On’s first ever speed-hiking boot, the Cloudrock Waterproof might look like any other boot, but beneath the surface it’s anything but. Built for traction, pace and protection, this new silhouette houses the brand’s MissionGrip rubber for added traction, while a Swiss-engineered FlexLock system allows laces to be tied in various different ways. A 360° mudguard offers protection against the elements,while a Speedboard provides much-needed propulsion on tougher terrains when needed. Rounded out with a durable membrane that’s both wind- and waterproof, On’s Cloudrock isn’t messing about.
Launched back in November last year, HOKA ONE ONE’s typical Vibram Megagrip outsole takes centre stage on its striking TenNine hiking boot. Packed with technical facets like water-repellent ripstop textile that’s woven with weatherproof GORE-TEX, as well as a recycled “leaf” polyester lining, the boot’s internal rubber panels reduce toe friction which results in an all-round comfier and lightweight ride.
Taking inspiration from long-distance trail running footwear, Arc’teryx’s Aerios FL GTX is a lightweight option for the more fleet-footed hikers. Designed for faster jaunts, the sneaker is said to synthesise with the foot to minimize friction, delivering ultimate comfort for longer periods of time. Stable on uneven terrains thanks to its Vibram outsole, the Aerios boasts a compressed EVA midsole and integrated TPU shank, while protection from the elements is covered too, thanks to its all-over GORE-TEX membrane.
This retro-style boot from KEEN may look like classic hiking footwear, but upon closer inspection it’s anything but. Designed in Europe, the Feldberg APX features 4mm multi-directional lugs for traction alongside stability shanks for lightweight support. It’s weather-proof breathable membrane keeps your feet dry no matter the weather, while its rubber outsole and removable EVA insoles make for all-day comfort.
In typical Salomon style, its X RAISE looks both modern and athletic. Focusing on stability, comfort and performance, its lightweight craft is full of techy features. Boasting the brand’s Quicklace system for ease and comfort, the sneaker houses reinforced a heel and toe for added protection. Thanks to its generous and adjustable fit, Salomon’s GORE-TEX-covered X RAISE is ideal for those looking for a more street-savvy pair of hikers.
As a part of the Swedish brand’s L.I.M. range, its Mid Proof Eco boot is about as lightweight as they come. Made from a durable mesh that’s both sturdy and breathable, each boot comes equipped with Haglöfs’ PROOF membrane technology to keep feet both dry and aired. Designed with ankle support in mind, the softness of the material used means they won’t chafe or bruise on longer hikes either.
One of the most innovative hiking boots out there, The North Face’s Vectiv Exploris is designed to maximise energy with every step. Featuring an ultra-light footplate, midsole rocker geometry and SurfaceCTRL grip, the Exploris has been engineered to go the distance. Doused in a breathable FUTURELIGHT membrane, the heel and toe areas are reinforced for added protection for long periods of time.
Designed in collaboration with Kazuki Kuraishi’s conceptual streetwear arthouse A.FOUR, Merrell’s Moab GTX is more than just a hiking boot your dad might wear to the shops. A fresh take on the brand’s archival Moab, this co-release features a sleek Kinetic Fit insole for adjustable comfort and sits atop a Vibram TC5+ rubber compound sole for added traction on sloped and uneven terrain, and added protection too.