I’m a firm believer that information is the key to financial freedom. On the Stilt Blog, I write about the complex topics — like finance, immigration, and technology — to help immigrants make the most of their lives in the U.S. Our content and brand have been featured in Forbes, TechCrunch, VentureBeat, and more.
See all posts Frank GogolBest Budget Hiking Shoes for Your Outdoor Adventures
Updated on April 24, 2024
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Hiking shoes are a critical piece of gear for any outdoor enthusiast. Despite the challenge of finding affordable and good quality shoes, there are many options available. The type of hiking you plan to do influences the type of shoe you need. For light day hikes, less supportive shoes suffice, whereas more rugged or lengthy hikes demand shoes with greater support and durability. After extensive research and testing, we’ve identified the best budget hiking shoes that balance cost, quality, and versatility.
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Best Budget Hiking Shoes
We know that hiking can be an expensive hobby, but that doesn’t mean you have to break the bank when it comes to footwear. We’ve compiled a list of the best budget hiking shoes for under $100. These shoes may be affordable, but they don’t skimp on quality or performance. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned hiker, these shoes will keep your feet comfortable and protected on the trails. Check out our top picks below.
Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoe
Merrell Women's Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoe
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If you're looking for a budget-friendly hiking shoe that doesn't skimp on quality, the Merrell Women's Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoe is a solid choice.
Pros:
- The Vibram sole provides excellent traction on a variety of terrain, making these shoes suitable for a range of hiking trails.
- The breathable design keeps your feet cool and comfortable, even during long hikes in warm weather.
- The footbed offers ample support, reducing the risk of foot fatigue and injury.
Cons:
- Some users have reported that the laces are difficult to adjust, which can be frustrating when trying to achieve a comfortable fit.
- The shoes may run slightly narrow, which could be uncomfortable for those with wider feet.
- The leather material may require some breaking in before the shoes feel truly comfortable.
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Overall, we recommend the Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoe for budget-conscious hikers who want a reliable, comfortable shoe that can handle a range of terrain. With its durable construction and supportive design, this shoe is a great choice for anyone looking to hit the trails without breaking the bank.
Merrell Women’s Moab 3 Hiking Shoe
Merrell Women's Moab 3 Hiking Shoe, Smoke, 8
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If you're looking for a reliable hiking shoe that will last you for years to come, the Merrell Women's Moab 3 Hiking Shoe is a great choice.
Pros:
- The shoes are comfortable right out of the box, with no break-in period required.
- They are made with high-quality materials that are built to last, including a durable rubber sole and partially recycled fabrics.
- The shoes offer great stability and traction, thanks to the grippy Vibram outsole.
Cons:
- Some users have reported that the shoes run a bit small, so you may need to order a half size up.
- The shoes are not completely waterproof, so they may not be the best choice for wet or rainy conditions.
- The shoes are a bit on the heavier side, which may not be ideal for those who prefer lighter footwear.
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Overall, we highly recommend the Merrell Women’s Moab 3 Hiking Shoe for anyone who wants a reliable and comfortable hiking shoe that will last for years to come. With its durable materials and grippy Vibram outsole, this shoe is sure to serve you well on all your outdoor adventures.
Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Waterproof Hiking Shoe
Merrell mens MOAB 2 WTPF Hiking Shoe, Beluga, 9.5 US
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If you're looking for a budget-friendly hiking shoe that offers great comfort and traction, the Merrell Men's Moab 2 Waterproof Hiking Shoe is worth considering.
Pros:
- The waterproof feature keeps your feet dry in wet conditions.
- The Vibram traction provides excellent grip on different terrains.
- The leather material is durable and provides good support.
Cons:
- The shoe may run small, so consider ordering a half size up.
- The insoles may not provide enough cushioning for some people.
- The shoe may not be suitable for very rocky or technical terrain.
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We recently took these shoes on a hike through a moderate trail with some wet and muddy sections. The waterproof feature worked well, keeping our feet dry throughout the hike. The Vibram traction also provided good grip on both wet and dry surfaces, giving us confidence in our steps. The leather material felt sturdy and provided good support to our feet.
However, we did notice that the shoes run a bit small, so we recommend ordering a half size up. Additionally, the insoles may not be cushioned enough for those with sensitive feet. Finally, while the shoes performed well on a moderate trail, they may not be suitable for very rocky or technical terrain.
Overall, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly hiking shoe that offers good comfort and traction, the Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Waterproof Hiking Shoe is a solid choice.
Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Boot Elk, Mountain Red 8 Wide
Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped, Elk/Mountain Red, 8
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If you are looking for a budget-friendly hiking boot that offers both style and comfort, the Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Boot is a solid choice.
Pros:
- The waterproof seam-sealed construction ensures your feet stay dry during wet hikes.
- The full grain leather and suede upper, mesh tongue, scratch rubber heel, and outdoor lace hardware provide durability and stability on rugged terrain.
- The boots are available in several color versions, with true-to-fit sizing.
Cons:
- Some users have reported that the boots run a bit large, so sizing down may be necessary.
- The boots may require some breaking in before they feel completely comfortable.
- The boots are not as lightweight as some other hiking shoes on the market.
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Overall, the Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Boot is a solid choice for budget-conscious hikers who want a stylish and durable boot that can handle a variety of terrain. The waterproof construction and durable materials make it a great choice for wet and rugged hikes, while the available color options and true-to-fit sizing ensure a comfortable and stylish fit. If you’re looking for a reliable hiking boot that won’t break the bank, this one is definitely worth checking out.
Adidas Men’s Terrex Ax3 6.5 Black/Black/Carbon
adidas Outdoor Men's Terrex Ax3 Hiking Boot, Black/Black/Carbon, 6.5 M US
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If you're looking for a durable and affordable hiking shoe, the Adidas Men's Terrex Ax3 is a great option.
Pros:
- Excellent traction on various terrains
- Comfortable and supportive fit
- Stylish design
Cons:
- May run a little narrow for some
- Lacks waterproofing
- Some users report a break-in period
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We’ve taken the Adidas Men’s Terrex Ax3 on several hikes and have been impressed with its performance. The Continental™ Rubber outsole provides exceptional grip on both wet and dry surfaces, making it a reliable choice for any terrain. The shoe’s lightweight EVA midsole offers comfortable cushioning and support, while the breathable mesh upper keeps your feet cool and dry.
One potential drawback is that the shoe may run a little narrow for some users, so it’s important to try them on before purchasing. Additionally, the shoe doesn’t have waterproofing, so it’s not the best choice for wet conditions. However, the stylish design makes it a versatile option for both hiking and everyday wear.
Overall, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly hiking shoe that performs well on various terrains, the Adidas Men’s Terrex Ax3 is a solid choice.
Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
Merrell Men's Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot, Earth, 10 M US
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If you're looking for a reliable and versatile hiking boot that won't break the bank, the Merrell Men's Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot might be just what you need.
Pros:
- The waterproof design keeps your feet dry even in wet conditions.
- The Vibram traction provides excellent grip on a variety of surfaces.
- The supportive footbed ensures all-day comfort on the trail.
Cons:
- The ankle height may not provide enough support for some hikers.
- The leather material can be stiff and require some break-in time.
- The sizing may run small for some individuals.
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We recently took these boots on a day hike in the mountains and were impressed with their performance. The waterproof design kept our feet dry through muddy patches and shallow streams. The Vibram traction provided excellent grip on both rocky and loose terrain. The boots were comfortable right out of the box, with no blisters or hot spots. However, we did notice that the ankle height didn’t provide as much support as we would have liked on steeper sections of the trail.
The leather material felt durable and sturdy, but did require some break-in time to soften up. The sizing ran slightly small for us, so we recommend trying on a few different sizes to ensure the best fit. Overall, we think the Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is a solid choice for budget-conscious hikers looking for a reliable and comfortable boot for day hikes and light backpacking trips.
Columbia Men’s Crestwood Hiking Shoe 10.5 Camo Brown, Heatwave
Columbia Mens Crestwood Breathable, High-Traction Grip, Camo Brown, Heatwave, 10.5 US
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If you're looking for budget hiking shoes that can take on tough terrains, then the Columbia Men's Crestwood Hiking Shoe is a great option to consider.
Pros:
- The durable construction of these shoes can withstand mile after mile of hiking.
- The Techlite cushioned midsole provides excellent comfort and support.
- The super-grippy outsole ensures a steady footing on a wide variety of terrains.
Cons:
- These shoes may not be suitable for those with wider feet.
- The shoes may take some time to break in.
- The shoes are not waterproof.
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We recently took these shoes out on a hiking trip and were impressed with their performance. The suede leather upper combined with the breathable mesh webbing structure made for a comfortable and breathable fit. The shoes felt sturdy and well-constructed, and we had no issues with slipping thanks to the Omni-Grip traction rubber outsole.
While the shoes did take some time to break in, they felt comfortable and supportive after a few wears. However, those with wider feet may find these shoes a bit snug. Additionally, we wouldn’t recommend these shoes for wet conditions as they are not waterproof.
Overall, we think the Columbia Men’s Crestwood Hiking Shoe is a solid choice for those looking for budget hiking shoes that can handle tough terrains.
Columbia Men’s Crestwood Hiking Shoe
Men's Crestwood Hiking Shoe
Check Price on Amazon
If you're looking for a reliable and durable hiking shoe that won't break the bank, the Columbia Men's Crestwood Hiking Shoe is a great option.
Pros:
- The suede leather upper combined with a breathable mesh webbing structure makes for a comfortable and durable shoe that can handle tough terrain.
- The Techlite cushioned midsole provides ample support and comfort for long hikes.
- The Omni-Grip traction rubber outsole provides excellent grip on a variety of surfaces, making it a versatile shoe for any outdoor adventure.
Cons:
- Some users have reported that the shoe runs slightly narrow, so it may not be the best fit for those with wider feet.
- The shoe may require some break-in time before it becomes truly comfortable for extended wear.
- The shoe may not be completely waterproof, so it may not be the best choice for wetter climates or conditions.
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Overall, we highly recommend the Columbia Men’s Crestwood Hiking Shoe for anyone in need of a reliable and affordable hiking shoe. With its durable construction, comfortable fit, and versatile design, it’s a great choice for any outdoor adventure.
NORTIV 8 Men’s Waterproof Hiking Shoes
NORTIV 8 Men's Waterproof Hiking Shoes Leather Low-Top Hiking Shoes for Outdoor Work Trailing Trekking Walking Black Dark Grey Orange Size 10 M US Quest-1-W
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If you're looking for a budget-friendly hiking shoe that doesn't skimp on quality, the NORTIV 8 Men's Waterproof Hiking Shoes are a great option.
Pros:
- The waterproof leather and suede material keeps your feet dry in wet conditions.
- The rubber sole provides good traction on a variety of surfaces.
- The insole is comfortable and provides good support for your feet.
Cons:
- The shoes may take some time to break in and may feel stiff at first.
- Some users have reported issues with the laces coming undone easily.
- The shoes may not be as durable as more expensive hiking shoes.
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We recently took these shoes out on a hiking trip and were pleasantly surprised by their performance. The waterproof material kept our feet dry even when hiking through wet conditions, and the rubber sole provided good traction on both rocky and slippery surfaces. The insole was comfortable and provided good support for our feet, even after several hours of hiking.
That being said, the shoes may take some time to break in and may feel stiff at first. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the laces coming undone easily, so it may be worth double-knotting them before hitting the trails. While the shoes are a great budget option, they may not be as durable as more expensive hiking shoes and may need to be replaced sooner. Overall, we would recommend these shoes for anyone looking for a budget-friendly hiking shoe that still provides good quality and performance.
CAMELSPORTS Women’s Hiking Shoes
CAMELSPORTS Women's Hiking Shoes Waterproof Lightweight Trail Running Shoes Non-Slip Breathable Outdoor Sneakers for Trekking Walking Grey
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If you're looking for budget hiking shoes that can take you through different terrains, CAMELSPORTS Women's Hiking Shoes are worth considering.
Pros:
- Breathable knitted mesh fabric for good breathability
- Protective toe cap and supportive heel for foot protection
- Anti-slip outsole for comfortable walks on rugged or wet roads
Cons:
- May run a little larger than the size you usually wear
- Some reviewers reported discomfort after wearing for a full day on their feet
- Limited color options
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These hiking shoes are made of high-grade special materials and feature a waterproof inner lining that wicks away perspiration, keeping your feet dry and not stuffy. The soft insole makes every step easy and comfortable. The sole is composed of multiple materials of MD+RB+TPU, added with anti-slip particles, and the wear-resistant rubber outsole is equipped with scientifically distributed anti-slip lugs, reducing the pressure on the foot.
We found these shoes to be comfortable and supportive, with a breathable upper that kept our feet from getting too hot during hikes. The protective toe cap and supportive heel effectively protected our feet from impacts and sprains, making our steps safer. However, we recommend ordering a size smaller than what you usually wear, as some reviewers reported that these shoes may run a little larger.
Overall, CAMELSPORTS Women’s Hiking Shoes are a great choice for those looking for budget hiking shoes that can handle different terrains and provide good foot protection.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying budget hiking shoes, there are a few things to consider to ensure that you get the best product for your needs. In this section, we will discuss the features that you should look for to make an informed decision.
Durability
One of the most important factors to consider when buying hiking shoes is durability. You want a shoe that can withstand the wear and tear of the trail. Look for shoes that are made with durable materials such as leather, synthetic fabrics, and rubber soles. Additionally, check for reinforced stitching and sturdy eyelets.
Comfort
Comfort is another crucial factor to consider when buying hiking shoes. Look for shoes with ample cushioning and support to reduce the risk of blisters and foot fatigue. Consider trying on shoes with different insoles to find the most comfortable fit for your feet.
Traction
Traction is essential when hiking on uneven terrain. Look for shoes with deep lugs and a solid grip to provide stability and prevent slipping. Shoes with Vibram soles are known for their excellent traction and durability.
Breathability
Hiking shoes should be breathable to prevent your feet from getting too hot and sweaty. Look for shoes with mesh panels or perforations to allow for air circulation. Shoes with Gore-Tex or other waterproofing materials may reduce breathability but can be useful in wet conditions.
Fit
Finally, make sure that the shoes fit well. Try on shoes with the socks that you plan to wear on the trail and walk around the store to ensure a comfortable fit. Look for shoes with a snug heel and ample toe room to prevent blisters and discomfort.
By considering these factors, you can find a budget hiking shoe that is durable, comfortable, and suitable for your needs.
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Frank Gogol
I’m a firm believer that information is the key to financial freedom. On the Stilt Blog, I write about the complex topics — like finance, immigration, and technology — to help immigrants make the most of their lives in the U.S. Our content and brand have been featured in Forbes, TechCrunch, VentureBeat, and more.