Hiking is one of the best ways to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, as nature has its way of refreshing and restoring. It's a fun way to explore your city's neighboring foothills for some after-work cardio, if you're short on time. Or it's your ticket to faraway places that can't be reached by roads, giving you access to sights unseen by most travelers. For us, it's a release from life's daily stressors and a way to recharge our batteries, and the only limit is daylight.
A solid pair of hiking shoes is the foundation to your newfound love for outdoor exploration. We prefer a boot with an ankle-height cut over a shoe, because the higher cuff keeps debris out, makes stream crossings easier, and helps minimze your chance of rolling an ankle! In years past, most hiking boots were heavy, leather monstrosities. But today's trend is all about being light and fast, and it's a trend we're pretty excited about!
Modern hiking boots fit loosely into three categories: (1) lightweight boots for agility on day hikes, (2) midweight boots that are versatile enough for most occasions, and (3) heavy boots that emphasize durability and support for week-long trips with heavy backpacks. If you're unsure which category suits your style best, err somewhere in the middle — a Gore-Tex boot, mid-height cut, with solid ankle support, relatively rugged outsoles, yet still flexible and breathable enough that you won't feel slowed down.
Hiking is something we couldn't live without, so recommending our top choices was a piece of cake. Check out this list of 2020's best men's hiking boots, with options for everyone — from the budget-minded casual hiker to the long-distance trekker. Then lace up your boots, and put one foot in front of the other — winding trails, fresh air, and panoramic mountain vistas await.