Here’s the deal about hiking footwear: love them or hate them, all it takes is one steep, rocky, or muddy trail to realize your running sneakers aren’t up to the task.
Maybe you need increased ankle stability, improved cushioning or something that cushions knee impact on descents. Whatever the reason, we’ve got recommendations.
With many premium hiking shoes priced well above $300, we put together a curated selection of the best hiking boots that won’t cost you an arm and a leg. We consulted podiatrists, footwear specialists and seasoned trail-goers about their favorite budget-friendly hiking shoes for each category below. Here’s what they recommended, and everything you need to know about seven of the best hiking shoes you can buy for under $200.
7 Best Hiking Shoes for Under $200
Before we list our seven picks, it’s useful to understand why investing a bit more in hiking footwear is usually worthwhile.
“Hiking shoes differ from everyday walking shoes or casual trainers mainly in support, stability, and longevity,” said Derek Roach, owner of Flow Feet Orthopedic Shoes. “They typically have a rugged, deep-lug outsole to handle rough terrain and offer better grip in wet or loose conditions. They also often include breathable, moisture-wicking liners to keep feet dry and supportive insoles that absorb shock and reduce fatigue.”
That said, not every hiking shoe lives up to its claims, according to Dr. Daniel Boyer of Farr Institute.
“Unfortunately, many advertised hiking-boot features aren’t worth the price,” he noted. “Some boots claim to be waterproof but fail to keep feet dry, while others tout superior traction but don’t adhere well to surfaces.”
That’s why buying footwear that’s been vetted by experts is far better than impulsively splurging on a pair just because you like the look.
Ready to see the seven best hiking shoes under $200? Keep reading.
- Best for Backpacking/Distance: Salomon X Ultra
- Best Waterproof: Propét Vercors Hiking Sneaker
- Best Lightweight: DayLite Hiker Fusion
- Best for Knee Support: Moab 2 Mid Ventilator
- Best for Overall Support: KEEN Pyrenees Waterproof Hiking Boot
- Best GORE-TEX: La Sportiva TX Hike Mid GTX
- Best for Trail-Running: TerraFlex II All-Purpose Hiking Shoe
Best Backpacking/Distance Hiking Boot
Shoe:Salomon X UltraPrice: $165
If you plan to carry a heavy pack or cover long miles, you’ll want a boot designed for that workload. For extended trips, Dr. Boyer recommends the Salomon X Ultra.
“Salomon X Ultra hiking boots are well-suited to varied terrain thanks to strong traction and a waterproof upper,” Boyer said. “They offer notable comfort with an EVA midsole and footbed, and the boot remains lightweight while being quite durable.”
Although the latest version retails for $165, you can sometimes find lightly used pairs for much less, with some listings available for around $64.
Best Waterproof Hiking Shoe
Shoe:Propét Vercors Hiking SneakersPrice: $140
Surprisingly, one of the top waterproof hiking options under $200 isn’t a traditional boot but a rugged sneaker with an integrated waterproof bootie.
“The Propét Vercors includes essential hiking features—waterproofing, stability control, a protective toe cap—and more,” Roach said. “The Vibram Arctic Grip outsole offers excellent traction, particularly on icy surfaces, while the Ortholite X40 insoles return energy with each step to reduce foot fatigue and improve shock absorption.”
If you prefer a higher-cut waterproof option, consider the high-top Propét Veymont for $159.
Best Lightweight Hiking Shoe
Shoe:DayLite Hiker FusionPrice: $120
If you want hiking support without excessive bulk, Dennis Driscoll of Xero Shoes favors the DayLite Hiker Fusion, available in men’s and women’s fits.
“These shoes are meant for when you don’t require a heavy technical boot but still want the benefits of a lugged sole with protection, durability, and some ankle coverage,” Driscoll said.
Best Hiking Boot for Knee Support
Shoe:Moab 2 Mid VentilatorPrice: $120
If your knees start acting up after a few miles, consider boots with extra built-in support, like Merrell’s Moab 2 Mid Ventilator.
“This shoe is notably lightweight, which helps if your knees get sore after a day on the trail,” Boyer said. “It also offers cushioning in key areas for enhanced comfort.”
Best Hiking Boot for Overall Support
Shoe:KEEN Pyrenees Waterproof Hiking BootPrice: $180
Whether it’s feet, ankles, knees—or all of the above—that give you trouble, it might be time to invest in footwear offering comprehensive support. Trail specialist Hailey Harris recommends the KEEN Pyrenees Waterproof Hiking Boot.
“These boots extend above the ankle for improved support,” Harris said. “They also incorporate dual-density, compression-molded EVA midsoles that help absorb much of the joint-impact shock.”
Best GORE-TEX Hiking Boot
Shoe:La Sportiva TX Hike Mid GTXPrice: $179
GORE-TEX boots under $200 do exist. If you hike in wet or chilly conditions, spending a bit more on a true waterproof/breathable boot like the La Sportiva TX Hike Mid GTX is worthwhile.
“The men’s version features a GORE-TEX SURROUND 3-layer waterproof breathable laminate,” Harris said. “These boots include mesh panels on the sides to ventilate sweat. The women’s model uses a GORE-TEX extended comfort membrane that’s industry-approved.”
Best Trail-Running Hiking Shoe
Shoe:TerraFlex II All-Purpose Hiking ShoePrice: $110
If you like moving quickly on trails and mixing in trail runs, there’s a shoe built for that. Driscoll recommends the TerraFlex II All-Purpose Hiking Shoe.
“The upgraded welded upper boosts midfoot flexibility, and the wicking mesh keeps feet cool and dry,” Driscoll said. “The rugged outsole delivers confident traction, and the trail’s bumps feel diminished thanks to 3 mm of TrailFoam within the patented FeelTrue sole.”
Interested in hiking more often? Read about the benefits of hiking and find the best walking shoes to pair with your next trek.
Contributor: Maya Bennett writes regularly about outdoor gear, travel and lifestyle topics for Savinly.
