Hiking Boots That are Breathable and Ready for Summer
Hit the trails and your stride in any one of these comfortable, rugged, and tough hiking boots.
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With the weather warming up and the days at their longest, it should come as no surprise that people are starting to hit the hiking trails again. Whether you’re a lightweight day hiker or a heavy-duty backpacker or someone simply looking to mix up their exercise routine with a change of scenery, choosing the right hiking boot is critical.
Comfort, support, and, let’s be honest, style are all important factors when selecting a boot that has the one job of performance. No one wants to be halfway through a hike and feel that dreaded blister forming on their heel. Luckily, there’s a list below of the best hiking boots that are breathable and ready for summer.
Northside Women’s Freemont Waterproof Hiking Boot
Image: Camping World
Features: Waterproof, Removable Insoles, Moisture-Wicking
Closure: Lace-Up
Midsole: Compression-Molded EVA
Outsole: Multi-Directional Rubber
Shoe Height: Ankle
For a boot that has it all, the Freemont from Northside answers the call. These boots are stylish, they’re lightweight, and they’re waterproof. Check, check, check! Perfect for day trips, weekend hikes, new and old trails alike, these boots have a rugged ankle-high suede upper with a breathable mesh and elastic nylon webbing. Comfort is always a priority, but it shouldn’t sacrifice support which definitely doesn’t happen here. You get the best of both thanks to flexible ripstop nylon inserts, an abrasion-resistant textured toe, and arch reinforcements with a heel stabilizer. Your feet will stay dry from the moisture-wicking lining so no more sweaty hiker’s foot at the end of the day.
Northside Men’s Gresham Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
Image: Camping World
Features: Abrasion-Resistant, Breathable, Waterproof, Removable Insoles, Moisture-Wicking
Closure: Lace-Up
Midsole: Compression-Molded EVA
Outsole: Multi-Directional TPR
Shoe Height: Ankle
Much like the Women’s Freemont, the Men’s Gresham Hiking Boot is the perfect addition to any hiker’s wardrobe. Whether it’s an all-day excursion or a quick trip to the lumber yard, these boots boast rugged style and supreme performance. A gusseted tongue keeps debris from collecting inside and the moisture-wicking lining keeps your feet dry, both adding to the comfort level you should expect and will, undoubtedly, appreciate. The multi-directional TPR outsole absorbs shock on rough terrain and offers traction in all conditions, so you can take in the views around you instead of constantly worrying about your feet.
KEEN Women’s Targhee II Hiking Boot
Image: Camping World
Features: Anti-Odor, Breathable Mesh, Waterproof
Closure: Lace-Up
Midsole: Dual-Density Compression-Molded EVA
Outsole: Non-Marking Rubber
Shoe Height: Over the Ankle
Constructed of waterproof nubuck leather for the upper portion and a non-marking rubber on the outsole, the Targhee II will have you wanting to lace up and hit the trail more than ever before. A contoured heel lock supports your foot, and the dual-density compression-molded EVA midsole delivers comfort every step of the way. While the hydrophobic mesh lining keeps your feet dry during the hike, it’s the NXT odor control technology from KEEN that is the star of the show with these boots. Stinky feet aren’t fun. You know it. I know it. KEEN knows it, which is why they built a remedy right into the construction, so you (and everyone around) never have to worry about it.
Northside Men’s Rockford Mid Waterproof Leather Hiking Boot
Image: Camping World
Features: Waterproof, Moisture-Wicking
Closure: Lace-Up
Upper Material: Embossed Leather
Outsole: Polyurethane
Shoe Height: Ankle
If superior performance is at the top of your wish list, then you can successfully call of the search. The Rockford Hiking Boot features an unmatched marriage of a durable injected polyurethane outsole combined with a distressed leather waterproof upper that defines performance. Don’t for a second think that comfort wasn’t considered in the construction because the cushioned PU insole cradles the natural contours of your foot for a tailored fit. What’s not to like? The speed lacing system allows for easy, quick, and secure adjustments, so you can spend less time fumbling with your boots and more time discovering new trails.
KEEN Women’s Voyageur Mid Hiking Boot
Image: Gander Outdoors
Features: Anti-Odor, Water-Resistant
Closure: Lace-Up
Midsole: Dual-Density Compression-Molded EVA
Outsole: Non-Marking Rubber
Shoe Height: Ankle
When talking about breathability and summer-ready, the Voyageur wins both races. Mesh insets help keep the boots ventilated so everything you want to escape does so and everything you want to keep in, like stability and security, stays inside. A metatomical footbed is designed specifically with comfort in mind and provides arch support from beginning to end of every trail. Remember the NXT odor control I mentioned earlier? These boots have it, too. You’re welcome.
Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
Image: Gander Outdoors
Features: Breathable Mesh, Waterproof
Closure: Lace-Up
Midsole: EVA / Air Cushion Heel
Outsole: Vibram TC5+ Rubber Compound
Shoe Height: Over the Ankle
Fresh out of the box, you get durability and support and comfort with Merrell’s Moab 2 Hiking Boot. It’s true. The performance suede leather and mesh upper is extremely breathable and durable all at the same time. A rubber toe cap provides protection and stability, while the M Select Dry technology sheds external moisture and lets internal moisture escape for a cool, dry hike every time.
Feel free to explore those rocky roads, too, with these boots on your feet since the Merrell Air Cushion EVA midsole absorbs all the shock your path may have while still delivering the comfort and stability I keep talking about. Zonal arch and heel support? Got it. EVA contoured footbed? You bet. The best part? The advanced rubber compound of the Vibram TC5+ outsole ensures you’re sure-footed on both wet and dry surfaces. Plus, it flexes naturally since none of the 5mm lugs are under the arch. These boots are going to be your new favorite pair.
Whether you’re replacing an old, worn-out pair or choosing your very first set of hiking boots, rest assured knowing there are plenty of options that have your best interest in mind, so you’re fully equipped to put your best foot forward. The trails are waiting! See you out there.
