The Best Trail Running Shoes of 2026
Trail running | June 17, 2026
SAIL
June 23, 2026
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Looking to trade asphalt for the great outdoors? Whether you’re after women’s or men’s hiking boots, finding the best pair requires going through an extensive list of criteria. Each brand brings its own unique style and technology to the table, giving its boots different features and benefits.
To help you make the right choice among the 2026 models, we’ve rounded up the seven most popular brands, along with some of their best products. Get ready to lace up and hit the trail with style and confidence.
In this article, you will discover the best 2026 hiking boot models from these 7 must-have brands:
You may immediately have an image in mind when you hear the name Merrell, and that’s because this hiking leader stands out for the style, versatility and remarkable durability of its shoes and boots. A trusted name in hiking for over 40 years, the brand keeps refining its products and broadening its range to further meet the needs of outdoor enthusiasts.
From longtime hikers seeking a classic, reliable model, to new and occasional hikers looking for a safe bet that will last for many years, everyone can find exactly what they need with Merrell.
Loved by millions of hikers, the Moab 3 stands out for its cushioning, durability and versatility. Its contoured insole offers solid arch support, while the reinforced heel absorbs shock effectively on rough terrain. Built with a breathable waterproof membrane, the Moab 3 keeps feet dry through mud or unpredictable weather. This popular model also comes in a wide-fit version to suit different foot shapes.
Here, Merrell combines the protective DNA of its Moab lineup with the lightweight feel of a trail runner. Built for steep elevation changes and quick movements, the Moab Speed 2 delivers excellent agility. Its Gore-Tex membrane keeps water out, while the Vibram outsole with 4 mm lugs grips the terrain for solid traction. This boot is a perfect choice for modern hikers who want to move fast through the forest without sacrificing ankle support.
Lowa’s story began more than a century ago in a small Bavarian workshop. Today, the brand is firmly established and continues to craft its products by hand in Europe to high-quality standards, while supporting fair working conditions for the craftspeople behind its reputation.
Lowa is right for you if you’re drawn to adventure and seek performance and quality that measure up to the peaks you take on.
A true benchmark in the hiking world, the Lowa Renegade now comes in an “Evo” version, offering even more comfort without straying from what made it so popular. This rugged leather hiking boot features a highly waterproof, breathable Gore-Tex lining. Its reworked support frame wraps the foot perfectly for optimal stability on technical trails, while still allowing full ease of movement. With its cushioned foam midsole, it delivers lasting comfort, making it ideal for long hikes.
Designed specifically for hikers looking for agility, the Lowa Explorer Mid combines rugged, stylish suede with ultralight textile inserts. Its foam midsole offers excellent energy return and soft cushioning that reduces fatigue buildup over long distances. This boot is an ideal choice for hikers seeking maximum ankle support without the weight of a traditional heavy leather boot.
Salomon has been equipping outdoor enthusiasts for more than 75 years. In addition to having expanded to other winter sports fields (cross-country skiing, ski touring, snowboarding, etc.), the brand introduced its line of hiking footwear in 1992. Given this expertise, it’s safe to say that some of the best hiking boots for women and men today bear the Salomon seal.
If you like having fun in the great outdoors and have a taste for innovation and technological advancements, the French brand may be right for you.
Building on the success of the X Ultra lineup, the new X Ultra 360 Gore-Tex offers increased stability and protection while keeping the agility of a trail runner. Thanks to the Advanced Chassis™ system, it protects the joints on the outside of the foot without restricting natural movement. With its Gore-Tex membrane and All Terrain Contagrip® outsole, it keeps feet dry in all conditions and delivers effective traction across a wide range of surfaces.
Heading out on a long expedition or tackling tough terrain? You need the Quest 4 hiking boots. Their ADV-C 4D chassis offers exceptional underfoot stability and ankle support, guiding your stride and reducing fatigue, especially when carrying a heavy load. A Contagrip® outsole with deep, aggressive lugs and a durable rubber compound ensures confident traction in any conditions. And for added toughness, nothing beats the long-lasting performance of nubuck leather.
“Commitment” is truly a word that defines Keen. Founded in Oregon in 2003 and known for its famous Newport sandal, the company makes constant social and environmental efforts that have a positive impact. For a decade now, it has worked to eliminate the use of fluorinated compounds known as PFAS, synthetic chemicals that are harmful to the environment and humans, and replace them with safer materials.
If an environmentally conscious brand that makes reliable, high-quality products strikes a chord with you, then Keen is an excellent choice. It is also ideal for those who enjoy family hikes, with hiking boots and shoes available for both kids and adults.
A real modern shift for the lineup, the Targhee Apex moves away from traditional heavy leather in favour of an ultralight hybrid design, somewhere between a trail running shoe and a trekking boot. It features the waterproof, breathable KEEN.DRY membrane along with a high-performance mesh upper to handle mud and moisture without sacrificing agility. The KEEN.ReGENX midsole delivers an impressive 70% energy return to power each stride, while KEEN.PROTECT toe protection keeps rocks from getting in the way. An ideal choice for hikers looking for speed on rough trails, this comfortable boot offers Keen’s signature roomy fit.
Described by Keen as the last hiking boots you’ll have to buy, the Targhee IV is built for the long haul. Every detail is designed with durability in mind, from the fused construction that won’t delaminate to the Luftcell midsole that stays responsive hike after hike. The abrasion-resistant outsole delivers dependable traction, while the reinforced upper and stability features offer lasting support. Whether you’re tackling rocky trails or logging serious miles, these boots were built to keep up.
Salewa has truly made its mark in the mountain activities world by creating reliable, high-performance products for hiking, climbing and mountaineering. Specializing in alpine sports gear, the brand has been using its expertise and skills since 2005 to develop a range of hiking boots and shoes. With a focus on lightness, support and comfort, this footwear can help you pile up the kilometres and reach the highest peaks.
Salewa is aimed at explorers and all those who like to discover new trails with a versatile pair of shoes on their feet. If lightness and optimal support are among your main concerns, the brand may have the hiking boots you need.
The Alp Trainer 2 is specially designed for rocky, technical terrain. Its Vibram® Alpine Hiking outsole delivers serious grip on wet rock, mud or loose scree. The Gore-Tex lining ensures complete waterproofing when crossing streams or caught in sudden downpours. Thanks to Salewa’s patented 3F System, this model offers firm ankle support and reliable stability on rough terrain, while also delivering lasting comfort on long hikes.
Known for pushing the limits of mountain gear, The North Face brings fresh energy to the hiking boot market this year. The brand offers sporty, ergonomic designs, perfect for those who want the agility of a trail running shoe without sacrificing the protection of a boot.
If you’re looking for a lightweight feel without compromising on durability or all-terrain performance, The North Face is well worth a look.
Designed for those who love exploring beyond the beaten path, The North Face Offtrail Hike LT focuses on agility and versatility. Its lightweight, tear-resistant upper is reinforced in key areas to protect the foot from various obstacles. The midsole delivers dynamic cushioning with every stride, while the high-traction lugs grip firmly on loose or slippery terrain. It’s the perfect model for fast hikers tackling a mix of terrains.
Built for hikers who love to rack up the kilometres at a steady pace, the Fastpack combines the lightness of a running shoe with the protection of a hiking boot. It features the exclusive DryVent™ membrane, known for its complete waterproofing and tried-and-tested breathability during intense sessions. The ultralight foam midsole offers dynamic support and instant comfort, while the outsole delivers solid traction on rough or muddy trails.
Run by the third generation of the Zamberlan family, this Italian company has been making high-quality handcrafted hiking boots for almost a century. Innovation, performance, quality materials and craftsmanship have always been at the forefront and are still key concerns for the brand today. Each pair of boots and shoes is a testament to handcrafted quality, attention to detail and thoughtful design—all signature features of this enduring brand that is here to stay.
If you’re seeking distinctive, dependable, high-quality hiking boots, Zamberlan has what it takes to please you.
Built for hikers who won’t compromise on protection, the Thunder Pro Gore-Tex is built tough through and through. Its tall upper combines premium Hydrobloc®-treated leather with rugged toe and heel reinforcements to shield the foot from obstacles and debris. The Gore-Tex membrane keeps your feet perfectly dry through bad weather, mud or wet grass. With excellent ankle support and reliable protection in any conditions, this boot is ideal for fall hunting trips or demanding multi-day treks.
The Trail Lite Gore-Tex proves that a leather boot can be incredibly rugged and surprisingly lightweight at the same time. Made from a single piece of full-grain leather to keep seams to a minimum and eliminate pressure points, it hugs the shape of the foot for instant comfort right from the first wear. Its upper is also treated to resist moisture, and its Gore-Tex lining acts as an impenetrable barrier against water. The sole delivers a smooth, natural stride along with strong shock absorption. Ideal for travelling and long days on the trail, this timeless-looking boot offers stability and lasting comfort.
