Planning a Trek in Andalusia
Outdoor Activities | April 3, 2025
SAIL
May 15, 2024
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Your hiking shoes can be the difference between a great hike exploring the outdoors, and a miserable outing that ends in blisters and discomfort. Choosing them wisely is paramount. But with hundreds of models out there, how can you make sure you pick the right ones for your needs? The SAIL team is here to help! Have a look at our list of the best hiking shoes on the market, and the most innovative hiking shoe models.
In this article, you will discover 6 hiking shoes:
When it comes to outdoor footwear, Merrell needs no introduction. The brand produces some of the best quality hiking boots and shoes in the market, and its mission is to make the outdoors accessible to everyone. Its products are built to last, and the brand is focused on producing high performance gear.
The Moab 3 is famous amongst hikers, and this low-cut model is perfect for summer hikes thanks to the ventilation on the side of the shoe. It is said that these hiking shoes provide the stability, traction and support of a hiking boot, without the extra bulk. The Moab model is constantly reviewed and improved, and this version comes with a more supportive insole, added cushioning and shock absorption. Like Lowa, Merrell also uses a high-performance Vibram® outsole for guaranteed grip. Ethical shoppers will also be glad to know that several components of the Moab are made using recycled materials. Pro tip: the shoes can be a bit stiff at first, so make sure you break them in before setting off on your hike!
Salomon‘s initial focus in footwear was designing trail shoes, and it shows. The brand is known for its high-performance trail running shoes and durable boots, and most of its research and development efforts are concentrated on optimizing its trail footwear line.
The X Ultra 4 hiking shoes, also available in a Gore-Tex version, are breathable, provide excellent grip, and offer a perfect balance of stability and agility. The upper has polyester mesh panels for ventilation, while the insole and midsole provide superior cushioning and strong lateral foot support. The All-Terrain Contragrip® outsole is fitted with multi-directional lugs so hikers can venture on a wide variety of surfaces without worrying about slipping. What’s more, the Quicklace system allows for one-pull tightening so you can quickly put the shoes on and take them off.
The X Ultra 360 shoes are another great option for trails and light hikes on various types of terrain. They provide excellent protection and stability without restricting movement, and their All-Terrain Contragrip® outsole ensures a strong grip even on wet or slippery surfaces. These hiking shoes also provide extra value for eco-conscious shoppers: their upper is made from 50% recycled materials, and their midsole is crafted from recycled electrical cables.
Lowa has been making footwear for more than a hundred years. In addition to high quality standards, the brand also applies strict environmental and humanitarian criteria.
One of its staple models is the Renegade LO Gore-Tex. These hiking shoes are based on the classic Renegade, the best-selling hiking boot in Europe, which was re-engineered to create a low-cut model. Made using durable materials like nubuck leather and a breathable, durably waterproof Gore-Tex lining, these hiking shoes are perfect for muddy, wet, or overly dusty trails. Their grippy Vibram® outsole is well known for its optimal traction and lets you tackle various terrains. Not only does the Renegade LO provide plenty of grip, but it comes with a high level of comfort as well, particularly during ascents and descents.
For a sportier look and a dynamic trail running profile, look to another of the brand’s popular models: the Maddox Lo Gore-Tex hiking shoes. These versatile, waterproof and breathable shoes are an excellent choice for day hikes and other outdoor pursuits. They have wide lugs and a grippy outsole that is both sturdy and flexible, ensuring smooth rolling and pushing motions every time.
After six decades of outdoors-focused experience, it’s safe to say that Vasque knows a thing or two about hiking footwear. The brand is committed to making comfortable, durable, high-performance shoes to enhance every outdoor experience.
The Talus AT Low UltraDry hiking shoes are a perfect example of Vasque’s expertise. Versatile, lightweight and fully waterproof, they offer solid support and reliable, long-lasting protection. Their Vibram outsole ensures remarkable traction on all kinds of surfaces, wet or dry, and is designed to keep toes protected as you move through obstacles and tricky terrain. Vasque’s UltraDry construction, which features a moisture management lining and waterproof components, also creates a seal that keeps water and humidity at bay for hours on end. Whatever the trail and distance you take on, these hiking shoes keep your feet dry from start to finish and through all kinds of weather conditions.
Keen is committed to sustainability and has set up several initiatives that support both the planet and the people who live on it. The brand manufactures quality footwear that stands out for its comfort and durability, both amongst day hikers and backpackers.
The Keen Targhee hiking range is extensive, and there are lots of options to choose from. Low, mid, waterproof, breathable; shoes, boots, or sandals… All Targhee footwear boasts similar high-performance features in terms of support, comfort, grip, and durability, with certain specific variations between each model. The Targhee Vent hiking shoes, for instance, have mesh panels in their upper to keep the air flowing during effort and provide maximum breathability. They are also equipped with Keen’s Eco Anti-Odor technology, a feature not to be underestimated when hiking in the summer. The Targhee IV hiking shoes also provide great breathability, plus extra protection from the elements, thanks to the reliable Keen.Dry waterproof and breathable membrane.
Columbia is known for its reliable outdoor gear, and footwear is no exception. The brand is constantly trying to find new ways to improve the quality of its products and tailor them to a wide range of hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. There is even a convenient footwear-finder tool on its website to help you find the perfect model for your needs.
One of Columbia’s most popular hiking shoe models is the Crestwood. In addition to being dependable and durable, the Crestwood and Crestwood Vent shoes are lightweight, sturdy, and provide great traction. Their upper is crafted from a combination of durable leather, mesh panels for air circulation, and webbing (with extra ventilation in the Vent models). These shoes also offer excellent cushioning and a strong grip thanks to the lightweight Techlight™ midsole and the Omni-Grip™ non-marking rubber outsole. They come with a reasonable price tag, with no compromise on quality.
Founded and operated by hiking enthusiasts, Oboz designs top-quality footwear with a focus on comfort, durability, and peak performance on the trails. Famous for its sustainable practices, the brand is notably committed to planting a tree for every pair of boots or shoes sold.
The Sawtooth range is Oboz’s best-selling collection, and it has been for over a decade. These hiking boots and shoes offer breathability, cushioning, and stability, plus effective protection against water and mud in the case of waterproof models. All Sawtooth footwear comes with the brand’s proprietary O Fit insole, moulded to perfectly match each shoe’s shape and construction for the best fit, comfort, and performance. Built to handle whatever the trails have in store, these shoes offer both support and flexibility, along with outstanding grip and slip resistance. The Sawtooth X Low hiking shoes are designed with a lower profile and allow for ease of movement and agility, while still offering great support and protection.
Also with a low profile and a supportive and durable construction, the Katabatic Low hiking shoes are lightweight and highly breathable. They provide a smooth and comfortable fit, for the ultimate feeling of freedom as you navigate the trails. Great for hiking and trekking (with the bonus of having a casual, go-anywhere look), they also make excellent trail running shoes thanks to their efficient energy return and exceptional grip.
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