Hiking boots
Hiking boots are judged mainly on traction. Start with the price range that fits your budget.
How the hiking boots rankings work
Hiking boots are made to support the foot and ankle on uneven ground.
We rank 12 hiking boots in three price ranges: Smart Buy (under $150, 3 products), Sweet Spot ($150 to $250, 5 products), and Top Shelf (over $250, 4 products). Regular prices run from $79.99 to $390. Each ranking holds at most five products, and a product appears in one price range only.
Traction makes up 45% of every score and support and protection 25%. Weather protection, and durability count 15% each.
Scores come from manufacturer specifications, independent reviews and owner reviews. We do not test products in person. How we score.