While on the trail, hiking boots are vital in providing the necessary comfort and performance. Instead of opting for stiff boots, you should try and use boots constructed of a lighter material and those that offer decent support. Waterproof boots are generally sought after, and some may opt for non-waterproof boots if they are trekking in dry areas. Typically, the best hiking boots cheap need to suffice the needs of fastpacking, backpacking, and durability in rough terrain.
What are the best hiking boots cheap?
Depending on whether you are on a day hike or traversing a backpacking route, having the right pair of hiking boots is essential to protect your feet and stabilize your ankles. Typically, a good pair of hiking boots should offer decent traction and support. It should ideally be made of waterproof and breathable materials. After extensive research on the available models in the market, I have comprised a list of hiking boots under different categories.
Best hiking boots cheap overall – SALOMON Men’s Quest 4 GTX High Rise Hiking Boots
Product Dimensions: 10 x 4.02 x 3.5 inches; 12.35 Ounces
Salomon is a French sports equipment brand that has been manufacturing hiking apparel since 1947. Salomon as a brand is passionate about outdoor sports, new technologies, and craftsmanship to create progressive gear so that you can enjoy the great outdoors. These hiking boots come with a rubber sole and have a shaft that measures approximately from ankle to arch. It features GORE-TEX which helps in keeping your feet dry from the outside, and on the inside. It also gets Contagrip TD which provides decent traction on all sorts of terrain and it provides extended traction coupled with a deep and aggressive lug pattern. These boots also have ADV-C 4D chassis which keeps outer ankle articulations safe and protected. These boots provide decent stability and heel support which is handy while carrying heavier loads.
What I liked
- Its cushioned insole and supportive midsole are designed for comfort.
- It has a GORE-TEX membrane that offers waterproof and breathable protection to keep your feet dry and comfortable.
- It has a synthetic upper and rubber outsole which enhances the durability of these boots.
- It has a high-rise design that provides decent ankle support with a lacing system that adjusts the fit for optimal support and stability.
- These boots are suitable for outdoor activities like hiking, backpacking, and trail running.
What I disliked
- It is pricier than other hiking boots on the market.
- The high-rise design and durable materials make these boots heavier than other hiking boots.
- Many hikers find these boots to be stiff.
- The fit of these boots is too narrow and it could cause discomfort or blisters.
- The rubber outsole might not provide exceptional traction compared to other boots.
Best for women overall – Salomon Women’s Quest
Product Dimensions: 12 x 14 x 5 inches; 3.2 Pounds
Salomon Women’s Quest is a popular hiking boot for women. These boots have an opening that measures around 10.5 inches. These are waterproof backpacking boots that are purposely designed for long expeditions and challenging conditions. These boots are grippy and supportive, and the chassis targets sensitive articulations which wrap the foot for added support. This hiking boot is lightweight and has cushion making them ideal for trail running and backpacking. These boots are also well suited for day hikes or multi-day adventures. Salomon is a well-known brand that manufactures innovative hiking boots for women.
What I liked
- It is comfortable and can be worn all day without any discomfort.
- Built with high-quality materials, it is durable even for frequent hiking.
- The outsole offers decent traction on all terrains.
- These boots offer decent ankle support and it can prevent injuries on rough terrain.
- The Gore-Tex lining keeps your feet dry even in wet conditions.
What I disliked
- These boots are relatively heavy and bulky.
- The boots can feel stiff which will take time to get used to.
- The sizing is not accurate.
- It is not an affordable option.
Best hiking boots cheap (affordability) – Merrell Men’s Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
Product Dimensions: 10 x 15 x 6 inches; 2 Pounds
Merrell Men’s Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is a good option for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. These hiking boots get a rubber sole and a heel that approximately measures 1 inch. Featuring a waterproof membrane that seals out water and allows moisture to escape the pig skin leather, it also gets an upper mesh with 100% recycled laces and the webbing bellows tongue keeps the debris away. It also has a protective toe cap that uses 100% recycled mesh lining.
These boots feature an advanced kinetic fit with a removable contoured insole and it also gets reinforced heel cushioning for medium support. It also gets a molded nylon arch shank with Merrell air cushion in the heel which absorbs shock. It provides decent stability and has a lightweight EVA foam midsole which provides stability and comfort.
What I liked
- These boots have a waterproof membrane that keeps your feet dry even in wet conditions.
- This boot gets a comfortable fit and decent support for your feet and ankles.
- Constructed with high-quality materials, like a Vibram outsole, it offers impressive traction and resistance to wear and tear.
- The upper mesh of this boot has good airflow and prevents your feet from getting hot and sweaty during hikes.
- It is suitable in all sorts of terrains and it can be used for hiking.
What I disliked
- Does not have sufficient insulation for extreme cold or harsh terrain.
- It comes only in limited color options. The sizing
- is not accurate.
- Laces may get undone easily and it can cause inconvenience during hikes.
Best (affordability) for women – KEEN Women’s Targhee 3 Mid-Height Waterproof Hiking Boots
Package Dimensions: 13.35 x 9.25 x 5.35 inches; 1.75 Pounds
Made with 100% fabric, these hiking boots come with a rubber sole. It has a shaft that approximately measures from the ankle to the arch. The Keen Dry has a waterproof and breathable membrane that keeps your feet dry and comfortable. This allows vapor to come out without allowing water to get in.
These boots also feature Keen all-terrain rubber outsole which provides generous traction in muddy conditions and even on rocky terrain. Featuring non-marking rubber outsoles which leave no traces while walking indoors, it also has an external support shank with a mid-cut height which adds ankle support and balance on uneven surfaces. It also has a contoured heel which provides added stability.
What I liked
- These boots have KEEN DRY technology which makes these boots waterproof and ideal for hiking in wet conditions.
- This boot has a comfortable footbed, an EVA midsole, a padded tongue, and a collar that offers cushioning and support on long hikes.
- The boots have a rugged outsole which helps in offering excellent grip and traction on varying terrains.
- Built with high-quality materials, like leather, and an upper mesh, it can withstand wear and tear during hiking activities.
- It comes in multiple colors, and it has a stylish design that can be worn for everyday activities including hiking.
What I disliked
- It is not the lightest hiking boot on the market, and hikers may find them bulky for long hikes.
- These boots are not as breathable as other hiking boots, this can cause them to have sweaty feet in hot and humid weather.
- The sizing of the boot can be inconsistent and users may find it narrow and small.
- These boots may require a break-in period to become comfortable for long periods.
Best hiking boots cheap for off-trail hiking – La Sportiva Mens Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX Hiking Shoe
These boots get a rubber sole and are made for hikers who wish to have protective boots that support light to medium loads. These boots are ideal for light and fast trail running. The GORE-TEX waterproof protection helps in keeping your feet dry. Its breathable lining and microfiber mudguards give protection from trail elements. These boots are available in both regular and wide widths which helps in accommodating broader feet.
These boots have an innovative lacing system that distributes the tension evenly. They also get a Frixion XT 2.0 outsole with an impact brake system which helps to provide good amounts of traction and stability. It performs well on slick trails and uneven terrain, and its anti-shock rubber toe cap protects your toes from obstacles on the trail. These boots provide decent ankle support and the reinforced heel cup gives stability to backpackers who traverse rugged and rocky terrains.
What I liked
- This shoe has a Gore-Tex membrane that offers seamless waterproofing to keep your feet dry even in wet conditions.
- This shoe has an EVA midsole and an Ortholite insole that provides impressive cushioning and support.
- Built with robust materials, this shoe has a reinforced toe and heel that makes it durable and long-lasting.
- It gets a Vibram sole that offers excellent traction on any surface including wet and slippery terrain.
- It is breathable which allows your feet to remain cool and dry after strenuous activities.
What I disliked
- This is a high-end hiking boot, and it is expensive compared to other hiking boots in the market.
- It is on the bulky side and may not appeal to those who wish to have a lightweight hiking boot.
- This boot can be stiff causing discomfort initially.
- The shoe can be narrow for some users.
- The lacing system can be difficult to adjust.
Best off-trail hiking (Women’s) – Vivobarefoot Tracker Forest Esc, Womens Off-Road Hiking Boot with Barefoot Sole
Package Dimensions : 12.6 x 10 x 4.72 inches; 1.64 Pounds
Vivobarefoot is a footwear brand that was founded in 2004. Its shoes are designed to mimic the feeling of being barefoot. These boots have a tracker forest ESC which is designed to work in harmony with nature and it allows you to connect with the most extreme forest and off-trail conditions. These boots are created in collaboration with wilderness experts from Wild Human and the independent adventurer, so If you intend on traversing the off-trail path these boots will be a trustworthy hiking partner. The upper part of the boot is constructed with wild hide leather and these boots offer decent protection which helps you achieve the maximum on your trail. The soft leather in these boots provides decent comfort and provides decent protection from loose debris and rocks.
Made with durable leather these boots experience minimum wear and tear so you can completely rely on these boots in all conditions. These boots also have a sandwich lining which allows air to circulate more freely in the boot and keeps moisture away from your skin. In case moisture forms in your boot, it will eventually pass through the pores of the leather which minimizes the risks of wear and tear. These boots are perfect for cold, warm, and wet conditions, and the upper part has a lacing system that locks down the midfoot to reduce slippage in the shoes. It also gets directional claw-like lugs which are positioned for ascents, descents, and traction while traversing steep inclines.
What I liked
- The barefoot design of this boot offers a natural feel and it promotes better balance and agility while hiking.
- It is purposely designed for off-road hiking and it is suitable for all terrains.
- Constructed with lightweight materials, it reduces foot fatigue after long hikes.
- Vivobarefoot is a brand that uses sustainable materials and eco-friendly production processes. The brand also uses recycled and bio-based materials.
- This boot is built to last and it has a durable design that can withstand wear and tear after regular hiking.
What I disliked
- The design of the boot offers minimal protection against the elements.
- These boots get minimal cushioning and they may not be supportive for sensitive feet. The sizing
- of these boots can be inconsistent.
- It is more expensive than other hiking boots.
- The minimal design of these boots does not offer the necessary ankle support.
Best hiking boots cheap for mountain climbing – SCARPA Men’s Zodiac Tech GTX Waterproof Gore-Tex Boots for Hiking and Mountaineering
Product Dimensions : 14 x 11 x 5 inches; 1.56 Pounds
Founded in 1938, they build products known for being durable, innovative, and high in quality. These hiking boots are 100% suede, and it gets a rubber sole. The shaft roughly measures six inches from the arch, and it is technical to tackle mountains and hilly regions. This hiking boot is lightweight and with the Zodiac tech, it helps you in mountaineering for all seasons.
It has a full-rubber rand and this helps in maximizing protection without compromising on its performance. It also has a GORE-TEX performance comfort which allows for easy trekking irrespective of the weather. These boots also get a sock-fit construction meaning it gets a one-piece tongue that comes mated to the ankle collar helping to create a seamless fit.
What I liked
- It uses Gore-Tex technology which keeps your feet dry in wet conditions.
- Built with high-quality materials, it is durable to withstand hiking and mountaineering.
- It has a Vibram sole that offers excellent traction even on slippery surfaces.
- It is designed for hiking and mountaineering and it is a preferred choice amongst outdoor enthusiasts.
- It has a padded collar and tongue, the insole offers generous cushioning and all-day comfort.
- The lacing system helps in giving a customized fit and prevents from developing blisters, and enhances overall comfort.
What I disliked
- It is heavier than other hiking boots which makes it less comfortable for long hikes or expeditions.
- It is stiff and less flexible compared to other hiking boots.
- These are high-end hiking boots making it more expensive than regular boots.
Best hiking boots cheap mountain climbing for women – SCARPA Women’s Mont Blanc Pro GTX Waterproof Gore-Tex Boots for Hiking and Mountaineering
Product Dimensions : 14 x 14 x 5 inches; 1 Pounds
Scarpa is an Italian brand known for its high-performance footwear for hiking, mountaineering, skiing, and climbing. These boots get a rubber sole and they are lightweight mountaineering boots that are constructed using Perwanger leather combined with Schoeller integrated gaiter. It also gets a full-rubber rand which maximizes protection without any compromise on performance.
It also gets GORE-TEX insulated comfort which comes with waterproofing and features built-in insulation. This helps in keeping your feet dry and warm the whole day. These boots also get Vibram essential AC outsole and it gets a newly redesigned lug pattern which optimizes grip and stability and eliminates the build-up of snow.
Pros
- With a Gore-Tex membrane, the boots are waterproof making them suitable for wet and snowy conditions.
- Built with high-quality materials, it features durable construction that can withstand the wear and tear of mountaineering.
- These boots offer a comfortable fit and it is designed to offer support and stability during long hikes and climbs.
- These boots are ideal for hiking and mountaineering, so there is no need to invest in separate footwear for other activities.
Cons
- Being a high-end hiking boot makes it expensive.
- These boots are heavy and it can cause discomfort when you intend on moving quickly or over long distances.
- It is designed to offer support and stability, this makes the user experience stiffness and flexibility issues during long hikes.
- Sizing is not accurate, and the boots might run smaller than the original fit.
Best hiking boots cheap for lightweight hiking – Salomon X Ultra Mid 4 Gore-Tex
Product Dimensions : 13 x 10 x 5 inches; 14.99 Ounces
Salomon has a wide portfolio of products like – trail running shoes, hiking boots, ski and snowboard gear, apparel, and accessories. These boots get a rubber outsole and the heel measures around 1 inch. These are waterproof hiking shoes that help in traversing hills and descents with the mid-height X Ultra 4 GTX. These boots are also ideal for trail running and provide the necessary stability, grip, and waterproof protection. These boots also have an all-terrain grip and it is equipped with the latest chassis and which helps in protecting against wet and slippery conditions.
Depending on whether you experience a local day hike or are exploring the trails for extended periods, these boots help in innovative hiking and backpacking. So, irrespective of whether you intend on using them for trail running, hiking, or backpacking these boots will take you closer to exploring new territories.
What I liked
- The Gore-Tex membrane in these boots keeps your feet dry in wet conditions.
- The padded collar, tongue, and cushioned midsole gives a comfortable fit.
- It has a Contagrip sole which offers excellent grip and traction on a multitude of surfaces.
- It is a lightweight boot making it easy to cover long hikes.
- Built with durable materials that makes these boots last a long time.
What I disliked
- It is relatively more expensive than other hiking boots.
- This boot is too stiff which can be bothersome while hiking on rocky terrain.
- The Gore-Tex membrane limits breathability which can cause your feet to sweat in humid conditions.
- Some hikers find these boots to be too narrow making them prone to blisters and discomfort.
- The design lacks ankle support, so carrying heavy loads can be bothersome.
Best hiking boots cheap lightweight hiking for women – Salomon Women’s X Ultra Pioneer Aero Hiking Shoes Trail Running
Package Dimensions: 11.81 x 8.5 x 4.37 inches; 1.71 Pounds
Founded in 1947 in France, Salomon has emerged as a market leader in outdoor sports equipment and clothing. These boots come with a rubber sole and they have an advanced chassis that is placed between the outsole and midsole. This lightweight chassis helps in optimizing motion control, energy management, and protection for an efficient, stable, and responsive ride. These boots feature regular laces with eyelets. They also have a SensiFit which cradles the foot from the midsole to the lacing system.
What I liked
- These shoes are lightweight which makes it easier to hike in.
- These shoes have a breathable upper mesh to keep your feet cool and comfortable.
- Built with durable materials, it features a protective toe cap to prevent damage during hiking.
- It gets a Contagrip outsole which offers generous traction on wet and slippery surfaces.
- Having a cushioned midsole, and a padded collar helps deliver a comfortable feel.
What I disliked
- These boots have a narrow fit, and they can cause discomfort for people with wide feet.
- It is available in limited colors and might not appeal to someone looking for more options.
- It is not waterproof, so it could be problematic while traversing wet regions.
- It is on the expensive side and it might not be affordable for everyone.
Best hiking boots cheap for waterproof protection – La Sportiva Mens Nucleo High II GTX Hiking Boots
Package Dimensions: 15 x 11 x 7 inches; 2.5 Pounds
La Sportiva is an Italian brand that specializes in high-quality outdoor footwear, clothing, and accessories. Founded in 1928, it has emerged to become one of the most reputed brands in the outdoor industry. These are waterproof hiking boots that offer the ultimate combination of durability, protection, and comfort. These boots have an upper portion made of durable Nubuck leather which provides protection and the Nano cell delivers optimized breathability. These boots have a waterproof gore-tex surround membrane which enhances the breathability and keeps your feet dry and allows heat and sweat to escape and keep your feet cool.
The Vibram Nano XS-Trek sole gives unparalleled traction and a grip with large lugs. It also gets a compression molded EVA foam midsole cushion which gives a stiff insert and provides support for hiking with a pack. It also has a 3D flex ankle hinge which reduces the break-in time and offers enhanced mobility. These are available in both medium and wide widths which delivers comfort for long days on the trail.
What I liked
- These boots have a durable upper portion and a Gore-Tex membrane that keeps your feet dry and comfortable in wet circumstances.
- It is a lightweight boot making it suitable for long hikes and backpacking trips.
- It features a Vibram outsole that offers decent traction on rocky and uneven terrain.
- The upper leather and Vibram outsole make these boots durable and long-lasting
What I disliked
- The boots are narrow for wide feet.
- The boots require a break-in period so as to be comfortable to wear.
- Does not perform well in extreme weather.
Best hiking boots cheap waterproof protection for women – Merrell Women’s Siren Traveller 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
Package Dimensions : 11.18 x 9.45 x 4.49 inches; 1.7 Pounds
Merrel is a renowned outdoor brand that specializes in casual footwear, apparel, and accessories. These boots are made of 100% leather and it gets a rubber sole with a shaft that measures approximately from ankle to arch. It has a boot opening that measures around six inches and it also has a waterproof membrane that seals the water and allows the moisture to escape. It has an upper portion made of full-grain leather and it has a metal hook with a traditional lace closure.
The bellow tongue keeps debris away and it also has a breathable mesh lining. It comes with a kinetic fit base and a removable contoured insole for added flexibility. It also gets a Merrel air cushion in the heel which absorbs shock and enhances stability. These boots also get a lightweight EVA foam midsole with softer zones which reduces pronation.
What I liked
- These boots have a contoured insole and a padded collar to provide extra comfort and support on long hikes.
- It gets a waterproof membrane with sealed seams to keep your feet dry in wet conditions.
- It is suitable to handle any terrain and heavy-duty usage.
- The leather and upper mesh offer durability and protection, and the Vibram outsole offers traction and stability.
- It is available in varying color options.
What I disliked
- Sizing is not precise.
- Users have reported the boots to be stiff.
- The waterproof membrane keeps your feet dry.
- Priced higher than other hiking boots in the market.
Best hiking boots cheap zero drop – ALTRA Men’s AL0A7R6U Lone Peak All-WTHR Mid 2 Trail Running Shoe
Funded in 2010, Altra is a footwear company that specializes in running shoes and athletic footwear. These boots come with a rubber sole and it allows you to be comfortable as it uses the Signature Altra FootShape. These have toe boxes that allow your toes to spread. It also encourages proper and low-impact form throughout your run. It helps you to go further as it uses a balanced cushioning platform that paces the heel and forefoot at the same distance from the ground.
This encourages low-impact landings and since it uses highly-cushioned Altra EGO midsole, it gets the support needed for high-intensity trail days. It helps you to stay focused and with its MaxTrac outsole and multi-directional TrailClaw lug pattern, it provides grippy traction, which helps in focusing on the trail before you.
What I liked
- The roomy toe box in the boot allows natural foot movement and the cushioned midsole offers generous shock absorption optimizing the overall comfort.
- The outsole of the shoe provides excellent traction on many surfaces because of the multi-directional lug pattern.
- It has a tough and durable construction, it also gets a waterproof upper that can withstand harsh weather on any terrain.
- The upper portion of the boot is made of breathable fabric and it keeps your foot cool.
- The shoe has a zero-drop platform that offers a natural alignment to the foot, and it reduces the risk of injuries.
What I disliked
- The boots are relatively heavy and it could cause discomfort.
- The boot feels stiff and it might be tough to get used to.
- It comes in limited color options.
- It is a relatively expensive boot.
- Finding the right size could be tricky.
Best hiking boots cheap zero drops for women – WHITIN Women’s Barefoot & Minimalist Shoe | Zero Drop Sole | Trail Runner
Package Dimensions : 9.8 x 7.72 x 3.58 inches; 1.01 Pounds
Whitin is a footwear brand that focuses on athletic shoes, casual shoes, and outdoor shoes. Their portfolio includes – running shoes, hiking shoes, and sneakers. These boots get a rubber sole and have a zero-drop, non-elevated sole which helps in getting the correct posture and balance. This boot features an adjustable hook and loop closure which helps in giving it a more secure fit.
It also has a removable sock liner (insole) if you intend on getting a more barefoot feeling. It also gets a wide toe box which is flexible allowing your feet to bend, move, and flex the way you want. Getting the right size will give you the best comfort.
What I liked
- This zero-drop sole of the boot offers a natural and barefoot feel that can improve the balance and posture of your feet and leg muscles.
- These boots have a minimalist design which enhances agility and speed while hiking.
- Built with breathable materials, it keeps your foot dry and cool.
What I disliked
- It gets minimal cushioning which could cause discomfort for people on the foot or joints.
- Since it has a minimalist design, it provides little support for the feet.
- The thin sole provides protection on softer trails and it does not provide proper protection on rocky or uneven terrain.
Factors affecting best hiking boots cheap –
Value –
Getting the best boots at a lower price which caters to all your hiking needs is a crucial parameter. The boots you intend on purchasing should deliver performance as per the number of dollars you spend. In the products listed above, some boots are of great value for the bucks you spend on getting one.
A common trend observed is that with increasing prices, the metrics making a good hiking boot also improve. The pricier boots also tend to last longer and handle excess weight while on off-trail tracks. Many of the highly-priced boots are of value if you traverse cross-country. If you are looking for all-around performance, there are reasonably priced boots that are quite competent.
Comfort –
Hiking boots made with synthetic materials tend to be lighter and more comfortable in comparison to older leather-made hiking boots. The hiking boots suggested in this blog post have a lighter upper and a cushioned midsole underfoot. For undertaking challenging endeavors, getting a pair of comfortable hiking boots makes the task much easier.
Footbed feels –
Hiking boots that don’t have pressure points and which offer a larger toe box perform better on rocky trails. They are also more reliable for long hours of trekking. Having happy feet means you can cover many more miles. Factors like foot volume, arch height, insole thickness, and shape help in fine-tuning the perfect fit.
Ankle collar –
The fit and construction of the ankle collar are crucial to travel many miles and cover steep inclines. Having proper ankle protection provides decent comfort.
Breathability –
If there is excess friction between your feet and boots, it can result in blisters. Having a pair of boots that does not have a waterproof membrane enhances breathability.
Support –
Hiking boots provide better stability in comparison to trail runners or hiking shoes. Higher ankle cuts will offer increased resistance to rolling ankles. Hiking boots have thick and supportive soles which give increased protection on sharp surfaces. Torsional stability, height, security, width, and stiffness determine the amount of support hiking boots offer. Hiking boots should be able to offer the perfect blend of flexibility, mobility, and support.
Traction –
Hiking boots offering decent traction prevent you from slipping. The stiffness and type of rubber compound will result in better sole grip. Also, the tread shape and patterns on the bottom of the sole help in increased surface area contact and help in better engagement on smooth terrains. Deeper and spread-out lugs help in better grip on mud and snow, which makes it better to use even for off-trail hiking.
Water resistance –
While hiking it is important to have dry feet. This helps to avoid getting blisters and keeps you warm even while walking in the cold or in wet conditions. Boots that feature a waterproof membrane can be used in deeper pockets containing water.
Weight –
Lighter hiking boots are more efficient and having boots with an adequate weight offers decent stability and performance.
Durability –
Hiking boots have to withstand rough and heavy use. If not constructed with durable materials, it will eventually lose its structure and soften. Boots made of modern materials don’t suffer damage and are functional for longer periods.
In conclusion, if you are planning on hiking, getting decent footwear is important. The best hiking boots cheap will save you from pain, discomfort, fatigued feet, and rolled ankles.
