Hiking Shoes Reviewed

If you're planning on doing some light day hiking hiking shoes are for you. You don't need the support, stability and extra weight of hiking boots Hiking shoes are designed for maximum comfort and breathability. Plus they require no breaking-in, and are more agile on or off rocky trails than big boots.

These are usually made using Nylon mesh. They are very comfortable over a short period of time. However, none are waterproof or warm enough for winter use and since they are less supportive you'de be better off with sturdy boots on extended hiking vacations.

Recommended Hiking Shoes

1. Nike Air Zoom Tallac
Called "the hiking shoe you've been dreamin of" by Backpacker Magazine.
  • TPU (thermo plastic urethane) exoskeleton stabilizes its featherweight synthetic upper.
  • The Tallac is as light as a low-cut hiker but delivers the ankle support of a high-cut boot.
  • Dual-density plastic shank. (flexible in the forefoot for easy striding, stiffer in the rear for support and stability)
  • Impact-absorbing Zoom Air Bag in the midsole.
  • A Gore-Tex XCR to keep your feet dry through stream crossings and breathability on sweaty days.

2. Men's Chameleon Ventilator Low
These shoes are much better for dayhiking, fastpacking, and lightly loaded weekends than for running.

  • More underfoot support than you'll find in any trail runner.
  • The Ventilator's midsole boasts the stiffness of some midweight backpacking boots.
  • The Sole provides above-average protection from jagged rocks.
  • Minimum side-to-side sole flexing for a stable platform.
  • Ample heel cushioning that softens every step.
  • The mostly mesh uppers provide maximum ventilation and dries quickly when wet.

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