Hiking Shoes

The right hiking shoe makes a trail feel easier, and the wrong one makes every mile feel long. At Sole Provisions, the Hiking Shoes collection brings together trail shoes, waterproof styles, and hiking sandals from brands such as Merrell, Keen, Hoka, On Running, Teva, Dansko, and Birkenstock. It sits naturally beside our wider hiking and outdoor, walking shoes, and men's boots selections.

Hiking footwear ranges from a light shoe for a park path to a sturdy waterproof model for muddy trails, and from closed toe protection to open sandals for river crossings. The sections below explain what to look for, how shoes compare with boots and sandals, and how to match a style to your trail.

Traction You Can Rely On

Grip is the first thing to check. Our collection page highlights rubber outsoles with multidirectional, deeper treads that bite into dirt, gravel, and wet rock. A patterned outsole helps on uneven ground, but no outsole prevents every slip, so take care on wet rock, mud, and ice. If you also need grip for work, see our slip resistant shoes.

Waterproof or Breathable

Waterproof styles help keep feet drier in rain and puddles. Keen offers waterproof options such as the Targhee IV and Hightrail, Merrell has the Moab line, and On Running offers the Cloudrock waterproof models. Waterproof shoes can feel warmer, so for hot weather many hikers prefer a breathable shoe or sandal. Browse our women's waterproof and men's waterproof shoes to compare.

Cushioning and Arch Support

Long days on trails call for cushioning that absorbs impact and a footbed that supports the arch. Our page points to responsive midsoles and contoured footbeds across the collection. If you want to add your own support, browse our shoe inserts and arch support shoes. For medical questions about your feet, check with a healthcare professional.

Hiking Shoes or Hiking Boots

Low cut hiking shoes are lighter and feel more like a sneaker, which many people prefer on well kept trails. Boots cover the ankle and may feel sturdier on rough ground or with a heavy pack. Neither is better for everyone, so choose by terrain, load, and personal comfort. Browse our men's boots and women's boots if you want more coverage.

Hiking Sandals

For warm weather and water crossings, hiking sandals offer airflow and quick drying. Our page describes adjustable straps, with forefoot and heel adjustable independently on many styles, and grippy outsoles from brands such as Teva, Chaco, Keen, and Merrell. Closed toe styles protect against rocks and roots, while open toe styles drain faster. Browse our women's sandals and men's sandals.

Popular Styles to Start With

The collection currently includes the Merrell Moab, Wrapt, and other trail styles, the Keen Targhee IV, Jasper, Roam, and Hightrail, the On Cloudrock Low and Mid Waterproof, the Teva Tirra, and the Dansko Paisley Waterproof. Styles and sizes change often, so check availability. For casual days off the trail, see our women's sneakers and men's sneakers.

Socks and Fit

Hiking socks matter as much as the shoe. Browse women's socks, men's socks, and Darn Tough for trail ready socks. Try shoes on later in the day, when feet tend to be fullest, with the socks you plan to hike in. Leave a little room at the front for downhill stretches. Width and sizing details are not listed on the collection page, so check each product page, and see our wide width shoes if you need more room. For a personal fitting, visit one of our Sole Provisions locations, or read more in our educational hub.

A Few Hiking Shoe Details Worth Knowing

  • Hiking shoes, waterproof styles, and hiking sandals for women and men.

  • Brands include Merrell, Keen, Hoka, On Running, Teva, Dansko, and Birkenstock.

  • Rubber outsoles with deeper treads for traction, according to our collection page.

  • Waterproof styles are available, so check each product page.

  • Adjustable straps on many hiking sandals.

  • Styles and availability change often.

  • Free shipping on orders over $75, see our shipping policy and returns page.

Explore More Outdoor Footwear

If you like hiking shoes, compare them with Merrell for trail classics, Keen for waterproof comfort, Hoka for cushioned trail shoes, Oboz for supportive hikers, or La Sportiva for technical trail footwear. Check new arrivals and sale items for the latest styles and markdowns.

Related Collections: Hiking and Outdoor · Walking Shoes · Men's Boots · Women's Waterproof · Men's Waterproof · Merrell · Keen · Teva

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of shoes are best for hiking?

It depends on the trail. Look for a grippy outsole, cushioning, a secure fit, and waterproofing if you expect wet conditions. Browse the full Hiking Shoes collection to compare current styles.

What brand of shoes is best for hiking?

There is no single best brand. Our collection includes Merrell, Keen, Hoka, On Running, Teva, Dansko, and Birkenstock, so you can compare traction, cushioning, and fit. See our Merrell and Keen collections.

Can I wear regular sneakers for hiking?

For short, easy paths many people do, but regular sneakers often have less traction and less protection than hiking shoes. On rough, wet, or steep trails, a hiking shoe with a grippy outsole is the safer choice.

Is it okay to wear hiking shoes casually?

Yes. Many hiking shoes are comfortable for everyday walking and travel. Keep in mind that trail outsoles can wear faster on pavement.

Is it better to have high or low hiking shoes?

Low cut shoes are lighter and more flexible, while higher styles cover the ankle and can feel more secure on rough ground or with a pack. The better choice depends on your terrain and comfort.

What is the difference between hiking shoes and regular shoes?

Hiking shoes typically have deeper treads, more durable materials, and a supportive, cushioned build designed for uneven ground. Regular shoes are usually built for flat surfaces.

What are the downsides of wearing trail shoes?

They can feel less supportive than boots with a heavy pack, and waterproof versions can run warm. Choose by terrain and comfort. For foot concerns, check with a healthcare professional.

What should I look for when buying hiking shoes?

Check traction, cushioning, fit, waterproofing, and weight. Try them on later in the day with your hiking socks, and leave a little room at the front.

What do podiatrists say about hiking shoes?

We cannot speak for individual podiatrists. For advice about your own feet, check with a healthcare professional.

Does Sole Provisions offer free shipping and returns on hiking shoes?

Free shipping applies to orders over $75. See our shipping policy and returns page for details.