12 Best Hiking Shoes for Beginners 2024

Hikers are required to traverse through diverse terrains some prefer forest hiking, while others enjoy hiking on mountains. Hiking alongside rivers and streams is refreshing and fun. Challenge takers participate in an exhilarating snowfield hiking experience. Experienced hikers are aware of the importance of proper hiking shoes but it is the beginners who underestimate the potential hazard and fail to choose the best hiking shoes for beginners.

Hiking environments can be thorny, rocky, slippery, and full of other hazards therefore a pair of good hiking shoes is a must to keep feet safe while hiking. Beginners hikers don’t have the strength to navigate uneven terrains a good hiking pair will ensure maximum support and stability to keep their ankle safe. Beginners often go biking with their regular shoes which can’t withstand the harsh rocky conditions of hiking environments.

In summary, the first hiking gear a beginner hiker should pick is a pair of best hiking boots for beginners. It will keep feet safe, and comfortable and enhance the joy of the overall hiking experience.

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Best hiking shoes for beginners in 2024 | Top 12 Picks

There are numerous shoe brands and designs which makes it really difficult for beginner hikers to decide which shoe will be suitable for their specific hiking conditions therefore to make their task easy we have researched some of the best hiking shoes for beginners and elaborated their features and performance so you can pick one for yourself.


Our Top Three

Salomon Speedcross 5

Our Ratings

  • Fit: 4/5
  • Stability: 5/5
  • Comfort: 5/5
  • Durability: 5/5
KEEN Targhee 2

Our Ratings

  • Fit: 4/5
  • Stability: 4/5
  • Comfort: 5/5
  • Durability: 4/5
Merrell Moab 3

Our Ratings

  • Fit: 4/5
  • Stability: 4/5
  • Comfort: 5/5
  • Durability: 5/5

List of best hiking shoes for beginners

  1. Salomon Speedcross 5
  2. KEEN Targhee 2
  3. Merrell Moab 3
  4. Columbia  Newton Ridge Plus Ii
  5. Skechers  Afterburn M. Fit
  6. adidas  Terrex Ax3
  7. Skechers  Relment-Pelmo
  8. KEEN  Targhee 3
  9. Salomon  Xa Pro 3D V8
  10. Columbia Crestwood Mid
  11. BASS Trek Ultralite Hiker
  12. Adidas Terrex Free

Salomon Speedcross 5

Key Specifications
  • Type: Trail Runners
  • Material: Synthetic materials
Our Rating
  • Fit: 4/5
  • Stability: 5/5
  • Comfort: 5/5
  • Durability: 5/5

Our first pick the Salomon Speedcross 5 will offer some amazing features that will keep the beginner’s hikers safe and also will enhance the overall experience by keeping their feet safe. The most impressive feature of these shoes is the aggressive lug pattern on their outsole is ideal for slippery surfaces.. Beginners often make the mistake of choosing hiking shoes that don’t offer good traction but choosing these won’t allow you to complain about their traction and grip. 

They will ensure you a firm grip while climbing a hill, or even making your way through slippery rocky terrain or wet forest surfaces. Beginners hikers also should make sure their shoes provide a secure fit and help to maintain stability. Salomon Speedcross 5 has a quick lace system and Sensifit technology that will ensure a secured snug fit. 

Wearing these shoes you can safely move on any sort of uneven terrain without injuring your ankle and joints. The shoe ensures amazing comfort and shock absorption thus you will stay comfortable while hiking or trail running. All the Salomon shoes are known for their durability and there are no exceptions for Speedcross 5. The shoe with built with durable materials and designed in the most durable way possible. These shoes can easily handle the harshest of hiking conditions.

This shoe is designed keeping all the potential hazards in mind. It’s protective cap will keep your toes safe from stubbing rocks and hard objects while hiking. The shoe upper does provide the necessary water resistance which is essential as sometimes hikers need to go through wet conditions. If you are a beginner hiker you should buy a pair that can keep your feet dry from splashes of water. 

Salomon Speedcross 5 is very easy to clean as it allows quick drying. Hiking conditions are messy and sometimes you need to cross streams, thus shoes can get diarty easily so you can clean your shoes with just a splash of water and dry it quickly. Without a shadow of a doubt, these are some of the best hiking shoes for beginners.

Pros

  • Ensures good traction
  • Provides stability
  • Wil last long
  • Comes with a safety toe cap

Cons

  • Bit narrow for wider feet
  • Not suitable for other activities
  • Requires a break in period

Considering its features the shoe is an amazing combination of safety, durability, and stability. These will perform the best for the trail runners.  People with wide feet may feel a bit narrow and it is better to have a break-in period before going hiking Apart from that these are amazing hiking shoes for men.


KEEN Targhee 2

Key Specifications
  • Type: Hiking shoes
  • Material: Leather
Our Rating
  • Fit: 4/5
  • Stability: 4/5
  • Comfort: 5/5
  • Durability: 4/5

KEEN  Targhee 2 is capable of making any hikers day enjoyable and safe. shoes  KEEN.DRY waterproof breathable membrane helps your feet dry and cool by letting vapor out. Hiking is a physically demanding task you need to walk for a long duration of time which causes sweat therefore shoe breathability is essential. The shoe is very comfortable as it offers a Removable metatomical footbed thus your foot gets amazing arch support and stays relaxed.

Beginners often make mistakes by choosing a less tractional shoe for hiking which can cause problems in slippery terrains so traction is one of the most important factors to consider when buying hiking shoes. A shoe that ensures necessary traction will keep a hiker safe in any type of uneven terrain. KEEN Targhee 2 has a  KEEN ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole that is suitable for muddy or slippery rocky terrains. 

The shoes are very supportive as an  External Support Shank is used in them to help you maintain balance on uneven surfaces. Its contoured heel will increase the level of its stability. Their toe cap will protect the toes from rocks and heavy objects.

Perfect-fit shoes can enhance the overall joy of hiking. Shoes with low-profile uppers provide comfort, they also have a padded tongue and collar. Iconic Keen’s original fit allows enough room for your toes. Wearing these hoes you will get the best possible fit without feeling any issues in your legs.

Pros

  • Supportive fit
  • Good grip
  • Roomy toe box
  • Suitable for all types of terrain

Cons

  • Bit heavy 
  • Less breathable
  • Not the best shoe for wet conditions

We have tried these shoes personally and found them really supportive for hiking conditions. The performance of the shoe makes it one of the best shoes for beginner hikers. These shoes are famous for their comfortable fit and we also find them comfortable to use. These shoes are versatile as well you can use them almost in every type of hiking terrain.

There are certain things you should know before buying. If you want your hiking shoes to be lightweight you should look for other options. These shoes are protective therefore breathability is reduced. They do provide water resistance but they are not the best option for wet conditions.


Merrell Moab 3

Key Specifications
  • Type: Hiking boot
  • Material: Synthetic materials
Our Rating
  • Fit: 4/5
  • Stability: 4/5
  • Comfort: 5/5
  • Durability: 5/5

Beginners and hikers buy a shoe for hiking without knowing the terrain types so they end up buying the wrong type of hiking shoe. If your hiking conditions require a tough, durable, and supportive pair look nowhere than the Merrell Moab 3 hiking boots. These shoes will withstand the harshest of terrain and keep your feet protected all day.

The boots are generally designed to keep feet safe in the most difficult hiking terrains. The Merrell Moab 3 can be beginners best hiking boots. They come with an Eva midsole which is well cushioned and comfortable. The boots ensure maximum comfort and the shank Merrell Air Cushioned heel absorbs shock that generates while hiking on uneven terrain. The boot offers amazing support for the ankle and joints.

Beginners often overlook the hiking shoe’s traction ability but choosing these boots will help them to maintain balance on slippery surfaces. The boot has a  Vibram TC5+ rubber sole with aggressive lungs that provide amazing traction on slippery surfaces. These lungs will help to get a good grip while hiking on hills. The upper part of the boot may not be fully waterproof but it certainly can withstand splash of water.

If you are a beginner hiker you definitely should buy these for their versatility. They can be used in numerous hiking activities. Though they are a bit expensive they are worth investing your money for their versatility and safety. Their performance and safety will make any beginner hiker’s day more enjoyable they surely are some of the best hiking shoes for beginners.

Pros

  • Can be used for various hiking activity
  • Will last for a long time
  • Good grip
  • Feet stay comfortable all day long

Cons

  • Protections come with extra weight
  • Boots are generally less breathable

For hikers Who hike on rocky or abrasive terrain and prefer a pair prioritized durable built, these boots can be the best companion. Being protective and durable these are a bit heavy and less ventilated which is found in almost every durable boot. The main decision taker is you thus if its features match your preference and the price seems affordable to you, then you can surely buy these wonderful boots.


Columbia  Newton Ridge Plus Ii

Key Specifications
  • Type: Hiking boots
  • Material: Leather and Mesh
Our Rating
  • Fit: 4/5
  • Stability: 4/5
  • Comfort: 4/5
  • Durability: 5/5

Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Ii can be the best shoes for beginner hikers. The boots come with a durable midsole that ensures amazing comfort all day long. Beginner hikers are not used to hiking conditions thus they must pick a shoe that has a comfortable midsole. The pair is also capable of high energy return as their outsole has amazing slip resistance ability.

The boot has a multi-terrain traction system named OMNI GRIP which ensures firm footing on various surfaces. The traction system has a unique dual-zone winter tread pattern which makes it suitable for hiking on snow and ice as well.

The boot is made of high-quality materials and will provide you with a long-term service. The waterproof full-grain leather perfectly handles the water splash that you may encounter while hiking through wet conditions. If you want the best waterproof hiking shoes these can be a great option. Boots mesh bootie construction and mesh tongue help in air circulation.

Beginners hikers are not aware of uneven terrains so they find it hard to pick a pair for hiking. Buying Columbia  Newton Ridge Plus Ii will solve their problem as these boots’ responsiveness, support, and grip will perform well on rock, grass, gravel, and various terrains. They are versatile and can be used for various hiking activities.

These boots are designed to provide maximum support and protection while hiking. Their extra protection gains extra weight thus they might feel heavy on your feet. Their lace-up closure allows you a customized fit according to your preference. These will perform equally well on jungle, hill, snow, or even wet terrains.

Pros

  • Durable built
  • Water resistance
  • Unique traction system
  • Suitable for ice and snow
  • Comfortable interior

Cons

  • Less breathable
  • Poor flexibility
  • Feels heavy in feet

We have tried them personally and found them really versatile. You can use them in various terrains. These are one of the rare hiking boots that ensure traction on snow and ice. Investing your money will be a wise decision as you can use them for different hiking terrains without buying hiking shoes according to different terrains. 

Before buying these boots there are some factors you should know We have found these a bit heavy if you prefer lightweight shoes they won’t live up to your expectations. They also may not fit in everyone’s budget range. If you want a durable and versatile pair you should definitely buy these.


Skechers  Afterburn M. Fit

Key Specifications
  • Type: Cross-trainers
  • Material: Leather and synthetic materials
Our Rating
  • Fit: 4/5
  • Stability: 4/5
  • Comfort: 5/5
  • Durability: 3/5

Skechers Afterburn M. Fit will be the best option if you want to hike on well-maintained trails. Threes shoes are not specially designed for hiking but their comfort will surely make a hiker’s day easy on well-maintained terrain. The beginner hiker should hike on this type of terrain to gain a bit of experience which will be beneficial when they encounter challenging uneven terrains. The shoe offers a foam cushioning interior which will ensure comfort throughout the day. Wearing comfortable shoes reduces fatigue which may occur during long-duration hikes.

The shoe also ensures sufficient traction which will maintain a firm footing on slippery surfaces. The durable outsole is abrasive-resistant and provides good energy return. The shoe also absorbs the shock impact while moving on hard surfaces and keeps your joints stress-free. These shoes also can be one of the best ruining shoes for concrete which can be helpful for you if you live in an urban area where concrete surfaces are the only surface you get to walk or jog on.

For hiking, you should make sure your shoes offer enough support and stability to keep your feet safe from getting injured. Skechers Afterburn M. will Fit and feel supportive and comfortable on your feet. We highly recommend you have a pre-trial before buying any shoes to know they fit you perfectly which will prevent blisters and other foot issues. The upper part of the shoe is made of a combination of synthetic materials and leather which allows good air circulation.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Comfortable fit
  • Good traction
  • Amazing responsiveness
  • Can be used for other activities

Cons

  • Not suitable for rugged terrains
  • Less waterproofing

In conclusion, these shoes can be the best hiking shoes for beginners who will hike on easy trails and prefer a comfortable lightweight pair over multi-featured specially designed hiking shoes. You can use them for workouts and other activities as well. However, they are not heavily water resistant thus avoiding wet conditions will increase their longevity.


Adidas  Terrex Ax3

Key Specifications
  • Type: Trail runner 
  • Material: Synthetic mesh
Our Rating
  • Fit: 4/5
  • Stability: 4/5
  • Comfort: 4/5
  • Durability: 4/5

Beginners hikers often get confused about which brand to choose and trust therefore Adidas Terrex Ax3 will certainly gain their trust. Adidas is one of the most reliable brands in the world so beginners who are not aware of the hiking shoe brands should go for this shoe. The shoe is made of durable lightweight materials which makes it suitable for quick trails. The upper portion of the shoe is made of a blend of synthetic mesh that maintains the shoe’s breathability.

These shoes can stand the rigor of all sorts of hiking environments. They come with a continental rubber outsole with aggressive lungs that ensure excellent traction and grip on slippery wet rocky surfaces. Hikers are often required to go through wet and slippery conditions so shoe switch pepper traction is essential.

The midsole of the shoe offers amazing comfort and shock absorption. Its well-cushioned footbed ensures your feet stay comfortable and relaxed while hiking. These shoes are specially designed for trail runners thus shock absorption ability needs to be amazing as running on uneven terrain generates shock impacts. These shoes are versatile and can be used for various hiking activities.

Buying a pair will serve you for a long duration of time. These shoes are built tough and can withstand the harsh conditions. Their flexible construction allows the foot’s natural movements. These shoes are one of the best hiking shoes for beginners because of their ability to make a beginner hiker’s day safe and more enjoyable

Pros

  • Breathable lightweight construction
  • Comfortable midsole
  • Has aggressive lungs for grip
  • Allows foot’s natural movement

Cons

  • Less water-resistant compared to other shoes
  • Narrow toe box
  • Requires a break-in period

We have used these amazing shoes personally and found them really supportive and comfortable. We highly suggest these to you if you want a comfortable lightweight pair for hiking. Keep in mind that they come with a bit narrow toe box which can be problematic for people with wide feet. Before going hiking give it a break in period to make it comfortable and soft.


Skechers Relment-Pelmo

Key Specifications
  • Type: Hiking boots
  • Material: Leather
Our Rating
  • Fit: 4/5
  • Stability: 5/5
  • Comfort: 4/5
  • Durability: 5/5

Skechers Relment-Pelmo hiking boots can be a great option for beginners who prefer durable and well-protective footwear for hiking. These boots are amazingly supportive and comfortable as well thus investing your money in them will be worth every penny.

Comfort is an essential feature when you want to spend a long day wearing a pair of shoes. The boot has an EVA foam footbed that provides amazing comfort and a smooth experience. An uncomfortable p[air can cause several foot issues and hinder your overall hiking experience. Beginner hikers always should make sure their footwear is comfortable.

While moving on uneven terrain you need a pair that provides good safety and also a decent amount of shock absorption to reduce the pressure on your joints. Skechers  Relment-Pelmo comes with a supportive midsole that amazingly handles shock impacts. The durable outsole provides safety from stepping on any sharp objects. Hiking conditions are full of rocks, roots, and several potential hazards. Boots-reinforced toes provide protection from stubbing any hard objects.

The lungs in the outsole ensure necessary grip and balance while moving on slippery surfaces or climbing hills. These boots are designed to provide necessary support if you carry a heavy backpack. hikers are required to carry heavy backpacks thus these boots will be really helpful for them. In cold weather, they will ensure insulation to keep feet warm. considering the features They are one of the best hiking boots for beginners

Pros

  • Durable built 
  • Good arch support
  • Comfortable cushioning
  • Well protective 

Cons

  • Less flexible
  • Makes feet sweaty in hot weather

These shoes are built tough and keep you safe in the most hazardous terrains. Their extra safety comes with extra weight so if you prefer lightweight footwear then skip this. Our user experience was also satisfying and we highly recommend these to you as they are one of the best hiking shoes for beginners.


KEEN Targhee 3

Key Specifications
  • Type: Hiking shoes
  • Material: Leather
Our Rating
  • Fit: 4/5
  • Stability: 4/5
  • Comfort: 5/5
  • Durability: 5/5

KEEN Targhee 3 is the second shoe of KEEN  that got a place in our list of 12 best hiking shoes for beginners. Similar to its old model Targhee 3 also comes with numerous advantages that can make a beginner hiker’s day easy and safe.

 These shoes are one of the best waterproof hiking shoes as KEEN.dry named breathable waterproof membrane is used in it thus your feet stay dry and comfortable while hiking in a wet condition. Waterproof shoes are essential for beginners as they are not fully aware of their hiking conditions and choosing a normal sho can cause issues.

The shoe also doesn’t compromise providing comfort. A pair of uncomfortable shoes will create issues in your feet thus you won’t be able to enjoy the adventure of hiking. Beginners should make sure they pick a comfortable shoe. The Targhee 3 has a comfortable cushioned insole with adequate arch support these features can help reduce fatigue and discomfort while hiking long distances. New hikers are not used to long periods of outdoor activity.

Hikers are often required to go through muddy shores, slippery rocks, and various less tractional surfaces. Shoes with good traction will keep their footing and balance in control. For a beginner, it is really difficult to maintain balance on slippery surfaces thus shoes with proper traction and grip will protect him from any uncontrolled movement or slips.

KEEN Targhee 3 is built tough and will last for a decent amount of time. Shoes durability makes it one of the best shoes for beginner hikers as just investing in this shoe will be enough for a new hiker to begin his hiking journey. These shoes will accompany him in several hikings. Hiking environments are generally harsh so a durable pair is important to keep feet safe.

The shoes’ low-cut design enhances ankle support and flexibility. These shoes allow your feet’s natural movements. Their versatility will allow you to use them in various terrains.

Pros

  • Necessary water resistance
  • Good cushioning
  • Grippy outsole
  • Durable built

Cons

  • May take time to get comfortable
  • Some hikers may find them heavy

In conclusion, these are amongst the best shoes for beginner hikers. They offer all the key features that are required for a hiking shoe. They are comfortable, flexible, and grippy what beginner hikers actually need. We have tried these shoes and found them worth investing your money in.

However, considering our user experience we think they need a break in period to get comfortable. Beginners should maintain a proper break-in period to bring out their comfort before wearing them for hiking.


Salomon  Xa Pro 3D V8

Key Specifications
  • Type: Trail runners
  • Material: synthetic materials
Our Rating
  • Fit: 4/5
  • Stability: 5/5
  • Comfort: 4/5
  • Durability: 5/5

Salomon  Xa Pro 3D V8 is the second shoe of Salomon that is featured on our list. For numerous reasons, they can be a good option for beginner hikers. These are basically trail runners that allow you to use them on quick-paced trails. They will provide amazing performance on all sorts of terrains hence they will be really helpful for a beginner as they are not aware of the terrain and can’t pick a shoe considering the terrain.

The shoe’s aggressive contra grip outsole provides all the necessary traction and grip on all types of surfaces that you may encounter while hiking. Beginners hikers are not familiar with slippery surfaces and related hazards thus a good tractional pair will provide safety to them.

The beginner hiker who is not accustomed to physically demanding long hikes should pick a shoe that offers amazing comfort so you don’t feel any discomfort or fatigue while hiking. The shoe’s comfortable interior keeps feet relaxed. These shoes also offer amazing stability and support that will certainly help a beginner to maintain his balance on uneven terrains. Going hiking with less stable shoes will turn your hiking experience into a disaster.

Salomons shoe are famous for their durability and they won’t disappoint you with Xa Pro 3D V8

When you look for durability. These shoes ensure you to go on several hikes with these as they are designed to withstand all the harsh conditions of uneven terrains. They also will save you money by providing a long-term service thus you won’t need to replace them with a new pair.

The shoe quick lace system allows you to customize the fit according to your needs and preferences. Perfect fit is important as loose fit causes traction and blisters, and tight shoes restrict the blood flow thus shoe closure system will certainly help to gain a comfortable secured fit

The shoe’s mesh upper provides breathability that keeps feet dry and cool during hikes. These shoes are versatile and can be used to light trails to challenging trails. Some hikers also care about the brand reputation but Salomon is one of the well-known brands and trustable so anyone can buy these.

Pros

  • Stable and supportive fit
  • Special traction system
  • Durable construction
  • Can be used in challenging terrains
  • Responsive and flexible

Cons

  • People with wide feet will find it narrow
  • Not heavily cushioned

Overall, the Salomon  Xa Pro 3D V8 can be the best hiking shoes for beginners. Hikers who prioritize stability, support, comfort, and traction should look no further than these shoes. These shoes are versatile and can be used in various terrains. Before going on hiking give it a break in period to make it comfortable.

Despite Having numerous positives there are some factors you should know before buying. Shoes are designed narrow so people with wide feet will find it tight at the beginning. These shoes’ higher price is another factor that makes a hiker think before purchasing. If they still match your taste and personal preference you definitely should buy them as they are one of the best hiking shoes for beginner hikers.


Columbia Crestwood Mid

Key Specifications
  • Type: Hiking boots
  • Material: Leather, Rubber, Mesh
Our Rating
  • Fit: 4/5
  • Stability: 4/5
  • Comfort: 5/5
  • Durability: 4/5

Columbia Crestwood mid will be an excellent choice for women who are looking for durable, comfortable, and well-protective hiking footwear. These shoes are one of the best women’s waterproof hiking shoes . this boot’s waterproof full-grain leather will allow you to hike on wet terrains without worrying about wet feet or other issues. Hikers always should ensure their boots are water resistant as hikers are often required to hike through wet conditions.

The boot also provides sufficient air circulation with its mesh bootie construction and durable mesh tongue. Hikers need to walk for a long duration of time which results in sweating so breathability is essential in hiking footwear. Boots lace up closure gives a secured fit which important as lose fit can cause blister and too tight shoes restricts the bllod flow which also can be problematic so is adjustable fit is crucial.

It is almost impossible to have an enjoyable hiking experience without a tractional pair. Beginner hikers often overlook shoe grip and traction ability. Shoes OMNI-GRIP named a special multi-terrain traction system that will ensure traction on various terrain thus you can go on hiking without being worried about the less tractional surfaces. The shoe outsole also has a dual-zone winter tread pattern that will help you maintain a firm grip even on ice and snow.

Columbia Crestwood Mid features a lightweight midsole that provides amazing comfort and support. If you are looking for lightweight hiking shoes for women then you should consider these as options.  but keep in mind these are hiking boots that will offer amazing support and protection thus these won’t be the lightest shoes available in the market. These shoes’ cushioning will provide amazing shock absorption and energy return.

Pros

  • Durable built
  • Supportive fit
  • Water-resistant
  • Breathable
  • Stylish and versatile

Cons

  • People with wide feet find it narrow
  • Only for women

In conclusion, these shoes amazing features will enhance the joy of the overall hiking experience. These are some of the best hiking shoes for beginners and our user experience is also satisfying thus we recommend these shoes to you. 

However, they may not fit in everyone’s budget range as they are slightly expensive , moreover, they are specially designed for women hikers.


BASS Trek Ultralite Hiker

Key Specifications
  • Type: Hiking shoe
  • Material: Synthetic mesh
Our Rating
  • Fit: 5/5
  • Stability: 5/5
  • Comfort: 4/5
  • Durability: 4/5

BASS Trek Ultralite Hiker is an amazing lightweight hiking shoe that beginner hikers must have a look if they are searching for the best hiking shoes for beginner hikers. Shoes lightweight is the important factor that can make a hiker’s day easy and smooth as lightweight shoes feel comfortable and reduce fatigue during long periods of hiking. Its weight will be a major advantage for  beginner hikers as they are not used to hiking conditions and carrying heavy loads. The upper part of the shoes is made from breathable synthetic mesh that allows necessary breathability. The airflow keeps feet cool and sweat-free in hot weather.

These shoes will prevent slips on slippery rocky surfaces as they have a durable outsole that ensures good traction. Hikers are generally encounter various surfaces such as wet rocks, muddy trails, and loose gravel thus  a shoe that has good traction to prevent any uncontrolled movement. Any sort of falls and injuries in the wilderness can be fatal as there are no medical facilities to be found.

The midsole of the shoe is well cushioned so you will stay relaxed and comfortable throughout the day. The cushioning also handles the shock impacts that are generated while moving on uneven terrains. Shoes’ slim and sleek design makes them ideal for beginners. If all the features match your taste and preference you can buy it.
People who prefer the popular brands can rely on BASS Trek Ultralite Hiker without a doubt 

Pros

  • Lightweight 
  • Flexible 
  • Allows air circulation
  • Slip-on design with adjustable laces 

Cons

  • Not suitable for wet conditions
  • Not heavily cushioned 

We have personally used these pair to assess their performance and features. We found these shoes to be very flexible and lightweight. People who don’t like bulky shoes must pick this one. However, the shoe’s water resistance ability is not sufficient to deal with wet conditions.


Adidas Terrex Free 

Key Specifications
  • Type: Hiking boot
  • Material: Synthetic materials
Our Rating
  • Fit: 4/5
  • Stability: 4/5
  • Comfort: 5/5
  • Durability: 3/5

Our last pick is Adidas Terrex Free hiking boots. These boots weigh very low which makes is helpful in hiking conditions. Beginner hikers are less likely to be used to carrying heavy backpacks thus any extra weight can cause a problem for them. The boots are also supportive and comfortable. The cushioned insole feels comfortable. Shoes’ shock absorption ability is also sufficient to prevent all the shock impacts that are generated while hiking.

Traction is one of the key features of hiking footwear, it helps a hiker to maintain his balance and grip firmly on uneven terrains. The Adidas Terrex hiking boots have a continental rubber outsole that is equipped with aggressive lungs that ensure a strong grip on slippery surfaces. Hikers often go through loose gravel, and slippery rocks so grip is essential for hiking boots.

Adidas Terrex Free hiking boots are made from Gore-tex membrane which enhances the shoe’s water resistance ability. These boots will keep your feet dry in wet conditions. The membrane is also breathable thus your feet stay dry and cool in hot weather.

The boot is specially designed to withstand the rigor of hiking conditions. The upper part of the shoe is made from a combination of numerous synthetic materials. The outsole is made from durable rubber that keeps all the potential hazards away from harming your feet.

Pros

  • Feels comfortable
  • Won’t weigh you down
  • Excellent traction 
  • versatile

Cons

  • Not ideal for rock climbing
  • Expensive

Adidas Terrex Free has the ability to hikers a hiker day safe and enjoyable. These shoes are one of the best hiking shoes for beginners. We have tried them and found them really comfortable but we think they will be ideal for easy trails. If you prefer the most durable pair then look for other options.


Buying guide for the best hiking shoes for beginners

Hiking is a wonderful way to escape your everyday life hustle. Equipped with proper hiking gear will increase the overall enjoyment and keep you safe. This guide will enlighten your knowledge about what types of shoes you should pick considering your specific hiking terrain and all the essential key features you should consider while buying a pair.

Shoes and terrain

The most common mistake of a beginner hiker is choosing a shoe without being aware of what types of terrain he will hike through. The trail runner shoes are flexible and lightweight which are suitable for easy and less demanding trails. Hikers who prefer quick-paced hiking on flat surfaces should choose these shoes

 Hiking shoes are ideal for challenging rocky and uneven terrains. They come with a low-cut design and better ankle support which is necessary in these types of terrains. Hiking shoes keep you protected and comfortable throughout your hiking day.

 If you prefer maximum safety and toughness look no further than the hiking boots. These types of shoes are beneficial for rugged backcountry trails. Boots are durable and can withstand the harshest conditions. Their safety comes with extra weight if you want lightweight footwear you should skip boots.

Fit

The first thing to ensure in any type of shoes before buying is its fitting. No matter how well-known a brand you pick or the most expensive comfortable pair if it doesn’t fit you perfectly the shoe won’t perform to its full potential and will result in discomfort. Beginners often buy a shoe without confirming its fit. Our tips and suggestions will certainly help you to pick the best hiking shoes for beginners.

First look for a store where the most numbers of shoes and sizes are available thus you can try as much as you can to find the best-fitted shoes. Pre-trials are mandatory if you are willing to choose the best-fitted pair. Always ensure there is enough space for your toe to wiggle a bit. A shoe with a narrow toe box causes stress and discomfort and too much room can increase the friction that can result in blisters therefore trial is a must to fix these issues.

Even if the shoe feels comfortable and properly fitted try to walk around the shop to figure out whether there is any pressure point that can be problematic wearing them for long periods of time. Beginners should always have a pre-trial to get the most comfortable and best-fitted pair.

Traction

Traction is one of the key features to look for in the best hiking shoes for beginners. It helps to maintain proper balance and prevent slipping on less tractional surfaces. Good traction also generates power and ensures firm grips while hiking uphill and downhill. To keep your feet safe while hiking make your shoe provide good traction.

There are two important factors that play a vital role in ensuring traction. The beginner hiker should ensure their shoe outsole comes with a tread pattern. This unique system is designed to provide excellent grip on wet and slippery surfaces. The outsole materials are also crucial as poor quality materials can not withstand harsh conditions, so pick shoes that are made from quality sticky rubber to get a good grip.

You also should keep your terrain type in mind while choosing shoes. If your terrain is wet and slippery pick shoes with tread patterns for rough and rocky terrain durable outsoles are mandatory.

Weight and support

Lightweight hiking shoes are helpful for their ability to keep feet strain-free. Additionally, lightweight shoes are mandatory for beginner hikers as they are not accustomed to the physical demands of hiking hence wearing lightweight shoes will reduce fatigue while hiking. Lightweight shoes also increase pace and ensure agility which can be useful on uneven terrain.

Beginners also should make sure their shoes provide enough support for ankles and feet. Supportive shoes will always reduce the chances of injuries while hiking on uneven rocky terrain. Newly bought shoes can be less supportive and uncomfortable thus break-in period is essential before going hiking to soften the shoes and bring out shoe performance. Though lightweight and supportive shoes are beneficial for challenging terrain you should pick heavier hiking boots with durability.

Brand and user review

Before buying any type of shoes you should do research on their brands and user experience to know which shoe will be ideal and match your personal preference and taste. Though well-known brands are trustable sometimes less popular brands also deliver some quality products.

 Try to fix a budget before buying a pair that will help you become more specific when choosing a pair amongst numerous options. You also should research online or at least have a glance at the user’s review on shoe websites.


Final verdict

If you are a new hiker before going hiking you should know about your terrain type then choose a shoe that will be suitable for that specific terrain. Appropriate hiking shoes will keep your feet safe from all the potential hazards of hiking environments. Our list will certainly help you to choose the best pair according to your taste and preference.

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