If you’re hiking in the summer, you need the best hiking shoes that will keep your feet cool and dry. In this buying guide for the best men’s summer hiking shoes, we’ll help you find the perfect pair of shoes to keep your feet comfortable all throughout your hike.
While there are many different types of hiking shoes on the market, not all of them are created equal when it comes to hot weather conditions. You need to make sure that the shoes are well-ventilated so that your feet can breathe. You also want to look for shoes that are lightweight, grippy, comfortable, and fit well.
To help you find the best men’s summer hiking shoes, we’ve put together this buying guide. We’ll give you an overview of the different types of shoes available to help you make the right choice for your next hike.
Are Hiking Boots Good For Summer?
Yes, good summer hiking shoes also include your hiking boots. They can also be great choices for hot weather because not only do they provide more ankle support than regular hiking shoes, but some are made with a breathable and durable fabric that will keep your feet cool and comfortable during your hike.
Additionally, the lug sole provides traction on wet or dry surfaces so you can focus on enjoying your hike instead of worrying about your footing.
If you’re not so much into hiking boots, be sure to check out the best men’s summer hiking shoes we have rounded up to help you make your decision.
Best Men's Summer Hiking Shoes
Check out these hiking shoes for men that are perfect for summer!
Best Overall
The Merrell Men's Moab Speed Waterproof Hiking Shoe is our top pick for the best men's summer hiking shoes. It is made of durable leather and mesh with a Vibram® Ecostep outsole for maximum traction on wet and dry surfaces. Check out its other features!
Features:- GORE-TEX waterproof membrane.
- 100% recycled mesh.
- Insole: EVA foam insole, 50% recycled top sheet.
- Outsole: Vibram Traction Lug, 4mm lugs.
- Lightweight
- Versatile
- Grippy
- Little to no break-in
- True to size
- Superb ankle support
- Comfortable grip
- Not for wide feet
Where To Buy:
Available on Amazon and other authorized dealers.
Best for Day Hiking
The Salomon Men's X Ultra 4 GTX is a versatile and durable shoe that is perfect for summer hiking. The shoes are made with a Gore-Tex membrane that ensures your feet stay dry even when it's wet outside. They also feature a Contagrip traction system that provides stability and prevents slipping on most surfaces. And finally, the shoes are built with an OrthoLite insole that offers cushion and support.
Features:
- Contragrip traction to provide stability and prevent slipping on most surfaces
- Built with Ortholite insole for cushioning
- Quicklace lacing system
- Antimicrobial heel break
Pros:
- Exceptional breathability
- Lightweight
- Superb ankle support
- Comfortable grip
Cons:
- Some users report it is not as comfortable as the previous model
Where To Buy:
Available on Amazon, Rei Co-op Shop, and other authorized dealers.
Best for Breathability
If getting your feet wet isn't really a big deal with you, then the Xero Aqua X Sport for men is your best bet! Pass thru streams and wet surfaces and feel absolutely nothing because it dries easily. Check out its other features and why it's perfect for summer!
Features:- Lace-up lacing system
- Synthetic mesh upper
- Vegan-friendly
- FeelTrue rubber outsole
- Vegan-friendly
- Mesh uppers shed water and dry easily
- Lightweight
- Comfortable and secured fit.
- Some users report it to be too narrow.
- Too pricey
Where To Buy:
Best For Comfortability
Whether you walk or run on the trail, the Altra Men's Olympus 5 Low GTX Trail Running Shoe will keep you comfortable all day while keeping you safe with its grippy traction. Check it out!
Features:
- Vibram Sole
- Signature Altra Balanced Cushioning and FootShape toe boxes allow you to spread your toes and have proper form.
- MegaGrip outsole and multi-directional TrailClaw lug pattern ensure grippy traction
- GORE-TEX
Pros:
- Waterproof
- Zero drop
- Grippy
- Natural foot shape gives toes room to move
- Excellent support
Cons:
- Some users do not feel comfortable with the zero drop
- Expensive
Where To Buy:
Available on Amazon, Rei.com, and other authorized retailers.
Best for Budget
If you're looking for a budget-friendly option without sacrificing functionality then check out the Primal Zen by Lems Shoes.
Features:- Vegan Materials Used
- Microfiber and air mesh upper
- Gusseted tongue
- Flexible outsole
- Minimalist
Pros:
- Wide toe box
- Vegan-friendly
- Zero drop
- Good traction
- Flexible and breathable
- Lightweight
- Excellent support
- Not waterproof
Available on LemsShoes.com and other authorized retailers.
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Have you chosen the perfect hiking shoes for you? Or do you still not know how to properly fit them? You might want to check out this article on the ABCs of fitting hiking boots and learn how to fit hiking boots like a pro in no time.
Also, there’s nothing like reaching the mountain’s peak and taking in that scenery. Here are some basic photography techniques from PhotoJeepers so the next time you go hiking, you can take better photos of the horizon!
