Key takeaways
- Waterproof membranes keep feet dry on wet trails.
- Ankle support helps on rough terrain with a heavy pack.
- Break boots in before long hikes.
In this article
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Buying hiking boots goes wrong in predictable ways: paying for features you never use, missing the one spec that matters, or buying just before a big sale. This guide covers what to check, how much to spend, the mistake to avoid and when to buy in the US.
What to check before you buy
- Waterproof membranes keep feet dry on wet trails.
- Ankle support helps on rough terrain with a heavy pack.
- Break boots in before long hikes.
How much to spend
The hiking boots we rate range from about $80 (Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof) to about $190 (Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX). Mid-cut boots suit most day hikes.
The mistake to avoid
Buying boots without trying them with hiking socks.
Our shortlist
If you want to skip the research, these are the hiking boots we would buy in the US:
- Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof ($145 – $160) – Check Price on Amazon
- Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX ($165 – $190) – Check Price on Amazon
- KEEN Targhee IV Mid Waterproof ($165 – $180) – Check Price on Amazon
See every pick, with pros and cons, in Best Hiking Boots (2026): What to Buy and What to Skip.
When to buy
The deepest discounts usually arrive during the big summer sales in July, the October sales events and Black Friday through Cyber Monday in late November.
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Search hiking boots on Amazon See top-rated hiking boots on Amazon
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Frequently asked questions
How do I choose the right hiking boots?
Waterproof membranes keep feet dry on wet trails. Ankle support helps on rough terrain with a heavy pack.
How much should I spend on hiking boots in the US?
The models we rate range from about $80 to about $190. Mid-cut boots suit most day hikes.
What is the biggest mistake when buying hiking boots?
Buying boots without trying them with hiking socks.
When should I buy hiking boots in the US?
The deepest discounts usually arrive during the big summer sales in July, the October sales events and Black Friday through Cyber Monday in late November.