Boots or Trail Runners? It depends if you want speed, durability, or ankle support

When I started When hiking, chunky leather boots were the only real option. They were sturdy, rigid, and difficult to break, but a pair would last for decades. Fortunately, technology has fortunately caught up. If you’re heading to the trails today, most hikers and backpackers opt for lighter, lower-cut options. Even though the influx of new shoes from brands like Hoka, Merrell, Danner, and Salomon has transformed the footwear industry, that doesn’t mean hiking shoes have had their day. It just depends on what you’re looking to do and when you do it.

What shoes to choose for going out during the day? I have tested countless pairs of great hiking shoestrail runners and hiking shoes on a variety of terrains, from forest trails and coastal trails to high mountain terrain. To better understand the differences between the many options available and which one is best for you, I interviewed Ingrid Johnson, a leading footwear product specialist at RI. (For what it’s worth, Johnson’s personal recommendation is Salomon XA Pro).

When you’ve chosen your next pair of trail running (or hiking) shoes, be sure to check out more WIRED’s Outdoor Guideslike the Best Gravel Running ShoesTHE Best Merino Wool T-Shirtsand the Best electric bikes.

March 2026 Update: We’ve added links to recent coverage, added On Running Cloudrock Low, and updated links and prices.

Here’s When You Need Boots

If you’re carrying a heavy bag over uneven terrain, or if it’s wet or snowy, you need hiking shoes. They tend to be higher at the ankle, with stiff midsoles and protective toe caps, and they’re usually made from very durable materials like leather and tough synthetic fabrics like Cordura. Hiking shoes prioritize stability, protection and durability.

Boots typically have thick, deep lugs, more durable soles, stronger toe guards, and stronger ankle support. They protect you from stone impacts, uneven ground, humidity and often colder conditions. High-cut styles also offer more ankle support, which I found reassuring when returning from a recent injury.

But don’t think that hiking shoe brands are stuck in the dark ages. By borrowing lightweight features and materials from trail running, brands are able to offer technical boots that provide cushioning, grip and stability. They remain heavy, but lightweight compared to a traditional leather boot. Hoka Kaha 3 GTX ($240) is one of the best boots available, mixing soft nubuck leather, a Vibram Megagrip sole and bags of cushioning. Here are some other choices:

Always popular for good reason, these Salomons offer superb levels of comfort and support without the bulk typically associated with traditional walking shoes. They look like ski boots, but that’s not a criticism; the height and support are welcome when walking all day with a full pack.

The suede leather and rubberized toe cap make them incredibly durable, they’re easy to clean, and the Gore-Tex lining provides total waterproofing. The outsole is deep, aggressive, and impervious to unexpected slips, and top marks go to the metal lacing system, particularly the center eyelet that holds the laces securely. They’re not as forgiving underfoot as many of the newer running-inspired designs, but the ball and heel absorb shock sufficiently.

You pay a lot for the privilege, but the Kopec is an extremely versatile waterproof boot for all seasons. Made from 100% Cordura nylon, the upper is very durable and gives the boot a stiff and secure feel, despite weighing just 11.9 ounces for a size 8.

Designed for day hikes in varied terrain, they impressed me with a good mix of stability and cushioning. If you’re not a fan of the cushy feel of trail running shoes, these are perfect. They provide immediate comfort, which is rare with a stiffer boot, and they feel really secure when climbing and walking. Heel and ankle security are matched by a Vibram Megagrip rubber sole with mud-loving 4-millimeter lugs. I’m a big fan of this rubber compound, and here the studs have been arranged to give the most grip for the least weight.

After months of regular wear, on and off the trail, they still look remarkably fresh, and I appreciate being able to simply hose them down to wash away the mud. Yes, they are expensive for day hikers, but the materials used offer a real cross between old and new designs, without compromising style or performance.

The influencer’s choice

Prestigious launches and relentless marketing campaigns have put this once-niche Swiss brand on everyone’s radar. It has shoes for all occasions, including these waterproof hiking shoes. The Cloudrocks are surprisingly different from a typical pair of On Running shoes. The ultra-soft midsole that I’ve enjoyed in the brand’s running shoes is surprisingly stiff. They look much more like traditional hiking shoes.

They’re stable, the Missiongrip rubber outsole and lugs are deep and provide excellent grip, and although they don’t have ankle support, I still felt secure in them on uneven ground. In fact, I would happily carry a bag for extended periods of time. It’s not a particularly fast shoe, prioritizing control over propulsive power, but I think a lot of people will really enjoy it, on and off the trail. There is also a high-top version. If you want a similar design but cheaper, the $120 Adidas Terrex Skychaser AX5 GTX it’s worth the detour.

Serious alpine terrain demands respect, and if you’re going to encounter snow, ice, rocks and steep climbs, you need a mountaineering boot. Weighing 1 pound, 5.8 ounces per boot (9.5), the Kento Tour, from Swiss pioneer Mammut, offers a surprisingly nimble blend of support, grip and stiff-soled protection. Considering its height and stiffness, it’s a remarkably comfortable boot, and despite the hefty 11-millimeter drop, it’s easy to stick to your natural stride.

It’s about as far from a trail running shoe as you can get—it’s crampon compatible, for one thing—but it offers immediate comfort and just enough flexibility to keep it from feeling like a ski boot. Gore-Tex takes care of the waterproofing, and the suede upper and approach shoe-style lacing system let you really dial in the fit.

I tested them on a snowy glacier in freezing conditions and was impressed with how warm they provided. The Vibram Hexa Tech sole made me feel more like a mountain goat than an amateur mountaineer. I’ve also used these boots on tough rock climbs, and they inspire confidence with every step.

Here’s When You Need Trail Runners

If you’re day hiking, carrying a backpack, and moving quickly, you’ll probably be much happier with trail runners. Trail running shoes are much lighter, more flexible and designed for speed or covering long distances quickly. They have a more breathable upper and softer, more cushioned midsoles.

Most trail running brands offer a choice of waterproof (usually Gore-Tex) or breathable models. Breathable options are ideal for dry weather and if you’re running long distances, as they drain quickly if you should get wet. Waterproof options are great for splashing in puddles, but they trap heat, which is great in winter but sweaty in summer.

It should be noted that not all trail shoes are suitable for hiking. Just like carbon plates are wasted on everyday sneakers, other features are a waste when you’re primarily walking instead of running. I like the lightweight feel, grip and cushioning of the Adidas Terrex Agravic Vitesse ($160)but the rocker design only really works when you run and not when you walk.

I’m not going to run a hundred mile race or chase UMTB podiums, so on paper the ultra-endurance race-focused Hoka Mafate X are not for me. And I don’t care. They’re incredibly comfortable, and the huge dual-density foam padding in the 49-millimeter heel (with an 8-millimeter drop) makes them nimble and fun to wear almost anywhere.

The sole is made from the ever-reliable Vibram Megagrip, and the 4-millimeter studs grip well. The carbon fiber forked plate adds a propulsive feel, making going up and down, at walking or running pace, noticeably less strenuous. I’ve worn these shoes for countless hours on all surfaces, and my feet and legs stay remarkably fresh.

They’re not designed for hiking, and some people might not like the fact that there’s very little feeling underfoot, but personally, I never tire of that feeling. The protective padding encourages me to go further and makes the journey easier. Yes, they will be a little wobbly if you are balancing along ridge lines or need to be precise, but when the path is clearly marked, they will triumph. Unfortunately, they are expensive. Despite nice toe protection and a decent sole, they wear much more like a sneaker than a boot.

Salomon has improved its excellent Aero Blaze 3 road running shoe and transformed it into a versatile, multi-surface design. The GRVL moniker refers to gravel and the idea that, like a gravel bike, shoes can go everywhere. Yes, it’s a marketing ploy, but one that has impressed me so far. (Craft also looks at this with the excellent Xplore 2 ($150) running shoes.)

The most notable change here is the Gravel ContaGrip outsole with nice, deep chevron-shaped lugs that work on everything from dirt trails and grass to slippery roads. They’re not designed to handle deep mud or technical rock climbs, but the reinforced toe box provides a bit of protection. I live 1.6 km from a forest and, unlike many trail running shoes, I don’t hate spending time on asphalt.

The 8-millimeter drop, foam midsole and soft reverse arch shape provide plenty of cushioning and a smooth ride. They don’t have the comfort of the Hoka Mafate X, but foot fatigue is minimal. They’re not specifically aimed at hikers, but I’ve had no problem wearing them on walks, runs, and trips to the shops on the weekends. The Gore-Tex upper also keeps my feet dry, although the white sample I’m wearing doesn’t stay that way for long.

The Altra Lone Peak shoe was first released in 2011 and now has a cult following, particularly with hikers looking to go the distance. Weighing 11.15 ounces for men (9.3 ounces for women), the shoe is lightweight and comfortable, and the reinforced toe and heel provide excellent protection against nature’s tripping hazards. I tested the waterproof version (non-waterproof ones are $20 less), which survived puddles and grass, and I was impressed with the nice little Velcro strip on the heel to attach the gaiters.

Being an Altra, it is a no-drop design and has a very wide tip to encourage natural movement. While this gives the sneaker a rather orthopedic look, the comfort is hard to argue with. As someone who develops bunions after too many hours in climbing shoes, the Lone Peak 9s are a blessed relief. Be careful though, you will need to train your legs to adapt to a no-drop design before traveling any significant distances.

The midsole here doesn’t offer super-shoe levels of cushioning, and that’s not a bad thing, as they remain balanced and responsive on all types of terrain. There is also a rock slab, which really makes the difference. The MaxTrac rubber outsole grips well in mixed conditions and the 3.5-millimeter lugs are well positioned and eat up the trail. There is also a slightly heavier Lone Woodpecker 9+ ($155)which has a Vibram Megagrip sole for even greater grip.

Although not advertised as such, the Columbia Konos Trillium ATR looks and feels like a trail running shoe and, in my experience, can happily do both, assuming you’re not looking to win the Barkley Marathon. But they’re suitable for long days on mixed terrain, and at 11.9 ounces per shoe (9 for US men), they’re lightweight while still providing more support than a dedicated runner.

The midsole borrows the most from running technology, with plush cushioning and an 8-millimeter drop that helps soften your stride, even when the trail gets rocky or loose underfoot. Yes, the extra crush affects stability if you’re a heel striker, but they’re great on dirt, gravel, and forest paths.

They are not perfect for everything. On very wet or technical terrain, I would like more lateral support and stiffness, and if I was carrying a heavy pack for several days, I would still choose boots. But for faster hikes, day trips, and mixed-surface adventures, this is a great shoe at a great price.

Here’s When You Need Hiking Shoes

If you’re going through technical terrain (lots of gravel or scree, any place where your foot placement really matters), you should consider a hiking shoe. Hiking shoes are sort of a happy medium between boots and trail shoes. They are more flexible than full boots, but stiffer than trail shoes. They often share many of the protective features of boots, including thick soles, good toe protection, and generous use of leather and durable synthetic materials. However, they are generally more agile and comfortable, with a shorter break-in period.

They are also heavier than trail shoes, but much lighter than boots. What you lose in speed, you tend to gain with extra support. The soles also tend to be stiffer than those of trail runners, and they lack the plush responsiveness. This is not always the case, as I discovered with the Merrell Speedarc Matis GTX ($210)which mixes the two functionalities well.

Hiking shoes offer good protection against rocky terrain and tree roots, with thicker soles and reinforced bumpers to protect your feet, but they are still vulnerable to deep puddles or snow. Trail running shoes are often designed to improve breathability and drainage, so you can run through streams and shed water quickly. This is perfect if you’re actually running, as they’ll dry quickly, but a little soggy for a casual hike.

Available in a non-waterproof shoe, a GTX, and a mid-height Gore-Tex boot, these futuristic-looking hiking shoes from Merrell might not appeal to a traditionalist, but they perform extremely well on a wide variety of terrain. At 12.87 ounces for a US 9, they’re quite heavy, especially compared to trail runners, but they have a surprising weight and an excellent Vibram MegaGrip outsole with 3-millimeter anti-mud lugs that are great on slippery roots, gravel, trails, grass, and generally scrambling.

There’s a plate included here between the funky two-piece midsole, which makes the shoe quite stiff – again, compared to trail runners – and I love it. It’s rare to find a combination of trail comfort and the safety of a stiffer hiking shoe. I’m not suggesting you carry a heavy pack over rocky terrain for days with them, but they are a great option for getting around the trails quickly with your feet well protected. They also look like cool trail running shoes, so you can still look great for your Cortado.

This is a bold design change for Merrell, which has a great track record of making boring but brilliant hiking shoes and boots. THE Moab Vitesse 2 GTX ($170) remains a favorite, and while they don’t have the “trail running” aesthetic, they are cushioned, grippy and provide all-day stability.

They feel big on my feet but weigh an impressive only 12.64 ounces per shoe (8 for US men) while providing the plushest level of cushioning and confidence-boosting support across a wide range of terrain. They also have excellent breathability, making them ideal for adventures in dry, warm weather and windy toes.

Given its imposing dimensions, some might be tempted to size down, but in reality, I would size up at least half a size. My US 11 sample had a generous width, but just enough length, which is unusual. Once you find your size, the shoe’s Vibram MegaGrip sole and well-organized 5-millimeter lugs provide superb traction. Hoka has also incorporated a 100% recycled polyester upper here, as well as a sock liner made from 50% soybean oil.

The Anacapa Breeze Low (also available in GTX waterproof model) are now a few years old and, as such, are often heavily discounted. They look enough like trail runners so you can keep up (style-wise) with the cool kids.

I’ve tested at least 40 pairs of hiking boots, shoes, and trail shoes since I first wore these Danners, but they remain a regular on outings, day hikes, and general walks. I wouldn’t hike the 2,650-mile Pacific Crest Trail, although they live up to their name, but they are comfortable and supportive, with impressive protection underfoot from rocks and uneven ground.

On the heel, you will notice a funny plastic bumper. This is actually a clever way to add lateral stability without affecting comfort. I haven’t had any problems with either, so I have to assume it works. Danner has a Gore-Tex option here, which I also tested, but the membrane made the shoe stiffer and tighter, so maybe go a half size up. My favorite upper is suede which softens over time and conforms to my foot. It also looks great, although it retains water if it gets wet, unlike the latest trail runners.

At 13.4 ounces per shoe, these new-style Keens aren’t as featherweight as the Arc’teryx Kopex, but they have a more trail-runner style feel, despite the ankle height. They’re nimble, with plenty of spring from the midsole, with the added bonus of a little support on uneven ground. These aren’t pretty shoes, but the performance is impressive nonetheless.

They’re much less bulky than a traditional boot, but sturdy enough that I’m never compromised on slippery or technical surfaces, and the Keen-Dry waterproof membrane has yet to fail me. The 4-millimeter multidirectional lugs grip well on slippery fall trails, and I appreciated the inclusion of traditional boot eyelets. It’s a small detail, but it makes it much easier to put on taller boots.

Over the course of a four-hour hike without prior break-in, I found the cushioning to be forgiving with no hot spots, and the toe box to be generous. I’ve only tried the half-height option, but I imagine that low design is just as comfortable and will feel even more like a supportive trail runner.

Power up with unlimited access to CABLE. Get best-in-class reporting and exclusive subscriber content that’s too important to ignore. Subscribe today.