If you are looking for the best hiking boot, it is best to consider its comfortability, weight, and traction, among other factors. Below, I have handpicked my favorite products based on these features. So if you want to learn more about them, continue reading this article!
When I am shopping for hiking boots, it is really important to me that they do not exceed my budget. I am no expert hiker by any means, so my requirements on the proper footwear are not that high. With that said, I still expect that the pair of boots can meet their intended use and last for a long time while still being affordable.
That is why I made it a point to research countless articles and user reviews. In this article, I will sum up the seven best hiking boots under $100 based on my research. Each product includes a detailed review as well as a list of pros and cons, so you can easily compare them with one another.
I will also discuss the factors you need to look for when choosing the top hiking boots on the market today. This buying guide can ensure that you purchase the right product for your needs.
Finally, a handy FAQ section awaits you below. This section can answer some of your basic questions about hiking footwear in general.
So, without further ado, let us get on with my top picks!
A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites
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Top 7 Best Hiking Boots Under $100
Below are my top picks for the best hiking boots under $100. Each pair of footwear offers comfort and durability while still meeting your budget.
1. Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoe – Editor’s Pick for Men
The first product on this list of the best hiking boots under $100 is the Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoe.
It features suede leather and a mesh upper. Both of these materials are built to survive on various terrains and weather conditions. At the same time, it offers comfort, so you can hike for a long time without hurting your feet.
Additionally, this pair of comfortable hiking boots have a breathable mesh lining. The lug depth is rated at 5mm. Thus, it can help your feet move comfortably through dirt, mud, and ground.
Moreover, these hiking shoes include bellows and a closed-cell foam tongue. They can keep moisture and debris from entering the inner lining. Hence, they can ensure maximum comfort during hikes, trail running, or even work.
Plus, a protective rubber toe cap prevents your toe from having direct contact with the inside of the hiking boots. It also reduces the risk of pain and injuries.
As for the outsole, these hiking boots under $100 take advantage of the Vibram TC5-plus sole, which uses vulcanized rubber. It is more durable than ordinary rubber soles. It can also provide strong traction in different terrains.
On top of all these benefits, this specific Merrell waterproof hiking boot is available in 18 different colors. Feel free to choose one that best suits your personal style.
Most importantly, reviews for this pair of hiking footwear were positive. If there is any critique, it would be concerning the sizing because it runs larger than usual. Hence, it is best to get a pair that is one size bigger. Also, some users noticed that the arch support is located near the heel. Hence, it can be uncomfortable to wear for longer periods.
But as you can see, the pros far outweigh the cons.
For this reason, I chose the Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoe as the best hiking boots under $100 for men. Depending on the style and size, it starts at around $70 for a single pair. I highly recommend it to users looking for versatile and durable hiking footwear.
Pros:
- Performance suede leather and mesh upper material can last you for a long time
- Breathable and comfortable mesh lining with 5mm lug depth for added traction
- A protective rubber cap can prevent toe pain and injury
- Bellows and closed-cell foam tongue to keep moisture and debris out
- Vulcanized rubber outsole provides strong traction on rocky terrain
Cons:
- The shoe sizing tends to run large
- Some users said that the arch support is located near the heel, which makes it uncomfortable to wear
2. Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus Hiking Boot – Editor’s Pick for Women
If you are looking for the best pick for female hikers, consider looking into the Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus Hiking Boot.
It features a feminine style that can complement your outfit. There are also 22 different colors available, so feel free to choose one that suits your personal style.
Besides the aesthetics, these women’s hiking boots also deliver durability. They use a full-grain leather exterior and mesh upper. Both these materials ensure that the footwear can withstand hikes from trail to mountain range.
Additionally, these shoes have a seam-sealed membrane bootie construction, also known as OmniTech. This innovation is breathable and waterproof, which ultimately provides you comfort.
Furthermore, this pair of hiking footwear includes a lightweight and durable midsole. It can offer superior cushioning and a high-energy return for a more efficient walk and hiking.
Furthermore, it boasts a rubber sole with a multi-terrain traction system. It uses specially formulated compounds and treads ideal for trekking across various environments. Plus, a dual-zone winter tread pattern can guarantee solid footing on ice and snow surfaces.
There are even metal lacing hardware and mesh tongue. The former ensures a classic look alongside durability. Meanwhile, the latter can keep dust and debris from entering the affordable boots.
Lastly, these hiking boots have a lace-up closure that allows for an adjustable and secure fit. Feel free to tighten or loosen the laces as you see fit.
Despite these advantages, it is still best to consider the downsides of these best hiking shoes. First, some users said that the top part of the boots tapers slightly, which can touch your toe. As such, they could be uncomfortable to wear, especially on the toe area. Second, a few customers also noticed that the leather exterior gets too warm during summer days.
Nevertheless, the Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus is still among the best hiking boots under $100. It is our top choice for female hikers due to its overall quality and durability.
Pros:
- Aesthetically-pleasing women’s hiking boots with metal lacing hardware and 22 color options
- Durable and comfortable leather exterior with mesh upper material
- OmniTech innovation ensures breathability and waterproofing
- Rubber outsole with multi-terrain traction system for a stronger grip on various surfaces
- Adjustable and secure lace-up closure
Cons:
- The way the boot is stitched and taper slightly makes it uncomfortable to wear, especially on the toe section
- This pair of hiking shoes might be too hot to wear during sunny weather
3. Foxelli Men’s Hiking Boots
Do you want to ensure all-day comfort when hiking? Then, the Foxelli Men’s Hiking Boots might be the right product for your needs.
It uses a suede leather exterior and a flexible mesh upper. Together with the KingTex membrane sales, these hiking boots can effectively seal out moisture and keep your feet dry.
Meanwhile, the breathable mesh collar and gusseted tongue offer superior cushioning around the ankle area. They can even improve air circulation to prevent sweating when hiking.
There are also shock-absorbent midsoles that reduce the impact on your joints. Thus, you do not have to worry about injuring yourself when using this pair of hiking boots under $100.
Moreover, these affordable hiking boots have high-quality rubber outsoles. These include advanced traction to provide better stability on rough terrain. At the same time, they are fully slip-proof to give you the confidence you need when hiking.
Plus, these lightweight hiking shoes have good arch and ankle support. Both of these features ensure greater posture and optimal balance for your overall comfort.
These cheap hiking boots even come in three different colors. They also include two additional pairs of non-slip shoelaces.
On top of all these benefits, Foxelli offers a 30-day money-back guarantee together with a one-year warranty for any defects. This warranty coverage makes it easier for you to ask for a refund or replacement.
However, before buying this pair of hiking shoes, it is essential to check their downsides. First, some users noticed that the material was not waterproof because it started leaking when they stepped on a deep puddle. Second, a few customers also said that the sole is thinner and more flexible than expected.
Overall, though, I think the Foxelli Men’s Hiking Boots is still worth considering. I recommend it to those looking for a pair of comfortable and flexible hiking boots under $100.
Pros:
- High-quality suede leather and mesh construction ensures durability and flexibility
- Mesh collar and gusseted tongue improve air circulation for all-day comfort
- Shock-absorbent midsoles minimize the impact on joints to prevent injury
- Advanced traction soles for better stability on different terrains
- One-year warranty with a 30-day money-back guarantee
Cons:
- The hiking boots are not waterproof because they start leaking when you step on a puddle
- Some users noticed that the sole is too thin and flexible
4. Merrell Men’s Moab 2 MID Waterproof Hiking Boot
The Merrell Men’s Moab 2 MID Waterproof Hiking Boot is another excellent product to consider if you are on a tight budget.
Despite having a starting price of $80, these hiking boots pack impressive features.
First, this pair of trekking shoes use genuine suede leather for the exterior and mesh for the upper. Both materials can ensure durability and flexibility for all-day comfort when hiking on rough terrain.
Additionally, these best waterproof hiking boots have M Select DRY technology. It can seal out water and let moisture escape to ensure that your feet are dry when you are on the move.
There are also bellows and a closed-cell foam tongue. They can further prevent moisture from entering the shoe interior. At the same time, they can keep debris out to ensure that your feet are clean and fresh.
Meanwhile, this pair of waterproof hiking boot also boasts a unique air cushion in the heel. It absorbs any impact and shock whenever you are hiking. Thus, it can improve your stability on various terrains.
Furthermore, this pair of shoes include a protective rubber toe cap. It can prevent your toe from touching the inner part of the boots. Hence, it can reduce the risk of discomfort and injury, especially when walking for a long time.
Plus, the Vibram TC5+ outsole has a 5mm lug depth. This rubber sole can provide excellent traction for better stability.
Finally, the Moab 2 boots are available in various colors. Feel free to choose one that best suits your personal style.
However, there are still a few cons to think about before finalizing your purchasing decision. First, some users said that these leather boots were not fully waterproof but simply water-resistant. Second, a few customers noticed that the stitching started to come apart after a few weeks of use.
But after considering its benefits and affordable price, I still consider the Merrell Men’s Moab 2 MID as among the best hiking boots today.
Pros:
- Genuine suede leather and mesh upper ensures durability and flexibility
- Closed-cell foam tongue and bellows to keep moisture and debris out
- Merrell air cushion absorbs shock
- Synthetic sole with 5mm lug depth for stronger traction
- Extra zonal arch and heel support to provide comfort
Cons:
- The boots are not fully waterproof and simply water-resistant
- Some users noticed that the stitching started to come apart after a few weeks of use
5. Timberland Women’s White Ledge Mid Ankle Boot
If you want to buy boots that you can take on any trail conditions, consider investing in the Timberland Women’s White Ledge Mid Ankle Boot.
It features a genuine leather exterior. Hence, these hiking boots under $100 can offer durability and flexibility. They can withstand different weather conditions. Plus, they have a seam-sealed waterproof construction, so you can wear them both rain and shine.
Additionally, this pair of hiking boot includes a soft, inner cushioning. It can absorb impact and shock to reduce the risk of injuries when you are hiking.
Furthermore, these Timberland boots have a cushioned footbed and dual-density EVA midsole. Both features offer all-day comfort from trail to mountain hikes.
Plus, the rubber lug outsoles provide enhanced traction to give you better stability on various ground surfaces.
There is even a collar and a fully gusseted tongue to keep dust and other debris out. They also guarantee additional comfort.
Finally, these budget hiking boots come with rustproof, speed lace hardware with lace hooks at the top. These allow for easy and comfortable wear.
There are still downsides to consider, though, before choosing this particular model. First, it is only available in one color, so your options are very limited. Second, some users said that the tongue of the shoe started to show signs of wear after a few weeks of use.
Nevertheless, the Timberland Women’s White Ledge Mid Ankle Boot is still among the best hiking boots for women. I highly recommend it for hiking, work, and even everyday use.
Pros:
- 100% waterproof leather material can last you for a long time
- Dual-density EVA midsole for lightweight cushioning
- The collar and fully-gusseted tongue can keep dust and other debris out
- Rubber lug outsoles give you better stability on different ground surfaces
- Rustproof hardware with lace hooks for easy and comfortable wear
Cons:
- It is only available in a single color
- Some users were disappointed that the tongue of the shoe started to show signs of wear after a few weeks of use
6. Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Mid Gtx Hiking Boot
The Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Mid Gtx Hiking Boot is another excellent waterproof hiking boot on the market today.
It features 100% synthetic leather and a mesh upper. Although it does not use genuine leather, this pair of trekking boots still offer the durability and flexibility you need. That is because it also takes advantage of the GORE-TEX waterproof membrane. This technology provides exceptional breathability and waterproof performance on top of the two previous benefits.
Additionally, there are bellows and a closed-cell foam tongue. Both of these features can keep moisture, dust, and other debris out. Hence, they can ensure that your feet stay dry and comfortable when hiking.
Moreover, these hiking boots include a protective rubber protective toe cap. It can prevent your toe from touching the inner surface of the footwear. Thus, it can reduce the risk of discomfort, pain, and injuries.
Meanwhile, the midsole comes with a supportive footbed. It can guarantee all-day comfort while you are hiking.
As for the outsole, these hiking boots take advantage of Vibram TC5+ or vulcanized rubber. This material improves traction to give you better stability on different terrains.
Finally, this particular model is available in various colors. Feel free to choose one that suits your personal preference.
Despite these advantages, these hiking boots still come with a few downsides. First, some users noticed that the soles came unglued after a few weeks of daily use. Second, a few customers were also disappointed when the loop holding lace came off.
Overall, though, the Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Mid Gtx Hiking Boot is still among the top ticks for the best waterproof hiking boots under $100.
Pros:
- Synthetic leather and a mesh upper ensures durability, flexibility, and waterproofing
- The unique structure of the hiking shoes can keep moisture and dust out
- Arch support and soft footbed for all-day comfort
- Vibram TC5+ outsole improves your traction on various terrains
- Multiple color options
Cons:
- The soles came unglued after a few weeks of daily use
- Some users noticed that the loop holding lace came off
7. Timberland Men’s Waterproof Leather Mt. Maddsen Boot
The last product on this list of the best hiking boots under $100 is the Timberland Men’s Waterproof Leather Mt. Maddsen Boot.
It uses a full-grain leather exterior to ensure quality and durability. When paired with the TimberDry eco-conscious waterproof membrane, these hiking boots can effectively keep your feet dry in any weather.
Additionally, this pair of waterproof hiking boots boast anti-fatigue comfort technology. This innovation includes a fully-gusseted tongue, footbed, and compression-molded EVA midsole. All of these ensure comfortable wear throughout the day.
Furthermore, these Timberland men’s hiking boots feature a 15% recycled rubber outsole. Not only do they improve traction and stability, but they are also environmentally friendly.
Lastly, Timberland provides a limited warranty on all its products. Just make sure to register the warranty claim within 12 months of purchase.
But before buying these hiking boots, it is essential to know their downsides. First, some users said that the sizing tends to be narrow, which might not be ideal for those with wide feet. Second, a few customers said that the leather material easily got scratched.
Nevertheless, the Timberland Men’s Waterproof Leather Mt. Maddsen Boot is still among the best affordable hiking boots.
Pros:
- Full-grain leather material can last you a long time
- TimberDry eco-conscious waterproof membrane can keep your feet dry in any weather
- Anti-fatigue comfort technology ensures all-day breathability and comfort
- A recycled rubber outsole for better grip on various terrains
- The boots are covered by the Timberland Limited Warranty
Cons:
- The shoes are narrow, which might not fit individuals with wide feet
- A few users noticed that the leather material easily got scratched
How to Choose the Best Hiking Boots Under $100
When getting a new pair of hiking boots, it is best to keep several things in mind. Besides the budget, you also have to consider the quality of the boots and their intended use.
Below, I will discuss the factors you need to think about before finalizing your purchasing decision.
Comfort
It is essential to invest in a comfortable pair of hiking boots. It makes a huge difference between enjoying a pleasant hike and enduring a grueling and painful walk.
Look for hiking boots with arch support to provide comfort when walking and running. You might also want to choose a pair with supportive insoles. These ensure less pain when hiking for long periods.
Other convenient features to think about include boot pulls and lace-up systems. Both of these can help you wear the boots easily and without much effort.
Weight
Besides comfort, you might also want to consider the weight of the hiking boots.
You do not want to buy a pair that is too heavy. That is because they can only weigh you down and tire you easily. At the same time, you want to avoid very lightweight hiking boots as they can be unstable.
For regular hikes, it is best to choose the right balance of the weight of the shoes. But if you want a fast and quick hike, I recommend keeping weight to a minimum. Finally, those who wish to build endurance and strength can take advantage of heavy hiking boots.
Versatility
If you are looking for affordable hiking boots, you probably want to get the most out of your money. That is why it is best to choose a pair of boots that are suitable for daily use.
Avoid buying hiking footwear that is restricted to one particular season. For instance, snow hiking boots will be too hot to wear during the summer.
Traction
Traction is another feature to think about before buying hiking boots. It determines how strong the grip of the shoes is on various surfaces. Thus, it also indicates how easy it is to trek across different environments.
It is best to choose hiking footwear with a strong grip to prevent the risk of injuries and other severe accidents. Look for stiff and rubber outsoles for stability when hiking.
Waterproofing
If you often encounter puddles or bad weather during your hikes, you might want to consider the waterproofing properties of the boots.
Choose a material that can withstand, or at the very least, resist water. It is also essential to check the inner lining to prevent your socks and feet from getting wet.
Warranty
Finally, it is best to purchase hiking boots with warranty coverage. The longer the period, the better, as it can indicate the quality of the items. It also shows how much confidence the manufacturer has over their products. Finally, a warranty makes it easier for you to ask for a return or refund if the product did not meet your expe
Frequently Asked Questions
Hiking boots vs. hiking shoes: which one is better?
When searching for the best hiking boots, you might have come across hiking shoes and wondered about their differences.
Hiking boots are heavier and more durable than hiking shoes. They also offer better protection against different weather conditions. Plus, they can often last you for a long time.
In contrast, hiking shoes are lighter and softer. They are also more flexible than hiking boots, which make them easy to fit. However, they are only ideal for dry weather and gentler terrain.
Choosing between the two will depend on your needs and personal preferences. But if you still cannot make a choice, fret not! Both types of hiking footwear can provide necessary support and comfort in various conditions.
How long do hiking boots last?
You might find yourself wondering how long your hiking boots will last you, especially if they are affordable.
However, there is no one right answer to this question. It will all depend on the material and quality of the shoes as well as how often you use them.
But to give you a general idea, hiking boots can last you anywhere between 500 and 1000 miles.
Do hiking boots cause back pain?
In general, hiking boots do not cause back pain. Some models with arch support and comfortable insoles can even prevent this condition.
With that said, there are still some rare instances when your hiking boots can cause back pain. This is probably because they are too worn down.
Other probable reasons why your back hurts include bad posture, overtraining, and not stretching, among many others.
Conclusion
There you have it—my top picks for the best hiking boots under $100! I highly recommend each product due to its durability, flexibility, and overall comfort.
But if I can only choose one, it would be the Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoe. It uses a suede leather exterior and a mesh upper, which ensure long-lasting durability. Additionally, these hiking boots have bellows and a closed-cell foam tongue to keep debris out. Plus, there is a protective rubber toe cap that decreases the risk of pain and injuries. Finally, it features vulcanized rubber outsoles with strong traction for better stability.
