Best Cheap Hiking Shoes - A Comprehensive Guide

Best Cheap Hiking Shoes - A Comprehensive Guide
Best Cheap Hiking Shoes - A Comprehensive Guide (Image: © Selective Shoe)

Finding affordable, durable, reliable hiking shoes can be difficult, but it’s not impossible. Whether you’re an experienced hiker looking to upgrade your footwear or just starting your hiking journey, this post is for you. Despite their lower price point, cheap hiking shoes offer various features that cater to novice and seasoned hikers' needs. They are typically lightweight, ensuring less fatigue during long hikes. Most models employ sturdy materials to withstand rugged terrains, while their soles have a solid grip to prevent slips.

I know firsthand the struggles of finding the perfect pair of hiking shoes that don’t break the bank. I remember setting out on a challenging mountain hike, only to realize that my shoes were falling apart halfway through. It was a disaster!

However, after years of trial and error, I have finally discovered the holy grail of affordable hiking shoes, and I will share the top 10 cheap hiking shoes with you. So, lace up those boots and get ready to conquer the trails without a hefty price tag attached. Let’s dive right in!

Our Top 3 Recommendations

Best Pick Columbia Men's Crestwood Hiking Shoe Columbia Men's Crestwood Hiking Shoe

All-Terrain Traction

Techlite Midsole

Highly Responsive

Most Popular KEEN Men's Targhee Exp Waterproof Hiking Shoes KEEN Men's Targhee Exp Waterproof Hiking Shoes

Solid construction

Comfortable

Supportive

Budget Pick Salomon Men's X Ultra Pioneer Aero Hiking Shoes for Men Salomon Men's X Ultra Pioneer Aero Hiking Shoes for Men

Excellent performance

Lightweight

Great traction

Best Cheap Hiking Shoes - A Comprehensive Guide At a Glance:

List of Top 10 Best Cheap Hiking Shoes

Columbia Men's Crestwood Hiking Shoe (Image credit: Amazon)

Columbia Men's Crestwood Hiking Shoe

SPECIFICATIONS

Color: Camo Brown | Fabric type: 100% Leather and Textile | Care instructions: Machine Wash | Origin: Imported | Sole material: Rubber

REASONS TO BUY

All-Terrain Traction

Techlite Midsole

Highly Responsive

REASONS TO AVOID

Inconsistent Quality

The Columbia Men’s Crestwood Hiking Shoe is designed to deliver exceptional comfort and durability for outdoor adventures. The shoe features leather, mesh, and webbing materials, providing breathability and long-lasting wear. The upper is waterproof, ensuring your feet stay dry in wet conditions. Additionally, the lace-up closure allows for a secure, adjustable fit, while the protective toe cap shields your toes from rocks and other trail debris.

In terms of comfort and support, the Crestwood Hiking Shoe boasts a lightweight Techlite midsole that provides superior cushioning and high energy return, reducing fatigue during long hikes. Also, the advanced Omni-Grip non-marking traction rubber outsole ensures firm footing and grip, even on slippery or uneven terrains. With its sturdy construction and innovative technology, this hiking shoe is designed to make every hike a comfortable adventure.

My avid camper brother encountered a rough patch of terrain riddled with slippery rocks and sharp turns. Thanks to the advanced traction rubber sole of his Columbia Crestwood Hiking Shoes, he was able to navigate this tricky path with ease and confidence. He later told me that if it hadn’t been for these shoes, he could have easily lost his footing and suffered a severe injury. Then, we both realized the importance of investing in a good pair of hiking shoes.

KEEN Men's Targhee Exp Waterproof Hiking Shoes (Image credit: Amazon)

KEEN Men's Targhee Exp Waterproof Hiking Shoes

SPECIFICATIONS

Color: Black/Steel Grey | Fabric type: 100% Leather | Care instructions: Machine Wash | Origin: Imported | Sole material: Rubber

REASONS TO BUY

Solid construction

Comfortable

Supportive

Good traction

REASONS TO AVOID

Not fully waterproof

The KEEN Men’s Targhee Exp Waterproof Hiking Shoes are versatile and durable, built to withstand the most challenging trails. These shoes feature a waterproof leather upper that keeps your feet dry in wet conditions, making them perfect for hiking in any weather. The outsole enhances traction with a multi-directional lug pattern, ensuring dry and damp surface stability.

Additionally, the Targhee Exp features KEEN’s proprietary waterproof, breathable membrane that lets vapor out without letting water in, keeping your feet dry and comfortable throughout your hike. The reinforced eyelets for easy lacing and speed hooks at the top make getting them on and off more accessible. A padded tongue and collar increase comfort around the ankle and reduce chafing, while the leather mud shield offers resilient durability.

My brother was impressed by a feature of these shoes: their waterproof quality. Besides being waterproof, the Targhee Exp shoes offer excellent traction, thanks to their durable rubber outsole. This makes them perfect for tackling slippery or uneven surfaces.

They also have a dual-density EVA foam midsole that provides superior cushioning and support, ensuring comfort even during long hikes. KEEN Men’s Targhee has proven to be a reliable companion, keeping our feet dry and comfortable across various terrains and weather conditions.

Salomon Men's X Ultra Pioneer Aero Hiking Shoes for Men (Image credit: Amazon)

Salomon Men's X Ultra Pioneer Aero Hiking Shoes for Men

SPECIFICATIONS

Color: Mallard Blue | Outer material: Rubber | Water resistance level: Not Water Resistant | Closure type: Speed Laces | Sole material: Rubber

REASONS TO BUY

Excellent performance

Lightweight

Great traction

Water resistance

REASONS TO AVOID

Limited color options

Salomon Men’s X Ultra Pioneer Aero is affordable and packed with features that make it a top choice for any hiker. The Salomon Men are lightweight and perfect for long treks without causing foot fatigue. They offer exceptional traction thanks to their Contagrip MA outsole, which is built for the widest variety of surfaces.

It balances the geometry and the rubber compound to deliver confidence on wet, dry, rigid, or loose surfaces and offers long-term durability. The shoes also have an Advanced Chassis between the outsole and midsole. This maximizes motion control, energy management, and push-through protection for an efficient, stable, responsive ride.

My friend John mentioned how the shoes provided excellent grip on slippery rocks and were comfortable even after several hours of hiking. Even when he accidentally stepped into a shallow stream, the shoes dried quickly, keeping his feet warm and dry.

His experience further solidified my belief that these shoes are an excellent choice for any hiker looking for quality and affordability. In summary, the Salomon Men’s are well-suited to handle various hiking conditions, making them an excellent investment for anyone who loves to explore the great outdoors.

Columbia Men's Valley Pointe Waterproof Hiking Shoe (Image credit: Amazon)

Columbia Men's Valley Pointe Waterproof Hiking Shoe

SPECIFICATIONS

Color: Shark/Monument | Origin: Imported | Care instructions: Machine Wash | Closure type: Lace-Up | Sole material: Rubber

REASONS TO BUY

Very versatile

A pair of genuinely waterproof shoes

Very breathable

REASONS TO AVOID

Narrow fit

Columbia Men’s Valley Pointe Waterproof Hiking Shoes deliver top-notch performance at a price that doesn’t break the bank. The Columbia Men’s are designed with quality and functionality in mind. They feature a durable and waterproof leather and textile upper that keeps your feet dry in any weather.

The shoes also come equipped with Omni-Grip non-marking traction rubber outsole for excellent grip on various surfaces. For comfort, they have a lightweight Techlite midsole that provides long-lasting comfort, superior cushioning, and high energy return.

Additionally, these shoes have a durable mesh upper with strategically placed overlays for added protection. This design guarantees the shoe’s longevity and provides breathability, helping to keep your feet cool during strenuous activities.

A friend, Alex, told me that his Columbia Men’s Valley Pointe Waterproof Hiking Shoes provided the perfect traction. He could easily navigate the trails, and despite the wet conditions, his feet remained dry throughout the hike.

He also mentioned that his feet felt comfortable even after a full day of hiking, thanks to the supportive midsole. Columbia Men’s Hiking Shoe combines durability, comfort, and practicality. It’s designed to handle various terrains and weather conditions, making it a reliable companion for all your hiking adventures.

Columbia Men's Granite Trail Mid Waterproof Hiking Shoe (Image credit: Amazon)

Columbia Men's Granite Trail Mid Waterproof Hiking Shoe

SPECIFICATIONS

Color: Black | Origin: Imported | Care instructions: Machine Wash | Closure type: Lace-Up | Sole material: Rubber

REASONS TO BUY

The heel is quite firm in support

Lightweight

Flexible boots

REASONS TO AVOID

Wears down more quickly

Columbia Men’s Granite Trail Mid Waterproof Hiking Shoes are a marvel of modern footwear technology explicitly designed for the outdoors. They feature breathable and waterproof leather and mesh uppers, ensuring your feet stay dry no matter what Mother Nature throws. The mid-ankle design provides excellent support and stability, which is crucial when traversing uneven terrain.

The soles of these shoes deserve special mention. They are made with Columbia’s patented Omni-Grip non-marking traction rubber, providing superior grip on wet or dry surfaces. This ensures that I always have a firm footing, whether navigating slippery rocks by the river or climbing steep inclines. Additionally, the Techlite lightweight midsole offers long-lasting comfort, high energy return, and superior cushioning, which makes a noticeable difference during long hikes.

My colleague was impressed with the grip and stability the shoes provided on the slick terrain. He took them on a week-long hiking trip across the rugged terrains of the Rocky Mountains. Despite facing unpredictable weather and challenging trails, he praised the shoes for their excellent performance.

He mentioned how they provided great traction on slippery surfaces and kept his feet dry during heavy rain. Even after a week of intense hiking, the shoes showed minimal signs of wear and tear. He was thoroughly impressed and recommended them to all his fellow hikers.

Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Lightweight Waterproof Shoe Hiking Boot (Image credit: Amazon)

Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Lightweight Waterproof Shoe Hiking Boot

REASONS TO BUY

Comfortable

Good for a wide foot

Simple design

REASONS TO AVOID

Lacks support underfoot

The Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Lightweight Waterproof Hiking Boot blends style, comfort, and durability. Inspired by classic mountaineering boots, its design features a breathable mesh textile, leather upper, and a hook-and-loop closure system with metal hardware for a sturdy fit. The boot’s light midsole offers lasting comfort, making it ideal for long hikes. The shoe also features a lace-up closure for an adjustable, secure fit, combining functionality with feminine style.

Moreover, this hiking boot has outdoor hardware and an Omni-Tech waterproof, breathable, seam-sealed membrane bootie construction, offering superior protection against elements. The Techlite lightweight midsole provides long-lasting comfort and superior cushioning, helping you maintain your pace on the trails.

The full-grain leather, suede combination, and scratch rubber heel contribute to its durability and rugged appeal. It’s a trail-ready boot designed for long-lasting hiking wear. The boot’s design perfectly balances style and practicality, making it a must-have for every hiking enthusiast.

I can vouch for the Columbia Women’s Waterproof Hiking Boot. Its stylish design inspired by classic mountaineering gear caught my eye initially, but the boot’s performance won me over. The waterproof feature kept my feet dry during rainy hikes, while the lightweight midsole provided enduring comfort.

The adjustable lace-up closure ensured a snug fit, and the durable leather upper withstood the rigors of my outdoor adventures. These boots have become indispensable to my hiking gear, blending style, comfort, and durability in perfect harmony.

Merrell Women's Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoe (Image credit: Amazon)

Merrell Women's Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoe

SPECIFICATIONS

Color: Smoke | Fabric type: 100% Leather | Care instructions: Machine Wash | Origin: Imported | Sole material: Vibram

REASONS TO BUY

Most breathable shoe

Excellent out-of-box comfort

Above-average traction

REASONS TO AVOID

A bit bulky

The Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoe is a highly regarded choice among outdoor enthusiasts due to its remarkable combination of comfort, durability, and affordability. Crafted with performance suede leather and mesh upper, these shoes offer exceptional breathability and long-lasting performance during outdoor adventures. Equipped with a closed-cell foam tongue, they keep moisture and debris at bay, ensuring your feet remain clean and dry throughout your hike.

These shoes also feature a protective rubber toe cap, providing an extra defense against rocks and sharp objects. The air cushion in the heel absorbs shock and enhances stability, while the EVA midsole delivers optimal comfort and support on uneven terrains. With the Vibram TC5+ sole, you can confidently navigate various hiking trails thanks to its reliable traction.

I can personally attest to the exceptional qualities of the Merrell Women’s Moab 2. The breathability of these shoes is truly impressive, keeping my feet cool even during long hikes in warm weather.

I greatly appreciate the protective rubber toe cap, which has saved my toes from countless potential injuries, the Merrell M Select FIT.ECO+ blended EVA contoured footbeds have been a revelation, providing unparalleled comfort and support and making it easier to conquer challenging trails. These shoes undeniably offer exceptional value when considering the remarkable balance of affordability and quality.

Merrell Women's Siren Edge 3 Hiking Shoe (Image credit: Amazon)

Merrell Women's Siren Edge 3 Hiking Shoe

SPECIFICATIONS

Color: Polar/Wave | Fabric type: Mesh | Outer material: Machine Wash | Origin: Made in USA or Imported | Sole material: Rubber

REASONS TO BUY

Breathable

Decent traction

Vegan-friendly

REASONS TO AVOID

Not waterproof

The Merrell Women’s Siren Edge 3 Hiking Shoe is the perfect companion for your outdoor adventures. These shoes are designed with a mesh and synthetic upper, offering breathability and durability to withstand harsh terrains.

The traditional lace closure provides a secure fit while the bellows tongue keeps debris out, ensuring your feet stay clean and comfortable throughout your hike. Moreover, these shoes feature a Kinetic Fit TRI removable contoured insole that provides light support to all three-foot arches.

The Siren Edge 3 also incorporates a Q FORM 2 dual-density midsole with heel-centering technology that provides gender-engineered alignment and comfort. The M Select GRIP outsole tunes each outsole with durable traction that grips when and where you need it. Additionally, these hiking shoes feature a shock-absorbing air cushion in the heel that reduces impact, providing stability and optimal comfort.

Speaking from my experience, the Merrell Women’s Siren Edge 3 Hiking Shoe has been a game-changer for my outdoor ventures. Even on rocky and uneven trails, their comfort and support are unmatched. Their durability has impressed me; they’ve held up admirably through countless hikes and weather conditions. Whether trekking through muddy trails or climbing steep inclines, I can trust these shoes to provide the grip and stability I need

Merrell Women's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot (Image credit: Amazon)

Merrell Women's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot

SPECIFICATIONS

Color: Granite | Shaft height: Ankle | Origin: Made in the USA or Imported | Shaft Circumference: 4 | Sole material: Rubber

REASONS TO BUY

Improved traction

Great for a wide foot

Well-padded ankle

REASONS TO AVOID

The lacing system lacks durability

The Merrell Women’s Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is an excellent choice for those seeking affordability without compromising quality. These boots boast a range of features designed to enhance your hiking experience.

They are constructed with waterproof leather and mesh upper, which keep your feet dry in wet conditions, and the breathable mesh lining ensures optimal air circulation. The protective rubber toe cap provides added durability, while the closed-cell foam tongue keeps moisture and debris out.

These boots also feature a Merrell M Select FIT.ECO+ blended EVA contoured footbed with added zonal arch and heel support. This provides superior comfort during long hikes. The Vibram TC5+ sole ensures high-performance durability, stability, and slip resistance. The Merrell air cushion in the heel absorbs shock and adds stability, providing an extra layer of comfort.

I appreciate the balance between cost and performance that these boots offer. They are comfortable, sturdy, and reliable, making my hikes enjoyable and worry-free. The waterproof feature is a lifesaver, especially when crossing streams or hiking in rainy weather. And the added support from the footbed makes a noticeable difference during long treks. I highly recommend the Merrell Women’s Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot for affordable, high-quality hiking footwear.

Columbia Women Trailstorm Peak Mid-Hiking Shoe (Image credit: Amazon)

Columbia Women Trailstorm Peak Mid-Hiking Shoe

SPECIFICATIONS

Color: Stone Green | Outer material: Rubber | Closure type: Lace-Up | Origin: Imported | Sole material: Rubber

REASONS TO BUY

Lightweight

Extremely comfortable

Very soft for walking and running

REASONS TO AVOID

Run slightly small

The Columbia Women’s Trailstorm Shoe offers a perfect blend of comfort, style, and durability. These shoes are designed with superior cushioning and high energy return, thanks to their Techlite lightweight midsole. The shoe’s upper part is a waterproof woven synthetic textile with suede, ensuring your feet stay dry even in damp conditions. These shoes come with Omni-Tech waterproof, breathable, seam-sealed membrane bootie construction for added protection and durability.

One of the standout features of the Columbia Women’s Trailstorm Peak Mid Hiking Shoe is the non-marking Omni-Grip rubber outsole. With these hiking shoes, you will also appreciate the lightweight construction that doesn’t compromise the shoes' durability and toughness.

The waterproof feature has kept my feet dry during rainy hikes. The shoes are lightweight, making them comfortable for long hikes, and their durability is unmatched. I especially love the lace-up closure, which allows me to adjust the fit to my preference. All in all, these shoes have significantly improved my hiking experience.

Conclusion

Finding the perfect hiking shoes doesn’t have to break the bank. I’ve discussed the best budget-friendly options for hikers and how they can provide excellent support and durability on the trails.

The Columbia Men’s Crestwood Hiking Shoe and the Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Lightweight Waterproof Shoe Hiking Boot are some of the best cheap options for any outdoor enthusiast. Not only do these shoes provide durability and comfort, but they also offer excellent traction and support on any terrain. So whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting on your adventures, these affordable hiking shoe options will satisfy your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Look For in Cheap Hiking Shoes?

Look for good traction, water resistance, breathability, and adequate foot support. Even at a lower price point, these features should be present.

Can I Use Running Shoes For Hiking?

While you can use running shoes for light hiking on well-maintained trails, they may need more traction and ankle support for rougher terrains.

Are Cheap Hiking Shoes Reliable?

While price can indicate quality, it’s only sometimes the case. Some affordable hiking shoes offer good performance and durability. Always check for user reviews before making a purchase.

Billy Visuals
Hello, I'm Billy Visuals, the brain behind selectiveshoe.com. My online presence is dedicated to disseminating valuable insights about shoes and boots that can guide your footwear choices. I've had a lifelong fascination with shoes, which has led to a collection of over 500 pairs in my closet! My partner often jokes about my obsession, but she's always thrilled when I surprise her with a new pair of heels! I launched SelectiveShoe in 2023, with the aim of offering comprehensive knowledge that will assist you in making informed purchasing decisions. I've gathered a team of footwear enthusiasts who, like me, are passionate about providing impartial reviews and detailed buying guides. Our assessments are based on real-world experiences, ensuring that our advice is grounded in reality. You're always welcome to reach out and share your thoughts. If you have any queries about shoes, don't hesitate to drop me a comment. I'm here to help!
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