Our Favorite Hiking Boots: Tried, Tested, and Trail-Proven from the Alps to the Andes

Looking for the perfect hiking boots for your next adventure? We’ve got you covered! From summiting Kilimanjaro to trekking the Tour du Mont Blanc, the right hiking boots can make or break your adventure. Our WHOA team has tested boots across all our trips in Iceland, Peru, Tanzania, and beyond. These are the tried-and-true favorites we trust to take us (and you!) confidently and comfortably on the trails.

On Cloudrock 2 Waterproof

Recommended by WHOA Co-Founder Danielle

Trail-tested on:
 Kilimanjaro, Grand Canyon & Ben Nevis

Why I love them: I’ve always been a Lowa Renegade girl, and still love them, BUT these On Running boots are my new obsession! They feel like you’re hiking in trail runners (or as they say, on a cloud!), but you get the added extra ankle support of a hiking boot. I love that they feel light, and not too bulky, which, as a klutzy person who trips over her own feet often, is a huge plus!

Favorite Features: On’s CloudTec technology gives them a springy feel which helps reduce fatigue on long hikes. I also love On's commitment to sustainability using recycled materials and PFC-Free waterproofing. 

 

Salomon Quest 4 Gore-Tex

Recommended by WHOA HQ & GAL Nicole

Trail-tested on: Kilimanjaro, Tour du Mont Blanc, Everest Base Camp, Iceland, & trails all over Colorado

Why I love them: They are comfortable right out of the box, and the higher height offers added support for multi-day, rocky hikes.  

Favorite Features: The "chassis" is designed to offer additional support to your heels, which helps with overall muscle fatigue when carrying a heavy pack, they are also incredibly waterproof, so you can confidently walk through a low stream, or in the rain without risking wet feet (and blisters)! 

 

Altra Lone Peak Hiker

Recommended by WHOA HQ & GAL Julie

Trail-tested on: Kilimanjaro, Grand Canyon & 14ers in Colorado

Why I love them: They hug me like an old friend - firm (but not too tight), supportive, and comfortable. The Altra Lone Peak Hikers have never given me a blister or hot spot and they molded to my feet after one hike. 

Favorite Features: While trail running shoes are easy crossovers into hiking, I've never before worn a hiking boot that I could run in (and not regret later). While descending Long's Peak last summer, I was itching to get back to the trailhead faster so I cinched down my pack, lengthened my stride and voila - running in boots! I made it back to the car (and car snacks) in record time. Luckily the ankle portion of the boot is flexible while also providing stability. No regrets.

Asolo Stynger GORE-TEX

Recommended by WHOA Co-founder, Allison

Trail-tested on: Kilimanjaro, Peru, Iceland & Ben Nevis

Why I love them: I have always worn Asolos, my first pair was when I was 18 and I have never worn any other brand! I find them to be incredibly comfortable and durable, and they offer great ankle support!

Favorite Features: I really love the GORE-TEX on these boots, I have never had wet feet and the boots are really shock-absorbing allowing me to wear them for longer hiking days on varied and tough terrain.    



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