Caring about your hiking shoes doesn’t make you a stick in the mud. Whether you’re a trail runner, backwoods trekker, or just a novice hiker who enjoys spending time outside, you want to ensure you’ve got some supportive, comfortable kicks before you tackle the trail.
Engaging with the outdoors is an uplifting and invigorating pastime that can be enjoyed during all stages of life. But if you’re hitting the trails with a few more years on planet Earth under your belt, you’re probably thinking a little more about joint support and traction than younger hikers.
To help you find the best outdoor shoes for hikers over 50, we asked a hiking blogger and some outdoorsy folks from HuffPost’s Facebook audience to share their current favorite hiking shoes, as well as scoured the shoe reviews of some of the internet’s most promising boots. All of the upcoming hiking shoes came recommended from people past the 50-year mark who love to move (on) mountains.
The original version of this story was published on HuffPost at an earlier date.
Hoka Anacapa Mid Gore-Tex boot
While you may already know and love Hoka for their running and walking shoes, many HuffPost readers recommended their hiking kicks, with Nađa Hadžić Čučak calling them "durable, comfortable, light."
We love the Anacapa mid Gore-Tex for their cool look, but also for their ankle support and strong traction. Zappos reviews say they barely have break-in time and are comfortable on their first wear, right out of the box.
Orthofeet waterproof othepedic hiking boots
According to an Orthofeet customer who claims to be over 50, these orthopedic hiking boots are comfortable enough to support their ankle after multiple surgeries, compound fractures and an ankle fusion. "They also provide cushy comfort but not so cushy that I don't feel the terrain and lose balance," they wrote.
Available in sizes for both men and women, these pain-relieving shoes are intended to accommodate several foot conditions and promise a roomy toe box.
Salomon X Ultra 5 low hiking shoes
For Diane Spicer, creator of Hiking For Her, the best hiking boot is the Salomon X Ultra 4, a lower-cut shoe. "The outsoles grip like crazy, an important feature for hikers like me who explore varied trails, from sand to loose rocks to wet mud," Spice told HuffPost. "They are lightweight, supportive yet supple. All this adds up to less leg and foot fatigue on a long hike."
Although Spicer originally spoke about the X Ultra 4s, they have since sold out and now the X Ultra 5s are the brand's most recent iteration.
Keen Targhee waterproof hiking boots
The most common brand we heard? Keens, baby. Per HuffPost reader Sarah Demers, "They are wide enough for my orthotics and my super comfy Sockwell compression socks," and Kris Roden added that they have a "nice big toe box and they stay waterproof even after years of use."
While no one suggested a specific Keen style, we love the Targhee 3 mid-height waterproof hiking boots, which reviewers say give you ample room for your toes and good support for your hips and back.
Danner Mountain Lights boots
"Danner Mountain Lights," said Facebook user Michael Metzger. "Been using them for 30 years. They are full leather, sturdy and though a bit pricey, last for decades if you take care of them."
The Danner Lights are certainly the most expensive of the brand's hiking boot offerings, but the Danner Mountain Leafs are very similar and more affordable.
Timberland White Ledge waterproof boots
Timberlands are just as handy on city streets as they are while hitting your local hiking trails. They're sturdy, durable and look good while they're at it. They're rust- and water-proof, have comfortable and cushy soles, and are beloved by all generations. Reviewers even wear them in snow and ice.
ALTRA Lone Peak trail running shoe
If you're looking for a trail running shoe or something lightweight and lower cut, Facebooker Anita March recommended the Altra Lone Peak trail running shoes for their "wide toe box!" This style has an overall rating of 4.6 on Amazon, with reviewers even deeming these babies the "Holy Grail of comfort all-terrain walkers."
Columbia Newton Ridge waterproof hiking boot
Columbia shoes were another brand named multiple times, with reader Peggy La Point saying, "they are solid and supportive on even the most challenging trail." We like the Newton Ridge Plus waterproof hiking boot, which has a 4.6 overall rating on Amazon, with hikers in their 70s calling them "attractive" as well as "supportive, functional, waterproof and breathable, they provide excellent stabilization and support."
Hi-Tec waterproof hiking boots
Reader Susan Mayle recommended boots from Hi-Tec, saying they have a "good fit" and are comfortable. We like the Hi-Tec Black Rock waterproof hiking boots (available only in men's sizes) for their reasonable price point and sock liner made with recovery foam. One reviewer said these boots are the most comfortable shoes they've tried since they started hiking mountain trails in the '70s. Who can argue with that?
Merrell Moab 3 waterproof hiking boots
Another reader-favorite brand is Merrell. Ruth Dubinsky Heffes said "Merrells. Lightweight, strong bottoms for rock balancing and water resistant." Lynn K. Brown echoed the lightweight sentiment, adding that Merrells are "very comfortable."
If you're looking for a specific style, we love the Merrell Moab 3 waterproof hiking boot that comes with a removable contoured insole and extra heel cushioning. They boast a 4.6 overall rating on Amazon, with reviewers saying the Moab 3 style gives you more arch support and cushion than previous models.
Salomon Quest 4 GTX
Goody Lindley likes the Quest 4 GTX, a high-top Salomon style, noting they're "lightweight, supportive and madly comfortable." Reviews say they're great for trekking, wearing in the snow or general use in extreme weather, giving you support and coverage through your whole ankle.