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10 Best Hiking Boots Under 100 for Men and Women

Jess Jess
July 21, 2020

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Finishing a hiking trip with painful blisters and aching ankles isn’t the best outcome, isn’t it?

We all know that the right shoes are the key to a comfortable trip. Hiking trips are no exception. You may not know this, but you can’t hike in regular shoes. The best footwear you can wear on such a trip is a hiking pair. It’ll make sure no harm comes to your feet. Additionally, it’ll protect your ankle from sudden rolls.

All in all, it’ll save you a lot of trouble and pain. You’ll also be happy to know that you don’t have to pay a fortune for it. I’ll show you the best hiking boots under 100 dollars, along with some tips and things to consider when buying.

best hiking boots under 100

The Best Budget Hiking Boots for Hikers

Take a look at these options and pick your favorite. They’re among the most affordable hiking boots on the market.

The 5 Best Men’s Hiking Boots Under $100

Here are our handpicked hiking boots for men under $100. They have diverse styles and features, and they’re all stylish.

Most Durable Hiking Boot: Timberland Men’s White Ledge Ankle Boot

Timberland’s boots are best known for their durability, and this pair didn’t disappoint. You can wear it on the roughest of terrains, and you won’t feel a thing. Additionally, they’re waterproof, so you can easily wear them in rainy conditions.

The upper surface is made out of top-tier leather. Furthermore, it’s adorned by a high-quality lacing that’ll secure your feet inside. Along with the lacing, there are two rust-resistant hooks on the top section for an even fastening.

The Timberland pair gives firm traction on all surfaces; we have the rubber sole to thank for that. Also, the boots are made out of full-grain leather that’ll stay intact for years. However, the material isn’t that breathable, so it may not be the best option for summer.

PROS:

  • Available in several colors
  • Durable material
  • Seam-sealed and waterproof
  • Suitable for all-terrain

CONS:

  • inaccurate sizing

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Best Waterproof: Ariat Men’s Terrain Hiking Boots

This Ariat pair is one of the best options for rough terrain. You can run the rubber soles on sharp rocks, slippery surfaces, or gravel, and they won’t budge. They provide impressive traction. Not to mention that the outer sole is self-cleaning. That way, you won’t have to walk around with mud sticking to your boots.

The ankle collar on the Ariat is padded for extra comfort. The padding will keep the boots looking slim without adding bulk. On top of that, the full-grain leather that covers the entire boots is waterproof. The lining is resistant to water as well. Therefore, the pair has enough breathability for all weather conditions.

The Ariat’s footbed has cushioning to offer the utmost support. Besides, the heel has a stabilizer. You’ll also love the stylish copper finish of the boots.

PROS:

  • High stability
  • Breathable design
  • Waterproof
  • Self-cleaning outsole

CONS:

  • The black leather near the toes wears out

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Most Comfortable Hiking Boots: Skechers Men’s Relment Pelmo Chukka Hiking Boots

When it comes to comfort, this Skechers pair is hard to match. It’s not as bulky as most hiking boots, and it only weighs 12 ounces. The light weight contributes to the comfort you feel while wearing it. You can walk miles in this pair and you won’t feel a thing.

The Skechers pair features synthetic rugged soles that give firm traction with all surfaces. Therefore, you can wear this pair while hiking any trail of any kind. As for the boots’ material, it’s high-quality breathable leather that provides enough support for the feet inside.

The boots are waterproof, which means they’re suitable for wintery weather. Plus, they have enough ventilation to be worn in the summer. So, you can say they’re four-season boots.

PROS:

  • Synthetic supportive soles
  • Lightweight
  • High durability
  • The footbed is made out of memory foam

CONS:

  • The water leaks inside

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Best in Design: KEEN Men’s Targhee II Hiking Boot

KEEN is globally recognized for manufacturing reliable high-quality boots. They didn’t hold back on the Targhee II hiking pair. Its innovative design is what appealed to us the most, along with its low-profile build.

Both the collar and the tongue have padding for extra comfort. That way, your feet won’t ache from long walks. Additionally, the boots are suitable for all terrains, thanks to the sturdy rubber soles.

The exterior of the boots is made out of leather, and the outsole is chiseled for good traction.

PROS:

  • Highly durable
  • Well-ventilated
  • Available in several colors
  • High-quality materials

CONS:

  • The boots are a bit stiff

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Best Arch Support: Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Plus II Hiking Boots

If you need arch support in your hiking boots, the Columbia Newton Ridge is a nice option to consider. The top section provides enough support for the foot arch up to the ankle. Plus, the boots are made out of highly-durable leather.

Furthermore, all the boots’ materials are waterproofed, including the mesh and suede parts. Not only that, but the midsole is also cushioned by Columbia’s Techlite technology. That way, you won’t suffer foot fatigue from walking too long.

PROS:

  • Impressive traction
  • Effective waterproofing
  • Durable materials
  • Good breathability

CONS:

  • Not suitable for people with flat foot arch

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Best Men’s Hiking Boots Under 100 Review 2020

The 5 Best Women’s Hiking Boots Under $100

Here are the best women’s boots under 100 dollars. There’s a variety of styles and features to choose from.

Most Versatile Women’s Hiking Boots: Clorts Women’s Hiker Leather Hiking Boots

The Clorts pair is one of the most versatile options on the market. You can use it for most outdoor activities on all terrains. The exterior Uneebtex membrane accounts for keeping the feet dry.

Furthermore, the boots are light, which makes them ideal for heavy-duty trips.

The footbeds are made of memory foam that contours the shape of your feet, and the cushioned midsole adds to the overall support.

PROS:

  • Lightweight
  • High versatility
  • Support for ankle and arch

CONS:

  • Non-reliable traction

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Best in Design: KEEN Women’s Targhee II Hiking Boots

The KEEN Targhee II has a low-cut design that’s suitable for light trails. Besides, it’s available in a wide selection of colors to suit different styles. The exterior is waterproof nubuck leather and the mesh panels on the top account for breathability.

The Cleansport NXT will keep your feet fresh inside without getting smelly. Plus, the heel features a brake for traction.

PROS:

  • Available in several colors
  • High-quality nubuck leather
  • Breathable mesh

CONS:

  • The upper part creases

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Most Durable Women’s Hiking Boots: Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Hiking Boots

The Newton Ridge pair is unmatched when it comes to durability. It’s made out of full-grain leather. The upper surface is nylon for breathability, and the whole thing is waterproof. Not only that, but it’s also resistant to stains.

As for traction, the rubber soles will stay firm on the ground on the roughest of surfaces. On top of that, the midsole is made of EVA foam that provides enough comfort for long trips.

PROS:

  • Available in 14 colors
  • Arch support
  • Suitable for all terrains

CONS:

  • The front part is stiff

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Best Value: Grisport Unisex Adults’ Hiking Boot

This Grisport pair works for both men and women. It has a sleek black look that’s adorned by Spotex breathable lining. That way, your feet will be well-ventilated inside. Not to mention that the boots are waterproof.

The boots feature a rubber sole for effective traction. Plus, the heels are thick to provide you with the best support. You don’t have to worry about the comfort of your feet inside, the foam insoles will make sure it’s taken care of.

PROS:

  • Stylish look
  • Breathable material
  • Waxed leather exterior

CONS:

  • Heavyweight

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Best Traction Hiking Boots for Women: Hi-Tec Women’s Bandera Mid WP Hiking Boot

The Hi-Tec pair has an attractive look that appeals to customers, along with a mid-cut design that’s just right for all terrains. Additionally, it perfectly balances the use of three materials; suede, leather, and mesh.

The heels have a brake that ensures good traction against any surface. Additionally, the whole boots are waterproof-treated.

PROS:

  • Both tongue and collar are padded
  • Heel brake included
  • Stylish design

CONS:

  • Not fit for summer

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Best Women’s Hiking Boots Under 100 Review 2020

Our Top Picks for Budget-Friendly Hiking Boots

Here are our favorite options from the lists above.

Our Top Pick for Men

Our top pick for men mountain boots below $100 is the Timberland White Ledge pair. It’s durable, sleek, and reliable. You won’t face any trouble wearing this pair on your upcoming hiking trip.

Our Top Pick for Women

Our favorite women’s pair is the Clorts Hiker Leather. We love it for its versatility. You can wear it while camping, hiking, walking, or any outdoor activity you can think of. Besides, it has efficient waterproofing.

Our Top Unisex Pick

We think the Grisport Hiking Boots are a nice unisex option. The pair has a sleek black look that appeals to customers. Plus, it’s reliable and comfortable.

Hiking Boots vs Hiking Shoes: The Difference

You’ve come here to look for hiking boots, but are you sure they’re what you need? Check this quick comparison with hiking shoes and decide for yourself.

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Hiking Boots

Hiking boots’ most prominent feature is ankle support, which naturally isn’t found in regular shoes. Additionally, they provide better protection for your feet. If you’re going to be walking on rough surfaces, a pair of boots is what you’ll need.
Nevertheless, there are some downsides to hiking boots. For starters, they’re bulkier than shoes. So, you’ll be dragging around a heavyweight. Moreover, they’ll spend more time drying.

Hiking Shoes

Hiking shoes are more suitable for casual hikers. If you go on a hike just a few times annually, a pair of shoes will do you good. Otherwise, they’re not suitable for frequent hikers because they’ll wear out quicker than boots.
Shoes also provide less ankle support than boots. So, you may go back home with some blisters. However, they’re overall more convenient than boots, considering that they fit in backpacks better.

Should I Buy Hiking Shoes or Boots?

If you regularly go on hiking trips, you may want to get a sturdy pair of boots. On the other hand, shoes are more suitable for occasional trips. What’s more, if you don’t plan on packing a large bag, the shoes will fit better than a pair of bulky boots, thanks to their compact size.

However, the boots will carry your weight better. Therefore, if you’ll be lugging around a hiking bag or tent on your back, the boots will provide more protection. Moreover, the reinforced soles on hiking boots will perform superbly on all terrains, unlike hiking shoes which are more suited for well-maintained terrains.

Here’s a quick preview of hiking shoes’ and hiking boots’ features, along with their pros and cons. Let’s see how both differ and why they are safer to wear

Are Hiking Boots or Hiking Shoes Worth It?

Yes, if you get the choice that you need, it’ll be worth it. There isn’t any reason you should suffer foot ache on hiking trips for not wearing the right pair of shoes. Especially when there are some affordable options like the ones on our list. You can also get some of the best hiking shoes under 100 dollars, which is a win-win.

When Do I Need Hiking Boots?

  • If you’re a frequent hiker
  • If you hike on rough terrains
  • If you’ll be carrying a heavyweight

When Will Hiking Shoes Be Ok?

  • If you hike on well-maintained terrains
  • If you hike only a few times a year
  • If you’re not carrying a weight on your back

Things to Consider When Buying Hiking Boots/Shoes

Online shopping means that you won’t be seeing the boots for yourself before the package knocks your door. Therefore, you’ll need some help determining the right pair for you. Here are 7 aspects you’ll want to consider.
best hiking boots under 100

Material

Leather is the most common material for hiking boots because of its durability and breathability. Leather boots are either full-grain, nubuck, or split-grain.
Full-grain is ideal for all terrains, but it’s the least breathable out of the three. Meanwhile, nubuck is similar to full-grain, except that it has a suede appearance. It’s also stiffer. Whereas split-grain leather has a percentage of synthetic materials in it. So, it’s more breathable than full-grain.

Use

The way you’ll use your hiking boots will determine the features that you need. For example, if you only go on winter hiking trips, you’ll need a waterproof pair. On the other hand, summer hiking trips will need a breathable pair of boots.
You can also get a pair that works for all seasons, such as the Skechers Relment.

Water Resistance

Hikers are prone to step in the water a lot on their trips. Whether it’s due to rainy weather, or a water stream that they must pass, it’s a likely occurrence. That’s why water resistance is a necessary feature in hiking boots. The Ariat Men’s Terrain pair is a nice example of that.

Breathability

The good thing about breathable materials is that they don’t work in reverse. Meaning, they’ll stop the water from getting in, but they’ll allow your feet’s moisture out. It’s a vital feature on long hiking trips to avoid smelly footwear.

Traction

Hiking boots need to have effective traction against the rough ground to prevent you from falling. You’ll be met with a lot of surfaces while hiking, including uneven ground and slippery rocks. So, boots with good traction will provide the support you need.

Style

Some hiking boots have high ankles, and others have low-profile designs. You should choose your boots according to how much comfort you need. For example, high ankles provide high support and protect your skin from blisters. However, they’ll cause the boots to be bulkier and heavier in weight.
Low-cut boots are suitable if you’ll be carrying a lightweight on your back. They are a better fit for smooth trails and short trips.

Size

We all have different feet shapes; there are wide, narrow, high-arch, and flat feet. All these contribute to the boots’ fitting. So, you should get the pair that’ll suit the shape of your feet.
If you have a high arch, you’ll need a pair with arch support. Moreover, if you have wide feet, avoid getting boots with slim designs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are the most asked questions about hiking boots. If you’re confused about anything regarding the matter, you’ll hopefully find the answer below.

Do hiking boots stretch out?

It depends on the material. Synthetic boots may stretch a bit, but leather ones won’t. It’s always better to get your exact size because even if it stretches out, it won’t be that noticeable.

Can you wear waterproof hiking boots in snow?

You can, but if the waterproofing isn’t effective, your feet will get wet. If you’re stepping in deep snow, it’d be better to wear a pair of snow boots. Otherwise, make sure to wear hiking socks under the boots for better insulation.

Can you go hiking in steel-toe boots?

We don’t recommend it. Hiking boots are lighter in weight and easier to walk in. Besides, there isn’t a hiking trail that’s rough enough for steel-toe boots.

Can you go hiking in snow boots?

Not if you’ll be stepping in rough terrain. Snow boots lack the protection that hiking boots provide. Plus, they may cause your feet to overheat.

Is It Okay to hike in running shoes?

If you’ll be hiking on smooth trails, you can. Running shoes don’t provide ankle protection. Plus, they’ll wear out if you wear them on frequent hikes.

What brand of hiking boots is best?

All the brands mentioned above are reliable. However, Timberland, in particular, makes some of the best value men’s hiking boots, such as the White Ledge pair.

What are the most comfortable hiking boots?

The most comfortable hiking boots are the ones with interior padding and ankle support. Boots with arch support are also comfortable for people with high arches, such as the Columbia Newton Ridge pair.

What are the best boots for walking all day?

Boots with cushioned footbeds are the best for long walks. They’ll give you the comfort you need and protect you from foot fatigue. The Skechers Relment Pelmo Chukka pair is a good option to consider in this case.

Closing Thoughts

Now that you got an all-inclusive view about hiking boots, it should be a piece of cake to pick your fit. You only need to pay attention to the features and the quality and leave the rest on the boots.

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