Top Walking Boot Brands: Stride in Style and Comfort

Walking boots are an essential piece of equipment for anyone who enjoys hiking or exploring the great outdoors. The right pair can make a significant difference in comfort and safety, providing support and protection on various terrains. In this article, we've compiled a selection of the best brands renowned for producing durable and high-performance walking boots. Each brand offers unique features tailored to different preferences and needs; read on to discover which one might be the perfect fit for your next adventure.

Illustration of walking boots

Best brands of walking boots in 2025

Merrell

Merrell, established in 1981, has consistently ranked as a top producer of walking boots, holding an estimated 20% of the market share; their boots, known for exceptional comfort and durability, are favored by hikers worldwide with over 90% customer satisfaction rate, and they have introduced new technologies that boost the performance by 15% year over year; Merrell’s commitment to quality and innovation ensures reliable performance on any trail. Check out their latest collection.

Salomon

Salomon, established in 1947, is a leading brand renowned for producing high-quality walking boots, with the X Ultra 4 Mid GTX often cited as a top performer due to its waterproof Gore-Tex membrane and exceptional support. Many users find them comfortable for various terrains, making Salomon a reliable choice for outdoor enthusiasts, although some have noted a few sizing issues over the years.

Columbia

Columbia, established in 1938, has consistently provided high-quality walking boots, leveraging decades of experience in outdoor gear manufacturing. Their boots, often featuring innovative technologies like Omni-Tech waterproofing, are a popular choice for hikers. With a customer satisfaction rate of over 85% in recent surveys, Columbia's commitment to comfort and durability is evident. Many of their models are also made with sustainable materials, reflecting a growing focus on environmentally conscious production. For a detailed look at their current offerings, you can visit their official website.

KEEN

KEEN, established as a top walking boot producer, offers durable and comfortable footwear, with the Targhee IV model known for its wide toe box and minimal break-in period, while the Zionic series provides a lightweight option. The brand is recognized for its excellent grip and waterproof technology, with many models featuring reinforced toes and sustainable materials, making them a great choice for hiking enthusiasts as seen in multiple reviews in 2024. You can explore their selection of KEEN walking boots.

Timberland

Timberland, established in 1973, is a renowned brand for its high-quality, waterproof walking boots, originally developed using injection molding technology and silicone-infused nubuck leather, with a strong connection to outdoor activities. While the global hiking footwear market is valued at $19.70 billion in 2023, Timberland has been a key player in the boot market, particularly in North America, which held a 38.6% market share in 2022. The company aims to increase its share in the hiking boot sector through product innovation and sustainable practices, such as the introduction of GreenStride midsoles made with 65% bio-based materials in 2021. Timberland's classic 6-inch boot has become a cultural icon, celebrated for its durability and performance on varied terrains.

Lowa

Lowa, a German brand established in 1923, has earned a reputation as a premier manufacturer of walking boots, acclaimed for their exceptional quality, comfort, and durability, with the popular Renegade GTX model being a consistent best-seller featuring a Gore-Tex lining and a no-slide outsole. They are widely considered to be one of the most comfortable brands on the market, due to their attention to detail in design and European manufacturing.

Vasque

With over 50 years of experience, Vasque has consistently produced high-quality walking boots, often featuring Vibram soles for superior grip, and consistently earning high customer satisfaction ratings, with some models seeing a 90% recommendation rate; Vasque's commitment to craftsmanship ensures durability and comfort for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts; they offer a wide range of boots catering to various terrains and preferences making them a top choice for outdoor footwear.

The North Face

The North Face, established in 1966, has consistently ranked as a leading manufacturer of high-quality walking boots, with over 80% of surveyed hikers reporting satisfaction with their durability and comfort; their innovative designs, such as the Vectiv technology, are often cited for increased stability. In a 2023 study, North Face boots were rated in the top 3 for performance across various terrains; furthermore, their boots frequently incorporate waterproof membranes, allowing hikers to go through any type of condition, therefore making them a perfect choice for any adventure.

Danner

Danner, established in 1932, is renowned for producing high-quality, durable walking boots, with 40% of their boots being handcrafted in their Portland factory. They were the first to incorporate Gore-Tex into their footwear over 40 years ago, offering both classic and innovative designs using Vibram soles to ensure superior comfort and longevity, making them a preferred choice for both casual and rugged outdoor adventures. This is further supported by their recrafting service which prolongs the life of their boots. You can explore their range of boots to find the perfect match for your outdoor needs.

Scarpa

Established in 1938 in the foothills of the Dolomites, Scarpa, meaning "Association of Footwear Manufacturers," has become a renowned Italian brand known for its high-quality, handcrafted walking boots. They blend traditional techniques with modern innovations like Gore-Tex and are favored by many outdoor enthusiasts for their comfort, support, and durability. Models like the Rush TRK GTX receive high praise for their performance across varied terrains and conditions. Scarpa continues to produce excellent footwear with a focus on comfort and stability. You can explore their range for more information.