When your adventure takes you off the pavement and onto rocky paths, steep inclines, and unpredictable terrain, a regular sneaker just won’t cut it. You need real trekking shoes men — footwear that delivers traction, stability, protection, and long-lasting comfort.

In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best trekking shoes for men in 2025, suitable for everything from day hikes to multi-day backpacking trips.

What Makes a Great Trekking Shoe?

Trekking shoes sit between trail runners and hiking boots. They’re lighter than boots but tougher than running shoes, offering a perfect blend of mobility and durability.

Look for:

✅ Aggressive grip for rocks, mud, and roots

✅ Protective toe cap to shield from debris

✅ Cushioned midsole to absorb impact on long hikes

✅ Breathable but water-resistant uppers

✅ Stable heel support and arch structure

✅ Durability to withstand miles of rugged use

Best Men’s Trekking Shoes for 2025

1. Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX
2. Best All-Terrain Trekking Shoe

Salomon’s X Ultra series is a favorite among serious hikers and trekkers. The X Ultra 4 GTX offers trail-ready agility with excellent grip and waterproof protection.

Key Features:

GORE-TEX waterproof membrane

Contagrip® MA outsole for multi-surface traction

Advanced Chassis™ for stability on uneven ground

Lightweight build with protective toe and heel

SensiFit™ for a snug, secure fit

Why we love it: Ideal for fast-paced trekking over varied terrain — wet or dry.

1. Merrell Moab 3 Vent or Moab 3 Waterproof
2. Best for Comfort and All-Day Hikes

Merrell’s Moab (Mother of All Boots) series is famous for its out-of-the-box comfort. The Moab 3 trekking shoe offers cushioning and breathability for long days on the trail.

Key Features:

Available in waterproof or ventilated models

Vibram® TC5+ outsole for traction

Supportive Kinetic Fit™ Advanced footbed

Protective toe cap and heel counter

Available in wide sizes

Why we love it: Great for comfort-first trekkers or weekend adventurers. The wide fit makes it a top pick for broad feet.

1. FitVille Men’s Terrain Trekking Shoes
2. Best for Wide Feet and Extra Support

FitVille offers extra-wide trekking shoes designed for men who need more toe room or deal with foot conditions. The Terrain Trekking Shoe blends comfort, protection, and grip in a wide-foot-friendly design.

Key Features:

Width options up to 4E

Rubber outsole with multi-directional grip

Durable synthetic and mesh upper

EVA footbed for shock absorption

Reinforced toe cap

Why we love it: One of the few trekking shoes on the market made for wide or swollen feet — without looking bulky.

1. La Sportiva Spire GTX
2. Best for Technical Trails and Long Treks

La Sportiva’s Spire GTX offers serious performance for men who trek in mountain environments or carry heavy packs. Built with Gore-Tex Surround®, it’s both waterproof and highly breathable.

Key Features:

STB Control System™ for foot stability

Vibram® XS Trek outsole with Impact Brake System

Gore-Tex Surround® for 360° breathability and waterproofing

High-cushion EVA midsole

Rock guard and toe protection

Why we love it: A premium pick for alpine trekkers or backcountry explorers.

1. The North Face Vectiv Exploris II
2. Best for Trail Speed and Energy Return

Built for lightweight trekking, the Vectiv Exploris II features a 3D plate in the midsole for stability and propulsion, making it ideal for fast hikers and long days on the move.

Key Features:

VECTIV™ midsole with rocker geometry

SurfaceCTRL™ rubber outsole

Waterproof FUTURELIGHT™ membrane

OrthoLite® X55 footbed

Durable mesh upper with abrasion resistance

Why we love it: Combines speed, comfort, and protection in one sleek design.

What to Consider When Buying Trekking Shoes

👟 Fit and Width – Always size up slightly if you’ll be wearing thick socks or your feet swell during long hikes.

🌧️ Waterproof vs Ventilated – Waterproof shoes are best for wet conditions; ventilated models work better in hot, dry environments.

🦶 Arch and Heel Support – Crucial for preventing fatigue and joint pain on steep trails.

🪨 Toe Protection – Look for a rubberized toe cap to guard against rocks and roots.

🧼 Ease of Cleaning – Trekking shoes get dirty fast. Choose materials that are easy to hose down or wipe clean.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re heading out for a single-day trail trek or preparing for a multi-day backpacking trip, the right trekking shoes make all the difference in comfort, confidence, and performance.

For a premium blend of comfort and grip, Salomon X Ultra 4 and La Sportiva Spire lead the pack. Need something roomier? Try FitVille Terrain for wide-footed trekkers who don’t want to compromise on support.