Men's hiking shoes

Low-cut, mid or high-cut: which height for which hiking trip?

Upper height is the first criterion to settle before any purchase. It determines ankle support, freedom of movement and the weight of the shoe.

• Low-cut upper: lightweight and flexible, it suits day outings on marked trails and low-gradient terrain, with elevation gain under 300–400 m. It is also the preferred choice for fast hiking, where agility and speed take priority over support.
• Mid upper: the versatile option for mountain outings on varied trails, mixed terrain (scree, wet forest paths) or weekends with a moderately loaded pack. It offers better ankle protection without restricting your stride.
• High-cut upper: essential for multi-day trekking with a heavy pack, technical terrain (scree, boulder fields, snowy sections) and any situation where stability is the priority. The outsoles of high-cut models provide a solid balance between protective rigidity and flexibility, even under significant load.

What material for your men's hiking shoes?

• Full-grain leather: naturally water-repellent and highly abrasion-resistant, it gradually moulds to the shape of the foot. It is the benchmark material for long-distance hiking and demanding trekking models at Meindl and Lowa. It requires regular maintenance (conditioning, waterproofing) and can be heavier than synthetic.
• Nubuck and suede leather: more breathable than full-grain leather and softer to the touch, they offer good summer comfort. On the downside, they are less water-resistant and require regular waterproofing treatment to maintain their properties.
• Synthetic materials: kevlar, polyester or nylon make it possible to design lightweight, breathable and quick-drying shoes, ideal for summer outings and fast hiking. Waterproofing quality varies between models — opt for a breathable waterproof membrane for wet-weather outings.
• Breathable waterproof membranes: our ULTRASHELL membrane, developed by Cimalp, delivers full waterproofing while efficiently managing perspiration. The Meindl, Scarpa, Lowa and AKU models in our catalogue integrate Gore-Tex, the market benchmark. Snowleader also highlights eVent as a highly breathable alternative for high-intensity efforts. A membrane is essential as soon as you hike in rain, on wet ground or in snowy conditions.

Outsole, cushioning, toe cap: the technical criteria

• The outsole: Vibram is the premium benchmark for grip on dry rock, loose ground and mixed terrain. The Presa outsole, developed by Scarpa, offers equivalent performance on technical terrain. Lug depth varies depending on use: deep lugs for muddy and soft terrain, wide shallow lugs for scree and rock. The outsole type is specified in each product listing.
• Cushioning: it protects the knees, hips and back on long descents and hard terrain. Recommended beyond 800 m of cumulative elevation gain, on stony paths, or if you have a history of joint problems. Some models offer anatomical insoles as a complement for a more precise fit.
• The toe cap: a rigid protective cap positioned at the front of the foot, it absorbs the impact of rocks and roots on rough trails. Essential for alpine trekking and scree sections — unnecessary for forest walks or well-maintained paths.
• Lacing: classic lacing with hooks allows precise zone-by-zone adjustment. Field tip: loosen slightly on long climbs to free the foot, tighten before the descent to lock the heel and prevent black toenails. Some models feature a self-locking system for quick, even tightening.

Hiking, trekking, mountaineering: which shoe for which level?

• Light hiking and day walks: a low-cut shoe or mid, flexible and breathable, is sufficient. Stability and lightness take priority over rigidity.
• Long-distance hiking and multi-day GR trails: a mid-to-high-cut upper, in leather or technical synthetic with membrane, is recommended. Ankle support and construction robustness make all the difference over the long haul.
• Trekking with a heavy pack: a rigid high-cut upper with thick sole and toe cap is essential. Some models are compatible with lightweight crampons for snowy sections.
• Approach and mountaineering: a rigid shoe with precise rock grip, designed for via ferrata and technical approach routes.

Our men's hiking shoe brands

• Cimalp: our own range integrates the ULTRASHELL membrane for reliable waterproofing on alpine trails. Models designed and tested on the trails of the Alps and Vercors, with constructions adapted to demanding mountain terrain.
• Meindl: Bavarian manufacturer founded in 1683, world reference for alpine-quality full-grain leather. Their men's models are recognised for their robustness, durability and comfort over long distances. Vakuum technology delivers a precise anatomical fit.
• Scarpa: designed in Asolo (Italy) since 1938, Scarpa shoes combine a Vibram or Presa outsole with a Gore-Tex membrane on most technical models. The range covers light hiking (Moraine, Rush), long-distance hiking (Mustang TRK, Ribelle TRK) and approach (Mescalito, Rapid XT).
• Lowa: European production since 1923, the iconic Renegade is a reliable choice for versatile hiking. Precise fit and proven durability, from day trips to multi-week trekking.
• AKU: Italian innovation with the Dual Fit system, Vibram outsole and Gore-Tex integrated on waterproof versions. Particularly well suited to fast hiking and technical trails.
• Asolo: Italian mountain footwear specialist since 1975, with hybrid leather/synthetic constructions combining durability and lightness on long routes.

Also explore our selections by brand: Meindl shoes, Asolo shoes, AKU shoes, Lowa shoes.