The 12 Best Hiking Boots Under $100 for Budget Buyers [2023]
One of the most important parts of your hiking gear is a good pair of quality hiking boots or shoes.
But they can be so expensive and when you search for a budget pair, they sometimes just don’t meet the expectations that you had.
So why sacrifice your budget and comfort when you can get a pair of awesome hiking boots for under $100?!
In this post, I’ll be covering 6 pairs of men’s budget-friendly hiking boots and 6 pairs of women’s as well.
Let’s jump right in and find you the perfect pair of cheap (but high quality!) hiking boots.
Best Hiking Boots Under $100: Top Picks
Running short on time? Here are my top picks for men and women hiking boots that won’t break the bank!
Best Men’s: Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Ventilator
Best Women’s: Columbia Newton Ridge
Best Budget Hiking Boots for Men
Below you’ll find a comparison chart of the top 6 pairs of cheap men’s hiking boots, followed by reviews of each individual pair.
Men’s Hiking Boots Comparison Chart
| Hiking Boots | Height | Material | Waterproof | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Merrell Moab 2 Vent | Mid | Leather & Mesh | Yes | See Price |
| Timberland White Ledge | Mid | Leather | Yes | See Price |
| Hi-Tec Skamania | Mid | Leather & Synthetic | Yes | See Price |
| Skechers Relment Pelmo | Mid | Suede, Synthetic, & Mesh | Yes | See Price |
| Nortiv 8 | Mid | Leather | Yes | See Price |
| Columbia Crestwood | Mid | Leather & Mesh | Yes | See Price |
1. Merrell Moab 2 Vent
Coming in as one of the top-rated hiking boots for men under 100 dollars is the Merrell Moab 2 Vent.
There’s a reason that the term Moab in this instance stands for “Mother of All Boots!“
These tough and rugged hiking boots are one of Merrell’s top-selling models, and that has everything to do with the comfort and breathability of these shoes.
The air-cushioned heel provides comfort all day long on the hiking trail and the EVA foam midsole provides even more cushioning.
Plus, the contoured footbed helps provide great support for your arches and ankles, which we all know is really important when hiking.
These are meant to be super breathable, to ensure that your feet won’t get hot and sweaty after just a few minutes on the trail, thanks to their mesh lining.
This is really great for wearing them on summer hikes, or if you live somewhere where it’s perpetually hot.
You’ll also find that the Merrell Moab 2’s have great traction, even on wet, slippery surfaces.
Merrell has been one of the top hiking shoe providers for years and has been loved by many outdoors lovers!
✔️ Check prices for the Merrell Moab 2 Vent here!
2. Timberland White Ledge Mid
While most Timberland boots aren’t great for the hiking trail, these ones are specifically designed for it!
These stylish 100% leather Timberland boots are durable and built to last when put to the test of the outdoors.
They’re waterproof and will keep your feet warm, so perfect for the winter season or to wear out when it’s raining.
The traction on the bottom of the shoes is very strong and does great gripping to snow and ice, making them great for winter.
Along the shoe, there are plenty of hooks to lace up the boots and ensure that they fit snugly on your feet.
Plus, the soles are comfortable and will keep your feet feeling good all day long.
One negative of these is that because they are fully leather, they may be a bit too warm for wearing in the summer months.
✔️ See prices for the Timberland White Ledges here!
3. Hi-Tec Skamania
For those looking to start hiking on a budget, the Hi-Tec Skamania’s are a great choice for some solid footwear.
While they’re budget-friendly, they still provide some of the best qualities that you could ask for in a pair of hiking boots under $100.
They have a waterproof membrane that works to keep your feet dry, even in the wettest of conditions, all while staying breathable.
The rubber outsoles provide traction and keep you from slipping around when there’s snow, dirt, or ice on the trail.
The eyelets and lacing mechanisms are metal to ensure strong and secure fitting when the boots are placed on your feet.
And with three different colors to choose from, the Hi-Tec Skamania boots allow men to choose the pair that fits their style best.
Some people have reported that the extra padding on the ankle can be a bit uncomfortable, but it is there to help protect your feet.
✔️ See prices for the Hi-Tec Skamania boots here!
4. Skechers Relment Pelmo
The men’s Skechers Relment Pelmo hiking boots are one of the most comfortable on the market, with a soft, memory foam insole.
A lot of people knock on Skechers, but my boyfriend and I happen to love their affordable hiking boot line!
They’re built to be comfortable, so wearing them out on the trail for hours is no problem.
Plus, they’re pretty inexpensive and are still made of great quality with support for your ankles.
These boots are waterproof, and when I accidentally stepped in a mud puddle on my first day wearing them, the mud slid right off! 😱
(No promises that it will happen for you, but when it did for me, it blew me away!)
They also have great traction and stand up against snow, water, and ice pretty well for a budget pair of boots!
✔️ Check prices for the Skechers Relment Pelmos here!
5. Nortiv 8
The Nortiv 8 hiking boots are a pair that might be overlooked when next to other brands such as Keen, Solomon, and Merrell.
But just because these aren’t big-name brand shoes doesn’t mean that they don’t have great qualities as well!
These boots are a cheap option, coming in at under $70, with flexible insoles, arch support, and all-day comfort.
With the strong rubber outsole, you’ll be able to wear these on whatever hiking trails life takes you on and know that your feet will be protected.
They have a reinforced heel that is specifically designed to protect your feet and give your ankles more protection and stability.
Customers have reported that these boots aren’t as tough and durable as their competitors.
✔️ Check prices for the Nortiv 8 hiking boots here!
6. Columbia Crestwood
These waterproof hiking boots are great for men who are heading out for long days on the trail.
They’re comfortable with a lightweight midsole that provides comfort for long periods of time.
Even if it’s raining out or you have to make a stream crossing, your feet will stay dry and warm with the leather and mesh waterproofing.
And although these boots are great on ice and snow with their multi-terrain traction system, they’re still breathable enough to also be worn in the summer.
I see these boots out on the trail all the time, and the women’s model was a high contender when I was purchasing my new pair!
Columbia has been a reputable brand in the outdoor space for years, so you know that with a pair of their shoes, you’ll be getting something worth the money.
✔️ See prices for the Columbia Crestwoods here!
Best Cheap Hiking Boots for Women
Now that we’ve gone over the best options for men, below you’ll find the best hiking boots for women under 100 dollars.
Women’s Hiking Boots Comparison Chart
| Hiking Boots | Style | Material | Waterproof | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Columbia Newton Ridge | Mid | Suede, Leather, & Mesh | Yes | See Price |
| Skechers Trego Rocky Mountain | Mid | Suede, Synthetic, & Mesh | Yes | See Price |
| Eddie Bauer Klamath | Mid | Synthetic | No | See Price |
| Salomon Pathfinders | Low | Synthetic | No | See Price |
| Merrell Moab 2 | Mid | Leather & Mesh | Yes | See Price |
| Timberland Mt. Maddsen | Mid | Leather | Yes | See Price |
1. Columbia Newton Ridge
If you’ve ever been on a hiking trail, there’s a chance that you’ve seen at least one person wearing the Columbia Newton Ridges.
These hiking boots are extremely popular, and that’s for good reason!
Not only are they stylish and actually look cute, unlike many other boots, but they’re also really great quality affordable hiking boots!
I love that they’re sold in multiple colors, including the classic tan, blue, light pink, and gray.
They have a lightweight midsole that provides comfort all day long and helps keep your energy high while you’re on the trail.
Plus, they’re super durable and have great traction, so they can be worn in any many types of terrain that you might encounter.
When I was buying new boots, these were pretty high up on my list, and I can attest to how comfy they are!
Reviewers do recommend that you order 1/2 to a full size up because they do fit a little snug.
✔️ Check prices for the Columbia Newton Ridges here!
2. Skechers Trego Rocky Mountain
If you’re a female hiker looking for some of the most budget-friendly and comfortable hiking boots on the market, look no further.
I’ve been wearing the Skechers Trego Rocky Mountain boots on my longer hikes for months now and have fallen in love with them.
I summited Mount St. Helens in them! 🙌
For the price that you pay, these are great boots and are one of the best hiking shoes under $100 for women!
Not only do they have a memory foam insole, but they’re also waterproof and actually keep my feet pretty darn warm in the cold weather.
And in the summer, my feet stay cool because they’re breathable too!
The traction that they have on the bottom allows me to wear them out in the snow, mud, dirt, or whatever else, as they’re very steady.
They do have a bit of a break in time, but once you’ve broken them in, you’ll be set to hit the trail!
✔️ See prices for the Skechers Trego Rocky Mountains here!
3. Eddie Bauer Klamath
The Eddie Bauer Klamath hiking shoes are an extremely comfortable and lightweight option for women looking for a budget pair.
These shoes fit more like regular running shoes, rather than bulky hiking boots, which is appealing to many people.
They aren’t waterproof, but instead water-resistant which allows more breathability in the shoe.
With their super rugged traction and grippy bottoms, you can wear them in most terrains and trust that you’ll stay standing.
I also love that they have a two-tone foam midsole that takes some of the impact from your foot to ensure that you stay comfortable all day.
✔️ See prices for the Eddie Bauer Klamaths here!
4. Salomon Pathfinder
The Salomon Pathfinders are a bit different than many of the other cheap hiking shoes on this list, as they are low-height, rather than a mid-height.
Since they’re a lower height, they’re very versatile and great for hiking, trail running, walking, and more.
I love my low-top hiking shoes for hikes that aren’t as strenuous or long!
Salomon is a really great quality outdoor brand, so you can definitely trust the gear that they produce.
These are really comfortable and have great traction for any type of terrain that you’ll come across.
Because of the lower rise, you won’t have as much support in the ankle, but they’re still a great option as they support the rest of your feet.
✔️ Check prices for the Salomon Pathfinders here!
5. Merrell Moab 2
Similar to the men’s version of the Merrell Moab 2 hiking boots, the women’s version is one of the most popular models out there.
These waterproof boots are designed to be worn on any type of terrain and provide your feet with great support.
The rubber outsole has great traction for ice, snow, and water, plus they’re durable and will last for many, many miles.
Your toes and feet will be protected when you’re on rough trails with the abrasion-resistant toe cap, so don’t worry about painful, stubbed toes.
The women’s model also has a contoured footbed that provides extra comfort for your heel and feet.
Merrell has sold over 28 million pairs of the Moab 2’s, showcasing just how great these shoes are for hitting the trail.
✔️ Check prices for the women’s Merrell Moabs here!
6. Timberland Mt. Maddsen
If you’re a fan of wearing Timberlands off of the trail, then you may love wearing them on the hiking trail too!
The Timberland Mt. Maddsen’s are a great pair of women’s hiking boots under $100 that provide support, style, and quality.
I love that they’re designed with a waterproof membrane that is made of at least 50% recycled plastic, so they’re better for the earth.
Plus, they have a footbed that absorbs shock and keeps your feet from getting tired while you’re out hiking.
They also are stylish and could definitely be worn for other purposes than just hiking, making them quite versatile.
And if anything goes wrong within the first year, they’re backed by Timberland’s limited warranty.
✔️ See prices for the Timberland Mt. Maddsens here!
How to Choose the Best Hiking Boots For You
When searching for the perfect pair of hiking boots, there are many factors that you may be thinking about and wondering what to consider.
Below are some of the most important considerations that will help you decide on the right pair for yourself.
Support
One of the main things that I look for when choosing hiking boots for myself is the support that the boots will give my feet.
Most hiking boots have some sort of ankle support, which is important when you’re walking on uneven ground.
It can become really easy to roll your ankle when you’re constantly walking over tree roots and rocks!
I also recommend looking for something with arch support, but this is easier to add by using a pair of insoles.
Typically, mid and high-rise boots have better ankle support and are best for longer hikes with more elevation and terrain change.
Comfort
Of course, choosing a pair of boots that you’re comfortable in is extremely important, and this differs for everyone.
I think that all of the shoes on this list are in theory, comfortable, but they may not be for you, and that’s okay!
Try them on once you buy them and wear them around the house a bit to make sure you’ll like them on the trail.
When you’re looking for boots, look for a pair that has a soft or padded insole.
Some even have memory foam, such as the Skechers Trego Rocky Mountains!
You can also add extra or different insoles if you find that the provided ones aren’t fitting for you.
Waterproofing
I personally think that a waterproof boot is much better than a not waterproof one because it allows me to hike in all conditions.
Whether it be crossing a stream or getting caught in a downpour, waterproof boots save me from having sopping wet shoes.
Even something with water resistance is better than nothing at all!
If you end up buying a pair of non-waterproof shoes, consider using a waterproofing wax for leather.
You can also try a waterproofing spray, but be sure to check the material of your boots before doing any waterproofing.
Weight
You’ll find that most hiking boots are made as light as possible because they are meant to be worn for miles on end.
But there are still some that are a little bit bulky.
If you aren’t planning on backpacking or hiking 10+ miles in a day in your shoes, the weight won’t matter as much.
But you can definitely find lighter-weight shoes for hiking, such as a pair of trail runners.
Traction
Having good traction on the bottom of your hiking boots is really important to ensure you aren’t slipping and sliding around.
This is especially important if you’re planning to hike in the snow or ice.
You can of course also put a pair of crampons or microspikes over your shoes to help with traction.
The best way to ensure you’re getting good traction is by choosing a boot with a rubber bottom that has deep tread.
The deep tread is going to be what grips the snow, mud, or ice and provides stability for you.
Breathability
Breathability is important to ensure that your feet can, well, breathe, and get some air while you’re on the trail.
This is especially important during the summer months when the air is hot and your feet are sweating.
You don’t want to trap them in a box of heat!
Most hiking boots are breathable unless you buy a winter set, which then can tend to be pretty warm.
Durability
Being out on a trail where you could come into contact with who knows what means that you’re going to want a durable set of hiking boots.
Whether it be mud, water, bear… you know what…, or anything else that Mother Nature throws your way.
I personally want my boots to last me upwards of 500+ miles, so I always am willing to spend a bit more to get that durability and quality!
Price
Of course, if you’re reading this, you’re probably looking for the best hiking boots under $100, so the price will matter to you.
Hiking boots can range in price anywhere from $30 to $300, give or take.
The more you pay, the higher quality you’ll get, and vice versa.
But don’t worry, all of the boots that you see on this list are low-cost for high quality.
How Should Hiking Boots Fit?
When searching for your perfect pair of hiking boots, you’re going to want to make sure they fit you properly.
Getting out on the trail with boots that are too big can be uncomfortable and cause blisters or cause you to slip and fall.
And on the other hand, if your hiking shoes are too small, you might feel pain in your toes or ankles.
When trying them on, your hiking boots should fit your feet snugly, but not feel tight anywhere.
You should be able to slide about one finger’s width behind your heel, to allow for space when your feet swell after a long day on the trail.
And your toes should be able to slightly wiggle, but they shouldn’t slide forward or backward.
How To Find Cheap Hiking Boots
There are plenty of brands that have cheap hiking boots year-round, but the best times to find them are during sales.
REI has an anniversary sale each year that has some pretty great deals on all of their gear, including boots.
They also typically have a Labor Day sale and might put some gear on sale at the end of the season!
You can also look on Black Friday or Cyber Monday at stores like Scheels and Dick’s Sporting Goods.
There are a few online thrift stores that feature used gear such as Geartrade and Isella.
I also always like looking on Facebook Marketplace, Poshmark, and Mercari because I can always find some great quality used or new gear for low prices.
How to Avoid Purchasing Low-Quality Hiking Boots
Are you looking at a pair of budget-friendly hiking boots and wondering how to tell if they’re high or low quality?
One of the best ways to tell is by looking at reviews.
These are typically honest reviews from real buyers who will tell you how it is, what they like, and what they don’t.
You can also just do a quick Google search of the shoe name + “review” to find more information.
The brand name can oftentimes also tell you a lot, as well-known brands tend to produce high-quality gear.
Some common hiking shoe/boot brands are Keen, Salomon, Merrell, and Oboz.
Other brands that make hiking shoes are Danner, Skechers, Timberland, REI, Columbia, and Eddie Bauer.
FAQs: Best Budget Hiking Boots
Are Hiking Boots Necessary?
While it isn’t a requirement to have hiking shoes when you’re on the trail, it’s highly recommended.
They help protect your feet, provide support, and can keep your feet warm and dry.
I have an entire post on this topic here.
Are Cheap Hiking Boots Worth It?
Yes, buying cheap hiking boots can totally be worth it!
If you read the reviews, make sure that they’re a trustworthy brand, and find the right size, buying cheap boots can be a great way to save money.
How Much Do Hiking Boots Cost?
Hiking boots can range in price from $30 to $300.
Typically, they’ll cost you anywhere from $100-$200, for a high-quality pair.
But you can most definitely find them for cheaper, such as the ones in this article!
How Long Do Hiking Boots Typically Last?
How long a pair of hiking boots last will fully depend on how you use them and how durable they are.
Some brands say that they’ll last up to 500 miles, while others claim 1,000 miles.
If you wear them heavily and are pretty rough on them, they may last less time.
How Often Should I Replace Hiking Boots?
Your hiking boots will likely need to be replaced every 500-1,000 miles.
You’ll be able to tell you need a new pair of boots if you have worn tread on the bottom, the ankle support is worn down, your feet are getting sore quickly, or if the soles are starting to get worn down.
Is There a Difference Between Men’s and Women’s Hiking Boots?
Yes, just like regular shoes, men’s and women’s hiking boots are sized accordingly.
You can likely get away with wearing the opposite, but you’ll want to try them on before getting out on the trail.
What Are the Best Hiking Socks?
I love my Darn Tough hiking socks because they are comfortable, have tons of patterns and colors, and have a lifetime warranty!
They are made of merino wool, so they keep my feet warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
Plus, they wick away sweat so my feet don’t feel wet after a long, hard hike.
Should My Toes Touch the End of My Hiking Boots?
No, you should have about one finger’s width of space between your toes and the end of your boots.
This is because your feet may swell during the day, and you’ll want that extra space for your feet to “grow.”
Is it Better for Hiking Boots to be Bigger or Smaller?
Ideally, you want your shoes to fit your feet just right, but if they happen not to, it would be best for them to be bigger.
You can then either add insoles or wear an extra pair of socks to help them fit better.
Having boots that are too small can cause blisters or pain in your toes.
What is a Good Price for Hiking Boots?
The price of your hiking boots will depend on a few things including the brand, material, and quality.
Of course, higher quality boots will cost more, as will more reputable brands.
I typically plan to spend around $100-$150 for a new pair of hiking boots that will last me 500 or more miles.
You can definitely find them for lower though, hence this list of great options under $100!
In fact, my last pair only cost me $65! 🙌
Wrap-Up: Best Hiking Boots Under $100
If you’re looking to start hiking but aren’t really wanting to drop a huge chunk of change for a new pair of boots, don’t worry.
There are plenty of great options out there that are budget-friendly and can get you on the trail in no time.
All of the boots on this list are cheap and still provide quality and everything you need a great pair!
I hope that this list of the best hiking boots under $100 helps you in finding the perfect pair for you!
