Finding high-quality hiking shoes on a budget can be tough, but it’s absolutely possible! Whether you’re tackling moderate trails or setting out on day hikes, the right pair should offer comfort, durability, solid traction, and support—without breaking the bank.
A great hike starts with the right footwear. Whether you’re trekking through rugged mountains, navigating forest trails, or tackling rocky terrain, the right shoes can make all the difference in comfort, stability, and performance. But with so many options available, how do you find the best pair for your needs?
Some hikers prioritize lightweight agility, while others need waterproof protection or extra support. That’s why we’ve handpicked a selection of top-rated hiking shoes that balance quality and affordability—from durable all-terrain performers to breathable warm-weather options.
So, let’s dive in! Here are the 10 best budget-friendly hiking shoes of 2025, all priced around €100 or less (with a few slightly over, because they were just too good to leave out).
The Best Budget Hiking Shoes 2025 Are:
1. Merrell Moab 3
Kicking off the list is the Merrell Moab 3, a favorite among hikers for its unbeatable mix of comfort, durability, and traction. With an air-cushioned heel and EVA midsole, it provides excellent shock absorption, while the breathable mesh lining keeps your feet cool on warm hikes.
Built for rugged terrain, the sturdy suede leather upper and reinforced toe cap add durability, while the Vibram outsole with 5mm lugs ensures top-tier grip. It’s available in a GORE-TEX version for waterproofing, but even the standard model handles light moisture well.
Lightweight yet supportive, the Moab 3 is ideal for moderate trails and long hikes. A slight break-in period may be needed, but once it molds to your feet, it’s a solid all-day performer.
Price: around €100
Key Features:
✔️ Cushioning & Comfort: Features an air-cushioned heel for shock absorption and an EVA midsole for a stable, cushioned ride.
✔️ Breathability: Mesh lining enhances airflow, keeping feet cool on warm hikes.
✔️ Durability: Sturdy suede leather upper with a reinforced toe cap for added protection.
✔️ Water Resistance: Available in a GORE-TEX version for waterproofing, though the standard model is water-resistant.
✔️ Fit & Sizing: Runs true to size with a roomy toe box, great for long hikes.
✔️ Weight: Weighs approximately 1 lb. 15 oz. per pair, making it lightweight for a leather hiking shoe.
✔️ Support & Stability: Nylon arch shank enhances support and stability on uneven terrain.
✔️ Traction & Grip: Features a Vibram outsole with 5mm lugs for superior grip on different surfaces.
✔️ Break-in Period: Comfortable from the first wear but may require a short break-in period.
✔️ Best For: Hikers looking for a durable, comfortable shoe for moderate trails.
2. Adidas Terrex AX4
Key Features:
✔️ Cushioning & Comfort: EVA midsole provides lightweight yet responsive cushioning.
✔️ Breathability: Abrasion-resistant mesh upper ensures ventilation while keeping out debris.
✔️ Durability: Tough synthetic overlays and reinforced toe cap enhance longevity.
✔️ Water Resistance: Available in a GORE-TEX model for full waterproofing.
✔️ Fit & Sizing: Fits snugly, with a slightly narrow design; wide sizes available.
✔️ Weight: Weighs around 1 lb. 13 oz. per pair, making it a lightweight hiker.
✔️ Support & Stability: A secure lacing system helps lock the foot in place for stability.
✔️ Traction & Grip: Features a Continental rubber outsole, known for excellent grip on wet and dry terrain.
✔️ Break-in Period: Minimal break-in required; comfortable from day one.
✔️ Best For: Hikers who need a lightweight yet grippy shoe for various conditions.
3. Columbia Crestwood
If you’re looking for a solid hiking shoe without breaking the bank, the Columbia Crestwood is a fantastic pick. Lightweight and comfortable right out of the box, it features a Techlite™ midsole that delivers responsive cushioning for all-day hikes.
The breathable mesh upper keeps airflow steady, preventing your feet from overheating, while the suede leather and synthetic overlays add durability. While it’s water-resistant, it’s not fully waterproof—so best for drier conditions.
With an Omni-Grip™ outsole, you’ll get reliable traction on mixed terrain, though it’s not designed for rough, technical trails. That said, for casual hikers looking for a comfortable, affordable shoe, the Crestwood is a reliable choice.
Price: around €80
Key Features:
✔️ Cushioning & Comfort: Techlite™ midsole offers responsive cushioning and shock absorption.
✔️ Breathability: Mesh upper ensures good airflow to prevent overheating.
✔️ Durability: Combination of suede leather and synthetic materials for long-lasting performance.
✔️ Water Resistance: Water-resistant but not fully waterproof.
✔️ Fit & Sizing: True to size with a medium-width fit.
✔️ Weight: Weighs about 1 lb. 12 oz. per pair, making it lightweight and agile.
✔️ Support & Stability: Soft cushioning offers support, but not ideal for rough terrains.
✔️ Traction & Grip: Omni-Grip™ outsole provides solid grip on mixed terrains.
✔️ Break-in Period: Very little break-in needed; comfortable from first wear.
✔️ Best For: Budget-conscious hikers who need a comfortable, everyday hiking shoe.
4. Quechua MH500
For those just getting into hiking or looking for a budget-friendly option, the Quechua MH500 is a great pick. It’s one of the lightest shoes on this list, weighing just 1 lb. 10 oz. per pair, making it ideal for easy trails and casual hikes.
Despite its lightweight build, the EVA midsole provides soft yet stable cushioning, while mesh panels enhance breathability, keeping feet cool on warm days. The synthetic upper is durable and abrasion-resistant, but since it’s not waterproof, it’s best suited for dry conditions.
With a CrossContact™ outsole, you’ll get reliable traction on rocky and dirt paths, though it’s not designed for rough terrain. Keep in mind, it runs slightly small, so sizing up is recommended. After a short break-in period, it’s a comfortable, affordable option for beginner hikers.
Price: around €60
Key Features:
✔️ Cushioning & Comfort: EVA midsole offers soft yet stable cushioning.
✔️ Breathability: Mesh panels ensure good airflow for warm-weather hikes.
✔️ Durability: Synthetic upper is resistant to abrasions and wear.
✔️ Water Resistance: Not waterproof, best for dry conditions.
✔️ Fit & Sizing: Runs slightly small, so consider sizing up.
✔️ Weight: Weighs approximately 1 lb. 10 oz. per pair, making it one of the lightest options.
✔️ Support & Stability: Provides moderate arch support, suitable for less technical trails.
✔️ Traction & Grip: CrossContact™ outsole ensures decent grip on dry and rocky surfaces.
✔️ Break-in Period: Requires a short break-in period due to stiffer materials.
✔️ Best For: Beginner hikers or those needing a low-cost hiking shoe for easy trails.
5. Merrell Accentor 3
Next on our list is the Merrell Accentor 3, a hiking shoe designed for those who prioritize breathability and support. Thanks to its open mesh upper, your feet stay well-ventilated, making it a great choice for warmer hikes.
Comfort-wise, the Kinetic Fit™ insole provides solid arch support, while the suede leather overlays add durability without sacrificing flexibility. The sturdy heel counter ensures stability, and the rubber lugs offer dependable traction on dirt trails.
For wet conditions, there’s a waterproof version, though the standard model is only water-resistant. It runs true to size with a slightly roomy fit, and with minimal break-in time, you’ll be ready to hit the trails right away.
If you’re after a lightweight, breathable hiking shoe for casual adventures, the Accentor 3 is a solid pick.
Price: around €100
Key Features:
✔️ Cushioning & Comfort: Kinetic Fit™ insole provides good arch support.
✔️ Breathability: Open mesh upper enhances ventilation.
✔️ Durability: Suede leather overlays add durability while keeping the shoe flexible.
✔️ Water Resistance: Available in a waterproof version, though the standard model is only water-resistant.
✔️ Fit & Sizing: Runs true to size, with a slightly roomy fit.
✔️ Weight: Weighs about 1 lb. 13 oz. per pair, making it lightweight.
✔️ Support & Stability: Sturdy heel counter keeps your foot stable.
✔️ Traction & Grip: Features grippy rubber lugs for good traction on dirt trails.
✔️ Break-in Period: Minimal break-in time needed.
✔️ Best For: Hikers needing a breathable, supportive shoe for casual trails.
6. Adidas Terrex Trailmaker
For hikers who prefer a lightweight, athletic feel, the Adidas Terrex Trailmaker is a top contender. Weighing just 1 lb. 9 oz. per pair, it’s one of the lightest hiking shoes on this list, making it perfect for fast-paced hikes and casual trail use.
The soft EVA midsole delivers excellent shock absorption and energy return, keeping your feet comfortable on longer treks. Meanwhile, the breathable mesh and textile upper ensures great airflow, though keep in mind this version is not waterproof, so it’s best suited for dry conditions.
Durability isn’t sacrificed for weight—the TPU overlays protect against abrasions, while the sturdy heel counter enhances stability. The standout feature? The Continental™ rubber outsole with multi-directional lugs, providing exceptional grip on various terrains.
If you want a fast, grippy hiking shoe with a snug, athletic fit, the Terrex Trailmaker is a great pick.
Price: around €110
Key Features:
✔️ Cushioning & Comfort: Soft EVA midsole provides shock absorption and energy return for longer hikes.
✔️ Breathability: Mesh and textile upper promotes airflow to keep feet cool.
✔️ Durability: TPU overlays enhance long-term durability and protection against abrasions.
✔️ Water Resistance: This version is not waterproof, so it’s best for dry conditions.
✔️ Fit & Sizing: Snug fit, great for those who prefer a more athletic feel.
✔️ Weight: Weighs about 1 lb. 9 oz. per pair, making it one of the lightest options.
✔️ Support & Stability: Designed with a sturdy heel counter to improve stability on uneven ground.
✔️ Traction & Grip: Features a Continental™ rubber outsole with multi-directional lugs for superior grip.
✔️ Break-in Period: Minimal break-in needed; comfortable from day one.
✔️ Best For: Hikers who want a lightweight, sporty shoe for fast hikes and casual trail use.
7. Salomon X Ultra Pioneer
If you’re looking for a hiking shoe that blends agility with durability, the Salomon X Ultra Pioneer is a strong choice. Built with Salomon’s Advanced Chassis™ system, it offers enhanced arch support and stability, making it ideal for mixed terrain adventures.
The EnergyCell™ midsole delivers responsive cushioning, ensuring comfort over long distances, while the mesh upper with synthetic reinforcements provides both breathability and durability. A reinforced toe cap and protective mudguard add extra toughness, making it a great option for more rugged trails.
For traction, the Contagrip® outsole shines, offering superb grip on both wet and dry surfaces. While the shoe runs narrow, wide-footed hikers may want to go up a half-size for the best fit. Plus, if you need waterproofing, there’s a GORE-TEX version available.
With a short break-in period, the X Ultra Pioneer is perfect for hikers who want a lightweight yet stable shoe that can handle unpredictable terrain.
Price: around €100
Key Features:
✔️ Cushioning & Comfort: EnergyCell™ midsole provides responsive cushioning with each step.
✔️ Breathability: Mesh upper with synthetic reinforcements enhances airflow and durability.
✔️ Durability: Designed with a reinforced toe cap and protective mudguard.
✔️ Water Resistance: Available in a GORE-TEX waterproof version.
✔️ Fit & Sizing: Runs narrow, so wide-footed hikers should consider a half-size up.
✔️ Weight: Weighs approximately 1 lb. 11 oz. per pair, keeping it lightweight.
✔️ Support & Stability: Advanced Chassis™ system enhances arch support and stability.
✔️ Traction & Grip: Contagrip® outsole provides outstanding grip on wet and dry terrain.
✔️ Break-in Period: Requires a short break-in period due to its structured design.
✔️ Best For: Hikers who need a lightweight but rugged shoe for mixed terrain.
8. Jack Wolfskin Vojo 3 Texapore
For hikers who face unpredictable weather and wet conditions, the Jack Wolfskin Vojo 3 Texapore is a reliable, waterproof option. Thanks to its Texapore membrane, this shoe keeps your feet 100% dry while still allowing moisture to escape, preventing overheating.
The EVA midsole provides soft yet stable cushioning, making it comfortable for long hikes, while the leather and synthetic upper offers a great mix of flexibility and durability. With a secure lacing system and a wide base for stability, you’ll feel supported even on rough trails.
Weighing around 2 lbs. per pair, it’s slightly heavier than some competitors, but that extra weight translates into rugged durability. The rubber outsole with deep lugs delivers excellent grip on muddy and uneven terrain, making it ideal for hikers who don’t let bad weather slow them down.
Expect a short break-in period, but once molded to your feet, the Vojo 3 Texapore is a top-tier choice for hikers needing a waterproof and sturdy shoe.
Price: around €90
Key Features:
✔️ Cushioning & Comfort: EVA midsole offers soft, stable cushioning.
✔️ Breathability: Texapore waterproof membrane allows moisture to escape while keeping water out.
✔️ Durability: Leather and synthetic upper provide a balance of flexibility and toughness.
✔️ Water Resistance: 100% waterproof, making it ideal for wet conditions.
✔️ Fit & Sizing: Runs true to size, with a secure lacing system for a snug fit.
✔️ Weight: Weighs around 2 lbs. per pair, slightly heavier than others but built for rugged conditions.
✔️ Support & Stability: Wide base and solid heel structure offer great stability.
✔️ Traction & Grip: Features a rubber outsole with deep lugs for superior grip on muddy trails.
✔️ Break-in Period: Requires a couple of hikes to fully break in.
✔️ Best For: Hikers who need a waterproof, durable shoe for unpredictable weather.
9. North Face Hedgehog Futurelight
For hikers who need a fully waterproof shoe without sacrificing breathability, the North Face Hedgehog Futurelight is a top contender. Designed with Futurelight™ technology, this shoe allows air to flow while keeping water out, making it ideal for rainy hikes and wet trails.
The dual-density midsole absorbs impact while providing excellent stability on rocky terrain, and Cradle™ Guide technology ensures a secure, supportive ride. For added durability, the TPU toe cap and reinforced sides protect against trail hazards.
Weighing 1 lb. 14 oz. per pair, it stays light yet protective, while the Surface Control™ rubber outsole offers exceptional grip on mixed terrain. The shoe runs slightly small, so sizing up is recommended for those with wider feet.
With no break-in period required, the Hedgehog Futurelight is perfect for hikers who want a durable, waterproof shoe that’s ready for adventure from day one.
Price: around €110
Key Features:
✔️ Cushioning & Comfort: Dual-density midsole absorbs impact and offers stability on rocky trails.
✔️ Breathability: Futurelight™ waterproof membrane allows air to flow while keeping water out.
✔️ Durability: TPU toe cap and reinforced sides enhance durability.
✔️ Water Resistance: Fully waterproof, perfect for rainy hikes and wet trails.
✔️ Fit & Sizing: Runs slightly small, so consider sizing up if you have wide feet.
✔️ Weight: Weighs around 1 lb. 14 oz. per pair, keeping it light yet protective.
✔️ Support & Stability: Cradle™ Guide technology ensures a secure and stable ride.
✔️ Traction & Grip: Surface Control™ rubber outsole provides excellent traction on mixed terrain.
✔️ Break-in Period: Comfortable right out of the box.
✔️ Best For: Hikers looking for a durable, waterproof shoe with excellent grip.
10. Keen Targhee Vent
Rounding out our list is the Keen Targhee Vent, a hiking shoe designed for maximum breathability and comfort, especially for hikers with wide feet. With ventilated mesh panels, this shoe keeps your feet cool, making it perfect for warm-weather hikes.
The dual-density EVA footbed delivers a cushioned, supportive ride, while the premium leather upper adds durability and light water resistance. Though it’s not fully waterproof, it can handle light moisture and dry quickly.
For stability, the sturdy heel lock provides added ankle support, and the multi-directional lugs on the outsole offer solid traction on dry, rocky terrain. Plus, with a roomy toe box and minimal break-in time, it’s a great choice for hikers who need extra space and comfort.
If you’re looking for a breathable, supportive hiking shoe that excels in warm conditions, the Targhee Vent is a fantastic final addition to our lineup.
Price: around €100
Key Features:
✔️ Cushioning & Comfort: Dual-density EVA footbed ensures a comfortable, cushioned ride.
✔️ Breathability: Ventilated mesh panels allow airflow to keep feet cool.
✔️ Durability: Premium leather upper adds durability and water resistance.
✔️ Water Resistance: Not fully waterproof, but the leather upper offers light water resistance.
✔️ Fit & Sizing: Roomy toe box, great for hikers with wide feet.
✔️ Weight: Weighs about 1 lb. 12 oz. per pair, making it relatively lightweight.
✔️ Support & Stability: Features a sturdy heel lock for enhanced ankle stability.
✔️ Traction & Grip: Multi-directional lugs provide great grip on dry and rocky trails.
✔️ Break-in Period: Requires minimal break-in.
✔️ Best For: Hikers with wide feet who need a breathable, supportive shoe.
Keep Exploring: Find the Perfect Hiking Gear for Your Next Adventure!
Hiking on a budget doesn’t mean settling for less. Whether you need a lightweight and breathable shoe like the Adidas Terrex Trailmaker, waterproof protection from the Jack Wolfskin Vojo 3 Texapore, or all-day comfort and stability with the Merrell Moab 3, there’s a perfect fit for every trail.
Now that you’ve got the right shoes, why stop here? If you’re new to hiking, check out our Beginner’s Guide to Hiking for essential tips. Make sure you’re fully prepared with our hiking packing checklists or dive deeper into how to choose the right hiking shoes. Want to explore more options? Compare the top hiking shoes of 2025 or find the best high-cut and low-cut models for your needs.
Still need more gear? Gear up with Roadtripaway and find the best travel essentials for your next adventure! 🏕️🥾
