These Hiking Sneakers Combine Style and Substance
You can call it the gorpcore effect, but it has become commonplace for brands to create pieces ready for the great outdoors in their collections. From luxury fashion houses to streetwear labels, everyone is at it and the end result is (nine times out of ten) fire.
Dior’s recent collection was a hiker's paradise, and recent collaborations between Salomon and Comme des Garçons proved that luxury fashion is getting becoming more acquainted with hiking and trail-ready brands.
However, being able to decipher which pieces have the technical credentials to back up their outdoorsy look can be tricky. In particular, when searching for good hiking sneakers, different sneaker and shoe manufacturers often incorporate their own midsole technology into their products leaving one to wonder what makes good hiking shoes these days.
First off, durable outsoles are crucial to your expedition. Brands like Vibram and Continental are well-known icons for their advanced research when comes to applying grip. Depending on the weather conditions you'll want to have strong, durable protection to keep your feet free of rain or snow, or breathable mesh and ripstop uppers for the Summer months. All things considered, when searching for a sturdy hiking sneaker, the style must also be considered.
We’ve compiled a list of some of our favorite brands that are prepared to handle wet or dry surfaces during your next hike while also being a flex in the city.
Check out our favorite designer hiking footwear options below.
Salomon XA Alpine 2 Advanced
While the Salomon XT-4 and XT-6 continue to make headlines, there are a number of other models in the French footwear label's arsenal that shouldn't be overlooked. This is one of them, geared toward trail runners, it was created in collaboration with Salomon athletes to include all the tech needed to move swiftly through difficult terrain.
Moncler Henry Hiking Boots
Sure, this could be considered a boot but Moncler's Henry silhouette sits comfortably in that almost a sneaker category. The combination of leather, suede, and mesh throughout the upper ensures you can pretty much wear this boot in any landscape.
ROA Khatarina Sneaker
A label that has managedz to find the perfect sweet spot between luxury fashion and heavy-duty hiking wear, ROA has fast become a leader in gorpcore fashion helped along by collabs with the likes of A-COLD-WALL* and 1017 ALYX 9sm. The Khatarina has proven to be one of its most popular models, a relatively minimal sneaker with technical fabrics and Vibram’s Megagrip tread sole.
Norse Projects Arktisk Logo-Appliquéd Leather and Mesh Boots
When you see that yellow text which indicates Cordura fabric and a Vibram sole unit are in use, you know you're dealing with a shoe that can handle tough conditions. This shoe from Norse Projects puts a more sporty spin on a typical hiking boot.
Salomon XT-Quest 2 Advanced
The Y2K agenda shows no signs of slowing down and it's even made its way to hiking sneakers. Taking inspiration from early-2000s outdoor shoes, these sneakers deliver a retro look with modern technology.
AMBUSH Hiking Boots
If you detest wearing black boots or any other dark colors then AMBUSH has got you covered. These ankle-high boots are equally made for the trails and getting around town fashionably.
Moncler Trailgrip GTX Sneakers
Moncler's new Trailgrip GTX is one of those rare sneakers that excels in every category. The thick Vibram outsole is catered to take on the toughest terrains while the GORE-TEX upper protects from water and unpleasant weather. Although a lot of luxury sneakers released this year, this one is arguably the best.
adidas Originals Terrex Swift R3 Hiking Sneakers
The Terrex is adidas' signature hiking shoe and has seen many iterations since it was first added to the brand's roster twelve years ago. When coupled with a Treaded Continental™ rubber outsole from Continental whose been making outsoles since the late 1800s, you’ve got a breathable sneaker with grip that's made to last.
Merrell Winter Moc 3 1TRL
You'll likely know Merrell for its futuristic-looking Hydro Moc sandal, well this is a winterized relative of that shoe. Made to slip on and instantly explore in, the shoe features a suede leather and textile upper, breathable mesh lining, and a lightweight EVA foam midsole that ensures stability and comfort.
norda 001 Labrador Tea
A relative newcomer to the running world, Norda has been making headlines for its trail running sneakers — in particular, the 001. Recognized as the first seamless and lightest trail running shoe made with Bio-Dyneema, the world’s lightest and strongest material, this sneaker is packed with tech that makes it perform in the great outdoors.
Salomon Quest 4D GTX Advanced
Equipped with a GORE-TEX upper and Contagrip rubber outsole, this Salomon shoe is an absolute unit. It's not far off being an all-out combat boot.
adidas x And Wander TERREX Free Hiker 2
Pairing and wander's minimal aesthetics with adidas TERREX technology is a match made in hiking heaven, hence the reason for the duo's recent collab. The Free Hiker is engineered with adidas' signature Primeknit collar, an extra stable EVA footbed, and a Continental outsole that ensures you're well-protected while exploring tricky terrains.
Reebok DMX Trail Shadow
The DMX has come a long way since it was first released in 1997. Since then Reebok has upped the shoe's technology adding an air cushion for additional shock absorption and a sturdy trail-specific outsole that works just as well on the city streets.
Timberland Vibram Euro Hiker WP
Although every model in Timberland's roster is geared toward the great outdoors, the Euro Hiker will surely hold you down. The improved silhouette is made from a breathable nubuck and suede combo and features the brand's TimberDry™ membrane to stay dry while you're exploring.
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