Welcome to our Hiking Boots HQ blog of on the Top 10 Best Eco Friendly Hiking Boots! As hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, we know the importance of choosing gear that not only performs well, but also has a minimal impact on the environment.
In this blog, we will be highlighting the top 10 best eco-friendly hiking boots on the market, with a focus on sustainability, durability, and comfort.
What does eco-friendly outdoor footwear mean?
Being eco-friendly footwear for the outdoors means designing and producing shoes that minimize the negative impact on the environment. This can be achieved through the use of sustainable materials, such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, or biodegradable rubber, and through environmentally responsible manufacturing processes that reduce waste and emissions.
Eco-friendly outdoor footwear not only helps protect the planet, but it also offers the same level of performance and comfort as traditional outdoor shoes. So, by choosing eco-friendly footwear for your outdoor activities, you can enjoy the great outdoors while also making a positive impact on the environment.
What are the best brands of eco-friendly outdoor footwear?
- Salomon
- Columbia
- KEEN
- Oboz
- Merrell
- Vasque
- Danner
- La Sportiva
- The North Face
- Patagonia
These are some of the best brands that offer eco-friendly outdoor footwear. These brands use sustainable materials, such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, and biodegradable rubber, and employ environmentally responsible manufacturing processes to reduce waste and emissions. By choosing shoes from these brands, you can enjoy your outdoor activities while also making a positive impact on the environment.
Top 10 best eco-friendly hiking boots
1. Salomon X Ultra 3 GTX Eco
These boots are made with recycled materials and feature a waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX lining, making them perfect for wet and muddy hikes.
- Waterproof Hiking Boots: Whether you are hitting the trails or looking for a solid work shoe, these extra durable, waterproof, mid height hiking boots are designed for women and offer maximum traction on all terrains
- A Better Way Down: Designed with Descent Control Technology, the X Ultra 3 GORE-TEX mid height hiking shoe efficiently tackles technical hikes and really shines during tough descents, even in wet conditions
- Adventure Awaits: Whether you love a local day hike or hitting the trails for a multi-day adventure, Salomon makes innovative hiking and backpacking shoes and boots for men and women to help you go the distance
- TOMORROW IS YOURS: Whether you are into trail running, hiking, backpacking, or mountaineering, Salomon has shoes and gear for kids, men and women to help you conquer a new distance, personal record, or event
- SINCE 1947 Salomon has created innovative outdoor sports gear. From running and hiking to backpacking, skiing and more, our shoes, boots, bags, apparel and accessories help make any path your own
2. Columbia Redmond Waterproof
Made from recycled materials and featuring a waterproof membrane, these boots will keep your feet dry and comfortable no matter the weather.
- ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY: The Redmond V2 Waterproof Hiking Shoe features our Omni-TECH seam-sealed membrane bootie construction, combined with our TECHLITE lightweight midsole, for long-lasting comfort with superior cushioning and high energy return.
- DURABLE HIKING SHOE: The perfect combination of high function and performance designed into our classic Columbia hiking shoe, this all-purpose hiker will deliver comfortable and reliable service.
- ALL TERRAIN TRACTION: Our signature Omni-GRIP non-marking traction rubber outsole provides high grip across a wide variety of terrain, and versatile three-season use.
- HANDY FEATURES: It features top metal rivets and lacing aglets, along with our reinforced and trail proven main webbing aglets.
- REINFORCED TOE AND HEEL CONSTRUCTION: Designed for extended use, we’ve reinforced the toe and heel barriers, and extended the outsole toe overwrap to guard these key wear points.
- Combination suede leather, mesh and webbing.
- Omni-Tech waterproof breathable seam-sealed membrane bootie construction.
- Techlite lightweight midsole for long lasting comfort, superior cushioning, and high energy return.
- Omni-Grip non-marking traction rubber.
- Combination suede leather, mesh and webbing
3. KEEN Oakridge Waterproof
With a waterproof and breathable membrane and a mid-height design for added support, these boots are a great choice for all-day hikes.
- WATERPROOF: KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane will keep your feet dry and comfortable in wet terrains; The Targhee 3 Waterproof shoe has a leather mud shield for resilient durability in all conditions
- TRACTION: KEEN ALL -TERRAIN rubber outsole provides high-traction grip in muddy environments and on rocky surfaces; Along with 4 mm multi-directional lugs for superior traction
- FIT and DESIGN: Built on a women-specific foot form; Crafted with a dual density EVA midsole for support comfort and to help reduce the overall weight of the shoe; Crafted with Eco Anti-Odor for natural odor control
- SUPPORT and COMFORT: External stability shank offers lightweight support for improved mobility and torsion control on uneven surfaces; Built with an injected TPU heel-capture system for stability
- CARE TIPS: We carefully selected leather uppers designed to last; To treat day to day wear and tear, especially on lighter color leathers, we reco mmend using a leather cleaner and conditioner, found at most footwear dealers and/or shoe repair shops
- KEEN.DRY waterproof breathable membrane keeps your feet dry and comfortable all day long by allowing vapor out without letting water in
- TRACTION & PROTECTION: 4mm multi directional lugs for increased traction on and off the trails; KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole for higher traction grip when you need it
- COMFORT: Breathable mesh lining; Removable dual density footbed with arch support offers long lasting cushioning
- SUPPORT: KEEN’s KonnectFit heel capture system for a locked in feel; Built on a women’s specific foot form for a more narrow and precise fit; Stability shank delivers lightweight support on uneven surfaces
- FIT: Built on a women’s specific foot form for a more narrow and precise fit
4. Oboz Bridger B-DRY
Made with a durable, eco-friendly upper and featuring a waterproof and breathable membrane, these boots are perfect for any trail.
- Oboz Bridger 7 Inch Insulated Women’S Waterproof Hiker Chipmunk – 9 Medium
- Color: Chipmunk
- Gl Type: Shoes
5. Merrell Chameleon 7 Access Mid Waterproof
These boots feature a waterproof and breathable membrane, as well as recycled materials in the upper and outsole, making them a sustainable choice for any hiker.
- Breathable mesh lining
- Rubber protective toe
- Removable EVA footbed
- It has a molded nylon bow
- Tab prevents the entry of waste
- Vibram TC5+ outsole
- Kinetic Fit Base removable contoured insole for flexible support
6. Vasque Breeze III GTX
These boots are made with a waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX lining, as well as a durable and eco-friendly upper, making them a great choice for any weather.
- CRAFTSMANSHIP: The Talus AT (All-Terrain) Hiking Boot is crafted from 1.8 mm waterproof nubuck leather, accompanied by abrasion resistant mesh which allows your foot to breathe and regulate temperature making this boot a great choice for hiking.
- COMFORTABLE & DURABLE: Maximum underfoot comfort, durability and stability is provided by a Molded EVA and TPU Shank midsole and a Dual Density EVA footbed allowing easy break-in.
- WATERPROOF DESIGN: The upper includes an UltraDry waterproof membrane for a full waterproof seal to keep feet dry and comfortable in any environment. Our UltraDry construction combines a moisture management lining with waterproof components for dry, long-lasting comfort and performance.
- ENHANCED TRACTION: Beneath the foot is a Vibram Mega Nuasi outsole to deliver a lightweight, durable sole while ensuring solid footing across varying terrain with aggressive traction and toe protection.
- FIND YOUR FIT: Designed around a straight line last with ample toe room, tailored instep, and slightly lower heel volume with a long lace closure to lend a more adjustable, comfortable fit. Talus AT UD Hiking Boot is also offered in medium and wide width to provide more options to find your perfect fit.
- CRAFTSMANSHIP: The Talus AT (All-Terrain) Hiking Boot is crafted from 1.8 mm waterproof nubuck leather, accompanied by abrasion resistant mesh which allows your foot to breathe and regulate temperature making this boot a great choice for hiking.
- COMFORTABLE & DURABLE: Maximum underfoot comfort, durability and stability is provided by a Molded EVA and TPU Shank midsole and a Dual Density EVA footbed allowing easy break-in.
- WATERPROOF DESIGN: The upper includes an UltraDry waterproof membrane for a full waterproof seal to keep feet dry and comfortable in any environment. Our UltraDry construction combines a moisture management lining with waterproof components for dry, long-lasting comfort and performance.
- ENHANCED TRACTION: Beneath the foot is a Vibram Mega Nuasi outsole to deliver a lightweight, durable sole while ensuring solid footing across varying terrain with aggressive traction and toe protection.
- FIND YOUR FIT: Designed around a straight line last with ample toe room, tailored instep, and slightly lower heel volume with a long lace closure to lend a more adjustable, comfortable fit. Talus AT UD Hiking Boot is also offered in medium and wide width to provide more options to find your perfect fit.
7. Danner Mountain 600
Made with a sustainable upper and featuring a comfortable, cushioned sole, these boots are perfect for all-day hikes.
- WATERPROOF hiking boots women can depend on featuring breathable Danner Dry barrier, allowing moisture to escape without letting water in, keeping your feet dry and comfortable all day
- DURABLE women’s hiking boots with smooth suede uppers built to last on the trail, and coming with two lace options, because you can never have too many laces
- ORTHOLITE triple-density polyurethane hiking boot footbed for maximum comfort and support. Open-cell construction improves heat dissipation and air circulation
- SPE MIDSOLE made from rubberized EVA maintains the same cushioning properties but is more durable, enhances rebound, comfort, and support
- SLIP-RESISTANT Vibram Fuga outsole features self-adapting lugs and is made from specially-formulated Megagrip compound, providing incredible grip on both wet and dry surfaces
- WATERPROOF hiking boots women can depend on featuring breathable Danner Dry barrier, allowing moisture to escape without letting water in, keeping your feet dry and comfortable all day
- DURABLE women’s hiking boots with smooth suede uppers built to last on the trail, and coming with two lace options, because you can never have too many laces
- ORTHOLITE triple-density polyurethane hiking boot footbed for maximum comfort and support. Open-cell construction improves heat dissipation and air circulation
- SPE MIDSOLE made from rubberized EVA maintains the same cushioning properties but is more durable, enhances rebound, comfort, and support
- SLIP-RESISTANT Vibram Fuga outsole features self-adapting lugs and is made from specially-formulated Megagrip compound, providing incredible grip on both wet and dry surfaces
8. La Sportiva Nucleo High GTX
These boots are made with recycled materials and feature a waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX lining, making them a great choice for wet and muddy hikes.
- A waterproof hiker/backpacking boot that offers the ultimate combination of durability, protection and comfort.
- Durable Nubuck leather uppers provides protection while the Nano Cell inserts deliver maximum breathability
- Waterproof Gore-Tex Surround membrane enables unprecedented breathability to keep feet dry while allowing heat and sweat to escape to keep feet cool
- Vibram Nano XS-Trek sole provides unparalleled traction and grip with large lugs, well positioned lugs. Compression Molded EVA foam midsole cushions each step while a stiffener insert providing support for hiking with a pack.
- 3D Flex ankle hinge greatly reduces break-in time and offers enhanced mobility. Available in both medium and wide widths to deliver comfort during long days on the trail. WEIGHT: 16.80 oz (476g)
- LIGHT & FAST HIKER: Made for hikers who want a boot that is protective and supports light to medium loads with a light and fast trail running influence.
- GORE-TEX WATERPROOF PROTECTION: Keep your feet dry with Gore Tex waterproof and breathable lining. Microfiber mud guard adds protection from trail elements
- SIZING & FIT: Runs Small. Normal or Large Feet – buy 1 SIZE UP. Small feet – buy 1/2 Size Up. Available in both Regular(C) and Wide(D) widths. Users who hike long distances, use thick socks, or are new to La Sportiva may consider an addition 1/2 up.
- SURE GRIP: Frixion XT 2.0 Outsole with Impact Brake System provides excellent traction and stability on steep descents, slick trails and uneven ground. Anti-shock rubber toe cap protects toes from unexpected trail obstacles.
- ANKLE SUPPORT: Comfort collar adds ankle protection with an easy-fit spoiler. Reinforced heel cup provides stability backpackers need for high mileage days on rugged and rocky trails.
9. The North Face Hedgehog Hiker GTX
Made with a sustainable upper and featuring a waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX lining, these boots are perfect for any trail.
- Upper: Performance mesh
- DryVent waterproof membrane
- Protective toe cap
- Integrated ghillie lacing system
- PU-coated leather mudguard and collar
- Move quickly over both rugged and wet terrain with the superior Vibram outsole, advanced stability, and protective construction of The North Face Hedgehog Fastpack II Waterproof hiking shoes.
- Low-profile trail-hiking shoes made of an abrasion-resistant mesh upper helps guard against tears and abrasions on the trail.
- DryVent waterproof membrane keeps out the wet elements while still providing a breathable foot environment.
- Traditional lace-up style.
- Cushioned OrthoLite footbed forms to the shape of your foot for maximum arch support and underfoot comfort.
10. ECCO MX hiking shoe
Made with recycled materials and featuring a comfortable and supportive design, these boots are perfect for all-day hikes.
- GORE-TEX Technology for a breathable, 100% waterproof shoe
- Metal hook eyelet offers a secure fit and stability with a modern twist on a reliably comfortable walking boot
- Built on an anatomical last using ECCO FLUIDFORM, a direct injection process that uses fluid materials that follow the natural shape of the foot, for stability
- Motocross-inspired PU outsole offers traction and support, with an additional TPU insert for stability
- Reflective ribbon on the pull tab offers increased visibility
- Built on an anatomical last using ECCO FLUIDFORM, a direct injection process that uses fluid materials that follow the natural shape of the foot, for stability
- Motocross-inspired PU outsole offers traction and support, with an additional TPU insert for stability
- GORE-TEX Technology for a breathable, 100% waterproof shoe
- Metal hook eyelet offers a secure fit and stability with a modern twist on a reliably comfortable walking boot
- Reflective ribbon on the pull tab offers increased visibility
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just starting out, these eco-friendly hiking boots are the perfect choice for your next adventure. So why not invest in a pair today and help make the world a little bit greener?