Top 10 · Compare
Compare Best Hiking Shoes head to head
Pick any two picks from this list and see specs, current price, pros, cons and reader ratings side by side.
Back to the full Top 10
#1 on this list
Lone Peak 9
Altra
The thru-hiker default: wide toe box, zero drop, and a footshape that prevents late-day swelling pain.
- Price
- Check current price
- Reader rating
- No reader votes yet
- How we assessed it
- Specification researched
#2 on this list
Speedgoat 6
Hoka
Vibram Megagrip with maximal cushion. The best long-mile shoe for rocky trail.
- Price
- Check current price
- Reader rating
- No reader votes yet
- How we assessed it
- Specification researched
Specs side by side
| Spec | Lone Peak 9 | Speedgoat 6 |
|---|---|---|
| Weight (M9/W7) | 10.7 oz / 8.8 oz | — |
| Stack Height | 25 mm | — |
| Drop | 0 mm | — |
| FootShape | Original | — |
| Lugs | Multi-directional | — |
| Terrain | Varied Trail | — |
| Maker | — | Hoka |
| Model | — | Speedgoat 6 |
| Category | — | Trail Running / Hiking |
| Cushion | — | Maximal |
| Outsole | — | Vibram Megagrip |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Lone Peak 9
- Generous FootShape toe box prevents foot compression and swelling
- Zero Drop platform encourages a natural gait and foot strike
- Reliable traction on varied trail surfaces (MaxTrac outsole)
- Comfortable cushioning for long days without excessive bulk
- Breathable upper promotes airflow and quicker drying
- Outsole durability can be an issue for high-mileage users
- Zero Drop design requires an adjustment period for some users
- Not ideal for extremely technical or aggressively muddy terrain
- Lacks waterproof membrane, though dries relatively quickly
Speedgoat 6
- Exceptional cushioning for long-distance comfort
- Superior grip from Vibram Megagrip outsole on varied terrain
- Durable construction handles abrasive trails well
- Improved upper provides a more secure fit
- Excellent rock and root protection
- High stack height reduces ground feel
- Bulkier profile may feel less agile for some
- Less breathable than some minimalist options
- Not ideal for short, fast, technical bursts
Prices change constantly — the figure shown is the last verified catalog price, and the buy buttons always go to the current listing.