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# The 5 Best Men’s Black Hiking Boots of 2026: Style & Performance
Finding the perfect pair of **mens black hiking boots** can feel like scaling a mountain without the right gear. You need boots that not only look good but can also handle the toughest trails. Lucky for you, you’ve come to the right place! We’ve spent countless hours researching and testing to bring you the definitive list of the 5 best **mens black hiking boots** of 2026, combining style, performance, and durability. Whether you’re tackling a weekend hike or embarking on a serious backpacking adventure, these boots have got you covered. Get ready to step into adventure with confidence and style!
**Top Picks Summary**
| Boot | Best For |
|—————————|——————————————-|
| Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX | Versatility and wet conditions |
| Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof | Comfort and value |
| Lowa Renegade GTX Mid | Serious backpacking and durability |
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## Detailed Reviews
### Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX
**Best For:** Versatility and wet conditions.
**Key Features:**
* **GORE-TEX Waterproofing:** Keeps your feet dry in the wettest conditions.
* **Advanced Chassis:** Provides stability and support on uneven terrain.
* **Contagrip Outsole:** Offers excellent traction on various surfaces.
* **Lightweight Design:** Reduces fatigue during long hikes.
**Why We Like It:** The Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX is a true all-rounder. It’s lightweight enough for day hikes but sturdy enough for multi-day treks. The GORE-TEX membrane ensures your feet stay dry, and the aggressive Contagrip outsole provides excellent traction on slippery surfaces. Plus, the sleek black design looks great both on and off the trail. These **mens black hiking boots** are a top choice for anyone who wants a versatile and reliable option.
### Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof
**Best For:** Comfort and value.
**Key Features:**
* **Waterproof Membrane:** Seals out water and lets moisture escape.
* **Kinetic Fit ADVANCED Footbed:** Offers targeted support and cushioning.
* **Bellows Tongue:** Keeps debris out.
* **Vibram TC5+ Outsole:** Provides excellent grip on various terrains.
**Why We Like It:** The Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof is a classic for a reason. It’s incredibly comfortable right out of the box, thanks to the Kinetic Fit ADVANCED footbed. The waterproof membrane keeps your feet dry without sacrificing breathability, and the Vibram outsole provides reliable traction. These **mens black hiking boots** are an excellent value for the price, making them a great choice for beginners and experienced hikers alike. The all-black aesthetic is timeless and versatile.
### Lowa Renegade GTX Mid
**Best For:** Serious backpacking and durability.
**Key Features:**
* **GORE-TEX Lining:** Waterproof and breathable for all-weather comfort.
* **Nubuck Leather Upper:** Durable and supportive.
* **Vibram Rene Trac Outsole:** Provides excellent traction and stability.
* **Monowrap Frame:** Offers stability and prevents foot fatigue.
**Why We Like It:** When it comes to serious backpacking, the Lowa Renegade GTX Mid is in a league of its own. The durable nubuck leather upper and GORE-TEX lining provide exceptional protection from the elements, while the Vibram Rene Trac outsole offers reliable traction on even the most challenging terrain. The Monowrap frame provides excellent stability, reducing foot fatigue on long hikes. These **mens black hiking boots** are an investment, but they’ll last for years and provide unparalleled performance.
### Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof
**Best For:** Budget-friendly performance and everyday wear.
**Key Features:**
* **Waterproof Leather and Mesh:** Durable and breathable.
* **Techlite Lightweight Midsole:** Provides long-lasting comfort and superior cushioning.
* **Omni-Grip Non-Marking Traction Rubber Outsole:** Ensures grip on various surfaces.
* **Lightweight Construction:** Reduces foot fatigue.
**Why We Like It:** The Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof boots are a fantastic option for hikers who want reliable performance without breaking the bank. The combination of waterproof leather and mesh keeps your feet dry and comfortable, while the Techlite midsole provides excellent cushioning. The Omni-Grip outsole ensures solid traction on a variety of terrains. These **mens black hiking boots** are also stylish enough for everyday wear, making them a versatile addition to your wardrobe. They’re a solid choice for those just getting into hiking or looking for a dependable backup pair.
### KEEN Targhee III Mid Waterproof
**Best For:** Wide feet and rugged terrain.
**Key Features:**
* **KEEN.DRY Waterproof Breathable Membrane:** Keeps feet dry and comfortable.
* **Leather Mud Shield:** Offers durability and protection.
* **ESS Shank:** Provides torsional stability.
* **KEEN All-Terrain Rubber Outsole:** High-traction grip in all environments.
**Why We Like It:** If you have wider feet, finding comfortable hiking boots can be a challenge. The KEEN Targhee III Mid Waterproof boots are designed with a wider toe box, providing ample room for your toes to splay naturally. The KEEN.DRY membrane keeps your feet dry, while the leather mud shield adds durability and protection. The aggressive outsole provides excellent traction on rugged terrain. These **mens black hiking boots** are a comfortable and reliable choice for hikers with wider feet who demand performance.
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## Buying Guide: What to Consider When Choosing Men’s Black Hiking Boots
Choosing the right pair of **mens black hiking boots** can make or break your hiking experience. Here’s what to consider:
**1. Intended Use:**
* **Day Hiking:** For shorter hikes on well-maintained trails, a lightweight and flexible boot like the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX or the Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof is a good choice.
* **Backpacking:** For multi-day treks with heavy loads, you’ll need a more supportive and durable boot like the Lowa Renegade GTX Mid.
* **Trail Running/Fastpacking:** If you’re planning to move quickly on the trails, consider a trail running shoe or a lightweight hiking boot with good flexibility.
**2. Waterproofing:**
* **GORE-TEX:** This is the gold standard for waterproof and breathable membranes. Boots with GORE-TEX will keep your feet dry in wet conditions while allowing moisture to escape.
* **Proprietary Membranes:** Some brands have their own waterproof membranes, such as KEEN.DRY or Merrell’s waterproof membrane. These can be effective but may not be as breathable as GORE-TEX.
* **Water Resistance vs. Waterproof:** Be sure to check whether the boots are truly waterproof or just water-resistant. Water-resistant boots will only protect your feet from light rain and splashes.
**3. Fit and Comfort:**
* **Sizing:** Hiking boots should fit snugly but not too tightly. You should have about a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the end of the boot.
* **Width:** If you have wide feet, look for boots that are specifically designed for wider feet, such as the KEEN Targhee III Mid Waterproof.
* **Break-In Period:** Some hiking boots require a break-in period before they become fully comfortable. Wear them around the house for a few days before hitting the trails.
**4. Outsole:**
* **Traction:** The outsole is what provides grip on the trail. Look for outsoles with aggressive lugs and a durable rubber compound, such as Vibram.
* **Flexibility:** The flexibility of the outsole will affect how the boot feels on the trail. More flexible outsoles are better for day hiking, while stiffer outsoles are better for backpacking.
**5. Materials:**
* **Leather:** Leather is durable and supportive, but it can be heavier and require more maintenance than synthetic materials.
* **Synthetic:** Synthetic materials are lighter and more breathable than leather, but they may not be as durable.
* **Midsole:** The midsole provides cushioning and support. Look for midsoles made from EVA or polyurethane.
**6. Ankle Support:**
* **High-Cut Boots:** These provide the most ankle support and are best for backpacking and rugged terrain.
* **Mid-Cut Boots:** These offer a good balance of ankle support and flexibility and are suitable for day hiking.
* **Low-Cut Boots:** These are the most flexible and lightweight but offer the least ankle support. They’re best for well-maintained trails and trail running.
**7. Weight:**
* Lighter boots will reduce fatigue on long hikes, but they may not be as durable as heavier boots. Consider the trade-offs between weight and durability when making your decision.
**8. Budget:**
* **Price Range:** Hiking boots can range in price from around $80 to $300 or more. Consider your budget and the features that are most important to you.
* **Value:** Look for boots that offer a good balance of price and performance. The Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof is a great value option.
**9. Special Features:**
* **Toe Protection:** Some hiking boots have reinforced toe caps to protect your toes from rocks and roots.
* **Heel Counters:** Heel counters provide
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