Outdoor Shoes Trusted by Hikers Over 50 for Their Comfort and Durability

Getting outside and connecting with nature is a refreshing and energizing activity at any age. However, for those with a bit more experience on this planet, joint support and reliable traction become even more essential when hitting the trails.

According to Diane Spicer, founder of Hiking For Her, the ideal hiking boot is the Salomon X Ultra 4, a low-cut option. "The outsoles provide excellent grip, which is crucial for hikers like me who tackle a variety of trails, from sand to loose rocks to muddy paths," Spicer shared with HuffPost. "They’re lightweight, supportive, and flexible, reducing leg and foot fatigue during long hikes."

You can find them on Zappos for $140 (available in women's sizes 6.5–10 and two colors) and from Salomon for $140 (available in men's sizes 7–14 and four colors).

According to Facebook user Michael Metzger, "Danner Mountain Lights have been my go-to for 30 years. They are all leather, incredibly durable, and while they’re on the pricier side, they’ll last a lifetime if properly cared for."

You can find them on Zappos for $214.83 (originally $429.95; available in women's sizes 5.5–9) or REI for $429.95+ (available in men's sizes 7–13 and two colors).

Merrell is another popular choice among readers. Ruth Dubinsky Heffes shared, "Merrells are lightweight with strong soles, great for balancing on rocks and resistant to water." Lynn K. Brown agreed, praising Merrells for being "incredibly comfortable."

If you're looking for a specific model, we recommend the Merrell Moab 3 waterproof hiking boot, which features a removable contoured insole and additional heel cushioning. It has a 4.6-star rating on Amazon, with many reviewers noting that the Moab 3 provides better arch support and cushioning compared to previous versions.

Get them on Amazon: for women starting at $90+ (available in sizes 5–12, including wide fits, and six color options) and for men starting at $97.08+ (available in sizes 5–15, including wide fits, and five color options).

If you're seeking a trail running shoe or something light and low-cut, Facebooker Anita March recommended the Altra Lone Peak 6 for its "wide toe box!" This shoe boasts a 4.6 overall rating on Amazon, with users calling it the "Holy Grail of comfort for all terrain walkers." 

Available for purchase on Amazon: men's sizes for $100 (sizes 8.5–13, four color options) and women's sizes for $99.99+ (sizes 6–12, five color options).

Hoka is a well-known brand for its running and walking shoes, but many HuffPost readers have shared their love for Hoka's hiking boots, with Nađa Hadžić Čučak describing them as "durable, comfortable, and light." 

We are particularly fond of the Anacapa Mid Gore-Tex boots for their stylish appearance, ankle support, and excellent traction. According to Zappos reviews, they require minimal break-in time and are incredibly comfortable straight out of the box.

Find them on Zappos for $194.95 (available in men's sizes 7–15, five colors).

Goody Lindley recommends the Quest 4 GTX, a high-top Salomon style, describing them as "light, supportive, and extremely comfortable." Reviewers praise them for being perfect for trekking, snowy conditions, or general use in harsh weather, offering full ankle coverage and support.

Purchase it from Zappos: women's sizes at $218.45 (original price $230; available in sizes 7–11) and men's sizes for $229.95 (available in sizes 8.5–13 and two color options).