The best Hiking Shoes in Australia

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Last Updated: 7 Feb 2026

10 top rated Hiking Shoes for every need: Australia's top picks!

Hiking shoes are essential for comfortable and safe exploration of trails, offering far more than just everyday footwear. They provide crucial ankle support, reliable traction on uneven terrain, and protection from rocks, roots, and water, minimizing the risk of injury and maximizing enjoyment. Investing in quality hiking shoes allows you to tackle more challenging hikes with confidence, appreciate the beauty of nature more fully, and create lasting memories – truly opening up a world of outdoor adventure.

What to Look For

Upper Material

Look for durable, breathable materials like full-grain leather (for ruggedness and water resistance), nylon, or synthetic mesh (for lightweight breathability). Consider a combination for the best balance.

Midsole Cushioning

Evaluate the cushioning—EVA or polyurethane are common. More cushioning provides greater shock absorption for longer hikes on hard surfaces, while a firmer midsole offers more responsiveness and stability.

Outsole Traction

Aggressive lug patterns are key for gripping various surfaces (mud, gravel, rock). Vibram outsoles are a well-regarded standard, but examine the lug depth and spacing to ensure adequate traction for your typical hiking conditions.

Ankle Support

Decide on a high-cut (ankle support) or low-cut (more flexibility) style based on your ankle stability and the terrain you'll be navigating. Higher cuts offer more support but can feel less flexible.

Waterproofing/Water Resistance

Consider a waterproof membrane (like Gore-Tex) if you frequently hike in wet conditions. Even if not fully waterproof, water-resistant treatments can offer some protection from light moisture.

Fit and Comfort

Proper fit is paramount! Try on shoes with hiking socks and walk around to ensure ample toe room, no heel slippage, and a comfortable, secure feel. Break-in periods vary, so consider how the shoes feel initially.

#1
Columbia
  • NIMBLE HIKER: The perfect combination of high function and performance, this all-purpose hiker will deliver years of comfortable service
  • SUEDE LEATHER UPPER: This nimble lace-up integrates a combination upper, featuring leather, mesh, and webbing — all combine into a durable shoe you'll appreciate for seasons to come
  • ALL-DAY COMFORT: Equipped with our TechLite midsole, this shoe delivers long lasting comfort, superior cushioning, and high energy return
  • ADVANCED TRACTION: Featuring our indoor-friendly Omni-Grip, a non-marking outsole, this shoe provides sure-footed traction in the wild
$113.84 AUD

Product data updated . Check Amazon for the current price.

(11510 reviews)
#2
Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Plus
  • ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY: The Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Boot features a seam-sealed construction, combined with our TECHLITE lightweight midsole, for long-lasting comfort with superior cushioning and high energy return.
  • DURABLE HIKING BOOT: This women's boot is inspired by classic mountaineering style. A durable mid cut waterproof hiker that provides great traction and comfort. This classic Columbia hiking boot, will deliver reliable and comfortable 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.
  • REINFORCED TOE AND HEEL CONSTRUCTION: Designed for extended years of use, we’ve reinforced the toe and heel barriers, and extended the outsole toe overwrap to guard these key wear points.
$153.99 AUD

Product data updated . Check Amazon for the current price.

(5955 reviews)
#3
Merrell Men's Moab 3 Hiking Shoe
  • A premium VIBRAM rubber outsole which provides exceptional traction, slip resistant enough to grip the most challenging of surfaces, wet or dry.
  • Pigskin leather & Mesh Upper.
  • Bellow tongue to keep out debris.
  • Protective toe cap.
$159.96 AUD

Product data updated . Check Amazon for the current price.

(5046 reviews)
#4
Salomon
  • The versatile hiking shoe for climbs, descents & everyday adventures
  • Two types of rubber and a patterned heel area grab the ground, giving you more control in muddy conditions. While the waterproof GORE-TEX membrane keeps the wet out.
  • A reinforced SensiFit construction holds your foot comfortably in place, especially on those tough downhills.
  • Surrounded by foam cushioning for comfort, the Advanced Chassis connects directly to the sole to stabilize your heel. The higher cut wraps the ankle for extra protection.
$174.95 AUD

Product data updated . Check Amazon for the current price.

(3146 reviews)
#5
Columbia Men's Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Ankle Boot
  • ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY: Columbia Men's Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot features our lightweight, durable midsole for long lasting comfort, superior cushioning, and high energy return as well as an advanced traction rubber sole for slip-free movement on rough ground.
  • HANDY FEATURES: Treacherous days out on the trail are comfortable and worry-free with this boot's waterproof full-grain leather and mesh bootie construction and its durable mesh tongue for breathability.
  • ADJUSTABLE FEATURES: The Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot features a lace-up closure for an adjustable, secure fit.
  • VERSATILE STYLE: This men's waterproof hiking boot delivers style and durability with its contrasting color combinations and soft mesh exterior.
$150.00 AUD

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(3056 reviews)
#6
Salomon Women's Speedcross 5
  • Built for maximum grip on loose, soft, rugged, and uneven surfaces
  • Mud contagrip uses deep, sharp lugs made from a compound that focuses on adhesion
  • Sensifit cradles the foot from the midsole to the lacing system
  • Providing a secure, snug, and virtually customized fit
$191.67 AUD

Product data updated . Check Amazon for the current price.

(2505 reviews)
#7
Salomon
  • Providing strong lateral support and reassuring protection
  • it also delivers optimal mobility and flexibility
  • A flexible, lightweight, full waterproof bootie to ensure complete weather protection
  • Built for maximum grip on loose, soft, rugged, and uneven surfaces
$170.83 AUD

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(2471 reviews)
#8
FitVille Men's Wide Fit Waterproof Outdoor Shoes
  • 【Wide Toe Box Shoes】The wide fitting walking shoe comes with roomy toe box, offers ample space for toes to spread freely & naturally.
  • 【Waterproof Protection】Waterproof microfiber leather upper helps keep your feet dry in wet outdoor conditions,ensure a nice hiking experience.
  • 【Non-Slip Outsole for Support】Lug bottom outsole for ultimate slip resistance and better traction
  • 【Rebound & Cushioning:】The sole consists of a high rebound EVA midsole that provides stable support and shock-absorption.
$44.00 AUD

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(1926 reviews)
#9
Columbia Women's Transverse Hike Waterproof Boot
  • OMNI-TECH: For prolonged exposure to moderate rain and snow. Multilayered, waterproof, seam-sealed construction that allows the inside to breathe, keeping feet dry and comfortable no matter the conditions.
  • TECHLITE: For lightweight impact absorption on varied surfaces. Long-lasting cushioning with high energy return.
  • OMNI-GRIP: For multi-terrain traction on rock, dirt, and gravel, in wet/dry conditions. Specially formulated compounds and tread design for cross-terrain stability and grip with strategically blended lug patterns.
  • HANDY FEATURES: This adventure-ready hiker features a durable leather and mesh upper, metal hardware, and a cushioned collar for comfort.
$127.06 AUD

Product data updated . Check Amazon for the current price.

(1805 reviews)
#10
Salomon Men's Speedcross Trail Running and Hiking Shoe
  • Built for maximum grip on loose, soft, rugged, and uneven surfaces
  • Mud contagrip uses deep, sharp lugs made from a compound that focuses on adhesion
  • Sensifit cradles the foot from the midsole to the lacing system
  • Providing a secure, snug, and virtually customized fit
$185.18 AUD

Product data updated . Check Amazon for the current price.

(1628 reviews)