Outdoor gear editors at Men's Health tested more than 50 hiking shoes over four years to identify top performers. The Oboz Katabatic RT Low GTX emerged as their top choice overall.
The testing process evaluated shoes across multiple performance categories. Editors assessed traction on varied terrain, waterproofing capability, comfort during extended wear, ankle support, and durability over time. They considered how shoes performed on rocky trails, wet conditions, and steep descents, the real-world scenarios most hikers face.
The Katabatic RT Low GTX delivers on several fronts. Oboz's Vibram sole provides reliable grip on loose rock and muddy surfaces. The Gore-Tex lining keeps feet dry without sacrificing breathability, a balance many budget options fail to achieve. The shoe's mid-cut design offers ankle support without the weight penalty of heavier boots, making it suitable for day hikes and multi-day trips alike.
The article profiles 11 shoes total, addressing different hiking needs and budgets. Some excel on technical terrain. Others prioritize lightweight performance for trail running hikers. A few focus on maximum cushioning for long-distance comfort. This range reflects reality: the best shoe depends on your terrain, trip length, and foot type.
Testing methodology matters here. Four years of evaluation means editors caught durability issues other reviewers might miss. Seasonal testing revealed how shoes handle spring mud, summer heat, and autumn rain. This longitudinal approach beats one-off reviews that miss real-world failure points.
Hikers shopping for new footwear should match shoe choice to their typical terrain and distance. A 5-mile day hike on groomed trails requires different support than a 20-mile backpacking trip on rocky mountain passes. The Katabatic RT Low GTX's versatility makes it a safe default choice for mixed-terrain