The 8 Best Nike Sneakers to Wear on a Hike
Buying Guide
These lightweight sneakers from Nike will carry you no matter where the trail is headed.
Gone are the days of clunky, uncomfortable hiking footwear. Hiking in sneakers keeps you light on your feet. Plus, outdoor-focused features like GORE-TEX, engineered mesh and high-abrasion rubber for traction offer additional utility. Functional hiking sneakers for men and women will keep feet dry and supported in the elements and tough terrain.
Check out the best Nike hiking sneakers.
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1.For Rugged Terrain: Nike ACG Air Mada
These hiking sneakers from Nike ACG (All Conditions Gear) can help you conquer any adventure. Large lugs on the outsole provide plenty of traction on anything from boulders to stream crossings. Tough materials, such as leather on the upper and a sticky rubber toe cap, keep feet dry, while Air cushioning in the heel adds comfort for miles of trekking.
(Related: Hiking Checklist: Essentials to Bring on the Trail)
2.For Hiking Sneakers That Double as Daily Wear: Nike ACG Lowcate
This sneaker features a low-profile silhouette that can pass for everyday wear, while still providing all the elements of a hiking shoe. The rubber outsole sports a unique lug pattern for traction on slick and steep surfaces, while extra cushioning—called Trailframe—provides underfoot support for carrying heavy loads. Choose between Wolf Grey and Navy, Solar Flare Yellow and Khaki or Black and Hot Pink.
3.For Miles of Comfort: Nike ACG Mountain Fly Low SE
This sneaker combines outdoor essentials like a sticky rubber outsole for traction and wraparound webbing for secure fit with a classic characteristic of Nike running shoes: plush React foam cushioning underfoot. The result is a shoe you can comfortably trek in for hours.
(Related: 15 Gifts for Hikers Under $150)
4.For Over-the-Ankle Support: Nike ACG Air Mowabb
These mid-cut hiking sneakers hit just above the ankle for added stability. The lace-up-style shoe features Air cushioning underfoot, as well as Huarache technology to secure the ankle. That means fewer rub points, meaning lower potential for blisters. The leather upper still looks like a sneaker, so these kicks can easily go from mountain trails to city streets.
5.For Lace-free Hiking: Nike ACG Moc 3.5
The Moc 3.5 foregos laces and instead features loops at the tongue and heel for comfort on the trails. The ultra-cushioned sole has a slipper-like feel, but durable rubber on the heel and toe ensures trail-ready traction. At the end of the day, collapse the heel for an easy, slip-on option.
6.For Speed: Nike Wildhorse
Even if you aren't running the trails, hiking in trail-running sneakers give a responsive, flexible feel. Multi-directional lugs and high-abrasion rubber on the outsoles provide traction on rocky surfaces, while Nike React foam adds spring to your step. A mesh upper will help keep your feet cool but your toes are protected with an extra layer of durable skins.
(Related: The Best Nike Trail-running Shoes)
7.For a Sneaker That Is Practically a Boot: Nike React SFB Carbon Low
SFB stands for Special Field Boot, and though these sneakers sit below the ankle, they still pack the durability, support and traction of a tactical boot. A full-length, carbon-fibre plate and responsive Nike React cushioning underfoot can help keep you going for the long haul. Everything about this sneaker—down to the laces—is heavy-duty.
(Related: The Toughest Tactical Boots to Buy From Nike)
8.For Feeling Close to Nature: Nike Air Deschutz
If you prefer to be as close to nature as possible, consider ditching sneakers altogether and hike in sandals. The Nike Air Deschutz doesn't sacrifice support or traction. Tested in the wilderness, these sandals are made from quick-drying and cushioning materials, with a grippy rubber outsole that can handle any type of terrain—from rocky trail to sand. And with hook-and-loop straps, you can adjust them to the exact fit of your foot.
(Related: The Best Nike Sandals to Wear Hiking)
Words by Emily Shiffer