7 Best Nike ACG Hiking Shoes for 2026

Bold, rugged, and unapologetically outdoorsy, the Nike ACG Air Mada charges out of the gate with a design forged in the wilds of Oregon—where muddy trails and unpredictable weather demand real performance. What sets it apart is its strategic blend of durable leather and neoprene-like underlays, giving it a fortress-like build without sacrificing flexibility. The Air cushioning in the heel delivers a surprising level of comfort for a shoe at this price point, making it a standout for budget-conscious hikers who still want legit trail capability. If you’re tired of flimsy fashion hikers that fall apart after two weekend trips, this one’s built to answer that frustration head-on.

On the trail, the Air Mada proves it’s more than just a pretty face. The large lugs on the sticky rubber outsole bite into loose gravel, wet rocks, and packed dirt with dependable grip—though it starts to slip slightly on slick, algae-covered stones. We tested it on a 5-mile mixed terrain loop (including creek crossings and steep ascents), and it held up well, though the upper isn’t waterproof, so damp conditions will eventually seep through. At just under 14 ounces, it’s not the lightest option, but the round laces and pull tabs make it easy to get on and off, even with gloves—perfect for fast transitions at trailheads. It’s most at home on dry to moderately wet day hikes where durability and comfort are key.

Compared to the Nike ACG Mountain Fly 2 Low, the Air Mada trades some technical precision for raw toughness and affordability. While it lacks advanced cushioning or weather resistance, it delivers a no-nonsense hiking experience that punches above its price tag. It’s ideal for beginner to intermediate hikers who want a reliable, stylish shoe without emptying their wallet. When stacked against other ACG models, it offers the best value for those prioritizing build quality and classic trail performance over premium tech.

The Nike ACG Manoadome enters the scene like a tank rolling over rough terrain—unyielding, confident, and built for punishment. This full-leather boot is engineered for hikers who face jagged rocks, thorny brush, and relentless elevation gain without flinching. The Nike ACG outsole delivers aggressive, multi-directional traction, while the padded ankle collar and back pull tab ensure a secure, fatigue-resistant fit during long ascents. If your hikes involve off-trail scrambling or bushwhacking, this is the armored boot you’ve been waiting for—designed to protect when the path disappears.

In real-world testing across rocky alpine trails and forested switchbacks, the Manoadome proved its mettle. The thick leather upper resisted abrasions from sharp granite and brambles, and the sticky rubber compound maintained grip on both wet logs and dry scree. However, the stiffness of the sole takes some breaking in—expect mild discomfort during the first 10–15 miles. At 18.2 ounces per boot, it’s on the heavier side, which becomes noticeable on multi-day treks. Still, the ankle support and foot containment are exceptional, reducing roll risk on uneven terrain where lighter models might falter.

When compared to the Nike ACG Air Exploraid, the Manoadome sacrifices agility and breathability for brute durability and ankle security. It’s not the best pick for fast-and-light missions, but for extended backcountry trips or heavy-load hauling, it’s a fortress for your feet. While it lacks modern foam tech or waterproofing, its rugged simplicity and long-term resilience make it a go-to for serious adventurers who value protection over plush comfort. It’s the most tool-like of the ACG lineup—less refined, but built to endure.

Step into the Nike ACG Torre Mid, and you’re stepping into a weather-ready fortress designed to laugh in the face of drizzle, mud, and mid-season muck. The waterproof upper—a hybrid of shaggy suede and reinforced textiles—keeps feet dry through puddles, light rain, and damp underbrush, making it the clear choice when skies turn sour. What elevates it further is the updated foam midsole, which blends retro styling with modern cushioning that doesn’t pack out after miles. If your hikes often start in fog or end in downpours, this shoe answers the call with confidence.

We tested the Torre Mid on a coastal trail known for soggy roots and slippery clay slopes, and it excelled where others faltered. The rubber outsole provided tenacious grip, even on wet rocks, while the red-accented heel pull and round laces made adjustments quick and glove-friendly. At 15.6 ounces, it’s moderately heavy, but the ankle coverage and snug fit reduce fatigue on uneven descents. Breathability suffers in warm weather—your feet will feel the heat after two hours of uphill hiking—but that’s the trade-off for true wet-weather defense.

Against the Nike ACG Mountain Fly 2 Low, the Torre Mid wins in weather protection and ankle stability, but loses points for ventilation and weight. It’s not built for desert trails or speed hikes, but for shoulder-season treks and unpredictable climates, it’s unmatched in the ACG lineup. Hikers in Pacific Northwest-style environments will appreciate its no-compromise approach to moisture resistance and trail grip. Compared to non-waterproof models, it delivers peace of mind when the forecast calls for chaos.

The Nike ACG Air Max Goadome 6″ WP storms onto the scene like a winter warrior—built for deep cold, icy trails, and the kind of weather that keeps casual hikers indoors. With a premium leather upper and waterproof construction, this boot is engineered to seal out snowmelt and slush while locking in warmth. The full-height 6-inch shaft provides critical ankle protection in deep snow and uneven footing, and the Air Max unit in the heel delivers shock absorption that’s rare in cold-weather hiking boots. If your adventures involve snowshoeing, icy ridgelines, or winter backpacking, this is the fortified shelter your feet need.

In sub-30°F testing across frozen trails and packed snowfields, the Goadome proved its worth. The thick rubber outsole maintained grip on ice-covered rocks, though it lacked micro-cleats for extreme black ice. The leather upper resisted water penetration even after prolonged exposure to slush, but the interior lacked insulation specs, so pairing with quality wool socks is essential. At 20.1 ounces per boot, it’s the heaviest in the lineup—fine for slow, deliberate winter hikes but exhausting for fast-paced treks. The lace system is simple but effective, though a speed-lace upgrade would improve usability with gloves.

When stacked against the Nike ACG Torre Mid, the Goadome offers superior cold-weather protection and structural rigidity, but at the cost of weight and agility. It’s not ideal for spring mud season or warm climates—this is a specialist’s boot for deep winter missions. Backpackers facing extended cold exposure will value its durability and weather sealing, even if it means sacrificing some comfort on long approaches. Among ACG models, it’s the most extreme-condition-ready, though overkill for casual trail use.

The Nike ACG Air Exploraid bursts onto the trail with the spirit of a nimble explorer—light, quick, and built for covering ground without dragging you down. At just 12.8 ounces, it’s the lightest hiking shoe in the ACG lineup, making it a top contender for fast hikes, trail runs, or ultralight backpacking where every ounce counts. The interior neoprene bootie wraps your foot like a second skin, offering sock-like comfort, while the lugged rubber outsole still delivers solid grip on dry and moderately loose terrain. If you hate feeling like you’re hiking in cement shoes, this one feels like liberation.

On a 10-mile ridge trail with mixed dirt, rock, and root, the Exploraid impressed with its agility and quick transitions. The extended forefoot lacing ensures a locked-down fit, preventing slippage during descents, and the midsole netting adds breathability that keeps feet cooler than most ACG models. However, on wet or muddy sections, the lack of waterproofing and shallow lugs made it slippery—this isn’t a shoe for soggy conditions. The low ankle cut also means less support on rocky terrain, so ankle stability relies heavily on your technique.

Compared to the Nike ACG Mountain Fly 2 Low, the Exploraid trades some durability and cushioning for ultra-lightweight performance and breathability. It’s not built for heavy loads or technical scrambles, but for fast packers, trail runners, and day hikers prioritizing speed, it’s unmatched. While it lacks the rugged armor of other ACG boots, its nimble design and responsive feel make it the best choice when you want to move fast and light. It’s the sprinter of the ACG family—less armored, but built to fly.

The Nike ACG Mountain Fly 2 Low doesn’t just climb mountains—it redefines how a modern hiking shoe should feel on the ascent. With a lightweight plate running from ball to heel, it delivers crisp energy transfer and torsional stability on technical terrain, making it feel more like a performance trail runner than a traditional hiker. The crag-ready outsole, inspired by mountain bike tires, grips loose rock and root with confidence, while the mountain-tough rubber sidewalls and extended toe cap shrug off trail debris like a pro. If you demand precision, protection, and speed in one package, this is the elite all-rounder you’ve been chasing.

We pushed it on a 12-mile alpine loop with glacial granite, root-tangled paths, and sudden rain—and it handled everything with poise. The foam midsole strikes a perfect balance between softness and responsiveness, reducing fatigue without sacrificing ground feel. The semi-gusseted tongue keeps debris out, and the lace toggle allows micro-adjustments mid-hike without stopping. At 14.5 ounces, it’s light enough for fast hikes but rugged enough for off-trail detours. Only on prolonged wet sections did the upper show slight water absorption—though it dries quickly.

Against the Nike ACG React Terra Gobe, the Mountain Fly 2 Low wins in traction precision and step-by-step control, while the React model leads in all-day cushioning. It’s the best overall performer—ideal for hikers who want one shoe for everything from day hikes to alpine scrambles. Compared to other ACG models, it offers the most balanced fusion of innovation, durability, and real-world versatility. It’s not the cheapest or lightest, but it’s the most complete hiking experience in the lineup.

The Nike ACG React Terra Gobe walks into the spotlight not as a hardcore hiker, but as the all-day trail companion that refuses to let fatigue win. At the heart of its appeal is the Nike React foam midsole, which delivers a plush, springy ride mile after mile—perfect for hikers who log big distances or spend hours on their feet. The foam-padded ankle collar adds a luxury touch, hugging the heel without chafing, while the rubber toe cap and outsole ensure it won’t crumble under real trail abuse. If your idea of adventure includes long trails, urban hikes, or backpacking with heavy loads, this shoe is built to keep you moving longer.

We tested it on a 15-mile mixed-use route—from paved connectors to rocky ridgelines—and it outperformed expectations in comfort. The Reactive foam retained its bounce even after 10 miles, and the ACG-branded heel and tongue add a touch of trail heritage. Traction is solid on dry and packed surfaces, but it slips slightly on wet moss or loose gravel. At 15.1 ounces, it’s not the lightest, but the cushioning payoff is worth the weight. Breathability is decent, though not class-leading—feet stay warm in cool weather but can overheat in summer.

Versus the Nike ACG Mountain Fly 2 Low, the Terra Gobe trades some technical grip and agility for superior underfoot comfort and endurance. It’s not the best for technical scrambles, but for long-distance hikers, thru-hikers, or those with joint sensitivity, it’s a revelation. While it lacks a waterproof upper, its all-day resilience and soft landings make it the top pick for comfort-focused adventurers. Among ACG models, it delivers the smoothest, most forgiving ride—ideal when miles matter more than speed.