7 Best Skechers Hiking Sneakers of 2026

Effortless meets all-day comfort in the Skechers Men’s Summits, where slip-on convenience doesn’t sacrifice performance. With an adjustable bungee lace system, these sneakers offer a customized, secure fit while maintaining the speed of a true slip-on—perfect for hikers who hate fumbling with knots. The Air-Cooled Memory Foam insole and Heel Pillow technology deliver plush cushioning that stands out in low-profile hiking designs, tackling fatigue on extended walks or trailside breaks. If you value quick transitions and foot-hugging comfort without laces, this is a game-changer for light treks and urban exploration.

In real-world testing, the Summits shine on paved trails, boardwalks, and mixed terrain where agility matters more than aggressive grip. The flexible traction outsole provides reliable hold on dry surfaces but falters slightly on wet rocks or steep inclines. At just over 12 ounces, they’re lightweight enough for daily wear, and the mesh-and-synthetic upper promotes airflow, keeping feet cool during summer strolls. However, they lack the ankle support and rugged durability needed for serious backpacking or off-trail hiking—this is a casual trail companion, not a backcountry beast.

Compared to the Terraform Selvin, the Summits trade weather resistance and aggressive outsoles for speed and simplicity. They’re ideal for users who prioritize easy on/off functionality and breathable comfort over rugged terrain mastery. Think of them as the hybrid between a hiking sneaker and a walking shoe—perfect for trail-to-town transitions. For those eyeing the Vigor at Durango, the Summits offer a more refined slip-on experience but less traction and protection.

When wet trails and unpredictable weather dominate your route, the Terraform Selvin steps up with confident grip and weather-ready armor. Built with a Goodyear Performance Outsole, these sneakers deliver tenacious traction on mud, gravel, and slick rock—rare in this price tier. The water-repellent leather and mesh upper shields feet from puddles and drizzle, while the roomy Relaxed Fit design accommodates swelling on long hikes, making them a top pick for wide-footed adventurers. If your hikes often turn soggy, this shoe turns a liability into a strength.

Out on the trail, the Selvin proves its mettle on moderate inclines and uneven terrain, where its sticky rubber bites into damp surfaces better than most competitors. The 1.3-inch heel height offers mild stability without sacrificing agility, and the low-profile silhouette keeps your center of gravity low—ideal for scrambling over wet boulders or navigating slippery roots. However, the cushioning, while adequate, doesn’t match the plush rebound of Skechers’ Air-Cooled Memory Foam, leaving feet more fatigued on multi-hour treks. It’s a durable do-it-all hiker, but not the softest on ultra-long days.

Against the Skechers GoRun Altitude, the Selvin wins in wet-weather reliability but loses points in cushioning and versatility. It’s less breathable during hot climbs and lacks the year-round climate adaptability of mesh-rich designs. Still, for hikers in rainy regions or those tackling spring melt trails, this is the go-to for dry, stable footing. Compared to the After Burn M.Fit 2.0, it offers superior water resistance but at the cost of some cushioning and brand familiarity.

Don’t let the sub-$35 price tag fool you—the Skechers Vigor at Durango packs serious trail-ready DNA into a budget powerhouse. With a suede and synthetic upper, it balances durability and breathability, standing up to brush-heavy trails and gravel paths without fraying. The 1.5-inch heel and traditional laces ensure a locked-down fit, while the flexible traction outsole bites into dirt and grass with surprising confidence. For hikers who need a no-frills, dependable shoe for weekend walks or light trails, this is a steal.

In testing, the Vigor handled packed dirt, grassy fields, and urban sidewalks with ease, though it struggled on wet surfaces due to a less aggressive lug pattern. The Air-Cooled Memory Foam insole delivers the signature Skechers comfort, making it a standout at this price—few budget hikers offer this level of underfoot plushness. Weighing in at just under 13 ounces, it’s light enough for daily rotation, but the upper lacks water resistance, so puddle jumps are best avoided. It’s not built for alpine scrambles, but for casual trail users and value hunters, it’s hard to beat.

Versus the GoRun Altitude, the Vigor trades multi-sport versatility and moisture-wicking for raw affordability. It doesn’t match the Altitude’s year-round usability or bouncy Goga Mat foam, but it delivers core hiking functionality at half the cost. Compared to the After Burn M.Fit 2.0, it’s lighter and more agile but less durable on rocky terrain. If you’re after maximum bang for your buck and don’t hike in extreme conditions, the Vigor at Durango is a quiet champion.

The Skechers GoRun Altitude is where trail performance meets everyday versatility—a true 3-season workhorse that refuses to be boxed into one role. Built for running, hiking, and gym sessions alike, it features a breathable, water-repellent mesh upper that keeps feet dry and cool across environments. The AIR COOLED GOGA MAT insole is the star—springier and more responsive than traditional memory foam, offering yoga-mat-like rebound that fights fatigue on long hikes or runs. With 4E wide fit options, it’s a rare gem for those with broader feet who still want athletic precision.

On rugged trails, the GoRun Altitude impresses with stable heel geometry and multi-directional lugs, gripping loose dirt and packed paths with confidence. It handles steep ascents and descents better than most Skechers models, thanks to its aggressive outsole and snug midfoot wrap. The shoe transitions seamlessly from trailhead to treadmill, and its lightweight build (under 12 oz) makes it ideal for fast hikes or trail runs. However, the midsole lacks rock plate protection, so sharp terrain can be felt underfoot—this is a trail runner, not a backpacking boot.

Next to the Vigor at Durango, the GoRun Altitude offers superior cushioning, breathability, and terrain adaptability, justifying its higher cost. Compared to the After Burn M.Fit 2.0, it’s lighter, more responsive, and better ventilated, though slightly less durable on abrasive surfaces. It’s the best all-rounder in the Skechers lineup—perfect for hikers who also run, train, or commute. For those wanting one shoe to rule multiple activities, the GoRun Altitude delivers unmatched functional range.

The Skechers After Burn M.Fit 2.0 is a budget-savvy hiker that doesn’t cut corners on core trail essentials. Armed with a Goodyear Rubber outsole, it delivers impressive grip on loose gravel and damp trails, outperforming many in its class. The Memory Foam insole and shock-absorbing midsole make it a pleasure for all-day wear, whether you’re hiking, walking the dog, or exploring a new city. With a hybrid leather-mesh upper, it balances durability and breathability, making it a solid do-it-all outdoor sneaker for cost-conscious adventurers.

In real-world use, the After Burn excels on moderate trails and urban paths, where its 1.5-inch heel and lace-up closure provide reliable stability. The Goodyear rubber sticks well on dry and mildly wet surfaces, though it’s not as sticky as the Terraform Selvin on slick rock. At around 13.5 ounces, it’s slightly heavier than other Skechers models, but the trade-off is enhanced durability from the synthetic overlays. Ventilation is decent, but the mesh isn’t as open as the GoRun Altitude, so hot-weather airflow lags.

Stacked against the Vigor at Durango, the After Burn offers better outsole durability and cushioning for just a bit more. Compared to the Summits, it’s more rugged and supportive, though it loses the slip-on convenience. It’s the sweet spot between price and performance—ideal for hikers who want trusted brand comfort and trail-ready grip without overspending. For those eyeing the GoRun Altitude, the After Burn sacrifices bounce and breathability for longer-lasting construction and lower cost.