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If you’re seeking the best hiking shoes for Hawaii, you've come to the right place! This tropical archipelago in the Pacific Ocean has some beautiful trails to explore, and of course is often blessed with warm, sunny weather too.
Deciding on the best shoes for Hawaii hiking isn’t easy, however. The islands here offer trails of all different terrains, including some that pass through rainforests and lead to waterfalls.
So it’s wise to add sandals, trail running shoes or boots to your Hawaii packing list that can cope with water & mud.
✏Editor's note: We had an amazing trip to Hawaii & did a lot of hiking while we were there. My personal favorite is a full hiking shoe or boot, but people wear all kinds when hiking in Hawaii & everyone has their own preference so we've researched the best hiking shoes in each category so you can find the perfect shoe for you!
The winner is…
Our top pick as the best hiking shoe for Hawaii is the Merrell Moab 2 for men and for women.
We rate the Merrell Moab 2 the best because it comes in half and wide sizes, is waterproof yet breathable, and offers great grip and superior comfort. There’s also a good choice of colors and an affordable price tag, and these shoes are even machine washable.
The best shoes for hiking in Hawaii will also allow your feet to breathe during hot weather. They will also help you cope with hiking in a moderately humid climate.
In general, Hawaiian weather is mild in terms of temperature, but there can also be a lot of rain. Infrequent stormy conditions may also leave the trails strewn with debris, as well as muddy and super-slippery underfoot. So these are factors to bear in mind when buying.
Pro tip: if there are walking sticks piled up at the trailhead & you don't have trekking poles…take a stick! They can really come in handy on muddy steep trails.😉
Whether you’re seeking the best water hiking shoes for Hawaii, would prefer to find a pair of hiking boots that will protect your ankles or are thinking of hiking sandals to keep your feet as cool as possible (and will rinse off easily), this guide will help you track down the perfect product.
Look no further when you want to source the best shoes to wear in Hawaii for taking to the trails!
Looking for a hiking gift? We've put together the perfect list of gifts for him & for her!
Let’s begin with a quick reference comparison table, so you can see the best shoes to wear in Hawaii at a glance.
We’ll then take a deep dive into each of our recommendations, going into more detail about what's so great about each one, before outlining what to look for when buying. Before wrapping up, we’ll also address some frequently asked questions around the topic of the best Hawaii hiking shoes.
Continue reading to ensure you’re well shod, before setting off to explore the Hawaiian wilderness!
The Best Hiking Shoes For Hawaii Comparison Chart
| Picture of Item | Name | Fit | Key features | Price |
 | 🏆Merrell Moab 2 | Men | Waterproof & breathable, supportive & comfortable, half/wide sizes | Check here |
 | 🏆Merrell Moab 2 | Women | 17 colors, wide/half sizes, great grip, removable insoles | Check here |
  | Columbia Newton Ridge Plus | Men | Good looks, slip-free, cushioned sole, breathable & waterproof | Check here |
 | Columbia Newton Ridge Plus | Women | Lightweight, all-terrain & all-weather footwear, secure lace-ups | Check here |
  | ASICS Gel-Venture 8 | Men | Supportive mid-top, gel cushioning, half sizes, lightweight | Check here |
  | ASICS Gel-Venture 8 | Women | Wide & half sizes, very versatile, good shock absorption | Check here |
  | Salomon Speedcross 5 | Men | Superior grip, quicklace technology, suits all terrain | Check here |
 | Salomon Speedcross 5 | Women | Large tread, established model, half sizes, machine washable | Check here |
  | Keen Newport H2 | Men | Tough toe bumper, odor resistant, multi-directional tread | Check here |
 | Keen Newport H2 | Women | 27 colors, half sizes, water resistant & fast drying, machine washable | Check here |
  | TEVA Hurricane XLT2 | Men | Stabilizing shank, rugged outsole, quick drying, EVA footbed | Check here |
 | TEVA Hurricane XLT2 | Women | Fast drying, grippy sole, cushioned heel, supportive shank | Check here |
The Best Shoes For Hawaii Hiking Recommendations
🏆MEN’S MERRELL MOAB 2 VENT HIKING SHOE
Best men’s hiking shoes for Hawaii overall
- Type: Hiking shoe
- Fit: Men
If it’s men’s hiking gear for Hawaii you seek, then our top choice is the Merrell Moab Vent 2 for men. Like all of the Moab line for men and women, it doesn’t matter when the Hawaiian hiking trails are wet as these shoes are waterproof. They’re also machine washable.
The men’s Moab 2 comes in a range of colors and sizes. You can buy half sizes and wider fittings, and choose between 9 colors including browns and grays. The waterproof membrane on this shoe has been specially designed to keep water out while letting excess moisture escape. Which sure is useful when the Hawaiian weather is hot!
A bellows tongue and protective toe cap keep your feet clean and protected, while the supportive, cushioned insole ensures comfort with every step. If you’re seeking shoes for your Hawaii trip rather than sandals or boots, then this is the ideal choice. It’s also the perfect compromise between heavier boots and less supportive sandals.
These shoes also made it on our list of best shoes for hiking with flat feet and our best hiking shoes with a wide toe box list!
We’re obsessed with:
- 9 colors
- Waterproof yet breathable
- Half and wide fittings available
- Supportive, comfortable insoles
- Protective toe cap and bellows tongue
Not so hot:
- Not as supportive as hiking boots
🏆WOMEN’S MERRELL MOAB 2 VENT HIKING SHOE
Best women’s hiking shoes for Hawaii overall
- Type: Hiking shoe
- Fit: Women
When it comes to hiking anywhere on earth, it’s really hard to beat the Merrell Moab. These women’s hiking shoes for Oahu, Maui, Hawai’i or any of the other islands are a bestseller. Due to their popularity, these lightweight hiking shoes come in a range of color combinations, including grays, greens and black.
The choice of sizes is also a major plus with these affordable yet really good hiking shoes for Hawaii. You can order half and wider sizes, so there should be a pair here to suit every shape of foot.
The real leather and mesh upper assures breathability, while a protective toe cap guards against painful knocks. That post-storm debris isn’t a problem either, thanks to a bellows tongue that keeps dirt out, and you can even pop them into the washing machine for easy cleaning.
A contoured, cushioned insole ensures comfort all day long, while the Vibram outsole offers good shock absorption and great grip. This all rounder is our top contender as the best women's hiking shoes for Hawaii.
We’re obsessed with:
- Machine washable
- Wide and half sizes available
- Vibram outsole provides great grip
- Breathable leather and mesh upper
- Removable cushioned and contoured footbed
Not so hot:
- Heavier than running shoes
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MEN’S COLUMBIA NEWTON RIDGE HIKING BOOT
Best men’s hiking boots
- Type: Hiking boot
- Fit: Men
Sometimes only the sturdiness of a proper hiking boot will do when it comes to trail walking. If that describes the attitude of you or a man you know, then the Columbia Newton Ridge II is our recommendation.
Whether you want hiking boots for the Honolulu area or somewhere far off the beaten track, the mega-selling Columbia Newton Ridge II has to be a contender. It’s waterproof to cope with those tropical rainstorms, and comes in half and wide sizes for the ideal fit. There’s a great selection of colors too.
The sole is designed to prevent slipping, and a bounce with every step taken means it feels like wearing something far more lightweight. Real leather and suede plus mesh provide good breathability too, preventing malodorous feet.
The classic lace-up style looks good anywhere, and these boots are also suitable for colder climates where there may be snow or ice to contend with.
We’re obsessed with:
- 21 colors
- Slip-free grip
- Classic good looks
- Breathable, waterproof outer
- Cushioned sole for all-day comfort
Not so hot:
- Heavier and warmer than sandals or shoes
WOMEN’S COLUMBIA NEWTON RIDGE PLUS HIKING BOOT
Best women’s hiking boots
- Type: Hiking boot
- Fit: Women
Like the men’s Newton Ridge II, the Newton Ridge Plus from Columbia are the best shoes to hike in Hawaii when you’re a female seeking boots rather than shoes or sandals. Like the men’s option, it’s also the kind of shoe you can wear when flying or exploring the city.
When it comes to uneven or slippery terrain, a hiking boot provides the best ankle support available, which is why many men and women prefer this style of footwear. You can also buy these in a wide fitting or half size to achieve a better fit.
The sole is designed to cope with all sorts of conditions underfoot, including ice, mud, snow, rocks or sand. Though clearly heavier than a pair of sandals, a lightweight midsole reduces your load – both when wearing or carrying.
If hikes are a major feature of your Hawaiian vacation, then you might like to add this pair of boots to your list of essential gear to take.
These shoes also made our list of top hiking shoes for wide feet. If you need a wide fit, check them out!
We’re obsessed with:
- All-terrain traction
- Secure, lace-up fit
- Wide and half sizes
- Lightweight midsole
- Ideal for all weather conditions
Not so hot:
- Warmer and heavier than shoes or sandals
MEN’S ASICS GEL-VENTURE 8 TRAIL RUNNING SHOE
Best men’s mid-top running shoe
- Type: Trail running shoe
- Fit: Men
If you’re thinking about the best hiking boots for Hawaii because you want better ankle support, then this ASICS running shoe is a viable contender. The mid-top design gives more support than a regular running shoe, and might well be the best shoes for hiking in Hawaii for that reason.
This is a lightweight choice that could also be used for running, so it may be just what you need if you want to carry as little as possible on your trip. Why pack two pairs of footwear when one could take you from the hiking trail to your running route?
Other features making this a sound choice include the fact that you can buy half sizes, and also wash these shoes in the machine. The ‘gel’ in the name also refers to the technology that provides exceptional cushioning and shock absorption.
Great traction both on and off the roads is assured, and the mid-top shape provides improved ankle support as compared to a lower running shoe. If you want the best hiking shoes for Maui, Oahu or the Big Island, this is an option you could definitely consider.
We’re obsessed with:
- Machine washable
- Half sizes available
- Lightweight yet made to last
- Added support of mid-top shape
- Gel shock absorption and cushioning
Not so hot:
- Not waterproof
WOMEN’S ASICS GEL-VENTURE 8 TRAIL RUNNING SHOE
Best women’s trail running shoe
- Type: Trail running shoe
- Fit: Women
For women who want to take to the Hawaiian trails, the ASICS Gel-Venture 8 is a solid option. This one is available in half and wide sizes for the perfect fit, with 30 sizes offered in total. You can also pick between 25 colors!
The traction offered by this footwear is perfect when the weather is wet or has been stormy, ensuring a good grip on and off the running and hiking trails. These running shoes can be used for hiking, running and everyday wear too, meaning you get more mileage out of your pair.
As with the men’s Gel-Venture 8, you also benefit from that gel technology that provides superior cushioning and comfort. Why buy only the best women's hiking shoes for Hawaii you can find when this pair can take you pretty much everywhere?
We’re obsessed with:
- 25 colors
- Great traction
- Go-anywhere look
- Good shock absorption
- Wider and half sizes available
Not so hot:
- Not the most waterproof choice
MEN’S SALOMON SPEEDCROSS 5 TRAIL RUNNING SHOE
Best men’s multi-purpose shoe
- Type: Trail running shoe
- Fit: Men
Salomon is one of the top brands when it comes to rugged, outdoor gear. This trail running shoe is another example of an all-purpose product that can see you from the airport to the city and the trails. It’s even suited to casual evening wear, wherever sneakers are permitted.
Are these the best hiking shoes for Hawaii when you want to take to the trails? Well they’re designed for moving effortlessly and rapidly over all sorts of ground, so that's a yes. Another bonus is the fact that you can buy these in various widths and half sizes.
According to Salomon, these shoes are ideal for tackling terrain that may be dirty or wet – so they can ably cope with whatever tropical storms have recently thrown at the islands’ trails. It’s a stable option offering superior grip, a rugged build and the backing of a top brand name.
We’re obsessed with:
- Custom foothold
- Contagrip outsole
- Quicklace technology
- Can cope with dirty or wet trails
- Greater grip when pushing off and stopping
Not so hot:
- Relatively expensive
✔PRO TIP: Make sure you grab your free packing checklist! It has everything you'll need in an easy-to-use PDF checklist that you can use over & over!
WOMEN’S SALOMON SPEEDCROSS 5 TRAIL RUNNING SHOE
Best women’s multi-purpose shoe
- Type: Trail running shoe
- Fit: Women
Not sure which running and hiking shoes to take to Hawaii? Pack the Salomon Speedcross 5 for women and you have a multi-purpose pair for hiking, exploring and running. This the latest incarnation of the hugely popular Speedcross, and improves further on this sought-after footwear.
Though they’re not cheap, buy a pair of Salomons and they can last for years. You also get peace of mind because you can rely on the level of grip they’ll give – no matter what the Hawaiian weather has in store.
Happy owners love the comfort, longevity and great grip offered by this shoe. Plus like any Salomon product, they score high marks on style too.
We’re obsessed with:
- Machine washable
- Larger tread for good grip
- Established running shoe
- Ideal for wet or dirty terrain
- Secure grip when starting and braking
Not so hot:
- Limited colors
MEN’S KEEN NEWPORT H2 WATER SANDALS
Best men’s water sandal
- Type: Water sandal
- Fit: Men
When you’re wondering what to wear for hiking in Hawaii and it comes to your feet, water sandals can be a great choice. Especially if your route involves rainforest, beaches or waterfalls.
The best hiking sandals for Hawaii are made by Keen – and you don’t need to take our word for it. An epic number of positive reviews for this footwear tells you how good it is, and the fact that there are so many colors to pick from simply proves its popularity.
What’s so great? The Keen Newport H2 for men is a closed toe sandal, so it offers more protection for your feet than a pair with open toes (as for flip flops, forget it). You only need to look at the design to see that your feet will be protected when hiking in rocky areas, or when a tropical storm has left rubble all over the path.
Owners of these Keen hiking sandals also benefit from a fast-drying water repellent finish, multi-directional tread for great traction over slippery surfaces, and a highly adjustable lace-up bungee cord fit. Anti-odor technology, a comfortable molded insole and the fact that they’re machine washable also add up to an impressive package.
If you want men’s water shoes for hiking in Hawaii, the Keen Newport is our top choice.
We’re obsessed with:
- Tough toe bumper
- Fast-drying water resistant upper
- Multi-directional tread for great grip
- Machine washable and odor resistant
- Cushioned, compression-molded EVA midsole
Not so hot:
- No rear strap adjustment
WOMEN’S KEEN NEWPORT H2 WATER SANDALS
Best women’s water sandal
- Type: Water sandal
- Fit: Women
The Newport H2 from Keen is also our choice when you want to find the best sandals for hiking in Hawaii for women. Again, there are so many features making these water shoes stand out, not least that closed toe that can really protect your feet from knocks, hard surfaces and even debris.
The best water shoes for hiking in Hawaii come in a huge range of colors for women. Whether you prefer pink, green, blue, gray or even a multicolored option, there’s a pair here to suit your style.
The women’s Keen Newport H2 also comes in half sizes between five and 11. Like the men’s version, it’s fully machine washable to ensure fresh feet and a clean look, and the rubber outsoles are also made to leave no trace when walking around indoors.
All the great features of the men’s footwear are also evident here. You have the toe bumper, a traction outsole, a molded and cushioned midsole and the lace-lock bungee for a secure fit.
⭐Please note that the product listing recommends ordering a half size up when buying these, so keep that in mind if you pick these as your hiking sandals for Hawaii.
We’re obsessed with:
- 27 colors
- Sturdy closed toe
- Half sizes available
- Water resistant and fast drying
- Odor resistant and machine washable
Not so hot:
- Sizes run small
MEN’S TEVA HURRICANE XLT2 HIKING SANDALS
Best men’s light hiking sandal
- Type: Hiking sandal
- Fit: Men
When you want something more multi-functional than the best hiking water shoes for Hawaii, a pair of sandals designed for lighter day hikes may be just what you want. Enter the men’s Hurricane XLT2 from TEVA.
These sandals come in 16 colors, and are great for hikers seeking versatile footwear for various purposes. Whether you’re heading to Hawaii to explore the city, beaches or easy trails, this pair of sandals will see you through. Apart from smarter evening wear, they really do suit all occasions (especially in laid-back Hawaii)!
Features making these men’s TEVA sandals ideal for hiking include quick dry webbing, a tough and comfortable EVA footbed and a shank that supports and stabilizes your foot. A rubber outsole also provides an impressive and reliable level of traction.
We’re obsessed with:
- Highly versatile
- Fast dry webbing
- Rugged rubber outsole
- Cushioned EVA footbed
- Supportive, stabilizing shank
Not so hot:
- Not ideal for long or most challenging hikes
Don't forget to pack a good & comfy pair of shoes for seeing the sights in town too!
WOMEN’S TEVA HURRICANE XLT2 HIKING SANDALS
Best women’s light hiking sandal
- Type: Hiking sandal
- Fit: Women
Like the men’s TEVA Hurricane XLT2, the female version is up there among the best hiking shoes for Kauai, Lanai, Maui or other Hawaiian islands. Not only that, but they’re also a multi-purpose sandal for general daywear.
By the way, if you are headed to Kauai, here are some great places to stay & fun things to do with kids.
28 colors are available, so there’s one for you whether you prefer a plain, neutral shade or something much more eye-catching. Again the sandals are fast-drying, with a tough, grippy outsole and a comfortable footbed. There’s also a cushioned heel zone and a supportive, stabilizing shank.
These women’s sandals are ideal for less challenging day hikes, so they’re perfect to pack when hiking isn’t the sole or primary purpose of your trip to Hawaii.
We’re obsessed with:
- Very versatile
- Quick dry materials
- Grippy rubber outsole
- Comfortable, cushioned heel
- Stabilizing and supportive shank
Not so hot:
- For light hiking and day hikes only
Choosing The Best Shoes For Hiking In Hawaii
Type
The first factor to consider is what type of footwear you want to take. Maybe you only ever wear hiking boots for the ankle support they offer, or are after the sort of running shoes that you can use off the trails too. Sandals are another option, with open and closed toe types available.
Waterproofing
Though you may think of it as a hot and sunny vacation destination, Hawaii can also get very wet. Think tropical storms and humidity – which can lead to muddy, slippery trails. Waterproofing as well as fast drying and/or machine washable footwear are all worth looking out for.
Traction
All that mud can lead to very slippery terrain. Add waterfalls, rocks and rainforest into the mix and it’s easy to see why hiking footwear with great grip is a must when taking to the Hawaiian trails!
Breathability
Hawaii has a climate that varies between around 65℉ (18℃) and 89℉ (32℃). So it might be wet, but it’s never very cold. Keep this in mind when choosing, as you’ll want breathable, lightweight footwear for coping with the heat.
Style
Style can be a factor – especially when you want shoes that you can wear off the trails. Choose carefully and you could go exploring, running or even into the city in one pair of footwear.
🗺PRO TIP: Make sure you get GypsyGuide before your trip. Their audio tours are just like having your own personal tour guide!
The Top Shoes For Hiking In Hawaii FAQs
Do I need hiking shoes for Hawaii?
The terrain on most of Hawaii’s most trodden trails isn’t generally too challenging or rugged, so sturdy outdoor sandals or trail running shoes can be just as suitable as hiking boots or shoes. However, if you plan on tackling more challenging trails or you'll be there during the rainy season, you'll want some shoes with good grip.
What kind of shoes to wear for hiking in Hawaii?
As mentioned above, if you need extra support & plan on more challenging hikes, choose a hiking boot or shoe. Want something lighter or more versatile, a hiking shoe or sturdy hiking sandal is a great option. If you only plan on doing light hiking & want a paid of shoes you can wear from the trail to the beach, a lighter sandal is the one for you.
Can you hike in Hawaii with water shoes?
Should I wear water shoes in Hawaii? Water sandals that are designed to offer good grip and to be worn as stable, sturdy footwear for outdoor activities are a good option. Steer clear of regular beach shoes though, if you want to hike.
Do you need hiking shoes for Haleakala?
Secure hiking footwear such as water or hiking sandals or trail running shoes are usually fine for Haleakala National Park. If you like ankle support, however, hiking boots could be a better choice for hiking over old lava.
What to wear when hiking in Hawaii?
So what clothes to wear when hiking in Hawaii? A t-shirt plus a pair of shorts or leggings is ideal. It’s usually warm but there can be a lot of rain, so a packable rain jacket and fast drying clothing are good choices.
Which Are The Best Hiking Shoes for Hawaii?
Choosing the best hiking shoes for Hawaii can be tricky, so we hope this guide has steered you in the right direction. Whether you choose to wear water sandals, hiking boots or trail running shoes is a matter of personal preference, just make sure they offer great grip for when the weather’s wet!
The BEST Hiking Tours in Hawaii
Interested in taking a guided hiking tour? Check out these AMAZING tours, all highly rated & reviewed.
Until next time…
About The Author
My mission is to inspire and empower families to prioritize travel now, creating unforgettable memories and deeper connections with their loved ones.
I provide guidance and practical solutions to help busy parents integrate travel into their lives, fostering joy, fulfillment, and stress-free adventures. Don’t wait until it’s too late; the time to travel is now.
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