American Made Hikers: Top Boots for Hiking and Rugged Outdoors Work
The following ten boots are all top quality boots made in the USA. However, everyone’s feet are unique and each boot fits differently. The best boots won’t do you much good if they don’t fit your particular foot shape. I recommend trying on boots to find the proper size. With this in mind, I have chosen retailers with a stellar return policy, competitive pricing, and affordable or free expedited shipping.
Why Trust Me?
I know how hard it is to find honest recommendations on American made gear. That’s why I started American Gear Guide which other sites are now copying. I take my recommendations seriously and only recommend the best of the best. Of course this is my subjective opinion but I’m confident that you won’t be disappointed. Here are a few reasons to trust me:
- I make independent recommendations based on personal experience (not paid to endorse a product).
- I’ve hunted, fished, gathered, and gardened since childhood. I fill my freezer with meat via rod and rifle.
- As an avid outdoorsman that reviews gear for a living, I also actually own and use all American made gear.
- My background includes 10 yrs working with the US Forest Service as a Hotshot Firefighter, Ranger, Wildlife Crew-Leader, and Forest Ecologist. I’ve been certified as a Wilderness First Responder (WFR) and Emergency Medical Technician (EMT). I’ve backpacked extensively throughout the USA and 34 countries including in the Middle East, Central & South America, Africa, Europe, and Asia. See About page for more.
- I attend industry trade shows like Outdoor Retailer to stay informed on the latest innovative gear.
- I value continuous learning and self improvement, so I welcome your criticism. If you think I missed anything then please leave some helpful suggestions.
Best Hiking and Work Boots Made in the USA
KEEN Durand Evo Waterproof Hiking & Work Boot - Men's and Women's
Keen’s Durand Evo is a fantastic waterproof breathable hiking boot built in the USA. The forgiving mesh upper makes the Evo ultra comfortable from the get go (no serious break-in required). KEENs are a great option for those who like a wider toe box and they come in a medium or wide fit. Last observed price: ~$135
Men’s
Click for Current Pricing from Amazon
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Women’s
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Click for Current Pricing from REI.com
Danner Crag Rat USA - Men's
The Crag Rat USA earns our Editor’s Choice Award for exceptional performance in the roughest terrain. These are the boots that I personally use (my boots are pictured above). A solid nylon shank over an aggressive Vibram sole combined with a quality leather upper provides the stiffness and support you need for heavy loads over many rocky miles. I also appreciate the stiff, well designed toes that are great for kick-stepping up steep snow. The GORE-TEX waterproofing has easily withstood fast moving creeks and wet slushy snow. As long as these boots fit your unique feet, I highly recommend them. Last observed price: ~$280
Click for Current Pricing from Cabela’s
The Origin Work Boot - Men's
This classically styled 8″ leather boot by Origin USA wouldn’t feel out of place in the lumber camps of old. Made with premium quality leather and deep lugged Vibram soles, these rugged boots will require some break in time but should also last you longer as well. Last observed price: ~$390
Click for Current Pricing from Origin USA
Danner Mountain Light GTX Hiking Boot
The iconic Women’s Mountain Light is a stylish yet capable hiking boot. These premium leather boots have a GORE-TEX waterproof and breathable liner, Vibram soles, and offer solid ankle support. This is the same boot as worn in the film and found on the cover of the best selling book, “Wild“. Last observed price range: ~$430
Men’s
Click for Current Pricing from Backcountry.com
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Women’s
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Thorogood American Legacy Boot
Thorogood is a legacy manufacturer that has made high quality work boots for longer than any of us have been alive, since 1892. They still make some of the best leather work boots in the business which also serve as excellent hiking boots. You’ll especially appreciate the waterproof and insulated versions in the deep cold. You can find models with varying upper heights and with or without EH rated safety toes for work that requires it. Last observed price range: ~$290
Men’s
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Danner Crater Rim Hiking Boot - Men's & Women's
The Crater Rim is a burly waterproof backpacking boot crafted with high quality leather and a GORE-TEX liner. These boots have 6″ uppers and Vibram soles that meet US Forest Service field requirements. Perhaps most impressively, these are boots issued to US Special Forces. Last observed price: ~$399
Men’s
Click for current pricing from Backcountry.com
Women’s
Click for current pricing from Backcountry.com
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