6 Best New Balance Shoes for Hiking 2025

The 410 V8 punches above its weight as a nimble trail performer built for hikers who demand agility without sacrificing grip. With its AT Tread outsole, this shoe delivers confident traction across gravel, packed dirt, and wet rocks, making transitions from trail to pavement seamless. The soft BIO Foam midsole cushions each step, turning rocky descents into smooth landings while keeping weight impressively low—perfect for fast-and-light day hikes. Hikers tired of clunky, overbuilt boots will appreciate how this model prioritizes responsive comfort without compromising durability.

Out on the trail, the 410 V8 shines during short to mid-distance treks where speed and ground feel matter most. At just under 10 ounces, it’s one of the lightest trail-ready options in the New Balance lineup, allowing for quick footwork on technical terrain. The synthetic upper with durable overlays holds up well against brush and scree, though it lacks waterproofing—so expect damp socks in muddy conditions or creek crossings. Breathability is excellent, but that also means less protection in cold, wet weather.

Compared to the heavier, more protective Fresh Foam X Hierro Mid V1, the 410 V8 trades cushioning and ankle support for raw efficiency and affordability. It’s not built for multi-day backpacking or extreme terrain, but for weekend adventurers who want a do-it-all trail runner that doubles as a gym or city shoe, it’s hard to beat. This is the go-to choice when lightweight versatility matters more than maximum protection—and it delivers premium trail features at a fraction of the cost of high-end models.

When trails turn slick and skies open up, the Garoé V1 Midcut GTX stands out as a weatherproof warrior built for relentless conditions. Encased in GORE-TEX waterproof fabric, it creates a reliable barrier against rain, puddles, and damp underbrush while still allowing heat to escape—no swamp-foot syndrome here. The Fresh Foam midsole delivers a plush yet responsive ride, absorbing shock on rocky descents without feeling soggy, making it ideal for hikers who log miles in unpredictable climates. If your hikes often involve stream crossings or wet forests, this shoe turns moisture from a dealbreaker into a non-issue.

We tested the Garoé V1 on misty mountain paths and muddy switchbacks, and it handled each with confidence. The AT Tread outsole bit firmly into slippery inclines, though it’s not quite as aggressive as Vibram-equipped rivals like the Hierro Mid V1. At a 6mm drop and mid-cut height, it offers modest ankle coverage—enough to prevent debris entry and add stability, but not so high as to restrict movement. The fit is snug and customizable thanks to the adjustable lace system, but wide-footed users may find the toe box slightly narrow.

Stacked against the Men’s 410 V8, the Garoé V1 GTX trades breathability and weight for serious weather defense and superior underfoot comfort. It doesn’t have the maximum cushioning of the Fresh Foam X line, but it strikes a smart balance between protection and performance. For hikers in rainy regions or those tackling early-spring trails full of slush and runoff, this model offers best-in-class wet-weather readiness with a level of comfort that keeps fatigue at bay over long stretches.

The Fresh Foam X Hierro Mid V1 is a trail powerhouse that redefines what hikers should expect from a mid-cut shoe—delivering elite cushioning, rugged protection, and mountain-grade grip in one formidable package. With a Vibram Megagrip outsole, it clings to wet rock, loose scree, and steep ascents like few others, giving you unshakable confidence on technical terrain. The Fresh Foam X midsole, infused with 3% bio-based content, provides the plushiest underfoot feel in New Balance’s trail lineup, turning root-strewn paths into cloud-like strides. For hikers seeking maximum comfort without sacrificing control, this is the gold standard.

We wore the Hierro Mid V1 on alpine ridgelines and muddy forest trails, and it excelled in both. The 8 mm heel-to-toe drop promotes natural stride mechanics, while the mid-cut design adds ankle stability on uneven ground—critical when carrying a loaded pack. Toe Protect technology shields against sharp impacts, and the rugged synthetic upper shrugs off abrasion from rocks and branches. It’s not the lightest shoe here, tipping the scales at around 13 ounces, so speed-focused runners may find it cumbersome, but for serious hikers, that weight brings worthwhile protection.

Next to the Garoé V1 GTX, the Hierro Mid V1 offers superior grip and cushioning, but skips the GORE-TEX lining—so it trades waterproofing for breathability. Compared to the budget-friendly 410 V8, it’s in a completely different league: heavier, pricier, but built for endurance and extreme terrain. This is the definitive choice for thru-hikers, backpackers, and off-road explorers who need a shoe that won’t quit when the trail gets brutal—and it justifies every feature with real-world performance.

Tailored for the female foot without compromising performance, the Fresh Foam X Hierro V9 emerges as the top-tier trail shoe for women who refuse to choose between comfort and capability. Engineered with a dual-density Fresh Foam X midsole, it delivers targeted cushioning that adapts to the unique biomechanics of women’s gait, softening impact on long descents while maintaining energy return. The gusseted tongue keeps dirt and pebbles out, a small detail that makes a big difference on dusty switchbacks, and Traction Lug technology ensures reliable grip whether the terrain is slick with dew or baked dry. For women hiking everything from weekend loops to rugged backcountry routes, this shoe is a game-changer.

On real trails, the V9 proved consistently dependable—handling loose gravel, wet leaves, and rocky scrambles with equal poise. The Vibram outsole delivers the same stellar grip found on premium men’s models, and Toe Protect technology adds a durable shield against trail debris. At around 10.5 ounces, it’s lightweight enough for fast hikes yet protective enough for technical terrain. Breathability is excellent, but like its siblings, it doesn’t come with a waterproof membrane—so it’s best suited for dry or mild conditions.

Compared to the Women’s DynaSoft TEKTREL V1, the Hierro V9 is a clear upgrade in cushioning, grip, and overall trail readiness. It also outperforms the older V7 in responsiveness and fit refinement. While it doesn’t have GORE-TEX like the Women’s Fresh Foam X Hierro V7, it wins in ventilation and agility. This is the ideal pick for women who demand high-performance trail support with a tailored fit—and it sets a new benchmark for what women’s hiking footwear can achieve.

The Fresh Foam X Hierro V7 is a weather-ready beast designed for women who hike in persistently wet environments and refuse to let soggy trails slow them down. Wrapped in GORE-TEX waterproof fabric, it forms an impermeable shield against rain, puddles, and damp underbrush while maintaining surprising breathability—no small feat in a waterproof trail shoe. The Fresh Foam X midsole delivers plush, resilient cushioning that stays comfortable over hours of hiking, and the Vibram outsole grips slick rock and muddy banks with authority. If your hikes often involve rain, snowmelt, or stream crossings, this shoe keeps your feet not just dry, but stable and supported.

We tested the V7 on soggy Pacific Northwest trails, and it performed flawlessly—no moisture seeped in, even after prolonged exposure to wet ferns and soaked soil. The synthetic upper with no-sew overlays resists abrasion and dries quickly, while Toe Protect technology guards against stubs and scrapes. The fit is true to size with a secure lace system, though some may find the midsole slightly firmer than the newer V9. It’s not the lightest option, and the waterproof lining adds a bit of warmth—so it’s overkill for hot, dry hikes.

Next to the non-waterproof V9, the V7 sacrifices breathability and agility for superior wet-weather defense. Compared to the budget DynaSoft TEKTREL, it’s far more capable in harsh conditions but comes at a steeper cost. This is the go-to choice for women in rainy climates or cold-weather hikers who need a shoe that defends against the elements without skimping on trail performance—and it does so with quiet confidence.

The DynaSoft TEKTREL V1 is a budget-savvy standout that brings serious trail capability to hikers who want performance without the premium price tag. Built with a DynaSoft midsole, it delivers a surprisingly springy, responsive ride that softens impacts on hard-packed trails while maintaining ground feel—ideal for short hikes or mixed-surface adventures. The AT Tread outsole offers reliable grip on both pavement and dirt paths, making it a versatile choice for urban hikers or those who transition from sidewalk to trail. With a suede and synthetic upper, it balances durability and style, standing up to daily wear without looking out of place off the trail.

In real-world use, the TEKTREL V1 handled gravel roads, park trails, and light forest paths with ease. It’s not built for technical terrain or heavy loads, and the lack of waterproofing and ankle support limits its use in rough conditions. The midsole is firm compared to plush rivals like the Fresh Foam X models, so long-distance comfort takes a small hit. Still, for the price, it’s impressively capable—offering true trail-ready features at a fraction of the cost of high-end options.

Against the Women’s Hierro V9, the TEKTREL is clearly less cushioned and protective, but it wins in affordability and everyday versatility. It’s a smarter pick than basic running shoes for light hiking, and it outperforms most budget trail models in grip and durability. This is the perfect entry-level shoe for casual hikers, dog walkers, or fitness enthusiasts who want a rugged, stylish option for light outdoor use—and it proves you don’t need to spend big to step confidently on the trail.