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Author's Danner Crag Rat USA Boots in the Wasatch Mountains

American Made Hikers: Top Boots for Hiking and Rugged Outdoors Work

By Matt Mullins   updated May 15, 2023

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 Boots Made in the USA

Keen Durand Evo Men's Hiking Boot Built in USA
Men's Keen Durand Evo Boot
Women's Keen Durand Evo Boot

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 (little 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: ~$210

Men’s
Click for Current Pricing from Amazon
Click for Current Pricing from REI.com

Women’s
Click for Current Pricing from Amazon
Click for Current Pricing from REI.com

Danner Women's Mountain Light Cascade Hiking Boot

The iconic Women’s Mountain Light is a stylish yet very capable hiking boot. These premium leather boots have a 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

Click for Current Pricing from Backcountry.com
Click for Current Pricing from REI.com

Danner Men's Mountain Light Boot

Classic boots built with premium leather uppers, Gore-Tex liners, and durable Vibram soles, these will last you through countless trail miles. Like the women’s Mountain Lights, they of course provide great ankle support. Last observed price range: $440

 


Click for Current Pricing from Backcountry.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: ~$310

 

Click for Current Pricing from Cabela’s

Danner Light II Boot - Men's & Women's

Another classic Danner boot made to last. The Mountain Light II is crafted in Portland, Oregon with nubuck leather, a Gore-Tex liner, and Vibram soles. This is another good choice for those looking for ankle support. Last observed price: ~$440

Men’s
Click for Current Pricing from Moosejaw.com

Women’s
Click for Current Pricing from Moosejaw.com

Danner Crater Rim Hiking Boot - ​Men's & Women's

The Crater Rim is a rugged 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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