The 2024 SELF Sneaker Awards: 30 Top-Notch Pairs for Basically Every Activity

When you’re wearing lackluster footwear, everything else gets that much harder. Runs feel like a drag; walks become tedious; and workouts can get utterly pointless. On the other hand, a truly great pair of sneakers can take your everyday activities to the next level: They can help you feel lighter and springier, sync you up with your movement, and even inspire you to take up a new hobby altogether. And those are the types of shoes we set out to find for SELF’s annual Sneaker Awards.

Over the course of our monthlong testing period, SELF staffers slipped on nominated pairs for jogs, cardio dance classes, rugged hikes, races, dog walks, weightlifting sessions, and more of our favorite activities. We also tapped fellow movement lovers from outside our brand to really put the shoes through their paces. All in all, the testing pool included marathoners, city planners, new parents, National Park service rangers, med students, manufacturing workers, engineers, teachers, and outdoor influencers—just to name a few.

We tested shoes designed for running, walking, strength training, and hiking, as well as pairs with highly specialized features for sports like cycling and racing, and, for the very first time, tennis and pickleball. So however you like to exercise, experience nature, or just get from point A to point B on foot, there’s a shoe to suit your preferences. Below, learn more about how we selected the winners of the 2024 SELF Sneaker Awards, read our reviews, and pick your next pair.

The Winners

• Best Do-It-All Running Shoe
• Best Everyday Running Shoe
• Best for Recovery and Easy Runs
• Best Max Cushion Running Shoe
• Best for Runs and Walks
• Best for Long Runs
• Best for Racing
• Best for Racing Shorter Distances
• Best Splurge for Racing
• Best Trail-Running Shoe
• Best for Beginner Trail Runners

• Best General Gym Shoe
• Best for HIIT Classes
• Best Shoe for Heavy Lifting
• Best Indoor Cycling Shoe
• Best Pickleball Shoe
• Best Shoe for Tennis

• Best Studio-to-Brunch Shoe
• Best Sneaker for People on Their Feet All Day
• Best Bopping Around Town All Day Shoe
• Best Comfy High-Top
• Comfiest Athleisure Sneaker
• Best Old-School Cool Athleisure Shoe
• Best Velcroed Athleisure Shoe
• Best Everyday Walking Shoe
• Best No-Tie Supportive Shoe
• Best Heavy-Duty Walking Shoe

• Best Hiking Sneaker
• Best Hiking Boot
• Best Camping Shoe

How we picked the winners

This year, 50 brands submitted 167 styles—a record-setting number for our annual Sneaker Awards. We ultimately tested 157 models, including 14 pairs that SELF editors recommended from their own personal experience. Each shoe was rated on a scale from 1 to 10 and graded using a range of criteria including fit, shape, feel, and style. Trail shoes were also evaluated for traction, ankle support, and other key hiking-specific features. We chose winners that not only performed well for their intended activity, but also suited our testers’ feet, held up under multiple wears, and, as a nice little bonus, looked good too. At the end of our rigorous testing process, 30 winners came out on top. Check them out below for all your running, walking, hiking, cycling, lifting, and bopping-around-town needs.

Running

What it does: The ever popular Pegasus is back with less weight and increased airflow through the upper (a bonus for those of us who were blessed with sweaty feet). It has a balanced amount of cushioning (not too stiff; not too firm) and additional padding around the opening of the shoe, so you can stay comfy on medium-length runs and shorter efforts.

Who it’s for: All experience levels; runners who want a single shoe that feels just as good on easy miles as it does for intervals and harder workouts.

How we tested: Our testers took their Pegasuses on road and treadmill runs that lasted between 3.5 and about 6 miles, at varying speeds and intensities, including some fast interval work.

One tester said: “On the treadmill, these shoes felt nimble and supportive. I also used them for some sprints—this is where they felt PERFECT. They were responsive, snappy, grippy, and snug enough that I didn’t need to think about whether or not my foot was steady when I pushed my pace. Overall, I love these shoes and would wear them regularly for workouts, treadmill runs, and medium-length outdoor runs.”

What it does: Whether you’re a newbie looking for an introductory shoe or a more experienced runner who needs a workhorse for their everyday miles, you’ll almost definitely find something to like about the Supernova Rise. It’s highly cushioned and made with firm foam rods in the outsole to provide additional support—one tester reported zero lower-leg soreness the day after her test runs.

Who it’s for: Runners who prioritize comfort and stability during their go-to workouts.

How we tested: Our director of fitness and food wore the Supernova Rise for several road runs ranging from 4 to 10 miles when it came out last winter.

One tester said: “I really enjoyed these as a great everyday trainer, and I think they’d be a solid choice for a beginner runner looking for comfortable everyday miles—with the opportunity to pick up the pace a little if they so desire.”

What it does: Outfitted with pillow-soft cushioning and a wide, stable outsole, the Glycerin 21 may seem like a whole lot of shoe—but our testers agree that it doesn’t feel clunky once it’s on your foot. Instead, it allows you to keep a steady stride and enjoy your runs at a leisurely pace.

Who it’s for: New and experienced runners who need a cushy, stable shoe for easier speeds. (And those looking for a ride with even more support, there’s the Glycerin GTS 21 version, which is designed to prevent your feet from rolling inward as you run.)

How we tested: On road and mixed-terrain runs lasting between 4.5 and 7 miles, as well as 30-minute beginner runs around the neighborhood.

One tester said: “These sneakers are very cushioned and have a nice rocker feel that guides me through my stride. For as comfy as they are, they don’t feel too heavy—they’re definitely not as springy and responsive as racing shoes, but they don’t feel like they’re slowing me down. I will definitely keep these in the rotation for easy runs and recovery runs.”

What it does: This plush sneaker is made to buoy and propel every step with On’s maximum amount of foam and a forward-rolling sole. It defies the stereotype of a maximalist shoe with its surprisingly lightweight construction, but still has a chunky-soled, high-stack height design that fans will love.

Who it’s for: Runners and walkers who enjoy the blunted impact of high cushioning, want to feel like they have marshmallows under their feet at all times, and hope to look good doing it. (Our testers noted this shoe was stylish enough to wear with everyday outfits!)

How we tested: On road runs up to 5 miles in length; long walks on a visit to Korea; a 3.4-mile hike on Mackinac Island, Michigan.

One tester said: “This shoe says it has max cushioning for an On, and it really felt like it. On’s sneakers are usually too firm for me, but this actually felt perfect. So much so that I wear these on my walks, to the office, pretty much everywhere I go. Even without insoles, my high arches felt supported and comfortable throughout hour-long runs. My feet didn’t hurt, they felt secure as I ran, and I didn’t twist my ankle (which happens with some higher platform sneakers).”

What it does: Shock absorption is the name of the game with Under Armour’s Infinite Elite sneaker: It has a springy foam midsole to help your feet rebound easily upon impact, and its thick platform looks trendy and helps your feet feel fresh over long distances (without making the shoe feel unwieldy).

Who it’s for: Everyday runners, as well as anyone who logs a ton of time walking on pavement.

How we tested: On 5K treadmill and road runs, and walks of about 20,000 steps around New York City.

One tester said: “I love wearing these to work, to coffee, or with any casual streetwear or athleisure clothing. Even if I wasn’t a runner, I would probably want to own these just to walk around in. The impact absorption, thick soles, and the overall style of this shoe is unbeatable.”

What it does: These seriously high shoes (their stack clocks in at 48 millimeters high) have foam for days, but don’t feel particularly smooshy or squishy. They have a surprisingly smooth, steady ride that our tester appreciated when her miles passed the double-digit mark. If you’re looking for speed, just be aware that these super-trainers are a bit too heavy for faster efforts.

Who it’s for: Runners who want to log long miles at a steady pace, or anyone who just loves a high-stack, ultra-foam sneaker to make each step a little more comfy.

How we tested: When the Skyward X launched, our lifestyle writer wore hers on a number of training runs leading up to a half marathon, including a 10-miler.

One tester said: “Over time, I came to realize that the extra cushion wasn’t just for show: It blunted the impact of each step to make the experience pain- and ache-free (a real lifesaver when I’d be pounding the pavement for nearly two hours).”

What it does: The Metaspeed Sky Paris has one of Asics’ lightest builds (for greater speed), tons of springy cushioning (for impact absorption), and a carbon plate (for smooth propulsion). This combo amounts to an impressively nimble race shoe that helps you increase your speed without sacrificing comfort.

Who it’s for: Anyone gearing up for a big race—and a PR.

How we tested: On runs up to nine miles around the neighborhood; the Chicago Lakefront Trail, which consists of a combination of concrete, blacktop, and packed dirt; and on track workouts with short (and fast) intervals.

One tester said: “These sneakers are super bouncy and fast! They feel light, comfortable, and definitely like they’re powering me forward—like an extension of my foot, but one that makes me springier and speedier. They were equally fun on the pavement and on the track.”

What it does: Puma made the carbon-plated Deviate Nitro Elite even lighter this time around and added to the shoe’s foam stack, all in the name of faster speeds and lower wearer effort. Based on its fit and feel, one tester deemed it an excellent pick for races up to a half-marathon in length.

Who it’s for: Experienced runners who want to avoid leg fatigue and sail over short racing distances.

How we tested: For 45–60-minute training runs on pavement outdoors and indoors on the treadmill.

One tester said: “The shoe is cushioned, but you feel a pop! It really helps your legs feel less tired if you are running fast or long. It provides great energy return and ultimately felt like I was doing less work with the same results. Even with its padding, I felt connected to the ground.”

What it does: Just one look and you’ll know Nike pulled out all the stops for this super-shoe: With a carbon plate, dual Air Zoom pods, and a foam-packed midsole, the latest iteration of the Alphafly line takes an already fast shoe and makes it even speedier. This extremely intentional design comes with the highest price tag of all our winners (clocking in at $285 per pair), but it’s worth it for serious, committed runners with specific time goals.

Who it’s for: Big fans of super-shoes; serious runners who don’t mind spending a little more money on a racing pair.

How we tested: When the Alphafly 3 made its debut in January, our director of fitness and food tested her pair on a 5.5-mile run with a fast 5K in the middle on a hilly neighborhood route. She also wore them for a handful of tempo (and faster) runs closer to this year’s Sneaker Awards.

One tester said: “These shoes are super light, super cushioned, and super high (the stackheight and foam underfoot are legit). They’re also really, really fast. As soon as I picked up the pace from warm-up to speedwork, I immediately felt the bounce and push forward with each step. The shoes were so fast that it made hard workouts fun.”

What it does: Our testers noticed right away how comfortable the Experience Wild felt—well-cushioned and like they arrived already broken in. At the same time, they felt in-tune with the ground: They could feel and grip the uneven terrain easily. This shoe has a roomy forefoot, so your toes can spread and splay naturally while you run, and a secure, fitted midsole. (One tester noted how little her foot shifted while wearing her Altras.)

Who it’s for: Seasoned off-road runners who want a durable sneaker they can wear on all kinds of trails.

How we tested: On a variety of terrains, including rocky hills, flat dirt paths, sand, and muddy trails. Our testers wore them for trail runs, two-hour-long hikes, and 12-hour days exploring Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado.

One tester said: “This shoe allowed me to feel in touch with the ground. I was able to trust my feet as I navigated rugged terrain. It also functioned well in mud and over rocks. The ankle support allowed me to feel comfortable going off trail. The grip was unbelievable. I really put these shoes through the wringer and am absolutely in love with them.”

What it does: Lululemon’s road-to-trail shoe is comfy right out of the box, grippy, and approachable to newcomers—one of our testers said it felt like a regular running shoe, as opposed to a burly trail sneaker that some beginners might find excessive or intimidating. The Beyondfeel Trail wouldn’t look out of place if you wore it from the trail into town, but it’s technically capable too. Our testers were specifically impressed with its performance on grass, gravel, and rocks.

Who it’s for: Trail running newcomers who are getting comfortable on light-to-moderate terrain.

How we tested: On hour-long gravel runs and a three-hour birding walk on New York City park trails.

One tester said: “They’re extremely comfy upon first wear—very cushioned, bouncy, and lightweight—all while feeling really supportive! I felt like I could do so many different movements in these (walking, treading uphill, stepping up onto rocks) without any pain. Very impressed with the instant comfort!”

Training and Sports

What it does: We gave the previous iteration of this cross trainer (the Nano X3) a Sneaker Award last year, and—as our director of fitness and food noted in her initial review of the X4—this update is full of minor improvements that have a major impact. It fits snugly and securely, which makes the wearer’s movements smoother and more seamless; it provides stability during heavier lifts; and it feels flexible and light throughout your workout.

Who it’s for: Gymgoers who want to do a little bit of everything during their workouts, from cardio to weightlifting and back again.

How we tested: Our testers attended 45-minute HIIT classes, did full-body strength training sessions, and ran up to one mile in their Nano X4s.

One tester said: “I LOVE these cross-training sneakers because they have a nice balance between cushioning and security—they’re comfy, but I feel grounded and stable when I do squats, deadlifts, etc. They’re not bouncy enough for more dynamic, high-impact moves (like dancing or boxing), but they’re my go-to for just about every other type of strength training workout.”

What it does: Springy enough for cardio but supportive enough for strength training, Nobull’s Drive is perfect for classes that incorporate dynamic moves like burpees and box jumps, as well as ones with free weights. It has a low heel-to-toe drop and high-traction outsole, so you can maintain your footing and move with confidence in all directions.

Who it’s for: HIIT fanatics and anyone who prefers a springier gym shoe.

How we tested: For gym commutes through the neighborhood, several 60-minute Bolt Fitness HIIT classes, and casual hangouts and errands runs.

One tester said: “Once the shoe is on (you’ve really got to tug it by the heel loop to get your foot in), it is SO COMFORTABLE! There’s so much cushion under my feet, but it doesn’t feel bulky or like I’m walking on giant platforms. It’s super lightweight, and after multiple wears I had no blisters, random pains, or shin splints.”

What it does: The Fuse 3.0 provides a flat, firm, stable base that allows you to feel the ground beneath you and push through your foot while training. It’s pretty stiff (you wouldn’t want to wear it to a HIIT class), but flexible enough that you can bend your foot when you’re doing lunges.

Who it’s for: Weightlifters who want a dedicated shoe for major efforts at the gym.

How we tested: For a variety of strength training sessions ranging from 30 minutes to one hour in length. Some of them were full-body, while others worked the upper- or lower-body specifically.

One tester said: “I am surprised how much I liked these shoes. They’re the perfect fit, which means I don’t have to think about them when I’m lifting or worry about readjusting between sets. The flat bottom helps me stay stable and really push through the ground for my bigger lifts, especially deadlifts, where you definitely don’t want any wobble. They’re firm, but not so firm that they hurt or make your feet tired.”

What it does: This is not the first time Tiem’s Slipstream has won a Sneaker Award, and we’re hardly surprised that it brought home another one. It has a soft, stretchy upper, but a rigid sole that doesn’t bend or buckle as you cycle. It fits extremely well and holds your heel in place, which makes it easier to pull and stroke your feet without worrying about your shoes flying off. Just be aware that it doesn’t come with SPD cleats, and our testers found it a little tricky to get them to fit onto the sole of the shoe. It also comes in a variety of colors, but the cute burgundy shade we tested is currently sold out in most sizes.

Who it’s for: Dedicated indoor cyclists; any cycling enthusiast who thinks most cycling shoes feel too clunky.

How we tested: Several indoor studio cycling classes.

One tester said: “This shoe is VERY comfortable. The upper is plush, which made me assume that it wouldn’t be the most breathable. But I tested it out on a 90-degree day when the studio was STEAMY, and my feet never felt too hot. It truly did feel like an extension of my foot, and its heel cup was nice and narrow so my foot never slipped.”

What it does: You certainly can wear most everyday sneakers for pickleball, but a specialized shoe, like K-Swiss’s Pickleball Supreme, which has a plush yet responsive feel and a grippy outsole, will level up your game. These features make it easier to move laterally and keep your footing on the court so you can keep your head in the game.

Who it’s for: Pickleball players who are ready for a footwear upgrade.

How we tested: During five one-to-two-hour games on a hard tennis court.

One tester said: “This shoe has a perfect balance of cushion and support for someone playing pickleball. I felt like I had good grip and control over my footwork while playing and also did not suffer from sore or tired feet afterward. The shoes did not require any time to break in; I felt like I found a comfortable rhythm almost immediately.”

What it does: This flexible tennis shoe is great for players who move all over the court and need to stay light on their feet. Its sole is made from durable rubber that provides plenty of traction, while its upper is lightweight and breathable—if you want to up your agility game, the Solution Speed FF 3 was built for you.

Who it’s for: Tennis players who want an all-court shoe that won’t slow them down.

How we tested: During tennis games and practices on hard indoor courts and clay outdoor courts, totalling about eight hours.

One tester said: “The shoe feels cushioned and supported at all points. The sides were especially supportive, which is necessary with the constant lateral movement while playing. These shoes were so great that, when I first played in them, I hardly noticed I switched shoes from my normal tennis sneaks!”

Walking and Leisure

What it does: Finding a shoe that performs well and looks good is no easy feat, but the Veja Impala strikes that balance. It has a firmer feel that helped our testers feel grounded and nimble during their upbeat cardio classes, and comes in 11 cute, pastel-centric colorways that wouldn’t look out of place with your post-workout jeans or dresses.

Who it’s for: Gymgoers who meet up with friends or go straight to work after class; anyone who prefers to live their life in sneakers.

How we tested: Our testers tried out the Impala during 55-minute dance cardio classes, 45-minute HIIT classes that incorporated a Bosu ball, and long walks around Brooklyn.

One tester said: “I felt like I was totally in touch with the ground and able to pivot easily (without having to lug the shoes along). The flexibility of these shoes was also nice: I could bend them and pop off the balls of my feet easily for dance sequences without having to break them in. I’d totally wear them after any dance cardio class, out to brunch, and shopping during the day.”

What it does: When you’re upright for hours at a time, you’re probably pretty busy—and your feet are the last things you should have to think about. Enter this blissfully easy-to-wear sneaker from Dr. Scholl’s. We didn’t notice any chafing, blisters, or pressure points when we put it to the test for days at a time.

Who it’s for: Anyone who needs to stand for extended periods of time, whether they’re working long shifts at work, attending a music festival, or sightseeing in a new city.

How we tested: On days spent going to work, walking around New York City, and strolling through the park—logging up to 25,000 steps in the process.

One tester said: “The shoe is lightweight and comfortable—I could easily be up on my feet all day with no pain or discomfort. I would recommend these to a health care worker or someone looking for something plain and not too showy to walk in. These are a comfortable choice and really do feel incredible, even after wearing them all day.”

What it does: Comfy, casual, and classic, the Cityverse is a simple sneak you can wear every day without getting tired of it. It has a very comfortable, balanced feel that’s great for walking long distances and a streamlined look that pairs nicely with most outfits (“Anytime I wear these, I get compliments,” said one of our testers).

Who it’s for: Athleisure enthusiasts; hot girl walkers keeping the trend alive; anyone with a big trip coming up.

How we tested: We wore these everywhere and for all kinds of activities, including vacation strolls, dog walks, meetups with friends, and day-long outings.

One tester said: “These are the most comfortable athleisure shoes I’ve ever worn, and I’ve purchased a lot of different models. Somehow Lululemon made cool sneakers that feel just like super-cushiony running shoes. My feet are just so happy when I wear them!”

What it does: We love when a sneaker simultaneously nails form and function, so naturally we adore the Converse Weapon. It’s supportive through the foot and ankle, very comfortable, and, frankly, pretty darn cool. It has a retro look that still feels fresh, and, unlike other fashion-driven sneakers, is anything but flimsy (check out that thick sole!).

Who it’s for: Anyone who’s equally interested in street style and staying comfy.

How we tested: While strolling city sidewalks for hours at a time and playing games of racquetball and pickleball.

One tester said: “These were super stylish and fit like a glove! They’re similar to Jordans, but much less expensive and more accessible. I wore them to an MLB game, and my date commented on how cool he thought my shoes were.”

What it does: This sleek, everyday sneaker shines thanks to its main material, merino wool, which is naturally sweat-wicking, temperature-regulating, and, of course, incredibly soft. Your feet should feel cozy yet cool in the Wool Runner 2, which is a major bonus if you stick with sneakers well into the colder months of the year. And if your pair starts to look a little dingy, it can go straight in the washing machine and emerge good as new.

Who it’s for: Anyone who lives in sneakers and needs a comfy new staple that they can wear year-round.

How we tested: On neighborhood walks, e-bike rides, and coffee shop hangouts.

One tester said: “These are probably the most comfortable non-running shoes I’ve ever worn—I felt like I could walk for hours in them if I needed to, and they worked fine on the e-bike too (my feet didn’t slip off the pedals or anything). They’re so cushy and supportive and also didn’t interfere with my stride; my toes could bend in the right place and my feet could move naturally.”

What it does: Looking for the next Samba, Cortez, or Gazelle? We’re putting our money on Puma’s Easy Rider, a vintage design that debuted in the late ’70s. It has a similarly old-school, sporty-chic look to those aforementioned shoes of the moment, plus a seriously grippy sole and a supportive, slightly bouncy feel. One thing to note is they run narrow, according to our tester, so consider sizing up if you have wider feet.

Who it’s for: Sneaker fans who want to stay ahead of the trends; OG Sporty & Rich followers.

How we tested: Running errands around New York City, morning dog walks, and doing light chores.

One tester said: “They feel very supportive and give you a little push while you walk, and they have a nice rounded bottom on the front of the shoe. These shoes are definitely cute—I even got a few compliments on them while I was out. I wore them with denim shorts and a white tee, and they really elevated an otherwise plain outfit with a pop of color. They’d be great for wearing out to brunch or while out shopping.”

What it does: Let this model from Cole Haan remind us that basic needn’t mean boring. It stands out from the (incredibly vast) pool of everyday sneakers with its trio of Velcro straps, thick base, and superclean colorways. It skews firm rather than plush, but it’s perfect for days at the office, casual shopping trips, or summer get-togethers.

Who it’s for: Anyone who doesn’t want to mess with dangly laces; people who want a stylish sneaker they can wear for casual pursuits.

How we tested: For hours at time while doing office work, hanging out with friends, walking the dog, and running errands.

One tester said: “They’re sleek, modern, and look great on my feet. I think they’re very classy and perfect for when you want to look more polished (say, for dinner, brunch, etc.). I love all of the color options and textures (canvas, terrycloth…the seasonal options are to die for!). If I saw someone wearing these I’d definitely ask them where they bought them!”

What it does: Let’s welcome the newest member of the maximalist pack: Ryka’s Devotion X Max has all the features we look for in a highly cushioned walking shoe (a thick sole, extra padding, and support in the heel), but it’s sturdy enough that it won’t feel squishy or unsupportive.

Who it’s for: Anyone searching for that walking-on-clouds feeling in their sneakers—especially those with higher arches.

How we tested: Shorter (5 to 15 minutes), longer (over an hour), and very long (all day!) walks in these sneakers.

One tester said: “These sneakers are incredibly soft and cushioned—the foam midsole and outsole feel very bouncy, and the arch is perfectly positioned. I often have issues with achy arches due to a lack of support, but these sneakers were clearly made for the high-arched crew! They’re lightweight and didn’t cause any pain, blisters, or other discomfort. I love these so much that I had my mom try them on, and she instantly wanted to steal them!”

What it does: This chunky-soled sneaker borrows some features from outdoor footwear (including BOA closure system, lightly lugged sole, and ripstop material), but you can confidently wear it everywhere. It absorbs impact when you walk on pavement and cobblestones, it’s light enough for all-day wear, and it supports your arch and ankle without feeling obtrusive.

Who it’s for: Commuters; dog walkers; those who prefer a slip-on shoe; anyone who wants to dip a toe into gorpcore dressing.

How we tested: On day-long jaunts around New York City; errand runs on Long Island; and everyday dog walks.

One tester said: “These shoes are SO, SO comfortable and amazingly lightweight. My whole foot and ankle felt secure and supported, and there was a ton of cushion beneath my feet. No blisters or pressure points!”

What it does: Podiatrists love (and frequently recommend) Vionic’s highly supportive shoes because they’re made to keep your feet happy in the long-term. With its durable design, water-repellent exterior, and lightweight cushioning, the brand’s new Walk Max sneaker has everything you possibly need from a walking shoe that’ll stand the test of time.

Who it’s for: Dedicated walkers who put their shoes through the wringer; people who find most walking shoes lacking in support.

How we tested: On morning walks and errands runs, while doing yard work and cleaning up around the house.

One tester said: “The extra stability in the heel area felt really supportive, especially when I was walking downhill. Its sole is nice and thick, and there’s just enough arch support. These will be worn for many years!”

Adventuring

What it does: This limited-edition version of Merrell’s beloved Moab trail shoe has added protection around the heel and toe, four-millimeter lugs for good traction, and lots of padding through the insole and around the collar. With all of those performance-driven bona fides, it doesn’t need to be as cute as it is—and yet! Our tester loved their look as soon as she opened the box.

Who it’s for: Day hikers taking on easy-to-moderate terrain; fans of outdoor style in general; anyone who thrills at the idea of a women’s hiking shoe that isn’t teal.

How we tested: For four straight days on a birding trip in Cape May, hiking around state forests, local conservancy areas, beaches, and meadows.

One tester said: “They were so comfortable and breathable in all environments. My feet felt cushioned and supported, but the shoes were still lightweight and easy to slip on. I didn’t think about them much at all, actually! And I didn’t get any blisters, pain, or discomfort.”

What it does: If you’re opting for a hiking boot over a trail shoe, ankle support is probably among your top priorities. And that’s what makes Forsake’s Wild Sky High model such a fantastic option for hikers of all levels: Our testers wore their pairs all over the US, and no matter the terrain their feet and ankles felt secure, protected, and comfortable (with no blisters to speak of!).

Who it’s for: Hikers who regularly take on varied terrain, like a firm and durable boot, or want reliable ankle support.

How we tested: Hiking in a variety of outdoor settings, including mountainous terrain in Colorado and Northern Arizona, rocky desert paths, and Northeastern woodland trails (including Devil’s Den in Fairfield County, Connecticut), for excursions lasting between 30 minutes and four hours.

One tester said: “As a hiking boot, this shoe is made for a range of natural surfaces, including rock, dirt, grass, gravel, mulch, and wood chips. The sole is thick and sturdy enough that I never had an issue with traction or felt like I was losing my grip. I was always able to grasp the trail easily with my foot.”

What it does: After a long day on the trail, no one wants to wear their heavy, muddy hiking boots around camp—they want something cushy yet capable to slip into, like Crocs’s cool Echo Storm. It’s easy to pull on (the upper is made from super-stretchy neoprene), well-ventilated, and laden with the brand’s signature foam throughout the sole.

Who it’s for: Campers who want a comfy alternative to their technical outdoor footwear; Crocs collectors; anyone who needs an easy, comfy shoe to throw on at a moment’s notice.

How we tested: On a long weekend camping trip with rocky dirt paths around the campsite.

One tester said: “This is a perfect shoe for camping. I didn’t feel the rocks under my feet most of the time, and when I did stumble, my toes still felt secure. I’d wear them anywhere— they’re trendy without trying too hard and simply the perfect Croc.”