The 9 best hiking shoes for your North Shore treks

Finally the snow has melted, and a North Shore guy's or gal's eyes turn to hiking. And unless you're a masochist, every hiker needs comfortable boots. My fellow adventurers over at UpNorthica suggested swapping some guest blog postings. I wrote a piece about ski-in camping on the North Shore. And in exchange, they wrote this review on hiking shoes. Here's UpNorthica's take on the best day hike boots around. They love "best-of" lists so much, they made three of them!

THE 9 BEST HIKING SHOES, by Pam Wright, UpNorthica

Taking a day hike along the Kadunce River this summer? Want to scramble to the top of Carlton Peak? If you're planning to hike the north shore this year, chances are you'll run into wet, rocky, or hilly terrain. Here's our hot list of choices for light-hikers that should suit your needs for the coming season.  

MEN'S SHOES

Men's Light
NEW Kayland Crosser Mesh  

Why you'll dig 'em: Head deep into the jack pine with these light hikers. Lots of breathable mesh combined with a light insole keeps weight to a minimum.
Weight: 14.4 oz. Construction: 3D mesh microfiber with flat mesh lining. Molded EVA midsole with nylon anti-torsion shank and toe protection. MSRP: $99.95

Men's Waterproof
NEW Keen Alamosa WP 

Why you'll dig them: While the mist is coming down, keep your feet dry. Made of completely waterproof material that breathes, so you don't have hot spots at the end of the day.
Weight: 16.81 oz. Construction: KEEN.DRY(tm) Waterproof breathable membrane and nubuck leather upper with drop-in EVA insert. Multi-directional 4mm lugs for traction. MSRP:  $110.00

Men's Supportive
NEW Garmont Sticky Boulder
Why you'll dig 'em: Bouldering anyone? Provide sturdy protection in between that rock and a hard place, thanks to durable traction and stability on uneven surfaces. Bootie-style construction safeguards against ankle rolls. Weight: 16.4 oz. Construction: Water repellent suede with Vibram Q811 Outsole. MSRP: $114.95

WOMEN'S SHOES

Women's Light
NEW Ahnu Sequoia
Why you'll dig 'em: You'll hardly notice these shoes as you hike for miles. Breathable mesh keeps the weight to a minimum.   Weight: 11.4 oz. Construction: Breathable mesh upper with dual-density EVA.  Ahnu's Numentum(tm) technology provides proper foot biomechanics. Avert bruising on rocky surfaces with the forefoot protection plate. MSRP: $100.00

Women's Waterproof
NEW Merrell Siren Sport

Why you'll dig 'em: Stay dry when the afternoon shower hits 2 miles from the trailhead.  Waterproof membrane keeps water out, but lets the air in. Outsole features 5 mm lugs to keep you stable while clambering over wet roots. Weight: 23 oz. Construction: Synthetic leather and mesh upper. Waterproof, breathable membrane. Lining is treated with Aegis(r) antimicrobial solution. Midsole cushioning styled for women's needs. 5 mm lugs provide grip. MSRP: $110.00

Women's Supportive
Oboz Contour
Why you'll dig 'em: Tackle the harder topography with solid cushioning. The BFit Deluxe Insole is constructed of three densities of foam to protect feet.  The EVA footbed maintains shape overtime providing additional comfort with two smaller, softer pockets of EVA under heel and forefoot. The shaped heel cup keeps your feet from shifting. Weight: 12.2 oz. Construction: Nubuck leather and high abrasion textile fabric upper.  Dual-densities of EVA with BFit Deluxe Insole. Forefoot ESS sheet protects foot from bruising on uneven surfaces. MSRP: $110.00

KIDS'S SHOES

Kid's Light
NEW Keen Alamosa
Why you'll dig them: Explore every bend along the river with these light weight hikers. Quick lace system reduces tripping hazards. Weight: 9 oz. Construction: Water resistant leather and mesh uppers. MSRP: $55.00

Kid's Waterproof
Timberland Hypertrail Oxford
Why you'll dig 'em: Kids inevitably seem to end up wet. Let them scurry over slippery rocks with this waterproof shoe. Gore-Tex waterproof membrane keeps toes dry. Engage in massive mud fights, thanks to a stain-resistant coating. Weight: 9 oz. Construction: Nubuck leather and suede upper with Gore-Tex(r) membrane for waterproofness. EVA footbead provides cushion. SplashBlaster(tm) coating resists stains. MSRP: $65.00

Kid's Supportive
Salomon Trax
Why you'll dig 'em: Slither down ravines or hike a dry creek bed. Padded heel, collar and tongue protects and provides comfort, alleviating pressure and abrasion. Weight: 12.5 oz. Construction: Suede leather with nylon mesh for breathability. EVA midsole absorbs shock and provides cushion. Toe caps protect tootsies from stubs. Quick lace system makes it easy for kids to slip shoes on and off quickly. MSRP: $60.00