The FITNESS 2012 Sneaker Guide

The Best Hiking Shoe: Runner-Up

Runner-Up: Teva Forge Pro Mid eVent

Testers were amazed that this "supercomfortable" boot "fit like a glove from mile one." Thanks to its breathable, waterproof membrane, feet stay "pleasantly dry." It also has a "very grippy" rubber outsole, which aced "rock, mud, light snow, ice, and gravel." A stretchy ankle cover keeps grit out of your shoe. ($140, teva.com)