Best Shoes For Hiking For Men: More Comfortable Steps Across Changing Terrain

A strong hiking shoe delivers dependable traction, comfortable cushioning, and the weather protection or breathability that matches your route, making it suitable for men who move between pavement, trails, loose surfaces, and wet conditions. This roundup compares 10 options across waterproof leather designs, suede-and-mesh hikers, lightweight trail shoes, and established models from Merrell and Columbia. The OL OUTJET LEGEND and SHULOOK options emphasize waterproof construction and slip resistance, while the Merrell All Out Blaze Aero Sport and Kricely M014 prioritize airflow and low weight.

The Merrell Moab 3 adds an updated cushioned footbed and Vibram TCF5+ rubber sole, while Columbia’s models combine leather uppers, cushioning, and grippy outsoles. Use the material, fit, and terrain guidance to narrow the field.

The best choice depends on your terrain and weather priorities. For wet conditions, consider the OL OUTJET LEGEND, OUTJET, SHULOOK MHS001, or SHULOOK TPU-and-Oxford-fabric model, all of which list waterproof or water-resistant-focused construction and slip-resistant features. For breathable, lightweight movement, the Merrell All Out Blaze Aero Sport and Kricely M014 use mesh-based uppers.

The Merrell Moab 3 and Columbia Fairbanks Low offer established leather or suede construction with cushioning and traction-oriented soles.

Men's Hiking Shoes: A Comparative Overview

ImageProductBuy
Best Pick 1
OL OUTJET LEGEND Men's Waterproof Hiking Shoes Leather Comfortable Lightweight Anti-Slip Outdoor Walking Work Sneakers
OL OUTJET LEGEND Men's Waterproof Hiking Shoes Leather Comfortable Lightweight Anti-Slip Outdoor Walking Work Sneakers
Best for: Durable Leather Waterproof
Brand: OL OUTJET LEGEND | Color: Black
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Best Pick 2
Men's Waterproof Hiking Shoes Lightweight Breathable Anti Slip Outdoor Shoes
Men's Waterproof Hiking Shoes Lightweight Breathable Anti Slip Outdoor Shoes
Best for: Lightweight Breathable Comfort
Brand: OUTJET | Color: Black-1
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Best Pick 3
SHULOOK Men's Low Top Waterproof Hiking Shoes
SHULOOK Men's Low Top Waterproof Hiking Shoes
Best for: Low Top Waterproof Design
Brand: SHULOOK | Color: Black/Red
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Best Pick 4
Men's Hiking Shoes, Lightweight and Non Slip Outdoor Sports Ankle Boots, Breathable Hiking and Off-Road Camping Shoes
Men's Hiking Shoes, Lightweight and Non Slip Outdoor Sports Ankle Boots, Breathable Hiking and Off-Road Camping Shoes
Best for: Ankle Support Off-Road
Brand: CLIMVERNO | Color: Black
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Best Pick 5
Merrell Men's Moab 3 Hiking Shoe
Merrell Men's Moab 3 Hiking Shoe
Best for: All-Around Trail Performance
Brand: Merrell | Color: Walnut
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How We Compared These Products

We compared materials, fit, traction, cushioning, water handling, and weight across many Amazon listings. These details matter because travel footwear must suit the terrain, weather, walking distance, drying needs, and amount of space available in the luggage. After examining the wider field, we selected 10 products from OL OUTJET LEGEND, OUTJET, SHULOOK, CLIMVERNO, Merrell, Columbia, and Kricely.

The shortlist includes products such as OL OUTJET LEGEND Men’s Waterproof Hiking Shoes Leather Comfortable Lightweight Anti-Slip, OUTJET Men’s Waterproof Hiking Shoes Lightweight Breathable Anti Slip Outdoor Shoes, and SHULOOK Men’s Low Top Waterproof Hiking Shoes. Every recommendation is tied to information stated for that specific product; unclear or missing features were treated as unknown rather than filled with assumptions.

Detailed Reviews: Best Shoes For Hiking For Men

1. OL OUTJET LEGEND Men’s Waterproof Hiking Shoes Leather Comfortable Lightweight Anti-Slip Outdoor Walking Work Sneakers

OL OUTJET LEGEND Men's Waterproof Hiking Shoes Leather Comfortable Lightweight Anti-Slip Outdoor Walking Work Sneakers

Best for: All-weather grip hikers.

Experience all-weather grip and flexibility with these waterproof leather hiking shoes. Designed for comfort and a lightweight feel, they offer reliable anti-slip performance for various outdoor activities, combining technology with innovative design.

Crafted with a leather outer material and rubber sole, these shoes provide durability and dependable traction. The waterproof construction ensures your feet stay dry in wet conditions, while the lightweight design and flexible build allow for comfortable movement on trails. The round toe style offers ample room.

Product Details

BrandOL OUTJET LEGEND
ColorBlack
Insole MaterialRubber
ManufacturerOL OUTJET LEGEND
Material FabricFabric
ModelLegend
Occasion Lifestylehiking
Additional Product Information
Outer MaterialLeather
Sole MaterialRubber
Special FeaturesAll Weather Grip, Flexible, Lightweight, Slip Resistant, Waterproof
Style NameWalking
Toe StyleRound Toe

Pros

  • Waterproof leather construction
  • Lightweight and flexible
  • Anti-slip rubber sole
  • All-weather grip

Cons

  • Material fabric is listed as 'Fabric' which may not be as durable as other options.

Ideal for hikers seeking waterproof protection and a comfortable, lightweight feel for all-weather adventures, provided the fabric material meets durability expectations.

2. Men’s Waterproof Hiking Shoes Lightweight Breathable Anti Slip Outdoor Shoes

Men's Waterproof Hiking Shoes Lightweight Breathable Anti Slip Outdoor Shoes

Best for: Lightweight trail walkers.

These lightweight hiking shoes feature a breathable mesh and TPU upper, offering comfort and durability. The rubber sole ensures slip resistance, making them suitable for outdoor adventures where reliable traction is essential.

The combination of mesh and TPU in the outer material provides a balance of breathability and support. A rubber sole offers excellent slip resistance, crucial for navigating varied terrain. These shoes are designed to be lightweight, reducing fatigue during long hikes and outdoor activities.

Product Details

BrandOUTJET
ColorBlack-1
ManufacturerOUTJET
Part NumberOJMH-013-L25-Black-US10.5
Material FabricFabric
ModelOjmh-013-l25-black-us10.5
Occasion Lifestylehiking
Additional Product Information
Outer MaterialMesh+TPU
Sole MaterialRubber
Special FeaturesCushioned, Lightweight, Slip Resistant
Style NameTrail
Style NumberOJMH-013-L25
Toe StyleRound Toe

Pros

  • Breathable mesh and TPU upper
  • Lightweight design
  • Slip-resistant rubber sole
  • Suitable for outdoor activities

Cons

  • Specific model number suggests a focus on a particular size/color combination.

Perfect for hikers prioritizing a lightweight and breathable shoe with good traction for trail use, especially if the specific model number aligns with your needs.

3. SHULOOK Men’s Low Top Waterproof Hiking Shoes

SHULOOK Men's Low Top Waterproof Hiking Shoes

Best for: Waterproof cushioned hikers.

These low-top waterproof hiking shoes offer a blend of suede and mesh for durability and breathability, featuring memory foam insoles for enhanced comfort. They are designed to be true to size, with puncture and stain resistance for rugged use.

The waterproof suede and breathable mesh lining effectively block rain while venting sweat, ideal for trekking. Memory foam insoles provide cushioned support, and the rubber sole ensures slip resistance. Puncture and stain resistance add to their durability for challenging outdoor conditions.

Product Details

BrandSHULOOK
ColorBlack/Red
Fit to Size Sentimenttrue to size
Insole MaterialMemory foam
Material Fabricfabric-and-synthetic
ModelMhs001
Occasion Lifestylehiking
Additional Product Information
Outer MaterialSuede and Mesh
Sole MaterialRubber
Special FeaturesCushioned, Lightweight, Puncture Resistant, Slip Resistant, Stain Resistant
Style NameHiking
Style NumberMHS001
Toe StyleRound Toe

Pros

  • Waterproof suede and mesh upper
  • Memory foam cushioned insoles
  • Puncture and stain resistant
  • Slip resistant rubber sole

Cons

  • Wide feet or thick sock wearers may need to size up.

Recommended for hikers needing waterproof, cushioned comfort with good traction, especially those with regular feet, though wider feet might consider sizing up.

4. Men’s Hiking Shoes, Lightweight and Non Slip Outdoor Sports Ankle Boots, Breathable Hiking and Off-Road Camping Shoes

Men's Hiking Shoes, Lightweight and Non Slip Outdoor Sports Ankle Boots, Breathable Hiking and Off-Road Camping Shoes

Best for: Breathable outdoor sports shoes.

These lightweight outdoor sports shoes are constructed with a breathable mesh upper and a thermoplastic elastomers sole for comfort and durability. Designed for off-road camping and hiking, they offer a non-slip design for secure footing.

The breathable mesh upper promotes airflow, keeping your feet cool during strenuous activities. The thermoplastic elastomers sole provides a comfortable and durable foundation with non-slip properties for various terrains. These ankle boots are suitable for off-road adventures and general hiking.

Product Details

BrandCLIMVERNO
ColorBlack
ManufacturerCLIMVERNO
Model25087danxie
Outer MaterialMesh
Sole MaterialThermoplastic Elastomers
Style NameCasual
Additional Product Information
Style Number2508-7
Toe StyleRound Toe

Pros

  • Breathable mesh upper
  • Lightweight construction
  • Non-slip sole
  • Suitable for off-road use

Cons

  • Style name is 'Casual', which might imply less specialized hiking features.

A good choice for casual hikers and campers who value breathability and a lightweight feel, but may not be the most specialized option for extreme off-road conditions.

5. Merrell Men’s Moab 3 Hiking Shoe

Merrell Men's Moab 3 Hiking Shoe

Best for: All-purpose versatile hikers.

The Merrell Moab 3 hiking shoe is renowned for its out-of-the-box comfort and all-purpose versatility, built with a leather upper and a new Vibram TC5+ rubber sole for superior traction on loose surfaces.

Featuring a leather outer material and a durable rubber sole with Vibram TC5+ technology, these shoes offer excellent grip on varied terrain. The updated footbeds include a cushioned heel for extended comfort, and the shoe is made with recycled laces and webbing for sustainability.

Product Details

BrandMerrell
ColorWalnut
Fit to Size Sentimenttrue
Insole MaterialEthylene Vinyl Acetate
Item Weight2 pounds
ManufacturerMerrell
Part NumberJ035893/J035893W-210
Additional Product Information
Material FabricLeather
ModelMoab 3
Occasion LifestyleCasual
Outer MaterialLeather
Sole MaterialRubber
Special FeaturesCushioned, Lightweight
Style NameMoab 3
Style NumberJ035893
Toe StyleRound Toe

Pros

  • Vibram TC5+ rubber sole for traction
  • Cushioned heel for extended comfort
  • Durable leather construction
  • Made with recycled materials

Cons

  • Item weight is listed as 2 pounds, which might be heavier for some hikers.

An excellent option for hikers seeking proven comfort and durability for extended treks, especially those who appreciate superior traction and sustainable materials, but consider the weight.

6. Columbia Men’s Fairbanks Low

Columbia Men's Fairbanks Low

Best for: Durable leather trail hikers.

These lightweight leather hikers are built for tough ventures, featuring a durable construction with a Techlite cushioned midsole and a super-grippy outsole. The suede leather upper combined with mesh ensures both style and function for mile after mile.

The combination of leather and mesh in the upper provides durability and breathability. A Techlite cushioned midsole offers comfort, while the super-grippy rubber outsole steadies every step on challenging trails. These low-top shoes are designed for long-lasting wear on demanding hikes.

Product Details

BrandColumbia
ColorDeep Olive/Desert Sun
Fit to Size Sentimentpositive
Insole MaterialRubber
Item Weight1 g
ManufacturerColumbia
Part Number182637
Additional Product Information
Material Fabricmesh, suede
ModelFairbanks Low
Occasion LifestyleCasual
Outer MaterialLeather
Sole MaterialRubber
Special FeaturesSlip Resistant
Style NameLow-Top
Style Number182637
Toe StyleClosed Toe

Pros

  • Durable leather and mesh upper
  • Techlite cushioned midsole
  • Super-grippy outsole
  • Lightweight construction

Cons

  • Outer material is leather, which may require more maintenance than synthetic options.

Ideal for hikers who need durable, comfortable footwear with excellent grip for tough trails, provided they are prepared for the maintenance associated with leather uppers.

7. Columbia Men’s Crestwood Hiking Boots

Columbia Men’s Crestwood Hiking Boots

Best for: Abrasion-resistant outdoor boots.

Columbia's Crestwood Hiking Boots offer lightweight leather construction designed for the toughest ventures, featuring a durable build with a Techlite cushioned midsole and a super-grippy outsole for steady steps.

These boots utilize a leather outer material for durability and abrasion resistance, paired with a rubber sole for reliable traction. The Techlite cushioned midsole provides comfort during long hikes, and the overall construction is designed to withstand mile after mile of outdoor use.

Product Details

BrandColumbia
ColorShark/Columbia Grey
Fit to Size SentimentFits True To Size
Insole MaterialRubber
Item Weight1 g
ManufacturerColumbia Sportswear
Part Number1781181-011-12 Regular US
Additional Product Information
Material FabricLeather
ModelCrestwood
Occasion LifestyleOutdoor
Outer MaterialLeather
Sole MaterialRubber
Special FeaturesAbrasion Resistant
Style NameCrestwood
Style Number1781181
Toe StyleClosed Toe

Pros

  • Abrasion-resistant leather construction
  • Techlite cushioned midsole
  • Super-grippy outsole
  • Lightweight design

Cons

  • Confirm the listed dimensions, compatibility, and included components against the intended setup.

A solid choice for hikers seeking durable, comfortable, and grippy boots for outdoor adventures, especially if the true weight is manageable for their intended use.

8. Merrell Men’s All Out Blaze Aero Sport Hiking Water Shoe

Merrell Men's All Out Blaze Aero Sport Hiking Water Shoe

Best for: Breathable water hiking shoes.

These Merrell All Out Blaze Aero Sport hiking water shoes feature a breathable mesh and TPU upper with a supportive synthetic overlay. The Merrell Omni-Fit lacing system ensures a precise, glove-like fit for optimal comfort and stability.

The breathable mesh upper promotes airflow, keeping feet cool, while synthetic overlays and a molded TPU heel counter offer support and stability. The rubber outsole provides traction, and the bellows tongue helps keep debris out. This design is ideal for water-based hiking activities.

Product Details

BrandMerrell
ColorDusty Olive
Fit to Size Sentimenttrue
Insole MaterialTextile
Item Weight11 ounces
ManufacturerMerrell Footwear
Part NumberJ37687_Dusty Olive
Additional Product Information
Material FabricMesh, Thermoplastic Polyurethane
ModelAll Out Blaze Aero Sport
Occasion LifestyleCasual, hiking
Outer Materialrubber outsole
Sole MaterialSynthetic
Special FeaturesBreathable
Stitching StyleMerrell Omni-Fit lacing system stitching
Style NameAll Out Blaze Aero Sport
Style NumberJ37687
Toe StyleClosed Toe

Pros

  • Breathable mesh upper
  • Merrell Omni-Fit lacing system
  • TPU heel counter for stability
  • Bellows tongue keeps debris out

Cons

  • Sole material is listed as 'Synthetic', which may offer less grip than rubber on certain surfaces.

Best for hikers who need a breathable, water-friendly shoe with a secure fit for mixed terrain and water activities, provided the synthetic sole meets traction needs.

9. SHULOOK Men’s Waterproof Hiking Shoes Lightweight Breathable Non-Slip Trail Trekking Outdoor Shoes

SHULOOK Men's Waterproof Hiking Shoes Lightweight Breathable Non-Slip Trail Trekking Outdoor Shoes

Best for: Waterproof non-slip trail shoes.

These SHULOOK waterproof hiking shoes are lightweight and breathable, featuring a combination of TPU and Oxford fabric for durability. The rubber sole provides excellent slip resistance, making them ideal for trail trekking and outdoor adventures.

Constructed with a TPU and Oxford fabric upper, these shoes offer a balance of durability and breathability. The rubber sole ensures reliable slip resistance on various surfaces, while the cushioned design enhances comfort. Puncture and stain resistance add to their suitability for rugged trails.

Product Details

BrandSHULOOK
ColorBlack
Material FabricThermoplastic Polyurethane
Occasion Lifestylehiking
Outer MaterialTPU + Oxford fabric
Sole MaterialRubber
Special FeaturesCushioned, Lightweight, Puncture Resistant, Slip Resistant, Stain Resistant
Additional Product Information
Style NameHiking
Toe StyleClosed Toe

Pros

  • Waterproof construction
  • Lightweight and breathable
  • Puncture and stain resistant
  • Slip-resistant rubber sole

Cons

  • Outer material is TPU + Oxford fabric, which may be less flexible than mesh or leather.

A great option for hikers seeking waterproof, lightweight shoes with good traction and protection against punctures, suitable for various trail conditions if flexibility is not a primary concern.

10. Kricely Men’s Trail Running Shoes 2.0 -Hiking Shock-Absorbing Comfort

Kricely Men's Trail Running Shoes 2.0 -Hiking Shock-Absorbing Comfort

Best for: Shock-absorbing trail runners.

Kricely's Trail Running Shoes 2.0 offer shock-absorbing comfort with a breathable mesh upper and a durable rubber sole featuring X-GRIP technology for excellent traction. Designed for both trail running and walking, they are lightweight and abrasion-resistant.

The air mesh upper ensures breathability and comfort, while the rubber sole with X-GRIP provides lightweight, non-slip, and durable wear with good traction. These shoes are built to be abrasion-resistant, standing up to the challenges of outdoor escapades and providing cushioned support.

Product Details

BrandKricely
ColorBlack
Fit to Size SentimentFits True To Size
ManufacturerKricely
Part NumberKricely
Material FabricMesh
ModelM014
Additional Product Information
Occasion LifestyleComfort
Outer MaterialMesh
Sole MaterialRubber
Special FeaturesAbrasion Resistant, Breathable, Cushioned, Lightweight, Slip Resistant
Style NameCasual
Style NumberM01416
Toe StyleClosed Toe

Pros

  • Shock-absorbing cushioning
  • Breathable air mesh upper
  • X-GRIP rubber sole for traction
  • Lightweight and abrasion-resistant

Cons

  • Style name is 'Casual', which might imply less specialized hiking features.

Perfect for trail runners and hikers who prioritize shock absorption, breathability, and reliable traction, especially for casual use or moderate trails, but may lack advanced features for extreme conditions.

What Buyers Often Overlook

Sizing and fit: matching foot shape to these hiking shoes

Sizing needs vary most with foot width and sock thickness, not just the listed size. SHULOOK’s MHS001 is described as true to standard US men’s sizing, while its guidance suggests going up half a size for wide feet or thick hiking socks; regular feet can choose their usual size. Merrell’s Moab 3, Columbia’s Crestwood, Columbia’s Fairbanks Low, Merrell’s All Out Blaze Aero Sport, and Kricely’s M014 are listed with positive or true-to-size fit sentiments, but the supplied data does not establish a universal fit across every model.

Low-top designs generally leave the ankle less covered than the Crestwood boot, while round-toe constructions appear across several options. Check the retailer’s size chart and account for the socks you will actually wear.

A snug heel, room for toe movement, and no pressure across the forefoot are useful fit checks before a longer hike.

The Key Product Trade-Off

Waterproofing versus breathability: choosing the right upper

Waterproof-focused uppers help when rain splash and wet trail conditions are the main concern, while mesh designs favor airflow and reduced bulk. The OL OUTJET LEGEND lists leather construction, waterproofing, flexibility, lightweight design, and all-weather grip. The OUTJET uses mesh plus TPU and lists cushioned, lightweight, slip-resistant features.

SHULOOK’s MHS001 combines waterproof suede with breathable mesh lining, and its supplied description specifically positions that combination for blocking outdoor rain splash while venting foot sweat. By contrast, the Merrell All Out Blaze Aero Sport uses a breathable mesh upper with supportive synthetic overlays, and Kricely’s M014 uses air mesh with TPU and lists breathability.

The trade-off is straightforward: choose waterproof-oriented models for exposed wet conditions, or breathable mesh models when ventilation and light trail movement matter more. Columbia’s leather and suede hikers sit between these priorities, emphasizing durable construction, cushioning, and traction.

Best Shoes For Hiking For Men: Buyer's Guide

Fit, Dimensions, and Compatibility

Compare the listed dimensions with the intended counter, cabinet, appliance, storage, or installation space. Confirm model compatibility and connection requirements where they are supplied. A useful feature cannot compensate for a product that does not physically fit or work with the buyer’s existing setup.

Capacity, Output, and Operating Format

Match listed capacity, volume, output, and operating mode to the actual household or work routine. Larger figures can support heavier use, while a smaller format may be easier to place and maintain. Treat daily output, immediate storage, and container capacity as separate specifications when the listing distinguishes them.

Materials, Construction, and Care

Use the listed materials and care instructions to judge cleaning effort, storage conditions, and compatibility with the intended use. Dishwasher, freezer, food-contact, or weather-related claims are included only when supplied for that product. Check whether routine care fits the way the product will be used.

Included Components and Setup Needs

Review the included components before planning installation or first use. Hoses, adapters, lids, paddles, bowls, brushes, controls, and manuals vary by listing. Confirm power, water, assembly, or accessory requirements from the supplied product information rather than assuming that separately pictured parts are included.

Which Should You Choose?

Choose the OL OUTJET LEGEND if you want leather, waterproofing, flexible construction, and all-weather grip in one low hiking shoe. Select the SHULOOK MHS001 when you want waterproof suede paired with breathable mesh lining, memory foam, and puncture- and slip-resistant features. For a lightweight, ventilated option, the Merrell All Out Blaze Aero Sport uses breathable mesh, supportive overlays, a TPU heel counter, and a debris-blocking bellows tongue; Kricely’s M014 also emphasizes air mesh, cushioning, and traction.

The Merrell Moab 3 suits buyers seeking updated footbed cushioning and a Vibram TCF5+ rubber sole. Columbia’s Fairbanks Low and Crestwood fit leather-hiker preferences, while the OUTJET and second SHULOOK model target waterproof, slip-resistant trail use.

Quick Buying Checklist

  • Confirm the complete dimensions against the available space.
  • Verify model, accessory, connection, and appliance compatibility.
  • Match capacity or output to the expected amount of use.
  • Compare materials and care instructions with the maintenance routine.
  • Check the included components before planning setup or first use.
  • Confirm listed power, water, storage, or installation requirements where applicable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key features of waterproof hiking shoes?

Waterproof hiking shoes typically feature a waterproof membrane lining to keep feet dry from external moisture like rain or puddles. They also often include durable uppers, good traction outsoles for grip, and supportive midsoles for comfort on varied terrain, ensuring your feet stay protected and comfortable during hikes.

How important is ankle support in hiking footwear?

Ankle support is crucial for stability, especially on uneven or challenging trails, helping to prevent sprains and injuries. While low-top shoes offer more freedom of movement, high-top boots provide superior ankle protection and support, making them ideal for rough terrain and carrying heavier loads.

What makes hiking shoes breathable?

Breathability in hiking shoes is achieved through materials like mesh panels or specialized synthetic fabrics that allow air to circulate. This ventilation helps to manage moisture and heat, preventing feet from becoming sweaty and uncomfortable, which is essential for longer hikes in warmer conditions.

How do I choose the right size hiking shoe?

To choose the right size, try on hiking shoes at the end of the day when your feet are slightly swollen. Wear the type of socks you’ll use for hiking. Ensure there’s about a finger’s width of space between your longest toe and the shoe’s front, and check for heel slippage.

Are trail running shoes suitable for hiking?

Trail running shoes can be suitable for light hiking on well-maintained trails due to their cushioning and grip. However, they generally offer less ankle support and durability than dedicated hiking shoes or boots, which are designed for more rugged terrain and heavier use.

Final Words

Selecting the right hiking shoe depends on your intended use. For general trails and comfort, lightweight, breathable options are excellent. If you face wet conditions or rough terrain, prioritize waterproof features and consider models offering more ankle support.

Ultimately, the best shoe provides a secure fit and reliable traction for your adventures.

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