Hiking is an ideal outdoor activity to enjoy landscapes, nature, mountains, vegetation, fauna... To air the spirit, to take up challenges, to discover places are so many reasons that a hiker can have to go hiking !

To get the most out of your outing, it is essential that you are well shod or you risk having a bad time. The comfort of the foot in your hiking shoes is really the base before leaving for the adventure. So we guide you in your choice through the different criteria:

1. The type of hiking you plan to do

The first things that will be determining in the choice of hiking shoe The first things that will determine the choice of your backpack are the type of terrain on which you are going to evolve and the weight of your backpack.

The terrain of your hike

Depending on the type of hiking you plan to do, you will have to choose a pair of shoes that are appropriate for the terrain. There are 2 types of hiking terrain:

Well-marked paths and trails, rather easy, in the countryside, on the plain or in the valley. You will find rather stable grounds with relatively important slopes. For this type of terrain, we advise you to wear light and flexible shoes that allow the foot to unfold. They are comfortable to wear. For this type of terrain, there is no need for a large sole, a little cushioning is enough.

Rough and/or technical terrain is found in the mountains or in large valleys. You may face roots, rocks, scree, narrow paths, mud. The more technical hiking trails you take, the more rigid hiking boots are needed to optimize stability. To help support and protect your ankle, you should opt for hiking shoe with high uppers. Reinforcements on the shoe to avoid possible injuries and a thick sole are also to be prioritized in your choice to ensure the protection, stability and durability of your shoe during your hiking trips.

merrell

The weight of your backpack

If you are going on a day hike or a 5-day trek, the weight of your shoe will not be the same and your footwear will be more durable. backpack If you're going on a day hike or a 5-day trek, the weight of your pack is not going to be the same and neither are your hiking boots. With a lightweight backpack, you can wear light, flexible shoes if the terrain allows. The heavier your backpack is going to be, the more you will need hiking boots, or trekking shoes, that are stiff and have high uppers to ensure stability and support.

The weather conditions

These also have an impact on your choice of hiking boots. In summer, there are ventilated shoes with gripping soles for hiking in hot weather, you can find them at Merrell and Columbia.

In the rain, it's a different story, there is no such thing as a totally waterproof hiking boot, there are always vents to keep your feet from swelling too much during your climbs and to ensure your comfort. However, there are models that are a little more resistant to rain: we talk about water-repellent shoes and waterproof shoes. Water repellent shoes will last less over time (after washing and use) than products with a waterproof membrane such as Gore-Tex or the brands' own membranes. On the other hand, it makes your hiking boot less breathable.


THE PRODUCT EXPERT'S ADVICE :


Nicolas - Hiking world buyer! 		It is important to know what your hiking boots will be used for most of the time. This will allow you to choose a comfortable shoe with characteristics that correspond to your recurring use. By taking all these criteria into account, you are sure not to make a mistake when you buy.


2. Shoes adapted to different hiking practices

The walk

You like to walk in the forest, on easy trails for a few hours or for a day to have a family picnic in the open air. The most suitable shoes for this type of walking are low or mid shoes, rather light and flexible. The advantage is that this type of shoe is often versatile and can even be worn on a daily basis, like the famous Mojito from Scarpa.

The approach walk

Climbers often need to walk before finding their climbing route. There are specific shoes for this practice with a sole that adheres well to the rocks like the TX2 of La Sportiva.

Find the best brands:

Active hiking

More and more people are doing so-called active hiking in the plains or mid-mountains, which is a mix between fast walking and trail running. Running a little when it is rather flat and walking uphill. The most suitable shoes for this practice are low, flexible and grippy shoes such as ALP Trainer 2 from SALEWA.

You will also find adapted pairs at Scott, Salewa, Millet, ...

Find the best active hiking brands:

DID YOU KNOW THAT?

To allow your feet to breathe properly and avoid blisters, it is not only essential to pay attention to the choice of shoes. The choice of socks is just as important. It is necessary to choose socks that are adapted to the hike and to the season.

You are going to bivouac for a weekend in the mountains, so you have to take into account the carrying of the backpack. You need shoes with more support, which remain flexible but with a sole solid enough to support your backpack. Hiking shoes with medium to high uppers are therefore recommended for this practice like the Drifter from the brand Asolo.- The 2 or 3 day hike

Trekking

If you are going to spend several days in the mid or high mountains, walking for a long time and sometimes on rough terrain, this is one of the most demanding activities. We recommend sturdy hiking boots that really hold your feet in place, like the Trango Tower Extreme GTX from La Sportiva.

Now that you know a little more about your practice and your needs, you need a good pair of hiking socks and off you go! Let's go hiking!

TO REMEMBER :

  • CHOOSE A SHOE ADAPTED TO THE TYPE OF HIKING YOU PLAN TO DO

  • CHOOSE A SHOE ADAPTED TO THE PRACTICE OF THE PLANNED HIKE

  • DO NOT NEGLECT COMFORT AND CHOOSE APPROPRIATE SOCKS