Hiking is an ideal outdoor activity to enjoy landscapes, nature, mountains, vegetation, wildlife… Clearing the mind, taking on challenges, and discovering new places are just a few reasons why someone might go hiking ! To perfectly prepare for your outings and optimize your enjoyment, don't forget to check out our hiking gear specially designed for all nature lovers.

To make the most of your outing, it is essential that you are well-shod; otherwise, you risk having a bad time. The comfort of your foot in your hiking shoes is really the foundation before heading out on an adventure. We guide you to help you in your choice through various criteria: also discover our selection of hiking and trail shoes, suitable for all terrains.

1. The type of hiking you plan to do

The first things that will be determining in the choice of hiking shoes are: the type of terrain you will be on, the weight of your backpack, and possibly the use of a hiking pole to increase your stability.

The terrain of your hike

Depending on your choice of hike, you will need to choose a pair of shoes that match the terrain. There are 2 types of hiking terrains:

Well-marked paths and trails, rather easy, in the countryside, plains, or valleys. You will find relatively stable terrains with significant slopes. For this type of terrain, we recommend soft and lightweight shoes that promote foot roll. They are particularly comfortable to wear. There is no need for a thick sole for this type of terrain; a little cushioning is enough. For summer or river crossings, also consider our selection of hiking sandals offering comfort and breathability.

Rugged and/or technical terrains are found in the mountains or in large valleys. You may encounter roots, stones, scree, narrow paths, and mud. The more technical the hiking paths you take, the more you will need rigid hiking shoes to optimize stability. To promote ankle support and protection, you will need to opt for hiking shoes with high tops. Reinforcements on the shoe to prevent potential injuries and a thick sole should also be prioritized in your choice to ensure protection, stability, and durability of your shoe during your hiking outings. Discover our selection of high hiking shoes dedicated to these demanding environments.

merrell

The weight of your backpack

If you are going for a day hike or a 5-day trek, the weight of your backpack will not be the same, nor will your hiking shoes. With a light backpack, you can wear lightweight and flexible shoes if the terrain allows. The heavier your backpack is, the more you need rigid hiking shoes or trekking shoes with high tops to ensure stability and support. For long distances, opt for a high-performance hiking backpack or discover Salewa backpacks as well as specialists like the Lowe Alpine hiking backpack.

Weather conditions

These also have an impact on the choice of your pair of hiking shoes. In summer, there are airy shoes with grippy soles for hiking in hot weather, which you can find notably from Merrell and Columbia. For more lightness in high heat, don't hesitate to check out our selection of low hiking shoes.

In the rain, it's a different story; there is no hiking shoe that is completely waterproof like rain boots; there are always ventilations to prevent your foot from swelling too much during your climbs and that ensure your comfort. However, there are models that resist a bit more in the rain: we talk about water-repellent shoes and waterproof shoes. The water-repellency will last less over time (after washes, uses) than products with a waterproof membrane like Gore-Tex or the proprietary membranes developed by brands. However, it makes your hiking shoe less breathable.


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It is important to know what uses your hiking shoes will most often be intended for. This will help you choose a comfortable shoe with characteristics that match its regular use. By considering all these criteria, you can be sure not to make a mistake when purchasing.

Nicolas - Universal hiking buyer

About Nicolas: “Passionate about the sea and mountains and a great travel enthusiast, I particularly enjoy surfing, trail running, biking, and snowboarding in winter.”


2. Shoes suitable for different hiking practices

The walk

You enjoy walking in the forest, on rather easy trails for a few hours or for a day to picnic with family outdoors. The most suitable shoes for this type of walking are low or mid-type shoes, rather lightweight and flexible. The advantage is that this type of shoe is often versatile and can sometimes even be worn daily, like the famous Mojito from Scarpa. To complete your gear, explore our wide range of complementary hiking shoe accessories essential for small and large walks.

The approach walk

Climbers often need to walk before finding their climbing route. There are specific shoes for this practice with soles that grip well on rocks like the TX2 from La Sportiva.

Find the best brands:

Active hiking

More and more practitioners are doing what is called active hiking in plains or mid-mountain. It is a mix between fast walking and trail running. Running a bit when it's relatively flat and walking uphill. The most suitable shoes for this practice are soft and grippy low shoes like the ALP Trainer 2 from SALEWA.

You will also find suitable pairs from Scott, Salewa, Millet, …

Find the best brands for active hiking:

DID YOU KNOW?

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 them suitable for hiking and the season.


If you are going to bivouac for a weekend in mid-mountain, you need to consider the carrying of the backpack. You need shoes with more support, which remain flexible but with a sole strong enough to support your backpack. Medium to high hiking shoes are therefore recommended for this practice, such as the Drifter from the brand Asolo.The 2 or 3-day hike


Trekking

If you are going for several days in mid or high mountains, walking for long periods and sometimes on rugged terrains, this is one of the most demanding practices. We recommend rather high, robust hiking shoes that really support your foot, like the Trango Tower Extreme GTX from La Sportiva.

Now that you know a bit more about your practice and your needs, you need a good pair of hiking socks and you're ready to go! Happy hiking!

TO REMEMBER:

  • CHOOSE A SHOE SUITABLE FOR THE TYPE OF HIKING PLANNED

  • CHOOSE A SHOE SUITABLE FOR THE PLANNED HIKING PRACTICE

  • DO NOT NEGLECT COMFORT AND CHOOSE SUITABLE SOCKS