How to Shop for Hiking Boots
Your hiking boots are the most essential piece of gear you own – carrying you over every imaginable type of terrain. From rocking hopping to creek crossings, they have the job of protecting your feet every mile of your trip. Hiking boots should be purchased with intent and definitely should not be where you go cheap. Let’s talk about some different options to keep you comfortable on and off the trail.
Hiking Boots/Shoes Breakdown
Finding the right hiking boots/shoes starts with a look at the 3 most common options for hiking footwear. Hiking shoes, hiking boots mid, hunting boots.
Hiking Shoes/Trail Runners
As you might imagine, a hiking shoe is just a durable shoe built specifically for hiking. What is the difference in trail runners? They are more light weight to avoid fatigue and tend to have deeper lugs for better grip. Both may have mesh options for extra breathability.
Pros: Lightweight option, multiple options in regards to traction, breathability.
Cons: No ankle stability, not suitable for cold weather or snow, mesh options not suitable for sand/gravel.
Mid Hiking Boots
Mid hiking boots come up to about your ankle providing extra support and protection. These may come in thermal options for colder weather hikes.
Pros: Ankle support, options for both warm and cold weather, good for off-trail hiking.
Cons: Restricted mobility, can be heavier than hiking shoes, take longer to dry, may not be suitable for snow depending on the outsole.
Hunting Boots
You might be thinking, I am not a hunter. Despite that, hunting boots are actually my favorite type for hiking. Hunting boots are usually in high-top style, providing the most ankle support. They are built to be durable and suitable for rough terrain. Perhaps my most favorite part, waterproof hunting boots can go deeper in the water before spilling past the tongue of the boot.
Pros: Superior ankle support, durable, extended water capability, deep lugs for good traction.
Cons: Depending on the brand this can be the heaviest option keep that in mind to avoid fatigue on longer hikes. Likely not suitable for snow depending on the outsole. May be more cost prohibited
With the basics out of the way, below are some things to consider in order to make your final choice.
Hiking Terrain
Where you want to hike matters. It will decide what pair of boots or shoes are best for your chosen trip.
Water trails
If you are hiking in water, you will want footwear that has antimicrobial properties. These are going to be your waterproof/water resistant footwear. You have 2 choices.
- Hiking shoes or hiking boots/hunting boots that are waterproof/resistant that do not allow the water inside the shoe. These keep your feet dry.
- Waterproof hiking shoes that allow the water to flow freely through the shoe. These shoes are built to handle being 100% submerged in water.
Slick/Slippery Trails
Water trails can be slippery. Some rocks can be naturally slick and easy to slip on as well. For these surface types, you want a good outsole. The best that I have found is a Vibram outsole with deep lugs, specifically the Vibram Megagrip.
Keep in mind, there are no perfect shoes or boots in this scenario. You should always use your best judgement when traversing potentially dangerous surfaces.
Forest Trails/Desert Trails
Are you hiking trails with very little change in elevation and are relatively level? Are they also dry trails with very little chance of water? Hiking shoes or hiking boots would both be suitable for these conditions. It would come down to your preference of ankle support, weight of your shoes, and breathability.
Pro Tip: Avoid shoes with mesh for these types of hikes. There is nothing worse than a shoe full of dirt and gravel the entire trip. Ask me how I know….
Steep Terrain
Are you looking to hike mountains? This is another area where I would recommend Vibram Megagrip or a similar outsole with deep lugs. You want traction going up a mountain side. In a dry scenario, I would opt for hiking shoes to limit fatigue.
Hiking Conditions: Weather
Are you hiking mainly during warm weather? You may want to consider a hiking shoe or trail runner for better breathability. These tend to be lightweight. The less weight on your feet, the farther you will be able to go.
Are you hiking mainly during cold weather? Find a pair of thermal hiking boots.
Hiking in the snow? Snow hiking requires a different kind of traction. Some hiking boots have Vibram Artic Grip meant for snow and ice. Snow boots are also an option, but they can be heavy and therefore not great for traveling long distances.
Overall Thoughts
These are just the basics to get you started. There are a lot of aspects in the hiking footwear world I could discuss, but I just want to help get you on your next hike.
Remember, they don’t have to be the perfect pair. If you find you enjoy hiking and want to continue on your adventures, your first pair of hiking shoes/boots you purchase won’t be your last. Get your hiking boots and take a hike!
Want to know which shoes/boots I have tested out? Check out my blog post My feet tested them, so you don’t have to!
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Author
liv@livlifeoutdoors.com