When hiking the trails, it is a novice mistake to use your running shoes. One grueling day into rocks and wet terrain and you will unquestionably see the value in the investment of hiking shoes. Check out our FAQs to help you step into the world of hiking shoes.
What are hiking shoes?
Hiking shoes are made to allow you to navigate trails and rougher terrain that shoes designed for carefully planned sidewalks and maintained streets cannot. Because of their thicker soles and stronger fabrics, they withstand the elements better than your running shoes. While hiking boots boast the same statements, boots are heavier and more cumbersome, making hiking shoes a nicer in-between option for recreational hikers.
In the past years, hiking shoes have grown in popularity. Today there are numerous kinds with a variety of features. A quick google search produces various blogs of top hiking shoes for the current year.
As a general rule of thumb, trail runners last about 500 miles, hiking shoes about 750 miles, and hiking boots about 1000 miles. The hiking shoes give more durability than trail runners and typically have a bit more toe support, as the expectation is you will probably hit your toe hiking on uncleared or overgrown paths.
Two Hiking Shoes to Consider
The newcomer Altra Lone Peak 4.0 Trail Runners. The shoe sports a roomier toe and mesh uppers. This matters if you are looking for breath ability and drainage of water. One hot day and you will be thankful for this feature. The sole of the hiking shoe is designed to help with traction.
Merrell’s Moab 2 Ven Low Trail Shoes. Unlike the Altra which has only mesh uppers, this shoe features mesh throughout with a leather upper for protection. It has reinforced toes and sole design for sand and mud traction, as well as arch support and air cushioning.
As you can see, depending on what you are looking for, the shoe can vary by design. Both run about $100 whereas others will cost you over $200. Consider how long you will be hiking, as well as how often, when justifying the price of the shoe versus the benefits it provides.
Are hiking shoes good for walking?
Hiking shoes absolutely can be used for walking; however, depending on what type of walking and the terrain, you may want specific hiking shoes. Some shoes are developed to allow for all terrain and water activities you may encounter such as canoeing or kayaking while others are specific to trail running or quick maneuvering.
If you are desiring to walk regularly on paved surfaces or are training for power walking marathons, it would be a better investment to look for a walking shoe specifically designed for street conditions or long-term walking, paying attention to pressure points on your foot and the cushioning on the shoe.
Are hiking shoes waterproof?
Not all hiking shoes are waterproof but it easy to find a pair featuring waterproof lining. That said, without proper research, you could end up with a waterproof and highly unbreathable shoe not ideal for hiking long periods while soaking in your own sweat.
Choosing a good pair of moisture wicking socks will definitely help aid you with keeping your feet dry on the trails.
Click Here for a complete buyers guide on moisture wicking socks.
Many hiking shoes boast the “Gore-Tex” name, meaning they are waterproof. Others are simply water resistant. Read reviews ahead of time to see if the shoes have a tendency to hold water inside or if they help pull any water that gets in your shoes to the outside layers.
Due to the promise of drying quickly, mesh is enticing; yet, because of this makeup, it stands a chance to get torn up quicker with imperfect land conditions.
Can hiking shoes be waterproof?
Absolutely, hiking shoes can be waterproof. Hiking boots provide a level up from shoes in waterproofing, as they come higher on the leg.
Keep in mind unless you are hiking in waders, there is a chance water is going to get into your shoes. Even boots stand the chance of water coming in the cracks. When looking at different types of hiking shoes, read the reviews and make sure the shoes have the ability to help wick away water and sweat.
Do you really need waterproof hiking shoes?
Depending on the conditions you are hiking in, or are willing to hike in, will determine if you need waterproof hiking shoes. As a recreational hiker, if you check your weather app before hiking to determine the conditions, then you probably do not need waterproof hiking shoes.
If you are planning on becoming a trail runner or are cross training in all types of weather, then waterproof hiking shoes are worth the investment. Sloshing around in heavy, water-laden shoes wear you down quicker, not to mention cause potential damage to your feet by walking in water all day. Further, on hot days, sweating in your shoes is inevitable and without the ability to wick water away, you are guaranteed blisters and foot infections.
Should you be in colder weather, the wet could cause your extremities to cool quicker and put you at risk for hypothermia or tears in your heals, allowing bacteria a chance to enter. Inevitably, your hike will be cut short if you are freezing and unable to continue due to cold, wet feet.
Understanding your feet are going to get wet, you need to ensure any type of “waterproof” footwear actually allows your feet to get the moisture back out or simply plan on not wearing waterproof shoes and drying out your shoes at night.
Socks can also add the ability of extra waterproofing. Be sure to Click Here for an in depth article about waterproof socks.
Are hiking shoes good for running?
There are a wide variety of hiking shoes. Some are for running, while others are definitely more geared at giving traction for wet, slippery rocks or uneven gravel. Just like not all shoes are made the same, not all hiking shoes are either. With the increase of trail running and Tough Mudder type competitions, hiking shoes specialized for running off the beaten path are here to stay.
If running matters to you, make sure when comparing hiking shoes attributes, the pair can be used for running and pay special attention to the cushioning. When running, an unexpected rock can ruin the rest of your experience. The cushion softens the impact. Know ahead of time hiking shoes may be a bit more rigid than just trail runners, which could increase blisters.
Can hiking shoes be good in the snow?
Some hiking shoes boast high ratings in regards to snow hiking. The Salewa Speed Beat Gore-Tex is one such shoe. Tested in Alaska, it claims to withstand slush and snow.
Yet, some reviewers warn snow is bound to get in through cracks and gives in the fabric. These hikers opt to wear wool socks and look for shoes allowing the wet to come out of the shoe. For snow, most aim toward the hiking boot versus shoe to increase the chance of keeping snow out of the shoes during the frigid winter months.
Products are available to add to your shoes to increase their traction. The Kahtoola Microspikes are such an item. Get a size that will go over your shoe or boot. The spikes give more stability for the snow-covered trails.
All of this said, use caution. If you are hiking in snow, it may be a better idea to invest in some snow hiking boots that are insulated, protecting your feet from the cold weather.
Can you use hiking shoes in the gym?
Most gyms have a no outdoor shoe policy. If your gym has such a policy, respect it and do not wear your hiking shoes to the gym. Despite if your gym has such rule, if your shoes are dirty and you are tracking in the sticks, rocks, or mud from yesterday’s hike, put on a clean pair of tennis or running shoes before hitting the weights.
If your shoes are clean and your gym has no such policy, you could probably get away with taking a minimalist approach. Remember, the more you use your shoes, the quicker they break down so it may still be in your best interest to simply buy a pair of low-cost sneakers.
There is a reason for different types of shoes. For example, if you are into fitness classes, a cross training shoe has cushion and a wider base to help with stability and support. If you are running, your shoe needs to be lightweight, airy and provide support where your foot strikes the ground.
Could you get away with it? Sure, but you will realize after a few sessions, your body aches in places you would prefer it not to. The additional cost and hassle for another pair of shoes may actually be worth it.
What is the difference between hiking shoes and hiking boots?
Hiking boots and hiking shoes have similar functions in that they protect the feet for a variety of conditions found “off-road” or in varied terrain conditions. Yet, depending on the type of hiker you are, one may be more suited than the other.
Regarding hiking boots, ankle support and protection higher on the leg generally are the two reasons for opting for a boot over a shoe. Because boots are more durable than a shoe, if you are planning on becoming or already are a hard-core hiker, a boot is going to last longer than a shoe.
When the land is quite rough, rocky, steep, snowy, uneven or wet, boots tend to give more support and ability to navigate in all environments. The last thing you need to worry about on a rainy hike is spraining an ankle due to poor support. A boot will better help with hiking in all conditions and not just on an Instagram worthy day.
On the other hand, if you are more the recreational hiker interested in jumping the gun on a 70-degree, sunny day, then a hiking shoe is probably your better bet. Due to the lack of need to break in your shoe, this pick up and go type shoe works for you.
Hiking shoes are best suited for well-maintained trails or at least not highly variable environments. Parks, trails, flat cross-country courses, campsites and other even land with minimal loose rocks or slippery terrain are ideal for running or hiking with hiking shoes. Because they are light, quick to dry and comfortable, they are often chosen above boots.
Keep in mind if you are looking for durability and increased protection, the hiking boot is the way to go. If you are more wanting to hike recreationally and on more maintained surfaces, the hiking shoe is your bet.
What are low hiking shoes?
Low hiking shoes reference the type of shoe and cut around the ankle. Think of a running shoe and how the ankle is exposed. This is the same concept around a low hiking shoe.
With each shoe boasting different features, it takes some thought to determine what terrain you plan to hike in. Trail runners, hikers and boots all offer a low shoe. The hiking shoes and boots will be a bit more durable and potentially require some breaking in, although many shoes can be worn straight out of the box.
Are hiking shoes slip resistant?
There are plenty of shoes claiming to be slip resistant in snowy or wet surfaces.
Yet, can a shoe ever really be slip-proof? Even with spikes on the bottom of your shoe, there is a chance the snow clumps so much that you will still slide or the moss and water combo will cause unstable surfaces no matter what shoe you have on your foot.
Ensure you use caution when walking because one twisted ankle will end your hiking trip, despite the shoe’s extra claims and cost of slip resistance.
How much are hiking shoes?
Just like almost any items on the market, there is a wide range in cost for hiking shoes. Starting around $50, you can find a handful of hiking shoes in the under $100 price range but most tend to sport a price tag of $100-$150 for a decent pair. Some will even run you as much as $200.
When you find a good pair that seems to hold up, there are replaceable inserts you can purchase for $14-$50 and of course, you can always replace the shoe strings when needed.
After putting that much money into a pair of hiking shoes, you want to ensure you are not doing anything to lower the life of your new investment. Cleaning the shoes correctly and after every time on the trails helps extend the life of your shoe.
- Pre-wash you hiking shoes
An easy way to get a pre-scrub is simply walking through grass on your way home or carefully treading through shallow, wet puddles. Taking advantage of the time you are walking home helps to make the task of cleaning your boots less cumbersome.
Regardless if your shoe is water-resistant or not, avoid submerging your shoe totally into water. This will cause your shoe to break down faster and compromise the performance of the shoe. Obviously, if your hiking shoe is soaking wet, it will take significantly longer to dry out. - Brush your hiking shoes
Use a soft brush and clean, wet cloth to get any excess dirt and grime off your shoes. It is a worthy use of time to remove all shoe strings during this process, as to make sure every nook and cranny is able to be reached. While the strings are removed, if needed, wash away caked on mud and remove thorns or stickers. - Dry and condition your hiking shoes
Although it is tempting to throw your shoes in the dryer, avoid doing so. Often hiking shoes have leather in places to increase the durability of the shoes. By drying them, you risk this construction, potentially disfiguring or cracking the leather. Further, if you have Gore-Tex or any waterproofing material, it could damage the material.
It is best to simply leave out to dry or stuff with newspaper and soak up the water. When the newspaper becomes wet, simply change it out with fresh newspaper. Avoid putting in direct sunlight or by a heat source like a vent or fireplace.
If your shoes have leather on them, make sure to condition the leather periodically to avoid drying it out. This allows the leather to remain flexible, which is clearly necessary for moving your feet in the various direction the trails require. Mink oil or a silicone substitute are used for conditioning. - Remember the insoles
If the insoles of your shoes start to smell, simply remove them and wash in warm, soapy water. Rinse and dry thoroughly before inserting them back into your hiking shoes.
How should hiking shoes fit?
Based on past shoes, you may already know if one of your feet seems a bit larger than the other but go ahead and have the salesperson size your feet.
Make sure you try on both shoes. Your toe should not be a full thumbs width from the front of the shoe, taking into consideration the type of socks you will wear when hiking. Sometimes the only change needed to transform your hiking shoes into a perfect pair is socks designed with the cushioning needed for hiking.
Take a moment to simulate hiking and roll around on the shoe, toe to heel. Some stores have an incline for you to walk up and down. Does your foot move in the shoe at all or press against the toe? Unless you are just a particular fan of blisters, this is not the right pair for you.
Walk around in the store. Take some time to really test out the shoes. Often a shoe will feel great when you first put it on but the more you wear it, you will notice a pinch here or poke there. If this is the case, this is not the shoe for you.
After you buy your shoes, wear them around your house to determine if they are going to stay as wonderful as they were in the store. You don’t want to find out they aren’t two hours into your hike.
When you are sizing your hiking shoe, go up half a size and try the shoes on at the end of the day. Because your foot tends to swell after a little time of hiking, you will appreciate the extra room. There is nothing to say you can’t try on shoes marketed for the opposite gender or even children’s hiking shoes if your feet is smaller.
How long does it take to break in hiking shoes?
Most hiking shoes can go straight from the box to wear. With certain types, say Gore-Tex versus stretch, you may notice rubbing that you did not notice on the initial fitting. If that is the case, you have a few options: try insoles, adjust your socks or attempt to return them to the store. If you have taken them on a muddy hike, you may be stuck with the shoes.
Get out there and hike
As you consider all the factors in choosing your hiking shoe, remember the end result puts you outside, finding your way and purpose with Mother Nature. Take the time to enjoy the sights and sounds of what we have been given naturally and appreciate how modern technology has developed to allow us to explore the world around us, comfortably.
Terri Guillemets said, “You need special shoes for hiking—and a bit of a special soul as well.” Remember no amount of rubber and leather can create the scenery you breathe in as you take every step on the trail, feeding the craving in your soul only a wanderlust hiker can appreciate.
Here’s to your future of discovered secrets in the paths you discover. Happy hiking!