Choosing the Right Footwear for the Trails

Selecting the right footwear for a one day to a multi-day hike is no easy task. Too often, the novice hiker simply relies on look and feel at the shoe store rather than considering the actual elements that will be encountered on trail.

For example, will a hiking shoe be sufficient, or do you intend on spending the night and packing your gear to a remote campsite, in which case a cross hiker or heavy boot may be required.

The weight of your gear, terrain and distance covered are essential components to consider before dishing out your hard earned money on your next pair of trail footwear.

Within the realm of hiking shoes, there are a variety of designs to consider. Following is a list of how each differs from the other and what to consider when comparing your options.

Trail running or adventure racing shoes are essentially running shoes with more durable features such as thicker soles and stronger stitching designed to endure rougher conditions.

Hiking shoes or approach shoes are heavier than trail running shoes, as they are generally designed with a frame architecture to better support your feet, though not necessarily to the ankle as they are cut below that height. Lighter fabrics are used, such as nylon or suede, than that of mid-weight boots.

Cross hikers or mid-weight boots are also referred to as Class B boots. These look more like the typical hiking boot intended for more off trail terrain with enough support to last through long single day and multiday hikes. The cut reaches above the ankle and therefore requires more breaking in than hiking shoes and the materials used range from leather to tougher synthetic materials.

Heavy Boots (Class C) are designed specifically for rough terrain. These boots include additional support such as toe caps, rugged soles and synthetic linings. They are designed for maximum support for extended hikes with heavy packs. Other feature include shock absorbing soles, as well as water resistant and breathable materials.

These will require a great degree of breaking in before use on the trail. Don't skimp on this detail, as one of the more common mistakes made with new hiking footwear is wearing them before they're properly worn to fit the specific contours of your feet.

Mountaineering boots (Class D) are designed for extended, mountaineering-type expeditions (hence the name) where colder weather conditions are expected. They are typically constructed of a hard plastic shell with a pivot point at the ankle, or a combination of leather and synthetic materials for greater comfort. Other features include attachments for securing crampons and additional insulation.

See our Camping Gear Guide for more tips on the right gear for your next backpacking or hiking adventure

 

Comments

[Gary Youngblood]

Excellent breakdown of the variety of hiking boots and trail shoes available. Too many folks try to buy one shoe for all occasions and it is often a mistake. The right shoe for the task always makes for a more enjoyable outdoor experience.

[Outdoor Camping Tent]

Thanks for the reveiw on the right footware for hiking. As you say - it all depends on the type of terrain you're going to encounter.

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Great information on what's available for the different terrain out there.

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You would think that after 20 years in the Army my feet would be tough for hiking. No luck. Great post on hiking shoes.

[Camping and Tents]

I've been looking for some hiking shoes but having trouble because my feet are so small! Having read your list I think I should be looking for Class B boots as I want ankle support. Hopefully I will be able to find some small enough.

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[Laura]

Thank you for the information on hiking footwear.

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