What Are Hiking Shoes?

Hiking shoes are footwear designed specifically for hiking. Often called trail runners, they have a wider sole than normal running shoes, along with extra support features.

What Are Hiking Boots?

When you hike on harsh terrain you need to wear good hiking boots. These are heavier than regular running shoes and provide additional traction on uneven terrain. You may even want to consider wearing some climbing shoes if you intend to climb a mountain or cliff for fun.

Things to consider before purchasing a hiking shoe or boot

Before you purchase any type of footwear, there are some things you have to take into consideration. Below will be a list of some of the things you need to pay attention to.

Protection

Protection is the first thing to check out if you're looking at purchasing a hiking shoe or boot. If you plan on spending long hours hiking, you should choose a shoe/boot with good protection and ankle support. You will find many different types of protection depending on what type of hike you plan to do. Typically, you'll want either a hiking boot or a hiking boot for hiking. Trekking boots are often worn while backpacking, whereas hiking boots are ideal for daily hikes. While hiking, you have the option to wear a shoe or boot alone or with socks. However, wearing a boot without socks may lead to blisters. To prevent blisters, you need to make sure that the sole of your boot fits properly and doesn't rub against your heel. Also, choose a shoe/boot that provides adequate ankle support; you don't want any pressure on your foot or ankle, especially while walking uphill.

Ankle Support

Ankle support refers to providing stability to the ankles through the use of laces or buckles. Many hikers prefer having the laces tied rather than using buckles due to ease of movement. Ankle support is not always a priority, but it's still something to keep in mind. Make sure you can tie the laces easily if you decide to go this route.

Water-Resistance

Water-resistant means your footwear can withstand the effects of water when hiking. Depending on the activity level, you'll want to look for water-resistant footwear. When deciding between a pair of hiking boots and hiking shoes, you'll want to make sure they're waterproofed. Most hiking shoes will have some sort of rubber or plastic coating on them, but you'll want to look closely at the leather uppers.

Weight

Weight is a big consideration when selecting a hiking shoe or boot for everyday use. As mentioned earlier, hiking shoes and boots tend to weigh a little more than running shoes. You might even get away with regular sneakers if weight isn't a concern. When selecting a hiking shoe or hiking boot, remember that lighter equals easier when carrying gear or your backpack.

Durability

Durability is another consideration when choosing a hiking shoe or boot and it comes down to how much time you plan on spending on the trail. There are several different materials used to construct hiking boots and shoes, including canvas, leather, nylon, and polyester. These materials vary according to cost and durability. Canvas and leather are typically considered durable materials, but nylon or polyester is less expensive. Regardless of material, you want to ensure that your hiking boot or shoe won't break apart after months of heavy use.

Costs

Cost is another thing to keep in mind when selecting a hiking boot or hiking shoe. A quality hiking boot or shoe will cost more than a cheap pair of sneakers. Keep this in mind when shopping around for a good deal.

Type of Terrain

If you plan on hiking over uneven terrain, you'll want to choose a hiking boot or shoe that gives proper support for the terrain. In addition to giving support, these boots and shoes should be breathable. You want to feel comfortable when hiking, but you also need to take care of your feet.

Breathability

Breathability is a major factor when selecting hiking boots or hiking shoes. While hiking, air circulation is essential to avoid sweating and chafing. Choosing a hiking boot or hiking sneaker with plenty of vents is best if you plan on going off-trail.

Lacing Systems

What type of lacing system do you have? Do you prefer slip-on or buckles? If you wear them daily, then they should always be buckle style. Slip-ons are usually only used if you're wearing them for short periods of time. Buckle styles are great because they provide stability and allow for greater flexibility. But, they may make it difficult to get off of the shoe.

Outsoles And Traction

What type of sole do you have? Hiking boots or hiking shoes often have an outsole. These are the soles that cover the bottom half of your foot. They generally have a rubber/plastic/or nylon mix and offer traction. There are many different types of outsoles available for hiking boots. Here's a list:

• Rubber
• Nylon
• Plastic
• Foam
• Synthetic leather
• Suede (synthetic leather)

Toe Protection

What type of toe protection do you have? When hiking, we spend hours on rocky terrain and grassy surfaces. Toe protection is critical during these times. A lot of people skip safety and buy inexpensive toe covers. However, over time, the toe cover gets brittle and breaks down. You want to purchase toe covers specifically designed for hikers! Most of them are made of leather or synthetic materials.

Uppers

Which material is your upper? Are you looking at a mesh or canvas fabric upper? Mesh uppers are lighter and breathable than canvas uppers. Canvas uppers can hold their shape and keep your feet dryer.

Buy a shoe with good traction outsole

Hiking boots have a solid sole and sturdy design for added stability and durability. Most footwear companies make good quality boots that are very durable. Make sure to buy a pair of boots that offers good traction. You should look at the rubber material, tread pattern, and the number of traction spikes. The soles should offer grip and traction for walking on uneven ground, wet surfaces, and climbing over rocks.

Check the size chart

Many manufacturers give a rough guideline for sizing their boots, but they may not always fit properly. A good rule of thumb is to check the manufacturer's sizing charts. If you have trouble finding a size chart in-store, then take them to a local store and ask for help. Usually you can find a person who knows how to measure correctly and what brand fits best.

Women's shoe size conversions

SIZES (US)	SIZES (EURO)	SIZES (UK)	Length of feet in inches
4	35	2	8.188"
4.5	35	2.5	8.375"
5	35-36	3	8.563"
5.5	36	3.5	8.75"
6	36-37	4	8.875"
6.5	37	4.5	9.063"
7	37-38	5	9.25"
7.5	38	5.5	9.375"
8	38-39	6	9.5"
8.5	39	6.5	9.688"
9	39-40	7	9.875"
9.5	40	7.5	10"
10	40-41	8	10.188"
10.5	41	8.5	10.375"
11	41-42	9	10.5"
11.5	42	9.5<	10.688"
12	42-43	10	10.875"

Men's shoe size conversions

SIZES (US)	SIZES (EURO)	SIZES (UK)	Length of feet in Inches
6	39	5.5	9.25"
6.5	39	6	9.5"
7	40	6.5	9.625"
7.5	40-41	7	9.75"
8	41	7.5	9.938"
8.5	41-42	8	10.125"
9	42	8.5	10.25"
9.5	42-43	9	10.438"
10	43	9.5	10.563"
10.5	43-44	10	10.75"
11	44	10.5	10.938"
11.5	44-45	11	11.125"
12	45	11.5	11.25"
13	46	12.5	11.563"
14	47	13.5	12.188"
15	48	14.5	12.125"
16	49	15.5	12.5"

Size down if needed

You never want to go above your foot size since it will restrict blood flow and cause blisters. Also, avoid going below your normal shoe size since it could lead to blisters. Wearing larger sizes than you normally would allow for proper padding. If you need a smaller size, then get a half size down. Shoes can stretch slightly over time, so wait until you've worn them in for a few weeks before taking them off.

Wear socks

Wear thick socks that provide adequate wicking and moisture management. Cotton socks work well, especially in the summertime. Your feet sweat and will need to breath in order to cool down. Socks that trap heat can result in hot spots and blisters.

Choose high quality leather shoes

Hiking shoes should be made from leather that is top quality. Avoid synthetic materials such as nylon, polyester, and canvas. Synthetic materials don't breathe and dry out quickly. Leather provides excellent insulation and absorbs water easily. High quality leather shoes will last longer and require less maintenance.

Find comfortable footbeds

The foot bed is where the heel of the shoe meets the bottom of the foot. This is where most of the pressure comes from. Foot beds should be soft and cushioned to prevent injuries. Good quality shoes will have a contoured foot bed that conforms to the shape of your foot. Look for a foot bed that provides arch support.

Avoid ill fitting shoes

A poorly fitted shoe can lead to blisters and other injuries. When trying on different pairs of shoes, try to keep your eyes peeled for any issues, including tightness, discomfort, rubbing, and blistering. Ill fitting shoes can lead to pain and injury.