How to Choose Your Hiking Footwear

Whether you’re a first timer taking the right steps for your outdoors adventures, or a seasoned veteran renewing the old faithfuls, here’s a thing or two about hiking boots we think could help you out.

There's a tonne of information about how to choose a hiking boot or shoe! We recommend taking into account these 3 main options to get an idea of the best hiking footwear for you.

 

1. Hiking Shoes

These hiking shoes feature more of a low cut trainer shape, a lighter option for long distances and best for agility if you're carrying smaller loads. The sportier styles are commonly used by trail runners or day hikers who don’t need to take excessive supplies or gear out into the wilderness. It’s a lighter style and subjective to your personal preference, but a good option for anyone who wants to move quickly and doesn’t like a higher cut.

 

2. Mid Hiking boots

The higher cut on these hiking boots helps with better ankle support for heavier loads. This results in a slightly larger boot, so it’s not the best for trail running but it’s perfect for hiking and even multi-day trips. There are also a bunch of lightweight options available if that’s your preference.

 

3. High Top Hiking Boots

These backpacking boots provide full support on the ankles and soles to lock your feet in for a heavy load. They tend to be the workhorse of hiking shoes and the durability of a good pair will last you years. One of the best investments an adventurer can make.

Once the type of shoe you need has been considered, next up, it’s time to think about the fit and feel. Consider the materials used in the shoes construction, as well as the look and feel, because we all know how important looking good is.

 

Things to Consider

How does the shoe wrap your foot? Is the toe box wide enough? Is there too much space or not enough? Asking yourself these important questions will save you money and discomfort in the future. It’s also important to try different models and to test the cushioning of the midsoles, as well as consider the grip and attraction capabilities of the sole. Look for a well balanced shoe, one that is durable but breathable, stable but not heavy, and of course, waterproof materials will probably be the best decision you’ve made since deciding to go on the hike in the first place.

We made a list of a few of our favourite boots that could be the shoe you’re looking for:

For the adventurers: Best Hiking Boots for Men 2021

For the adventurettes: Best Hiking Boots for Women 2021

Come in store to chat with our experts or shoot us a message online if you have any questions! We’ll see you out there on the trails, that’s if we can keep up with you and your fresh shoes!

Share your adventures with us on Instagram at @wildearthaustralia and use the hashtag #MyWildEarth to be featured.