Looking for your first pair of hiking boots? Need to replace your old shoes with worn-out soles? Here are our tips for finding the right hiking boot for you.
Technical characteristics and anatomy of hiking boots
Cushioning, sole, grip, rigidity, height of the upper are as many criteria to study to choose the right pair of hiking boots.
The duration and intensity of your hikes
The duration of your hike and especially the level of autonomy you are looking for will influence the weight of your backpack. If you skipped the previous paragraph, it is time to read it!
The notion of the duration of a hike is subjective. One hour of walking on an easy trail is not as tiring as one hour of unstable scree. Your fitness level and habits will not always set the “it’s long!” slider on the same schedule.
So simply ask yourself if your goals feel “short” or “long”. This way, you will favor either lightness and freedom of movement or stability and support for your future hiking boots.
Finally, for intensive use, look for shoes that are more reinforced and have thicker soles for better durability.
WHAT IS MY FITNESS LEVEL?
This is another question that requires you to analyze your abilities in order to avoid mistakes when choosing your hiking boots. Evaluate your current state of fitness objectively.
For example, you may be inexperienced but progressing with regular practice. Your outings are more and more ambitious and technical. You have never injured your ankle and are in good physical condition because you practice other endurance sports.
You can then favor light models and why not take advantage of the freedom of movement of a low upper.
Perhaps you have accumulated experience after many years of walking in the mountains but a sprained ankle has prevented you from walking in recent months? Were you used to walking for miles and miles with your low uppers?
Your shoes without ankle support are no longer suitable. Opt for stable shoes with a high upper to secure your ankles. You will surely be able to use your previous low shoes once you are back in shape.
TRYING ON HIKING BOOTS
You have taken stock of your hiking experience and have identified the most suitable footwear family among all the brands and models available. Whether it’s in a specialized store or when you receive your order on the Internet, you must validate the chosen model by trying it on.
Even if the shoe is new and regardless of its price, you should not feel any unpleasant pressure points on your foot. The fit, i.e. the internal shape and volume of the shoe, must adapt as well as possible to the morphology of your foot (and not the opposite!).
The lacing system, whether classic or Quick Lace, must allow you to adjust the shoe to your foot without pulling on the laces like a brute.
How to choose your hiking boots size?
Ideally, try on different models of hiking boots at the end of the day with your usual walking socks
With your shoe loose, you should be able to put a finger behind your heel when your toes touch the front of the shoe.
If you are not sure to choose your perfect size, choose the larger size. The first reason is that your feet will swell with hours of walking. It is also easy to reduce the volume of a shoe that is a little too big with a sole. The opposite is more complicated…
Your hiking practice evolves. Your state of fitness also changes according to the hazards of daily life. Only a regular analysis of your activity will allow you to change your equipment accordingly… Starting with your shoes!
Different types of hiking boots
There are many models of shoes on the market adapted to different walking practices. First, before choosing a pair of shoes, it is important to determine your type of hiking. Choose your hiking shoe according to your use.
1-Strolling and short hikes on gentle terrain:
Focus on comfort, lightness, grip and breathability. Choose a low or mid upper model.
2-Day hikes in the mountains:
On uneven terrain, it is recommended to use a high or mid shoe for better foot support. Choose a sole that grips and a comfortable model with frontal protection.
3-Long hike / Trekking :
For long hikes and treks where the terrain can sometimes be difficult, it is recommended to have high top shoes. The model must be protected by front and side reinforcements. The shoe must be comfortable, waterproof and breathable. The sole should not be flexible or too rigid. The advice: take a semi-rigid sole, the compromise between comfort and grip.
4-Desert:
Focus on comfort, grip and breathability. Opt for a low or mid upper model. In the Sahara desert, sandals will also find their followers.
5-High mountain:
High shaft shoes with cramponable soles are essential. For glacier hiking, prefer semi-rigid shoes for more comfort. For technical races and ice climbing, rigid shoes are mandatory!
6-Fast hiking, trail :
Low shaft shoe adapted to the mountain. Important criteria: comfort, lightness, foot support, cushioning, grip. These models are very popular with hikers who want to keep weight to a minimum.
7-Approach walking:
Low shaft shoes adapted to the mountain like those for trail walking, with the difference that they are much stiffer, with a thicker sole, and that they offer more foot protection.
Once you have identified your needs and explained them to the salesperson, the latter will direct you to the most suitable hiking boots. Your fitting must be meticulous. A quality shoe must combine support and comfort. Anticipate the swelling of the foot when walking (preferably do your fittings at the end of the day, with a pair of hiking socks) and opt for a larger size. Lace up your shoes and make sure that no toes or parts of the foot are compressed. Even for the heaviest models with a high upper, the feeling of comfort should be immediate. If necessary, you can change the width of the shoe and find a shoe that fits.
