How to Choose Hiking Shoes? A Practical Guide

Hiking in the mountains and low-lying areas requires appropriate trekking footwear. How do you choose shoes that are comfortable, provide stability, properly wick away moisture, and guarantee high quality for years to come? With our guide, you'll learn how to buy good trekking shoes worth wearing on longer hikes in the mountains and beyond.

What are hiking boots?

Trekking boots are specialized footwear designed for traveling on various types of terrain—both in the mountains and in the lowlands. What distinguishes this type of hiking boots is their solid construction, the use of durable materials, waterproofing, and a well-profiled sole.

What tasks should hiking shoes fulfill?

The main purpose of trekking shoes should be to provide stability. However, besides grip, when choosing trekking footwear, you should simply consider your comfort – for example, by choosing the right size of trekking shoes. You'll quickly discover that this plays a very important role during long hikes. It's also important to match your hiking shoes to the season – for example, choose women's or men's winter sports shoes .

High or low trekking boots – how to choose hiking boots?

Wondering whether to choose low-top hiking boots or perhaps a higher-top option? The answer isn't so simple, as it depends on several important factors.

Low trekking shoes (i.e. with a low upper)

They're best suited for summer hikes, when you want lightweight footwear that wicks moisture away effectively. That's why they're often called summer hiking boots. It's also worth noting that low-cut boots are perfect for more experienced hikers.

High trekking shoes (i.e. with a high shaft)

By choosing high-top shoes, you'll effectively stabilize your ankle and protect it from injury if necessary. If you're inexperienced or embarking on challenging trails, high-top shoes should be your best option. Be sure to choose ones with a stiff sole, as this will protect your feet on slippery surfaces.

In case of low temperatures it is best to pay attention to high insulated women's winter boots or men's models.

Leather trekking shoes – are they worth it?

Good trekking shoes should be made of high-quality materials. Typical choices include full-grain leather, suede, and synthetic materials. Which option is best? Leather trekking shoes are very popular. They offer benefits such as durability, a perfect fit, good thermal insulation, and resistance to mechanical damage. However, it's important to note that they are quite heavy and require waterproofing, for example, applying a waterproofing wax.

By choosing leather boots, you gain durable footwear that performs perfectly in harsh winter conditions. You can easily wear them with warm ski socks .

During the summer months, it's best to opt for synthetic hiking boots. They're lightweight and dry faster than leather models.

Why is it worth choosing trekking shoes with a membrane?

For many people, the ideal hiking boots are models with a membrane. These boots are designed for winter and autumn activities. The now-famous Gore-Tex membrane prevents water from entering the shoe.

On the other hand, it's also worth noting that shoes equipped with a membrane can restrict moisture wicking. While the design of this type of shoe protects against water, it also limits the shoe's breathability, so you might struggle with things like rapid sweating and wet socks while hiking or other activities. Therefore, low-cut mountaineering shoes without a membrane are best suited for summer.

What else should you pay attention to when buying hiking boots?

How to choose hiking shoes? Buying footwear for various activities, such as trail running or mountain hiking, requires careful consideration. It's important to buy comfortable shoes that will ensure safety regardless of the weather.

Outsole and midsole

The outsole and midsole of your footwear are crucial. Ideal models provide adequate grip, for example, on slippery rocks and mud. This is important because it affects your safety and can prevent injuries that could ruin your mountain trip. Good hiking boots should feature a Vibram sole, easily identified by the yellow symbol on the sole.

Sole hardness

Additionally, when choosing trekking shoes, it's also worth considering the stiffness of the sole. Hiking shoes for winter and for more challenging mountain trails should have a hard outer sole. Good trekking shoes for lowland areas and low mountains, on the other hand, may have a much softer sole.

Breathability and comfort

It's best to try on shoes and wear them a few times before planning a hike or other activity. This will ensure they are comfortable, for example, the midsole provides adequate breathability.

Summary – How to choose trekking shoes?

What should you consider when choosing trekking shoes? Ideally, match them to your needs—i.e., the length of the route, the type of terrain, the season, and your comfort level. Properly selected hiking shoes will impact your comfort and safety during the hike.

Remember that high-top boots provide greater protection in the mountains, while low-top models are best suited for summer or spring. Properly fitting footwear is crucial, as it ensures comfort even during prolonged activity. Leather boots, on the other hand, are a long-term investment, but they are quite heavy, so they are better suited for winter.

How to choose hiking boots? Such footwear should be durable, breathable, provide excellent grip, and be comfortable even on long hikes. This is an absolute must for mountain hiking for both women and men.

In addition to good trekking shoes, remember to also buy equipment such as high-quality, breathable men's or women's trekking trousers , trekking socks. Many benefits can also be provided ski equipment , e.g. trekking poles.