Avid hikers know that comfortable shoes are the key to good mood and health during a hike. A correctly selected pair will give you the opportunity to fully enjoy your trip, and not be distracted by annoying misunderstandings in the form of abrasions and calluses. Then we’ll take a closer look at the most practical shoe models.
Choosing the most comfortable shoes for hiking
Regular city boots or sneakers are not suitable for hiking. And army combat boots would be a bad option. Manufacturers of special shoes think through the smallest details of the design: the load on descents and ascents, contact with sharp stones, humidity, the weight of the backpack and much more are taken into account.
The models use wear-resistant materials, reinforced seams made of durable threads and glue. This ensures freedom and safety of movement on terrain, which is not available in an urban environment. After all, on a hike, a number of additional loads appear that ordinary sneakers can no longer withstand.
Important! Hiking shoes are primarily distinguished by their reliable construction, while urban models have a priority on design.
Requirements for hiking shoes
Unlike ordinary shoes, hiking-type models have special requirements:
- Strength and wear resistance. After all, even in an unforeseen situation, it should not fail.
- Convenience and comfort. It is important that the pair fits perfectly on the foot and is previously broken in.
- Protective functions. Boots should protect the foot from possible injury and threats from the external environment. The model should have a rubberized toe, ankle support to prevent dislocation, and an anti-slip sole.
- Moisture resistance. To keep your feet warm at all times, shoes should be made of waterproof material.
- Compliance with the conditions of the trip. The product must be designed for specific tasks, temperatures, etc. For example, for a trip to Crimea you need one category, but for climbing Elbrus a completely different one.
Shoe classification
Shoes are conventionally divided into winter, summer and demi-season.. There is no single classifier of hiking models, as brands constantly offer exclusive types and introduce new terms. Then we will consider the main options that are considered the most convenient for various hikes.
Hiking sandals
In the summer, tourists often choose sandals so that their feet can “breathe” between passes. This species is also bought for simple walks, where there is no need to often climb hills. They are convenient for moving along paths and simple terrain. In addition, they are ideal for crossing shallow forest ponds, as they do not absorb water and dry quickly.
Sandals have a flexible base and good shock-absorbing properties. Some species may have a closed nose that protects the fingers from injury.
Reference! The peculiarity of sandals is their low weight, so they are convenient to carry with you as an additional pair.
Trekking sneakers for summer hikes
This segment is one of the most popular and in demand. In appearance, the model resembles huge sneakers, which are more like military boots. Despite the impressive sole, some products can weigh only 600-700 g.
Thanks to a well-thought-out ventilation system, even in hot weather, your feet feel comfortable and comfortable.
The membrane technologies used in production allow steam and moisture to escape. But the shoes no longer allow liquid to pass through from the external environment.
Boots for off-season walks
In boots of this type a waterproof Goretex membrane is used, which allows steam to pass through. And the sole is made using Vibram technology, which provides traction and ankle support. Rubber boots are also ideal for the off-season. Although there are many opponents of using them for hiking.
Of course, you can use membrane sneakers, but if you walk through marshy soils, they are unlikely to help. The main thing is to buy boots in specialized departments for hunting and fishing. Modern models are so comfortable that they don’t even slip.
Winter boots
This type is made with a thick sole that provides good grip on the surface. It should be possible to install mounts for crampons. The boots are made of thicker leather, so they look massive.
The pair should be selected in such a way that there is room for insulated socks. However, the foot should not dangle in the boots.
Extreme boots for hiking in the mountains
To go to the mountains you will need special trekking boots. If you plan to wear crampons, they should have welts. After all, you will have to move over stones, snowdrifts and loose surfaces. Such models are heavy in weight. However, if the pair is chosen correctly, then it will be comfortable. There are both men's and women's boots.
Advice! If you plan to hike only on snowy surfaces, then it is better to give preference to high-altitude boots made of plastic.
Features of membranes in hiking shoes
The main function of the membrane is to remove steam and sweat from the body on the one hand, and moisture resistance on the other hand. Let's consider the main types of membrane technologies:
- OutDry. The waterproof layer is fixed to the outer fabric without threads or cavities.
- Gore-tex. One of the most commonly used fabrics. It consists of three layers: outer, membrane and lining.
- eVent. The fabric is rarely used for shoes, as it has pores that can quickly become clogged. However, cheaper options still use it.
How to dry membrane shoes?
There are some rules you should know.
Important! It should be remembered that the membrane is destroyed by any heat. Therefore, you cannot dry the product over or near a fire.
In this process, it is better to use a regular rag and thoroughly wipe the outer surface. The insoles are easy to remove, and you can put crumpled paper or napkins inside. After a couple of hours, the paper will absorb the moisture on its own, and the shoes will be dry again.
What to wear besides special shoes?
A useful thing is trekking socks. They have seals in areas that are subject to heavy loads. In addition, they perfectly remove moisture and minimize the formation of chafing and calluses. Regular thermal socks remove liquid well. Therefore, when buying boots, leave extra room for the toe. After all, if your feet are cramped, they are more likely to freeze.
When are the sneakers enough?
You can get by with regular sneakers during a short weekend hike. The shoes will definitely not let you down if the weather is dry and warm. For hiking in the mountains, you can choose stronger sneakers.
Expert advice
For a first-time traveler, it’s best to have several shoe options. There, Where a regular pair of hiking shoes is sufficient for an experienced hiker, a beginner may need shoes with extra protection and features. After a certain number of training sessions, you will be able to get by with just one pair. However, in addition to the basic option, it is important to take lighter sneakers or sandals in which your feet can rest.
While in the store, it is advisable to try on as many options as possible. After all, manufacturers are constantly improving their range and have their own unique features. Beginners often choose the heaviest mountain boots. However, if this is not an expedition of the fourth degree of difficulty, then wearing such a model will be difficult and irrational.
Attention! Many experts advise wearing a new pair for a month and only then relying on it on a hike.
Shoes are the most important element of equipment, and their selection should be taken with particular seriousness. The main difference between specialized shoes is the presence of a special waterproof membrane, which allows your feet to remain dry, warm and comfortable.
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