Choosing your hiking boots: the complete guide
The importance of choosing the right hiking shoes
Hiking boots are the most important piece of your outdoor gear. A poor choice can turn a great outing into an ordeal with blisters, pain, and excessive fatigue. This guide will help you find the perfect pair for your needs.
The different types of hiking shoes
1. Low-cut shoes (trail running / light hiking)
Suitable for: Short hikes on well-marked trails, brisk walking, light trail running
Advantages: Lightweight, breathable, flexible, quick-drying
Disadvantages: Less ankle support, limited protection
Terrain: Easy trails, forest paths, duration 1-4 hours
Discover our Breathable Trail Hiking Shoes , perfect for your light outings.
2. Mid shoes (medium upper)
For whom: Day hikes, varied terrain, light to medium pack
Advantages: Good compromise between weight and support, ankle protection, versatile
Disadvantages: Less breathable than low-cut socks
Terrain: Mountain trails, rocky terrain, duration 4-8 hours
Our Unisex High-Top Hiking Shoes offer excellent comfort for your autumn and winter hikes.
3. High-top shoes (trekking)
For whom: Multi-day treks, difficult terrain, heavy pack
Advantages: Excellent support, maximum protection, stability under load
Disadvantages: Heavier, requires a break-in period
Terrain: High mountains, rugged terrain, multi-day treks
High-top, non-slip hiking shoes are ideal for demanding terrain.
The essential selection criteria
Comfort and fit
Golden rule: Always try on your shoes at the end of the day when your feet are slightly swollen, such as when hiking.
- Toe box space: Leave 1 cm in front of your toes to avoid impact when going downhill
- Heel: The heel should not lift off the ground when walking
- Width: The foot must not extend beyond the sides
- Arch of the foot: Must be well supported
Waterproofing
Gore-Tex membrane or equivalent: Essential for hiking in wet weather or in the mountains. Note that more waterproof means less breathable.
When to choose waterproofing:
- Mountain hikes
- Wet seasons (autumn, spring)
- Stream crossings
- Morning dew
The sole
Vibram sole: The benchmark in grip and durability
- Deep cleats: For muddy and technical terrain
- Medium crampons: Versatile, suitable for most hikes
- Stiffness: Stiffer for rocky terrain, more flexible for easy trails
The weight
Every gram counts! One kilo on your feet is equivalent to 5-6 kilos on your back in terms of energy expenditure.
- Lightweight: 300-500g (low)
- Average weight: 500-700g (mid)
- Lourdes: 700g+ (high, trekking)
Special shoes for winter conditions
For winter hikes or snowy conditions, choose boots specifically designed with an insulating lining. Our Waterproof Fleece-Lined Snow Boots offer warmth and grip on snowy terrain.
How to properly try on your shoes
In store
- Wear the socks you will use for hiking
- Try both feet (often slightly different)
- Lace up properly and walk for at least 10 minutes
- Test on a slope if possible
- Check that there are no points of friction
The break-in period
Never go on a long hike with new shoes!
- Wear them at home for a few days
- Go for 2-3 short outings (1-2 hours)
- Gradually increase the distance
- A minimum of 20-30 km of break-in before a trek
Caring for your hiking boots
After each outing
- Remove the insoles
- Remove the mud with a brush
- Allow to air dry (never near a heat source)
- Stuff with newspaper if very damp
Regular maintenance
- Clean with lukewarm water and a soft brush
- Re-waterproof 1-2 times a year with a suitable spray
- Check the wear on the soles.
- Replace the worn shoelaces
When should you replace your shoes?
Signs that it's time for a change:
- Worn sole (smooth cleats)
- Irreparable loss of waterproofing
- Sole detachment
- Loss of support
- After 800-1200 km depending on usage
Our recommendations based on your practice
Beginner - Occasional hikes
Waterproof, versatile, mid-cut shoes at a mid-range price. Prioritize comfort over performance.
Regular hiker - Weekly outings
Invest in a quality pair with a good waterproof membrane and Vibram sole. Consider two pairs: a lightweight pair for summer, and a more robust pair for winter.
Trekker - Multi-day treks
High-top shoes with excellent support, guaranteed waterproofing, and a rigid sole. Don't compromise on quality.
Conclusion
Choosing your hiking boots is an investment in your comfort and safety. Take the time to try them on properly, don't hesitate to ask for advice, and remember: the most expensive boot isn't necessarily the best for YOU. It's the one that fits your foot and your activity perfectly.
At Farzen Base Camp, we offer a selection of hiking boots suitable for all levels and terrains. Don't hesitate to contact us for personalized advice.
Happy hiking and take care of your feet!