Different Types of Hiking Shoes

Trail hiking

Photo by Austin Ban on Unsplash

A media sales executive from New York, Beecher Scarlett most recently was a vice president of national advertising sales for TVGN. There, he was involved with rebranding and transforming the network with pivot programming and a revitalized sales strategy. Aside from his professional responsibilities, Beecher Scarlett enjoys hiking.

No hiker is fond of having to stop to treat blisters in the midst of a hike. Even worse is being required to treat blackened toenails, sprained ankles, bone spurs, or plantar fasciitis. The best way for hikers to prevent these types of injuries is to make sure they buy the right shoes. The right hiking shoe should not be tight. Instead, it should be snug enough to prevent injuries, but roomy enough to wiggle one’s toes. Hikers should consider factors such as comfort, durability, stability, weight, warmth, and water resistance. The type and style of shoe a hiker purchases depends on the type of hiking they are planning to do.

Trail hikers should consider hiking shoes. These are low cut styles with flexible soles. Since they are made out of a combination of fabric and leather, they aren’t usually waterproof and require waterproof socks or a waterproofing treatment. 

Day hikers can opt for hiking shoes or a sturdier day hiking boot. Featuring a higher cut, they offer additional support for day hikes or light back packing trips.

Serious backpackers should invest in backpacking boots that are designed for excellent support and heavy loads. Usually made fully of leather, they are durable, supportive, and waterproof. 

Purchasing the right type of shoes can make all the difference on a hike. Hikers should consult with professionals to determine an appropriate style and fit.