Footwear is the most important gear decision you'll make for any hiking trip. The wrong boots can end a hike in blisters, twisted ankles, or worse. Here's how to choose the right pair for your terrain and style.
Trail Runners vs Hiking Boots: The First Decision
Trail runners are lightweight, low-cut shoes designed for agile movement on well-maintained trails. They dry faster, feel more natural underfoot, and are increasingly popular even for multi-day trips among experienced hikers who prioritize speed and comfort over ankle support.
Hiking boots offer more ankle support, better waterproofing, and more durable construction. They're better for heavy loads, rugged terrain, off-trail travel, and wet conditions. The tradeoff is weight and a longer break-in period.
Cut Height Matters
- Low-cut: Lightweight, good for day hikes on established trails with light packs
- Mid-cut: The most versatile option — some ankle support without the weight of a full boot
- High-cut: Maximum ankle support for heavy packs, technical terrain, and backpacking trips
Waterproofing: Do You Need It?
Gore-Tex and other waterproof membranes keep your feet dry in wet conditions but reduce breathability. In hot, dry climates, non-waterproof boots often keep your feet more comfortable. In wet environments — the Pacific Northwest, mountain terrain, stream crossings — waterproofing is worth the tradeoff.
Fit Is Everything
No amount of quality materials makes up for poor fit. When trying on hiking footwear:
- Try on boots at the end of the day when your feet are slightly swollen
- Wear the socks you'll hike in
- There should be a thumb's width of space in the toe box
- Your heel should not lift when walking uphill
- Lace them fully and walk around for at least 10 minutes in the store
Break In Before You Head Out
Never wear new boots on your first major hike. Break them in on short walks and easy day hikes first. This softens the materials, conforms the footbed to your foot, and identifies any hot spots before they become blisters on a multi-day trip.