The Only Guide You Will Ever Need to Choosing Hiking Shoes
- Sheila Belo
- Mar 13
- 7 min read
Updated: Mar 14
Why Shoes Matter (A Lot)
Sure, a stroll around your local park only needs a comfy pair of trainers. But if you're heading for longer hikes, tackling steep hills, or conquering mountains, it's time to invest in proper hiking shoes.
Why? Because the wrong shoes can lead to blisters, sore feet, tired legs, long-term joint pain, or—worse—slips and falls. And trust me, nothing kills the joy of hiking faster than an unexpected slide down a muddy hill.
The Big Shoe Debate
Ask ten hikers about the best hiking boots, and you’ll get ten different answers (and probably a few passionate arguments).
Instead of pushing brands, I'm here to tell you what features to look for. After that, it’s down to personal preference, budget, and the unique shape of your feet.
*Spoilers: I share my personal favourite at the end of this blog.
The Sole of the Matter
Let's start with the most important part of any hiking shoe: the sole and midsole. It’s what separates true hiking shoes from trendy fashion items that will murder your feet out on the trails.
The sole is the soul of your comfort. (Yep, I went there.)
What is the Midsole?
The midsole of a shoe is the layer of material between the sole (the bottom of the shoe) and the insole (the soft cushion your foot rests on).
In hiking shoes, midsoles vary in stiffness:
Softer midsoles offer more flexibility, which can feel more comfortable for short hikes. However, you'll feel rocks and twigs underfoot, which can tire your feet faster.
Stiffer midsoles provide better protection from rough terrain, allowing you to walk longer distances without discomfort. The downside? They can slow you down a bit, as they're less flexible.
The right choice depends on your hiking style—whether you prioritize comfort and speed or durability and support.
What Makes a Great Hiking Sole?
Deep Lugs: These are the grippy patterns on the sole. Look for deep, well-spaced lugs for better traction, especially in mud.
Heel Brakes: That gap between the mid-sole and heel? It's not just for style. It stops you from sliding downhill, acting like brakes.of
✅ THE GOOD
All trail conditions
Look for soles with a Vibram membrane (that’s the little yellow label). Vibram soles offer a perfect balance of grip and durability. They’re like the Swiss Army knife of hiking soles—ready for anything.
Dry trail condition:
Trail running shoes are perfect for dry conditions. Lightweight, comfy, and grippy—great for fast hikes when mud isn’t a concern.
❌ THE BAD
Stay away from these no good soles. They offer little to no traction on hills, causing you to slip and fall in hiking trails even in dry conditions.
You are also more likely to form blisters wearing these.
Dr Martens and Timberlands should not be worn outside London's Shoreditch.
Beware of similar boots, they are made to endure city life on tarmac, not trail life.
🤢THE UGLY
Heels: Yes, I saw it once. No, I don't think they made it back. #NaturalSelection
Choosing Your Hiking Style
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to hiking shoes. Here’s a breakdown of the different styles:
Trail Runners
Lightweight, flexible, and fast.
Great for dry conditions and long distances.
Less likely to cause blisters.
Midsoles are usually lightly stiff, beign better than trainers but not yet stiff
Downsides? Less durable, not great in wet or muddy conditions.
Best for: Fast day hikes, ultralight backpacking, and casual trails.
Trail runners are similar to running shoes, but with aggressive tread patterns, increased support, heel brakes, and a stiffer midsole. These shoes are super-lightweight and allow a hiker to move quickly.
They are also great for longer distances, as they are less likely to give you blisters or hurt over time. Trail runners are versatile and comfortable shoes that are great for fast-and-light day hikes, ultralight backpacking, or trail running.
The downside of a trail runner is they are usually not as stiff or durable as other shoes, will not protect against the elements as effectively and can be slippery on muddy hills.
Light Hikers
More durable and supportive than trail runners.
Excellent grip and often waterproof.
Lightweight but with better protection.
Midsoles are stiff enough to protect your feet on long hikes
Downside? Not great in heavy rain unless paired with gaiters.
Best for: Tougher terrain, moderate backpacking, and all-weather hiking.
If you can only buy one type of hiking shoes, go for these.
For more protection, support and durability than a trail runner, choose a light hiker. This style of hiking shoe offers excellent traction, a stiff sole, and stability in a lightweight, low-profile package that is more burly and stable than a trail runner on technical terrain.
These shoes are great for those who want more traction and durability without the bulk and heft of a traditional hiking or backpacking boot. With an aggressive tread and multi-directional lugs, you can get great traction on variable terrain.
Light hikers are also often available with a waterproof membrane, which adds a level of inclement weather versatility that most trail runners lack.
You will probably need gaiters under your overtrousers to keep your feet dry when raining heavily, because there is no ankle support to keep water from getting inside or show or soaking your socks.
Mid-Weight Hiking Boots
More ankle support with a higher cuff.
Stiff midsoles for stability on rough trails.
Secure fit and better grip on uneven ground.
Slightly heavier but more protective.
Downside? The midsole stiffness make it hard to walk fast with these
Best for: Mountain hikes, long treks, and challenging terrain.
Mid to high-cuffed boots take the benefits of a low hiking shoe and add additional ankle support.
Great traction, durable construction, a supportive and secure fit, as well as that higher ankle cuff and an often stiffer midsole provide the security and performance that you need for a variety of adventures.
Having one or two lace hooks above the ankle allows you to lock in your heel and secure your ankle in place.
The additional material used will add a small amount of weight, but a midweight hiker will still be lighter and more comfortable when compared to full backpacking or mountaineering boot. A midweight boot is great for the same kinds of trips that you would use a low hiker on, but with the added peace of mind and support of a mid or high-cuffed boot.
Heavy Backpacking Boots
Built for carrying heavy loads.
Super durable with strong ankle support.
Great on rocky, uneven ground.
Downside? They’re heavier and not flexible.
Best for: Multi-day treks, heavy backpacks, and winter hiking.
The bigger, beefier brother of the hiking boot, backpacking boots have stiff soles designed for carrying additional weight, a high cut that offers great ankle stability, and heavy outsoles to handle rugged terrain.
These boots are designed to protect your foot while you carry heavy loads. The stiff soles give your feet a stable platform, reducing foot fatigue as you traverse over thick roots and rocks.
The thick, stiff body of the boot creates a comfortable, supportive home for your foot that is both very durable and helps keep your ankles aligned as you travel over uneven terrain with a heavy pack.
The downside to a backpacking boot is that they are very heavy and less nimble than other options. Heavy backpacking boots are not ideal for thru-hikers, ultralight backpackers, and day hikers, who often use light hikers, approach shoes or trail runners.
Choose a heavy boot of this type if you are carrying a heavy load in your pack, if you are doing wilderness or trail work, or for non-technical winter hiking.
WATERPROOFING
Many hiking boots feature waterproof membranes like GORE-TEX® or eVent®. These keep water out while letting sweat escape, to a limit.
Great for: Wet and muddy hikes.
Downside: Less breathable in hot weather.
Pro tip: If you’re hiking in summer, non-waterproof shoes can be cooler and comfier. And don’t forget—clean your boots regularly to avoid clogged membranes which will destroy the waterproofness.
The Perfect Fit: No Shortcuts!
The only way to find the right fit? Go to a store and try them on. Lots of them.
My Top 2 Tips:
Buy a Size Bigger: Your feet will swell during a long hike. A shoe that's “just right” in the shop will feel like a medieval torture device after five hours on the trail.
Smart Wool Socks: Thick, magical, and somehow cool in summer and warm in winter. They'll keep your feet dry and blister-free.
Where to Shop?
Check out Go Outdoors or Cotswold Outdoor. They have a massive selection, so you're more likely to find the perfect fit. Plus, they often offer better prices than smaller shops.
What Do I Wear?
If you are curious to know what I wear on my weekly hikes, they are these:
SCARPA TERRA
Worried that leather boots are too hot for warmer climates? Don't be. I’ve worn mine in hot weather with light clothes and Smartwool socks, and they keep my feet cool.
But if I’m not hiking up a mountain, I prefer lighter trail running shoes—they’re just more comfortable for casual walks in the heat.
I have worn these on most hikes and even in the city when the weather was attrocious, although I recommend not wearing them in the city much, as the tarmac and sidewalks will sand off your expensive soles.
Final Thoughts
If your shoes are comfortable, have the right soles, and suit your hiking style, you're nearly good to go.
And remember—no heels on the trail. Ever.
Happy hiking! 🚶♂️🏞️
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