For some folks, they seldom hike or walk long miles. As a result, it makes them not versed or unspecific with the footwear to put on when they want to embark on such. Well, I cannot say, hiking might be your next event in the upcoming vacation. Or perhaps, you have an excursion with your colleagues - an expedition. To avoid miseries and avert possible weary feet, I am here to help with what shoes to wear for hiking.
What are the Shoes to Wear for Hiking?
Shoes are essential components that will always be needed whenever you intend to hike. Of course, you will not walk a few or long miles barefooted. So let us have a clear thought on the possible land terrain, waters, and topography you may come across.
There should be some appropriate shoes to avoid the chances of your hiking being cut short. Do you also think so? Well, you do not have to ponder too much on that. I have a guide here below for you on what shoes to wear for hiking, and you will come to terms with every bit of it.
Hiking Boots?
Hiking boots are not like the other regular footwear you can use for hiking. They readily overcome any barriers that may limit your distance. I mean, these hiking boots will endure through rough and slippery terrains you may come across. While you are planning towards hiking that will take long miles, these boots are the perfect match.
The hiking boots can sometimes be heavier on your feet. So, you may deem them as a burden. No. They protect ankles from cramps or external damages.
Even if your hike will cover a large part of hilly terrains, they are durable and will outlive the hike. You will walk along miles and still have these reliable boots to lean on. If your backpack is a part of the hike, do not be hasty. Add hiking boots inside.
Waterproof Shoes
One thing to consider before you begin your hike is water. Why? It is needless to put your regular shoes at stake even if the hiking is limited to a few miles away. You may not be crossing rivers or exceeding water boundaries. Who knows? The weather might change, and have your shoes caught in a mild or heavy rainfall.
Waterproof shoes are quite a perfect match for hikes that would take shorter or longer miles. It may seem unnecessary and outdated in certain seasons to you. Then, you cannot rule out the possibility of a swampy area or puddles on the path you are threading in a rainforest. Subsequently, you can get your regular shoes damaged in the process.
Most importantly, do not let us get fixated on the external damage to your shoes. Your feet will always be protected when you wear waterproof shoes to hike in the snow. It will be warm and comfortable, regardless of how thick the snow could be. For safety and comfort, waterproof shoes should top your list in any of your hikes during winter.
What are the Examples of Water Proof Shoes?
- Rain Sneakers
These sneakers have designs made to wade off the water. Even better, you can easily slip on or get it off and move it around when it is time to hike. The thick soles make you walk through rough paths.
- Duck Boots
You must have been conversant with this boot or probably have one. Duck boots are also similar to rain boots that have a thick sole. Unlike others, they are less ventilated. It can only take you across a few miles before your feet get hot.
Trail Runner Shoes
Any shoe you opt for as a preference or consider wearing for hiking must be weightless to a certain extent. No hiker should be burdened with shoe weight when exploring. Then you ask, what shoes offer a relative feature? It should interest you to know that this is where the Trail Runner Shoes sets in.
Trail Runner shoes are lightweight and easier to move around. Consider you are walking on hilly terrain. You will need shoes that are not stuck to the ground to avoid weariness. These shoes will enable you to move around with comfort. Be it short miles or long distances. They are a perfect match.
The Trail Runner shoes have a thick sole for foot support. It provides you a solid platform to lean on when hiking, and it is long-lasting. The designs can pave through roads, forests, and diverse parts of the ecosystem.
Running Shoes
If you are still engrossed in what shoes to wear for hiking, running shoes are another suitable option you might consider. Running shoes are a specialized type of footwear for hikers and other related adventurers. Just as the name suggests, it is a premise for running and walking through miles.
Running shoes have a less thick sole, unlike regular hiking shoes. It may wear out in no distant time. However, it is what you can wear when going short miles or less distance. You can have them worn on flat grounds, bushy grasses et al.
There are different lengths and widths you can find in the Running shoes out there. To enjoy the ventilation, you can opt for an oversized type. Regardless, they will still offer tight grips if well strapped.
Is there a difference between Running Shoes and Trail Runner?
There is often a misconception about running shoes and trail running shoes. The thoughts of similarity could also be from your end. But, they are of a distinct type. How? Spot the features.
Running shoes have lesser lugs in their sole in comparison to the Train-Runners. Those who hike on flat terrain may find comfort in ordinary running shoes. Yet, that does not make the Trail Runners worthless. In contrast, they are also better adapted to high and hilly terrains.