Good hiking shoes make a big difference on a walking trip. During a day of hiking, you often take thousands of steps. If your shoes aren't suitable, you can quickly end up with blisters, foot pain, or even injuries. So, it's important to choose shoes that are right for the terrain, the weight of your pack, and the shape of your feet.
At Travelbase Trails, we recommend using hiking shoes with good traction, a high shaft, and A/B category for our trails. They provide enough stability and support for the varied terrains you'll encounter.
Lightweight Shoes (A)
These are lightweight and flexible shoes, somewhat comparable to sturdy sneakers. They are ideal for day hikes on well-maintained trails with a light pack.
Versatile Shoes (A/B or B)
This is the most commonly used category for hiking trips. They are sturdier and provide more support for the feet and ankles. They are well-suited for multi-day hikes with a backpack. For most of our Travelbase Trails, this is the best choice.
Mountaineering Shoes (C)
These shoes are designed for very technical terrain, snow, and heavy packs. They are very rigid and robust. For classic hikes, they are generally too heavy.
Leather
Solid and durable. Over time, the shoe molds to the shape of your foot. However, they are heavier and require more maintenance.
Synthetic
Lighter, they dry faster and are often comfortable from the start. However, they tend to wear out more quickly than leather shoes.
Combination
Many models combine leather and synthetic materials. This allows for durability, comfort, and good ventilation.
Waterproof shoes
They're handy in the rain, mud, or cold weather. They keep water out.
Non-waterproof shoes
They breathe better and are often more comfortable in warm climates. They also dry faster when wet.
It's recommended to buy your hiking shoes later in the day. Your feet are slightly swollen at that time, just like during a hike.
Leave about an inch of space between your toes and the front of the shoe. This prevents your toes from hitting the front when going downhill.
Always try your shoes on with hiking socks.
Over time, hiking shoes wear out. You might notice this when the sole has little grip, when the cushioning decreases, when the upper part is damaged, or when the shoe loses its shape.
On average, a pair of hiking shoes lasts between 800 and 2000 kilometers, depending on the type of shoe and the terrain.
Good hiking socks are important while walking. They help prevent blisters, provide cushioning, and wick away sweat. Even with good hiking boots, poor socks can quickly lead to foot pain.
Merino wool
Merino wool is soft, regulates temperature well, and limits odors. It remains comfortable even when slightly damp.
Synthetic materials
Synthetic socks dry quickly and are often more durable. They are useful in wet conditions.
Combination
Many hiking socks combine wool and synthetic fibers. This provides comfort, good ventilation, and a longer lifespan.
Thin Socks
Suitable for warm conditions and short hikes.
Medium Socks
This is the most common choice. They provide enough cushioning and are suitable for most hiking trips.
Thick Socks
Useful in cold weather, with a heavier backpack, or on more challenging terrain.
Socks should always be higher than the top of your hiking shoes. This helps prevent rubbing and irritation.
Short socks
For low hiking shoes.
Medium height
They cover the ankle and protect against small pebbles that can get into the shoe.
High socks
They go up to the calf and are ideal for use with high hiking boots.
Good hiking socks often have
Replace your hiking socks when
In this case, they no longer protect your feet properly while walking.