There is a debate among hikers as to which type of footwear is best - boots or shoes? Both are excellent choices but the different types of footwear fare better in specific situations and types of terrain.

Do you Really Need Hiking Boots or Shoes?

The short answer is no. You can hike in any pair of boots or shoes you own. I hiked for years in cross-trainers. I only purchased hiking boots when I started travelling more to hike. I opted for a pair of boots because I wanted the flexibility to hike in different weather conditions and terrain. I also just like wearing boots.

If you are going to be wearing non-hiking footwear, I would avoid ones with flat bottoms as they provide little to no traction on the trails. I would also personally avoid open-toe shoes or sandals as I find that they offer little protection.

If you plan on racking up a ton of mileage on the trails, you may want to invest in a pair of hiking shoes or hiking boots. The advantage of hiking shoes and boots is that they are designed to be more durable, include more support, and some also have the added benefit of being waterproof allowing you to hike in all weather conditions. When it comes to the world of hiking footwear, there is a lot to choose from. They come it all sorts of designs, features, and price points. You will easily be able to find a pair to fit your tastes and budget.

Types of Footwear

Hiking footwear generally falls into the following categories - hiking shoes, hiking boots, and trail runners. Each type offers something different and each type has its pros and cons.

Hiking Shoes: Hiking shoes are durable footwear designed to be able to take the abuse on the trails. They offer great traction and support you need to comfortably hike long and short distances. Hiking shoes come up to the ankle. They are generally lighter weight than boots and many have waterproof versions available. The one downside is that since they only come up to the ankles, they are vulnerable to water entering from the opening at the ankle.

Trail Runners: There is a lot to choose from in this category. Trail runners are running shoes designed for those who run on trails. They’re designed and manufactured to allow for quick springy movements, but also include protection, support, and traction needed for running off-road. Like traditional running shoes, trail runners are more breathable than hiking shoes. And similar to hiking shoes, some trail runners also come in waterproof models. Don’t be fooled by the name though, these are not just for runners. Many people where trail runners because they are lightweight making them a great option for fast and quick hikes.

Hiking Boots: Although you can find lightweight hiking boots, they are generally heavier than the other type of hiking specific footwear. Hiking boots are durable and provide excellent support under the foot and around the ankles. They feature wide, thick soles that provide a solid base. Their beefy design provides more stability and enables them to withstand more wear and tear. Their soles are also designed to provide traction and make it easier to walk on rugged terrain. Boots are an excellent option If you plan to hike in the winter or wet weather, you may want to consider a pair of warm boots with an added waterproof membrane to keep your feet comfortable and dry.

It’s not a question of which is better

When it comes choosing between hiking shoes or hiking boots, the question isn’t which is better overall. You should be picking footwear that suits the type of hiking you will be doing most often. If you are doing short day hikes in warm weather on fairly flat terrain, you don’t really need boots. Hiking shoes will be more than sufficient. But if your intention is to hike rugged terrain all season long and in different weather conditions, you may want to get boots for the added versatility. Here is quick overview of the advantages of hiking boots and hiking shoes.

Let us know what you like best about hiking boots and hiking shoes. Happy trails!