Tips for picking the right pack-free hiking footwear

Tips for picking the right pack-free hiking footwear

One of the questions we frequently get asked by people booking one of our pack-free guided walks is what type of footwear should they wear on the trail.

 

Now some people in the great outdoors like to wear hefty, supportive leather boots whilst others prefer a more lightweight, flexible walking shoe.

Seeing as you’re not carrying a large pack, just a small daypack, a leather boot is probably overkill, however a pair of runners won’t cut it so you need something in between.

 

There are many shoe brands that make a solid, walking shoe (as opposed to a full boot) that are lightweight, breatheable (that just means air can go in and out of it so it’s not all hot and stuffy for your feet), and have a grippy sole.

We always recommend you visit an outdoor gear retailer to get the best advice on shoe brands but basically they’ll tell you it’s important to find a pair that offers comfort, durability, and the right features for your specific needs so with this in mind, here are TEN TIPS to help guide your purchase:

Know Your Terrain
Consider where you’ll be hiking most. Visit our website and look at the walk you want to do. There should be plenty of information on the terrain you’ll be walking on. Light trails require different shoes than rugged, rocky paths. For challenging terrain, you may need more robust shoes with deeper tread and ankle support.

 

Fit is Key
Your hiking shoes should fit snugly without being too tight. You don’t want your feet sliding around or being cramped. Always try on shoes later in the day when your feet are slightly swollen to ensure a good fit.

Consider Shoe Type
Hiking shoes generally come in three types: trail runners (light and flexible), hiking shoes (sturdy, ankle-height), and boots (supportive, higher ankle). Pick the one that best matches your hiking style.

 

Waterproofing
If you’re hiking in wet conditions or through streams, choose waterproof shoes. Gore-Tex and similar materials are common for water resistance but remember they may not be breathable in hot conditions.

Breathability
If you’re hiking in warm weather, look for shoes with mesh panels or breathable fabrics to keep your feet cool and dry.

 

Weight Matters
Lighter shoes are more comfortable for quick hikes, while heavier shoes provide more support for long, rugged treks. Choose based on your trip length and type of hike.

Cushioning
Ensure the shoe has enough cushioning for comfort over long distances. You may want shoes with EVA or PU foam midsoles for better shock absorption.

Durability
Look for shoes with durable soles, like Vibram, that can handle the roughness of trails. High-quality materials mean they’ll last longer.

 

Arch Support
Your arch type (low, medium, or high) can impact your comfort. Many hiking shoes offer different levels of support, so pick one that matches your needs.

Test Them Out!
Before committing, walk around in the shoes for a bit to get a feel for them. If possible, test them on different surfaces to simulate actual hiking conditions. And once you have bought the wear them in before your pack-free guided walk by walking around you local area – hills, dirt trails, stairs, streams and everything in between!

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