What to look for when buying hiking footwear

What to look for when buying hiking footwear

One of the most importance pieces of gear to get right when you go on one of our pack-free guided walks is footwear.

Trailshoes V boots. Trail runners are running shoes that are designed for use on natural trails. They’re lightweight, have a good grip and are very flexible. They’re probably what you want on one of our walks.

Boots on the other hand, are designed for the outdoors and offer more ankle support than trailrunners but are more designed for people carrying large, fully-laden backpacks – on our tours that’s not you! But you might still prefer boots over trailrunners.

Either way, here are 5 things you should consider when buying footwear for the great outdoors.

1. Fit and Comfort

The most important factor when choosing shoes for walking in the great outdoors is how they fit. Ill-fitting shoes or boots can cause blisters, discomfort, and injury. Ensure there’s enough room in the toe box for movement but not so much that your foot slides around. Boots should feel snug around the ankle for proper support without being too tight. Try them on with the socks you plan to wear hiking — preferably later in the day, when feet tend to swell slightly.

2. Support and Stability

Bushwalking often involves uneven terrain, so ankle support and a stable midsole are essential. Look for shoes or boots that offer firm ankle support and a stiff midsole to maintain balance on rough trails. If you’re carrying a heavy backpack, this support becomes even more important to avoid straining your joints. Boots designed for more demanding treks often have higher ankle coverage and a more robust build.

3. Traction and Outsole Design

A boot’s outsole plays a major role in safety. Look for durable rubber soles with deep, multi-directional lugs for traction on mud, gravel, and wet rocks. For especially slippery or snowy conditions, choose boots with aggressive tread patterns that provide better grip and stability, helping to prevent slips and falls.

4. Waterproofing and Breathability

Weather can shift quickly outdoors, making waterproof boots a smart choice. Look for boots with waterproof yet breathable membranes (like Gore-Tex) to keep your feet dry without overheating. Overly airtight boots can trap sweat, causing discomfort, so breathability is important for warmer hikes or long distances.

5. Weight and Durability

Match the boot weight to your hiking needs. Lightweight boots suit day hikes, while heavier alpine boots offer more support for rugged, multi-day treks. Leather boots are durable and weather-resistant but heavier; synthetic options are lighter and more breathable but may wear out faster. Prioritise quality materials suited to your terrain.

So know you know what to look for when buying hiking footwear, book your self guided walking tour with Lifes An adventure to get started.

Final Tip: Test your boots, research brands, and buy from a reputable outdoor retailer for expert advice tailored to your hiking goals.

Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook to stay up to date with our latest tours and offers.