How to Choose Hiking Shoes: A Comprehensive Guide for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Find out how to pick out hiking footwear that will offer you comfort, stability, and protection as you take on the great outdoors.

I hike regularly, and whenever I do, inevitably, I see someone hiking in the wrong shoes. I’ve witnessed tennis shoes, flip-flops, and even high heels attempting to navigate some pretty rugged terrain, and I always think to myself, “Oh boy, I hope they don’t twist their ankle.”

While picking less-than-ideal footwear won’t make a huge difference while you peruse grocery-store shelves, heading out into nature is a totally different story. Between the uneven surfaces, steep inclines, rocky trails, and tree roots that jump out of nowhere, the right hiking shoes are a must, whether you’re a casual weekend hiker or hoping to Wild it by taking on something as big as the Pacific Crest Trail.

Ahead, is a comprehensive guide on how to choose hiking shoes for any of your outdoor adventures. Between key factors to consider and sage expert advice, you’ll be ready to hike any trail with shoes that provide optimal fit, comfort, and performance.

Understanding the Importance of Hiking Shoes

When it comes to comfort, stability, and injury prevention during outdoor activities, the right hiking shoes can truly make a difference while the wrong shoes can make a hike miserable, if not derail it completely, says Alison Watta, creator and editor at Exploration Solo, a hiking and backpacking blog. “Think about hiking miles over rocky terrain with blisters or torn skin. That’s not going to be the fun adventure you hoped for.”

The right shoes not only protect your feet, but also empower you through solid footing and sturdy support. They also can make you feel “like a superhero rock-hopping over stream crossings or easily managing a steep descent," Watta adds.

When deciding on a pair of hiking shoes, Kim Kelley, footwear specialist at REI Store 63 in Arcadia, California, suggests thinking through the type of terrain you will be traversing, the weather and conditions of the area, the distance you will be hiking, the weight you will be carrying, and the type of shoe that you typically feel comfortable in.

Comfort

Comfort, along with protection, are the two things that Cris Hazzard, professional outdoor guide and author at HikingGuy.com, always looks for in his shoes. “Finding the right shoe for you and your hike balances those two factors."

When you’re wearing hiking shoes, you should feel as if you’re not wearing shoes at all, says Watta. “For me, the sign that I’ve got a great pair of boots is that I’m not thinking about my feet. While they may require a break-in period, they shouldn’t hurt or rub."

Stability

When you’re grappling with unstable terrain, the last thing you’ll want to wear is a pair of unstable shoes. Plus, ankles are particularly prone to hiking injuries.

“You should feel safe and secure tackling complex terrain,” says Watta. Your shoes should protect you from the rocks underneath your feet and support your feet as well.

Injury Prevention

It’s easier than you think to become injured during a hike, and your shoes can help prevent that from happening. For this reason, hiking shoes have unique design features that differentiate them from regular athletic shoes or casual footwear and help prevent injury.

“If you look at the soles on a pair of sneakers and compare it to a hiking shoe, you’ll immediately notice the hiking shoe has a thicker sole and the tread is more pronounced,” says Watta. “On top of that, the hiking shoe will often be heavier.”

You also won’t be able to fold a hiking shoe in half like you can with a sneaker. “There’s a lot of support and the materials are stronger and less flexible to provide stability,” she adds.

Hiking shoes also have a more grippy sole and often have a “rand,” which is a hard, protective cap that goes over the toes, and at times, around the bottom edge of the upper and around the back of the heel, Kelley says. That way, you can prevent stubbing your toes and shield them from falling rocks.

If you’re on the fence about buying a pair of hiking shoes for your outdoor jaunts, consider all the benefits they offer, from traction to support to durability to protection. “Have you ever been out in a pair of sneakers after rain and slipped on wet leaves,” asks Watta. “The lack of tread means you have no traction when the ground below you slides. Now try it again with hiking shoes. This time, you may feel a little slide, but it won’t be as pronounced, and you’ll have control most of the time.”

Finally, hiking shoes come with a durable and rugged construction and a more secure fit, which provide stable footing and can keep you dry. The result? No blisters for you. At the end of the day, when it comes to injury prevention, proper hiking shoes win when hitting the trails.

Hiking Shoe Assessment Questions

When wearing a pair of shoes that you hike in, Hazzard recommends asking yourself these questions:

• Do your feet have enough protection from sharp rocks and roots?

• Is there enough padding to keep your feet feeling fresh?

• Are the materials helping your traction when conditions are rough?

If you’re weighing these questions against a standard pair of athletic shoes, you’ve probably answered “no” to all of them.

Determining Your Hiking Shoe Needs

Before buying a pair of hiking shoes, assess your hiking needs, including the types of terrain you typically tackle, how long you usually hike, and if you ever find yourself carrying a heavy load, like a sizeable backpack. Here are some tips on how to determine your needs.

Terrain Type

Start by thinking about the terrain, suggests Watta. “Are you frequently hiking on rocks? What about areas with a lot of exposed roots? You’ll need heavier shoes with more protection.”

But if you often hike on sandy trails, ones that are well-maintained, or covered with pine needles, these easy surfaces will afford you your choice of shoes, from trail runners (hiking shoes that can double as running shoes) all the way up to hiking boots.

Activity Duration

Do you enjoy hiking for hours on end? Or just an hour or two here and there? Or are you a serious hiker who has aspirations of through-hiking? For casual hikers on even terrain, trail runners will definitely suffice. But anything beyond that might need a more rugged, serious shoe.

"If you tend to roll your foot, or if you have an injury, you may want something that offers more stability like a boot,” says Watta. These types of shoes can be worn on all surfaces for all activity durations so that you can sidestep injury.

Load Carried

Think about how much weight you carry during hikes. Watta says that while trail runners are great for day hikes, and many backpackers wear them, they aren’t really designed to carry heavy weight for extended times. “You won’t have the same level of support, and they won’t last as long as a boot."

Many long-distance backpackers—even on the Appalachian or Pacific Crest Trails—wear trail runners, comments Hazzard. They’re finding that heavy boots aren’t all that beneficial to them, and instead, they prefer something comfortable and lightweight. The lightness may help you feel as if you’re walking more easily as you log those miles, too.

“They are lighter weight and have good tread, but they don’t offer the same stability as a boot,” says Watta. “These are good for people with no foot or ankle issues who like to go fast and are carrying lighter packs. Also, keep in mind they won’t last as long as a hiking shoe.”

On the flip side, hiking shoes are heavier than trail runners but offer greater stability and support. “These are a good option between a hiking boot and trail runner,” says Watta. Hiking shoes offer boot-like toughness and durability without the weight and high cuffs of boots, which can feel a bit uncomfortable at times, Hazzard adds.

Another option is a hiking sandal, which is a newer type of hiking shoe, acting as a backup or alternative to trail runners. Just make sure you choose a pair with good arch support, especially if you’re carrying a heavy pack, says Kelley. “They can be a nice vacation for your feet on your shorter backpacking days when your feet just do not want to get inside a boot again or days when there are a lot of stream crossings."

Hiking boots are the heaviest option, says Watta. These are good for rocky trails and any time you need extra stability. “If you have bad ankles, they can be a lifesaver,” she says. “And the height of the boot is up to the individual. You can find mid-length, which usually just covers the ankle, to boots that come up above the ankle.”

Also, hiking boots are often waterproof, ideal if you find yourself hiking in the rain or ambling through grass covered with morning dew. Just keep in mind that these won’t be as breathable as lighter hiking shoes.

Within the boots category, there are backpacking boots that are more durable, protective, and supportive. These have higher cuffs than day-hiking shoes and a rigid base that improves ankle support and helps to transfer the lifting of the weight of the pack from the calf muscles to the stronger thigh muscles, which makes carrying the weight of your pack less tiring.

Ultimately, the hiking shoe you select comes down to personal preferences. But if you are planning to hike in rough conditions or off-trail, Hazzard still stresses the importance of wearing a traditional hiking boot. Fortunately, there are many different types of hiking footwear available today with suitability for various hiking conditions. 

Related: The Best Hiking Boots for Women, According to Our On-Trail Tests

Considerations When Choosing Hiking Shoes

There are some key factors to think through when selecting hiking shoes, such as fit, support, traction, breathability, and waterproofing. Here is a closer look at each.

Fit

Assessing the fit of your hiking shoes is crucial, says Kelley. “Many people buy their boots without being checked for fit and frequently end up losing a toenail or ten. It’s important that you have about a finger-width worth of space between the end of the toes and the inside end of the shoe. The foot should be snug inside the boot (but not bulging the sides out), and the heel should be held firmly in place."

Lacing also is important and should contact the instep of your foot; and when the laces are tied snuggly, there should be about two fingers width of space between the grommets across the tongue of the shoe, adds Kelley. "Less than two fingers indicates that the shoe has too much volume for the foot and more than two fingers indicates that the shoe does not have enough volume to accommodate the foot.”

Likewise, if the arch support is uncomfortable, or a seam is against your toe, put the shoes back, says Watta. "It’s just going to get worse when you’re out hiking.”

One way to see if your toe hits the end of the shoe is to do a jump lunge, suggests Watta. “If your toe slams into the front of the boot, try a half-size larger."

Support

Do you have a high arch? A low arch? Or flat feet? You’ll need the right pair of hiking boots to support your unique arches. But what if you love a pair of hiking boots and there’s perhaps not enough support for you? In this case, Kelley recommends retrying the boots with some insoles placed inside.

Traction

With all those varied surfaces out there, from rocky to slippery to uneven, traction is a must for your hiking shoes. For this, Hazzard recommends starting with a grippy outsole. The different patterns on the outsoles serve different purposes.

For example, a curved, multidirectional design is good for light hiking on well-groomed trails, says Kelley. A deeper, more angular design is built for more rugged terrain. “The rubber used [also] can affect the grippiness and the durability of the outsole. Harder rubber is more durable and allows for more grip when using the edge of the boot to grab narrow ledges. Softer rubber provides a stickier surface for smooth surfaces, but wears quickly."

Watta points out that while outsoles with traction are standard on hiking shoes, and although patterns can vary, they typically stick to roughly the same pattern. “Most hikers don’t have much of a choice choosing their tread. Outfitters mainly stock common brands, and your limiting factor will be fit and comfort. If the tread is truly a concern, you’ll need to look at custom or higher-end boots through specialized stores.”

Breathability

For a breathable pair of hiking shoes, you’ll want to skip shoes with waterproof material, says Hazzard. “Today, most hikers wear breathable shoes and are free to get them wet, knowing that the breathable upper will allow them to dry quickly. Waterproof shoes can trap water, get your socks wet, and cause blisters.”

Waterproofing

But let’s say that you anticipate hiking in locations where rain, water crossings, and dew are frequent. Or you see yourself hiking in snow. While waterproof shoes won’t breathe as well, they’ll keep out that pesky moisture that can bring on blisters. Among waterproof hiking shoes, Gore-Tex (usually denoted as GTX in shoe models) tend to lead the pack, says Hazzard.

Materials

In today’s world, modern materials have made their way to hiking shoes. But these materials can mean different things in terms of durability, breathability, and water resistance. And they all have pros and cons.

Leather remains a popular, tried-and-true material for hiking shoes, but Watta says that leather, especially nubuck leather, requires extensive break-in and is often the heaviest option. Meanwhile, mesh allows for more breathability than leather, but is not as protective and durable.

Synthetic materials are also often found in hiking shoes, Watta says. “Polyester and nylon are lighter and have little to no break-in time required. They may not last as long as leather, but that’s the tradeoff for immediate hiking satisfaction and lower-weight shoes.”

As for midsoles, most are made of some type of foam-like material, says Hazzard, with EVA foam being the most popular. “An important factor with the midsole is stack height, or how much foam is between your foot and the outsole. A taller stack height gives you a pillow-like feel but reduces the trail feel. Some people tend to clip roots and rocks more with the high-stack height.”

Construction

There are different construction methods, too, and they can directly impact shoe durability and flexibility, says Kelley. “The upper of the boot can be attached to the midsole by cement, stitching (welting), or by thermo-injection (welding). Welted boots take a bit more time to break in, but are more durable and resoleable.”

Boots that are cemented are the most common type of day-hiking boot. The upper is cemented to the midsole and the midsole is cemented to the outsole, says Kelley. "While this method makes the boot more flexible and needs next-to-no break-in period, if stored improperly (at high temperatures like in a car or attic) or if worn infrequently, the glue can become brittle and the bond will fail. Outsoles can fall off or the midsole could start to separate from the upper.”

Meanwhile, welding can be used by constructing the upper, placing it in a mold, and forming the midsole around the upper, bonding it with the midsole with a weld instead of glue, says Kelley. "An outsole can be then attached with glue. This makes for a flexible and stronger, more reliable connection.”

Related: Hikers Say They Can Walk 10 Miles in ‘Extreme Comfort’ in These On-Sale Trail Sneakers

Trying On and Testing Hiking Shoes

When testing out a pair of hiking shoes, the top consideration is how they feel on your feet, says Kelley. “You should almost not notice the boot. If it feels tight, pokes anywhere, rubs anywhere, if the toes touch coming downhill, or if they do not feel safe and secure, it’s not the right boot or perhaps the right size.”

Here are some additional tips for both trying on your hiking shoes as well as testing them out.

Trying on Hiking Shoes

When getting the rundown of a proposed pair of hiking shoes, you’ll absolutely need to try them on to properly assess their fit, including considerations for toe room, arch support, and heel lock.

“When trying on hiking shoes, bring your hiking socks and orthotics and try to hike a mile or so before you hit the store,” says Watta. “You want your feet swollen like they will be an hour or so into your hike.” 

Then, before removing the shoes, take time to assess your feet, says Watta. “Do they feel tight or ‘stuffed?' If that’s the case, size up, try a wide, or go for a different shoe.”

Testing Hiking Shoes

Walk, climb, and even simulate hiking movements while testing hiking shoes. After all, your needs in these shoes are important, says Watta. "Walk around the store. Look for an uneven surface to walk up or down. Try a steep descent to see if your toe strikes. What happens if you have to turn your foot an odd way? Does the shoe move with you, or is it pulling your foot? Do you have the traction you need?”

Take your time and don’t feel rushed, says Watta. “And don’t worry about looking silly. If you need to do a jump lunge to test if your toes have room, do it. Test that your toes don’t hit the front on descents by using the rock stand offered, or doing a jump lunge. I also like to do a side lunge to test lateral stability.”

When you finally have the boots, don’t go all-in for your first hike in them. Wear them on various surfaces and terrains to assess their performance and comfort.

Related: What to Wear Hiking: Your Essential Guide for Comfort and Safety

Hiking Shoe Care and Maintenance

Properly caring for your hiking shoes and maintaining them can ensure their longevity and performance. This includes cleaning, drying, and storing them to prevent odors, mold, and deterioration. Here's what to do.

Cleaning

For dirty, but not muddy, situations, Watta says that you can remove dirt stuck in the tread by waiting for it to dry and then knocking the boots together. “Any remaining dirt can be gently removed with a brush. Don’t use sharp objects or spoons—you may do some damage.”

When it comes time to clean them beyond brushing off the dirt, Hazzard advises against using soap (at least beyond mild soap) or putting the shoes in the washing machine. “Just give them a good rinse. A garden hose with a spray top works well. Take the insoles out and they'll dry quickly.”

You also can keep leather uppers conditioned with an oil, wax, or leather conditioner.

Drying

Always dry your shoes when you get home, says Watta. “The front of the refrigerator is a great way to do this. If your shoes become wet from rain or crossing a creek, dry them as quickly as you can. Unfortunately, once they get that swamp smell, they’ll have it every time they become wet. You can try a disinfectant like Lysol, but it will only take the edge off."

The best way to prevent swamp smell is to keep your boots as dry as possible, she adds. "Let them dry overnight, then hit them with a dry brush in the morning. Even if you didn’t get them wet, they’re probably moist with sweat.”

Kelley says that if the boots get wet inside, you should remove the insole and dry it separately, adding that it’s unwise to put the shoes next to a campfire, heater, or oven to dry. “To control odor, do not let them dry while on your feet, If they do get smelly, you can remove the insoles and wash them with some footwear cleaner or mild soap like Dr. Bronner’s using a toothbrush. [You] also may want to add a deodorizing ball to the shoes when storing them.”

Storing

Store your shoes in a safe, dry place inside your home, says Watta. “Don’t keep them in the garage or outdoor storage. They should be in a temperate environment where nothing can get at them.”

When to Replace Hiking Shoes

When your shoes aren’t stashed away, it’s important to regularly inspect and replace hiking shoes based on wear and tear. Hiking shoes are like car tires, says Watta. They’re the basis of your hike going smoothly. If the tread wears down, you don’t have traction.

“For safety and comfort’s sake, hiking shoes should be checked regularly for signs of wear,” says Kelley. “Make sure you have plenty of tread left on your outsoles."

You also should check the connection areas of the midsole and outsole and the midsole and upper to make sure that the bonds are all still strong so that you do not get stuck out on the trail with a boot that is disintegrating, she adds. "If you notice an increase in foot pain after a hike or feel like the boots have lost their cushions and support, get yourself some new shoes before you experience an injury.”

Overall, trail runners should last between 300 to 500 miles, and hiking boots about 500 to 700 miles, she says. “There is no expiration date on shoes. It’s all about the mileage, and the mileage you get on them will depend on the weight they are carrying, the type of terrain on which they are being used, how well they are cared for, and what conditions they have been exposed to.”

Bottom Line

Be a careful shopper when perusing hiking shoes. Shop in person, if possible. Be picky about aspects of the shoes, like comfort, fit, support, breathability, traction, and protection, and make sure they fit your specific hiking needs. Consider the terrain, duration, and load carried when making your selection, and properly care for and maintain your hiking shoes for long-lasting performance.

As you’ve likely learned by this point, choosing the right hiking shoes can make the difference between an enjoyable outdoor experience and one where you can’t wait to go home. I’m betting the hiker in the flip-flops is wishing that they’d made a different shoe choice before heading out the door.

Related: The Best Hiking Pants for Women, According to Customer Reviews

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