In the unlikely event you've gathered a group of hikers together and the conversation has come to a screeching halt, the simple question, "So, do you prefer hiking boots or hiking shoes?" is sure to get everyone talking again. There are very strong opinions among hikers when it comes to boots versus shoes. Both have their place on the trail.
Snow and Ice
The single best reason to wear heavy hiking boots---as opposed to their lighter-weight and more breathable counterpart, hiking shoes---is the season. Hiking in cold-winter conditions necessitates boots, especially if you're strapping on a set of crampons. Between the sturdiness and warmth of the boot and the ankle support of a higher rise, you can more confidently and comfortably maneuver on snow and ice. Plus, boots are often reinforced in the front to protect your toes, which is a big deal if you're kicking your crampons into ice.
Wet Trails
Hiking boots are also preferred when you're faced with wet-trail conditions. Having a higher rise makes it less likely you'll get water inside the boots as you navigate a muddy trail or ford a stream. All bets are off, though, when it's raining, since without gaiters, the water will stream down your pants into your socks no matter what's on your feet.
Trail Running
People who run trails favor hiking shoes. Boots are stiff, unforgiving and heavy; while hiking shoes, also called trail shoes, approach shoes or trail runners, are flexible and lightweight. Plus, shoes usually keep you feet cooler---it can get pretty hot in a bulky, waterproof boot. If it won't let water in, it's not going to let your sweat out.
Pack Weight
There's debate as to whether a hiking boot or shoe is best when you're humping a heavy pack. At 25 lbs. or more on your back, some hikers feel you need the extra ankle support and stiffer traction of a boot, while others favor the lightweight, breathable shoe.
Trip Length
Debate is rampant when it comes to multiday trips, too. One school of thought is you'll need the extra support a boot provides. Besides, you never know what kind of weather conditions you might run into days into a trip, so the more waterproof boot might be a benefit. The counterargument is: a lightweight, breathable shoe is more comfortable in the long run.
Experience
The debatable areas of pack weight and trip length may come down to how much experience you have on the trail. Hikers who lack ankle and leg strength are better served by a sturdy boot than a forgiving shoe. Once you've built up strength and coordination, though, you're probably going to favor a shoe since it weighs less and helps you stay cooler.
Trail Conditions
Along any given trail, you may run into circumstances where you prefer a boot over a shoe and vice versa. You may set out on a flat, well-developed trail that suits the shoe, but as you approach the summit of a rocky peak, you may find yourself on a razor edge built for a boot that can stabilize your ankles and protect the bottom of your foot from sharp rocks.
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