Nothing can ruin an idyllic hike faster than blisters, pinched feet or a sprained ankle. Comfortable and sturdy footwear is essential for hiking and backpacking. Your choice of footwear should revolve around several factors, including where you will be hiking and for how long. Take the time to try on several pairs of shoes and boots, and consider your comfort needs and your fitness level. The weight of your backpack and weather conditions should also be considered when choosing between hiking shoes and hiking boots.
Hiking Shoes
Hiking shoes are lightweight and low-cut, making them ideal for day hikes on maintained trails. Often constructed with nylon, mesh or other light materials, they resemble running shoes but offer a little more support. The midsoles are flexible and many tend to have more padding around the collar. The soles are often lugged and more rugged than running shoes. Hiking shoes do not offer as much support or stability as hiking boots. Hiking shoes are a good choice for beginners who won't be doing strenuous hiking over rugged terrain. Some expert backpackers concerned with weight use hiking shoes rather than boots.
Hiking Boots
Hiking boots offer a mid or high cut, with more stability than hiking shoes. They still flex well in the midsole but are better for traversing more rugged terrain. Their sturdier construction helps support the additional weight of a light backpack and offers more support for ankles. Hiking boots are available in a variety of materials, from nylon to leather. Lugged soles offer good traction for a variety of conditions, from rocky to muddy. Hiking boots are good for long day hikes or short backpacking trips on maintained trails.
Backpacking Boots
Backpacking boots are designed specifically to offer support for multi-day backpacking trips. If you are not an expert and will be backpacking in the backcountry, backpacking boots are the best choice. They offer the most durability and comfort for carrying a mid-weight to heavy backpack and for navigating rough terrain. The boots are high-cut and offer good ankle support with plenty of collar padding. The midsoles are stiffer than hiking boots. Experts who expect really rough travel may opt for mountaineering boots, which are even sturdier than backpacking boots and constructed to accommodate crampons for travel on snow and ice.
Considerations
Look for well constructed footwear to ensure comfort and durability. Boots that offer upper parts that are stitched to the sole are more durable than those that are cemented to the sole. The fewer seams a boot has the less likely it is that it will leak or tear. If you hike or backpack in a wet climate, consider the level of waterproofing you want. Some shoes are constructed with waterproof linings or waterproof leather. Some boots boast waterproof construction, with materials and a design specifically created to keep out moisture.
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