Hiking Shoes
The right choice starts with the terrain, then the foot. Forest path, rocky trail, alpine scree, or just a stroll: the shaft height, sole stiffness, and grip make all the difference. The models are sorted by audience and height to guide you straight to the right pair.
Choose by audience or height of the boot
If you already know who you are shopping for, head to the men's shoes, women's shoes, or children's shoes. If height is what matters, compare the low shoes for quick outings, the mid shoes for varied terrains, and the high shoes for heavy backpacks. For summer, sandals keep your feet cool, while walking shoes are great for strolls and Nordic walking.
Check the terrain before buying
On a wide, dry path, a soft, lightweight sole is enough, and the low boot allows the ankle to move. Mountain trails, with roots, rocks, and steps, require a firmer sole and good grip for descending. On screes and high-altitude routes, a high boot protects the ankle from shocks, and a stiff sole keeps the foot stable on narrow footholds.
Waterproof membrane or breathable shoe
A waterproof membrane keeps your foot dry in wet grass, mud, and puddles, which is important in spring, autumn, and at altitude. However, the shoe breathes a bit less in the heat. For summer outings on dry trails, a breathable model allows sweat to escape better. The Waterproof filter on the subpages makes sorting quick.
Brands of hiking shoes
adidas offers its Terrex range in all heights, Élémenterre and Regatta cater to adults and children, Lomer is especially known for its walking shoes, CMP covers family hiking, and La Sportiva focuses on mountain terrains. Each subpage displays its own Brand filter.
Outfitting the family without breaking the bank
Promotions on shoes are available on the Black Friday shoes page while the event lasts. For the rest of the year, end-of-line sales can be found in the hiking clearance and discounts are available through hiking sales.
Lacing and insole
Good lacing solves many comfort issues. Tighten the instep more to lock the heel in, and leave a little more room at the front for your toes. Before a long descent, tighten one notch to prevent your foot from sliding forward. The insole provided can be removed in most models: if you wear orthotics, bring them to the fitting to check the volume.
Frequently asked questions
How to choose your hiking shoe size?
Try them on at the end of the day with your walking socks. When descending, your toes should not touch the front: a little space in front is necessary.
Do you need to break in new hiking shoes?
Yes, especially for a high and stiff boot. A few short outings before a long day allow the shoe to adapt to your foot.
Low or high boot for beginners?
For marked paths and a pack light load, a low or mid boot is fine. A high boot becomes useful on rough terrain or with a heavy load.
How to care for hiking shoes?
Brush off mud after each outing, let them dry in the air away from a source of heat, and remove the insole so that it can dry too.
Where to find cheap hiking shoes?
Check the Black Friday shoes page during the event, then look at the hiking clearance.
