What to Look for in Walking Boots

Are you thinking of taking on the great outdoors? The first thing you’re going to need is a reliable pair of walking shoes or hiking boots for men or women. Whether you’re new to hiking or just need some hiking shoes with a better fit, we’ve put together this guide to make sure you know what to look for when buying walking boots.  

How Do I Choose Hiking Shoes?

When choosing a pair of hiking, walking or trekking shoes, you need to think about the kind of walking you’ll be doing. It’s a good idea to figure out what kind of socks you’ll be wearing too, to make sure you get the perfect fit. 

Trekking through lowlands, forests, and well-maintained walking paths? Then a pair of lightweight walking shoes or hiking sneakers with a reasonable amount of flexibility should do the trick. In less challenging terrain, a good amount of flexibility will help your feet move more naturally, keeping your feet comfortable for longer. 

If you’re attempting to go off the beaten path, tackling swampy terrain or uneven and rocky paths on higher ground, you’ll be better off with a more robust pair of men’s or women’s hiking boots. These will be slightly more rigid than standard walking shoes. They provide ankle support, a more robust sole, and will be generally more durable.

What to Look for in a Pair of Boots for Walking

There are three key things to think about when buying walking boots – foot size, fit, and materials. While you may think size and fit are basically the same, when it comes to buying shoes specifically designed for walking and hiking, there are some key differences. 

Shoe Size 

Know what shoe size you are? Think again. When it comes to hiking boots and walking shoes, you need to know the length and width of your foot, your foot shape, whether you have a low or high arch, and your ball-to-heel measurement, to ensure that you're buying the perfect sized walking shoes or hiking boots for your feet. Your feet also change size and shape depending on the time of day and the season. It’s worth looking for a pair of walking shoes or hiking boots that are a half size larger to give yourself some extra room. You can always use thicker socks or a larger insole to fill up space. Browse our size guide for men and women to find the right shoes for you. 

Fit

The last thing you want is a pair of hiking shoes or walking boots that don’t fit you correctly. Tight spots inside the shoes can lead to rubbing and blisters, while excess volume in the shoe will mean your feet aren’t being supported properly. Any pair of good hiking boots should fit snugly around the heel and ankle, providing support for when you’re tackling uneven ground. They should also leave enough room for you to move your toes around inside the shoe. If in doubt, opt for a bit more wiggle room. A thick pair of socks can help fill out space in a shoe – but nothing can be done for a pair of walking shoes or hiking boots that are too small!

Materials

Think about the materials that make up the shoe. Technology and manufacturing have come a long way in recent years, which has blurred the lines between leather versus fabric. Most fabric shoes are now made with a waterproof membrane to keep your feet dry and protected from the elements. 

You don’t just want to keep the water from getting in. You’ll need to get water out, too. It’s important for your footwear to be breathable and waterproof to avoid trapping in moisture. For similar products, our selection of FutureLight gear are made using nanospun polyurethane fiber, allowing air and vapor to pass through the fabric while remaining waterproof. 

Are Walking Boots Necessary?

If you want to keep your feet dry and comfortable, having a pair of proper walking or hiking boots are a must. New hikers often make the mistake of thinking they don’t need hiking boots or walking shoes and end up with soggy, painful feet. This is completely avoidable with the right hiking boots. Hiking boots and walking shoes are specifically designed to protect your feet, keep them dry, and shield them from the elements. A good pair of walking shoes or hiking boots will give you solid grip to prevent slips and falls, making them essential for tackling the great outdoors.