How to choose my trekking boots?
Choosing trekking boots can be tricky if you don’t know where to start or what to look for! The path to making the right choice involves understanding exactly what you intend to use the boots for!
My first piece of advice, at least for your first purchase, is not to do it online but in a physical store, so you can try them on!
My second piece of advice is to use boots that are suited to the type of activity you’ll be doing! In some cases, this might mean having to buy more than one pair of boots.
From my experience over the years, I’ve found that the heaviest and stiffest boot is not always the best. Of course, they offer more protection, but in return, they bring more discomfort to your feet, which leads to a quicker feeling of fatigue.
How to choose the most suitable trekking footwear?
To start, reflect on the type of routes you usually take and identify which of these categories they best fit into:
- Country walks on smooth paths or tracks with little elevation.
- Mountain trails that may be very uneven but are only for one day.
- Long multi-day treks on mountain trails with a heavy backpack.
- Snow routes that require crampons.
1.Flexible boots or shoes.
Flexible model suitable for easy hikes.
If your hikes fall into the first scenario, you are looking for lightweight, flexible boots, usually made from synthetic materials, which are lighter and more breathable. However, I always recommend waterproof boots. Typically, these models have good grip, but of course, you should check if the sole material is somewhat flexible, as this will offer better grip and fewer slips!
2. Boots with greater stiffness
If your trekking activities fall into the second scenario, it means you are doing one-day hikes in the mountains to tackle challenging trails or enjoy the landscapes they offer. In this case, since you’ll be carrying some weight and walking on uneven terrain, you should consider stiffer boots with greater ankle support, especially if you’re prone to sprains or ankle injuries.
Also, look for models with some reinforcement around the sole to protect the foot and reduce wear caused by abrasion. These models are mostly made of synthetic materials or a mix of synthetic and leather, although some brands still opt for full leather designs. In the past, leather was a guarantee of durability, but with the evolution of synthetic materials, this issue has been resolved for many years now.
- Boots for mountaineering and alpine climbing
The model presented will be ideal for multi-day mountain trails on uneven paths with a heavy backpack.
When carrying a backpack for a multi-day trek, the increased load will be supported by the boots.
The boots should have good cushioning and a semi-rigid or rigid sole in the case of mountaineering. The fact that they are boots guarantees good ankle protection, which is essential due to the increased weight and consequent imbalance it causes. Since our center of gravity shifts with a backpack, boots will be the best option. If crampons are used, ensure that the boot’s design and shape already accommodate the attachment of crampons.
Waterproofing
If you only hike in the summer, in a dry climate, this aspect might not concern you much. But if your goals include exploring mountain trails in the winter, where you might encounter rain and snow, having waterproof boots is crucial.
When looking for waterproof boots, look for the Gore-Tex membrane or something similar, which is a microporous Teflon membrane. Simply put, the pores of the membrane are so small that rainwater droplets can’t get in, but they’re large enough to let water vapor from sweat escape. In practice, this means your feet won’t get wet from rain, and they won’t be soaked in sweat because it can evaporate through the membrane’s pores. One tip: always carry 1 or 2 extra pairs of socks in your backpack.
What size to buy
Choose boots that fit the shape of your foot best. But don’t fall into the temptation of trying too many models, as after trying on too many boots, you’ll start to lose sensitivity to identify which ones fit best. Try 3 or 4 models.
The final step is the micro-adjustment, or choosing the right size. Once you’ve chosen the model, try two or three sizes until you feel really comfortable. Always try on both boots, as one foot is usually slightly bigger than the other.
Walk around the store a bit and see if your toes hit the front of the boot. Remember, your feet will swell after a long day of walking (especially on downhill sections). So, if you notice this happening, opt for a size up.
A good fit also means that your heel doesn’t lift off the sole while walking. If that happens, try tightening the laces and reassess. If the issue persists, it could be that either the size is too big, or the boot’s shape isn’t suitable for your foot.
Which brand should I choose?
The market is now flooded with brands and models, offering various types and different approaches.
On the other hand, this wide variety allows you to choose the right model for your needs. As a general guideline, brands like The North Face, La Sportiva, Salomon, Lowa, Salewa, Scarpa are reputable and offer a guarantee of quality.
It’s not easy to find the perfect boots on the first try, as this requires individual experience to understand what you value most. Either way, remember this: no matter how much time and energy you put into choosing the right boots (and it’s good that you do, as it will determine your comfort), they are always just a means to a greater end.
Boots are just a tool to help you do something you truly enjoy: walking through trails in the countryside or mountains and enjoying the outdoors.
