What to Know Before Buying a Hiking Boot or Shoe?
Have you ever had sore feet that cut a hike short? Or slippery trainers that kept you from reaching the summit? Many of us feel unsure before buying new hiking boots or shoes, and rightly so—few pieces of gear can affect your hike as much as your footwear.
Choosing the right pair means considering the terrain, weather, and your hiking style, then finding boots that meet those needs. This guide explains the key factors to consider and the types of footwear available.
By the end, you’ll be ready to pick a pair that keeps your feet happy and your sense of adventure alive.
Here is what you will read in this article.
Table of Contents:
Have you ever had sore feet that cut a hike short? Or slippery trainers that kept you from reaching the summit? Many of us feel unsure before buying new hiking boots or shoes, and rightly so—few pieces of gear can affect your hike as much as your footwear.
Choosing the right pair means considering the terrain, weather, and your hiking style, then finding boots that meet those needs. This guide explains the key factors to consider and the types of footwear available.
By the end, you’ll be ready to pick a pair that keeps your feet happy and your sense of adventure alive.
Here is what you will read in this article.
Table of Contents:
Factors to Consider
1- Duration and Carry-Load Weight
First, think about how long your hikes will be and how much gear you’ll carry. If you’re heading out for a short day trip or an overnighter, lighter shoes or only mid-cut boots work best. They won’t weigh you down and are easier on your legs and feet at the end of the day.
On the other hand, carrying a heavier load with light shoes over several days, like on the Overland Track, will take a toll on your feet and body. In such instances, higher-cut boots with tougher midsoles and a longer shank will keep your feet and ankles comfortable over those long distances.
2- Terrain Type and Profile
Next, consider the type of terrain you’ll encounter. You won’t have to know every trail in advance, but having a rough idea helps—will you stay on well-made tracks, or will you head out onto steeper, rockier routes?
If you expect tricky surfaces and are carrying a heavier pack, a boot with a firmer midsole and a higher cut can keep you steady, but not everyone needs a heavy boot for support on rough ground.
Some hikers find heavy boots restrictive and prefer lighter shoes that let them move quickly and adjust their footing. Others prefer sturdier boots that offer more stability under a heavier load at the expense of hiking pace. This balance is something you fine-tune with experience.
3- Fit and Body Mechanics
Once you have a rough what you need based on the kind of hikes you’ll do, focus on how the boot fits your body.
A good fit supports your movement and works with your weight and strength. This means the boot should not be too heavy for you. It shouldn’t push you into awkward steps or force your legs and ankles to work harder than they need to.
Keep in mind that some people find full-shank boots to feel stiff or awkward when they try them on for the first time, especially if they’ve never worn them before. This is normal. Remember, the shank is designed to provide stability and help reduce foot fatigue over long distances. This will make a huge difference on the trail when carrying heavy loads.
4- Features and Materials
Finally, consider which features and materials best suit your intended hiking conditions.
A waterproof membrane such as GORE-TEX keeps your feet dry in rain and mud, but if water gets inside, the boot will take longer to dry out compared to a non-waterproof one. In hotter climates, ventilated designs like La Sportiva's Stream GTX help cool your feet, while some hikers use sandals when it's very hot for maximum airflow.
Materials also affect how boots feel and how long they last. Synthetic boots are lighter and dry faster when soaked, whereas leather boots are generally tougher, provide better insulation, and tend to last longer with good care.
Types of Hiking Footwear
This will help you decide between the types of hiking footwear available.
1- Hiking Sandals
Hiking sandals are the right choice for hot climates or water-based activities. They offer great ventilation and quick-drying properties but can lack support when carrying a lot of weight on rough terrain.
2- Trail Running Shoes
Trail running shoes are made for running or fast hiking on mild trails, and are lightweight and flexible. They provide better grip and protection than road running shoes, with features like reinforced soles and toe caps.
Use these if you want breathable, comfortable footwear for short hikes (3–8 hours) or runs with little to no pack, and you’re sticking to easy trails.
3- Day/Fast Hiking Boots/Shoes
Day and fast hiking boots or shoes are great for day hikes or light overnight trips (6+ hours) on trails like those in the Scenic Rim in Queensland or the Three Capes Track in Tasmania. They provide superior support in comparison to trail running shoes but are lighter and more flexible than trekking boots.
Hiking shoes are a good choice if you want something light and easy to move in. Midcuts/Boots are better if you need extra ankle support and stability. The footwear in this category is versatile enough to handle different conditions without being too specialised.
4- Approach Shoes/Boots
Designed for technical terrain or reaching climbing routes, approach shoes offer excellent grip and precision thanks to their dedicated climbing zones under the toes, and specific rubber compounds in the outsole that provide outstanding traction on rock.
While they excel on rocky surfaces, to some degree, they lack the support needed for long-distance hikes. Consider approach shoes or boots if your hikes involve scrambling or climbing-specific trails where grip is essential.
5- Trekking and Backpacking Boots
If you're planning longer hikes or multi-day treks, this is the category for you. The footwear in this category is designed to handle a wide variety of adventures, from Overland Track in Tasmania to Larapinta Trail in the Northern Territory. While the terms trekking boots and backpacking boots are often used interchangeably, there are slight differences between them.
Trekking boots are designed to offer a balance between agility and support. Depending on the model, they can handle moderate to heavy loads and are versatile for varied terrains and conditions.
Ideal for carrying heavier loads over long distances, Backpacking boots provide enhanced support durability and protection for demanding expeditions. In general, they tend to be stiffer and heavier than other boots, prioritizing stability over flexibility.
6- Mountaineering Boots
Mountaineering boots are designed to handle the high-altitude and alpine conditions of popular base camps and peaks in the world. These boots are rigid, insulated, and crampon-compatible to tackle icy or snowy terrains that require technical climbing.
For specific recommendations on how to choose a mountaineering boot, please give us a call or visit us in-store for expert advice.
Quick Tips Before You Purchase
The following are some important tips before buying hiking footwear.
Firstly, we recommend bringing along the socks you intend to hike in when trying on boots, as this can make a fair difference in how the boot fits.
A proper fit means having some room in the toe box while keeping your heels secure. If your heel lifts when you walk, it’s a sign the boot is either too big or doesn’t match the shape of your foot.
It’s a good idea to wear the boots inside the house if you’re buying online. This helps you spot any pressure points or discomfort before taking them outside. And remember, even the best boots need breaking in. Start with shorter walks to let the material soften and adjust to your feet.
If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. give us a call or visit our store where the K2 Team can guide you through the process.