This issue is sponsored by LMNT, my must-have for energy, hydration, and electrolyte replenishment on the trail. A stick pack of LMNT in my water reservoir makes every cold sip delicious, while ensuring I maintain pep in my step on even the hottest, hardest hikes. As always, you’ll get a free 8-pack of LMNT Electrolytes’ most popular flavors with every order. Right now, I’m into Raspberry and Lemonade—sometimes mixed together. (Have you never thought of mixing flavors? A whole new level of LMNT unlocked!)
As an avid hiker, I’m often asked questions about my gear, my clothing, and hiking safety. More than anything, though, I’m asked about my shoes. Not my shoes, specifically, but, “What kind of hiking shoes should I buy?”
If you search for this on TikTok, you’ll see many videos recommending specific brands and models. Often, these are “trending” brands and styles, popular for the season. That’s not to say they’re not reputable brands making high-quality shoes. But you’ll never find one shoe that works equally well for everyone, and buying hiking shoes based on trends may not get you to the best shoe for you. In fact, buying the shoes I swear by may not get you to the best shoe for you either.
When it comes to your hiking shoes question, the best answer is, “It depends.” I recognize this is not as satisfying as pointing you to a shoe, but in the long run, you’ll thank me for it.
One thing I will definitively state: If you’re spending time on the trails, please do look for a trail-specific shoe. Your road running shoes or lifestyle sneakers aren’t the safest in many hiking environments, and I promise you can look good and hike more confidently in the right shoe.
Trail runners vs. hiking shoes vs. hiking boots
There are three major buckets of hiking shoes. They’ll all get the job done, but they all have their pros and cons.
Trail runners
Your lightest, most flexible trail shoe. These low-profile sneakers are specifically designed for dirt, rocks, and other natural paths.
Pros: They require zero break-in period and feel most like the sneakers you usually wear, which might make them the most comfortable and agile shoe for you. They offer decent traction, and are breathable, allowing air to circulate throughout the shoe. Their lighter weight can also be an advantage when hiking or backpacking long distances.
Cons: They’re far less durable than hiking shoes or boots. The soles wear out faster, and the cushioning may deteriorate quickly under heavier loads. They may offer less underfoot protection and support, and traction varies considerably. Most are not waterproof, so wet trails or water crossings can soak your foot quickly.
Hiking shoes
These look a bit like a sneaker, but they’re burlier. They’re versatile in many conditions, and come in low or mid profiles.
Pros: Robust support and durability. The soles are thicker, providing excellent traction and protection from sharp rocks. They’re also more durable when carrying heavier loads. The upper portion is more supportive, and many versions are waterproof for all-weather hiking. You may feel more secure in hiking shoes, especially on rocky or mixed-terrain trails.
Cons: These are heavier and bulkier than trail runners. They won’t feel as agile or responsive to the terrain. The upper portion and the sole will feel stiffer, which could prove less comfortable. These may need a break-in period, although it varies by brand.
Hiking boots
These look more like traditional boots, with a low, mid, or high profile. They’re your burliest option, and the category offers great variability in sturdiness and function.
Pros: Maximum support and durability—you can expect a good hiking boot to last longer than a trail runner or hiking shoe. The soles and uppers are more rigid and supportive, providing excellent traction and maximum protection. They’re the most durable, especially when carrying heavier loads. The higher profiles also provide more ankle coverage, which prevents dirt, rocks, and debris from getting in the shoe. Most are waterproof for all-weather conditions, and they’re warmer for cold-weather hiking.
Cons: These are your heaviest and least flexible option. They also feature the stiffest uppers, and may require a longer break-in period. They are the least breathable, so your feet may sweat on hot days, and if the boots get wet, they take longer to dry.
Hiking shoes and boots come in various heights. Low styles are cut like a sneaker, mids rise just above the ankle, and highs extend six inches or so above the ankle. (Some trail runners also come in a mid height, but it’s far less typical.) Hiking boots also come in various degrees of ruggedness. Day hiking boots are lighter and more flexible than backpacking boots, while alpine boots are meant for winter mountaineering.
One big myth (and other points to consider)
It’s a common myth that ankle-length shoes or boots offer more protection from injury. Higher hiking boots do provide more mechanical support around the ankle, but that doesn't necessarily translate into a lower risk of ankle sprains or injuries. Experts say they lack the rigidity needed to effectively brace the joint, and they may lead to a false sense of confidence, where the hiker takes riskier steps. Relying on external support can also inhibit your own stabilizing muscles, which are important to develop for hiking, backpacking, or trail running.
Some may find a thicker or stiffer sole the most helpful for stability and injury prevention. Some podiatrists, however, caution that a thick, stiff sole may delay your brain's reaction time to uneven ground, potentially increasing the risk of twists. Some hikers find a minimal sole the most responsive, and helpful for improving balance and strengthening foot muscles. However, you may not find a minimal sole comfortable, safe, or durable enough for your activities.
Cushioning is another “choose your own adventure.” A well-cushioned, thicker sole may be more comfortable on packed, well-maintained trails, but often isn’t as stable on rugged or technical terrain. A stiff sole can offer more stability and durability, but is generally heavier and less responsive.
You can find waterproof footwear in all three categories. They’re a great choice for wet trails, in the rain or light snow, and over shallow water crossings. However, they are warmer and less breathable, which may feel stifling in the heat. Plus, once water gets inside, it generally takes longer to dry. Non-waterproof shoes can get wet quickly, but they’re far more breathable, and also dry much faster.
Which shoe is right for me?
Ultimately, the best shoe for you is one that fits you well, feels comfortable, and fits your typical terrain and activity. In fact, if you’re quite active in the outdoors, you probably want different shoes for different purposes.
Fit: Don’t be surprised if you need to go up 1/2 size (or more) in your hiking footwear. Your foot swells as you hike or run, and you’ll want the extra space. Wear hiking socks as you try shoes on. You want a good fit in the heel (not too much slippage) and a thumb’s width of space between your toe and the front of the shoe. Walk up and down inclines (stairs work) to check for toes hitting the front, or heel slippage in the back.
Comfort: Walk around in them at home before you take them outside, to make sure you aren’t missing a hotspot, pressure point, or fit issue. Lace them comfortably, but not super tight. If your shoe requires a break-in period (as in a hiking boot), start with short walks and increase your distance gradually.
Terrain: Most hiking shoes are pretty versatile. I am comfortable in trail runners in nearly all conditions, but I wear my mid-height hiking boots just as often, all year long. Evaluate the terrain you’ll be hiking in most often, along with the type of activities you’ll be doing, and choose the right balance of comfort, support, and durability. However, if you generally feel more comfortable in a hiking shoe or boot (versus a trail runner), feel free to wear those in all conditions.
REI is a fabulous place to shop for hiking shoes. Their team members are so knowledgeable about the shoes and fit, and their return policy is exceptional. (You can return shoes even if you’ve worn them outside!) Ideally, try on trail runners, shoes, and boots in person. You’ll get a better idea of brands that fit your foot well, and be able to easily compare trail runners to hiking shoes, or shoes to boots.
The shoes I wear for hiking
I saved this for last, because the shoes I prefer may not work for you. However, here are my current trail runners and hiking boots. (I don’t own hiking shoes; I find these two options cover all my bases.)
Trail runners: Brooks Cascadia 18
I have two pairs of Cascadia 18 (one waterproof, one not) and they’re still going strong. In fact, these fit so well that I also own several pairs of Brooks road running and lifestyle shoes. (I think the Brooks Ghost series is the most comfortable walking sneaker on the market.) Brooks is now up to the Cascadia 20, and I’ll be heading there first when these run out.
Trail runners: Salomon Ultra Glide 2
These are even older than my Brooks. I have three pairs, and thanks to rotating them, they’re still in great shape. With my big toe injury (pre-surgery) I had to be super picky about hiking shoes. Some (like Hoka) were super comfortable, but left me in pain after just a few miles. These were the perfect fit and good for 10+ miles pain-free, which is why I bought multiples. (Post-surgery, they still fit beautifully.) Salomon is now up to the Ultra Glide 4, which I would absolutely test-drive when it’s time for a new shoe.
Hiking boots: Danner Trail 2650 Mid
If there were one “catch-all” hiking boot I’d point you toward, it’s this one. Danner has been my ride-or-die for many years. Their boots are so comfortable, and require zero break-in period for me. The mid-rise gives me more protection against dirt and rocks without feeling constricting. The sole and upper are the perfect balance of flexibility and sturdiness, and they have held up well in so many conditions. They’re also waterproof, great for rain, light snow, and water crossings.
Hiking boots: North Face Back to Berkeley
These are my winter dog walking, light snow hiking, and snowshoeing boots. I’ve bought three pairs over the years—that’s how much I’ve loved them. These are classified as a “lifestyle” boot, so they aren’t as technical or rugged. But they are waterproof, the mid-rise is comfortable as hell, and they’ve held up in some truly nasty winter conditions.
Note that shoes and boots are often updated each year—and may have significant differences from year to year. When On first launched, I wore their trail runners exclusively, and they were game-changing. However, one year’s updated model included so many changes that they no longer fit well. The lesson here: Expect to “try on” new shoes even if you’ve had success with the brand and model before.
What’s your favorite hiking shoe? What are you looking for in a shoe to hit the trails this fall? Is there a question I didn’t answer here? Drop your thoughts in comments.
XO, MU
