There’s nothing quite like heading out into the great outdoors and experiencing everything it has to offer. From woodland trails and moorlands to the mountains, the UK has a wide range of trails to trek, but using these trails without the proper hiking footwear and hiking clothing can leave your feet tired, sore and blistered. This is because many trails, even well maintained ones, can be uneven underfoot. 

If you have a flimsy-soled shoe, then you can place your feet at awkward angles in rocky conditions, which your ankles won’t appreciate. Properly designed hiking shoes make every hiker’s trail a pleasure, whether you’re choosing a walking shoe for light summer walks, a hiking shoe for traction, or a fully supportive mid hiking boot. 

When you match the pair of hiking shoes to your terrain, your walk becomes a lot more enjoyable and you can tackle anything nature has to throw at you.

Types of hiking footwear from Columbia®

There are lots of styles of footwear to choose from when hiking, and it all depends on the kind of trails you love and what your personal preference is for colour and laces. Let’s look at the main types of shoes we offer for outdoor adventures, available in a range of colours:

Walking shoes

If you love to go on walks on well-trodden trails, then a pair of walking shoes are ideal. Not only do they have soft cushioning inside but they also boast flexible uppers so you can move freely. Underneath, they have a thicker sole than regular trainers, which is durable for many, many miles of walking over the years. They are best suited to the light terrain. 

Low hiking shoes

Offering substantially more grip and support than trainers, low hiking shoes have the look and feel of a trainer but they are lightweight and allow you to hit a wider variety of trails. Underneath, they have a solid sole that gives excellent stability whether you’re walking on a flat trail or something a little more wild. There is a wide variety of colours and looks to choose from, and they will keep your feet warm but fresh. Choose from leather uppers or a more breathable material. 

Mid hiking boots

For day-long hikes where you need your foot to feel comfortable and supported with every step, including your ankles, a mid hiking boot fits nicely around your foot wherever you want to trek. It doesn’t matter whether you’re on an untrodden rocky trail, scaling the summit of a national park peak, or carrying a heavy backpack, these will give you the durability you need. Also available alongside our men’s and women’s waterproof walking shoes for winter/autumn hikes. 

Trail running shoes

If you prefer to pick up the pace on a trail, then a trail running shoe that protects your foot, allows for plenty of movement, and is lightweight is a top choice. These differ from other kinds of running shoes thanks to the superior levels of traction and shock absorption, and they also allow you to be light on your feet, navigating every twist and turn of the trail.

Fast hiking shoes

When speed is of the essence, a fast hiking shoe is lightweight and agile to allow you to cover long distances in record time. They are supported underneath with a good level of grip, but they also have maximum layers of cushioning to make it feel like you’re running on air. Packed with technology like Techlite+™ and Adapt Trax™, they are the perfect way to fast hike. 

If you’re not sure what kind of hiking shoe you need, you can always check out our interactive Hiking Shoe Finder to find your perfect style for men and women. 

FAQs

What is the best footwear to use for hiking?

You should always match the kind of footwear to your terrain and the distance you’ll be walking, as heavy boots over a long distance are just as ineffective as thin soles over rocky terrain. Low hiking shoes are ideal for easy, well-maintained paths but mid boots will give you the support you need along rocky routes. If you’re hiking in the UK, it’s a sensible idea to make sure they’re also waterproof, or at least weather-resistant. 

Can I wear regular trainers for hiking?

For light paths that are flat, you can wear your regular trainers over short distances. The soles of normal trainers don’t usually have a great deal of traction as they’re designed for urban use, so that’s why even something as simple as an affordable walking shoe can make a big difference. When you’re taking on longer hikes, trainers aren’t ideal as they’re not able to give comfort in rocky terrain and you’ll need waterproof trainers for any wet weather you might encounter. 

Is it better to hike in boots or walking shoes?

Walking shoes are ideal for light walks as they are more flexible and still have the traction and harder sole that you need to tackle rougher terrain. A low-priced hiking shoe is lighter and lets you pick up the pace, and they are designed to be comfortable on most kinds of walks. If you’re planning a long day hike that involves rocky ground or climbing steeper sections, a mid men’s hiking boot is probably better suited.

How do I prevent blisters when hiking?

If you have brand new walking shoes or hiking boots, you should wear them at least on a short walk before your main hiking adventure. This will help to wear them in and soften them up ready for your hike. Think about the thickness of your socks too, as if they’re too thin and not padded in the right place like dedicated hiking socks, it can cause rubbing. Feet need to stay dry when walking, so always look for breathable materials.

Do I need waterproof hiking footwear?

It depends on the kind of weather you walk in, if you prefer summer walks in National Parks then it might not be essential. However, the British weather is extremely changeable, and what starts out as a pleasant hike on a blue sunny day can end with a downpour. Due to this, getting a good quality men’s waterproof hiking shoe or boot from the start means you are prepared for any eventuality. Early morning hikes in grassy areas will mean dew soaks your feet if the shoes aren’t waterproof.