Are hiking shoes necessary?

If there’s one thing we get asked a lot, it’s if hiking shoes are really necessary, or if your average pair of trainers will do. The answer is absolutely. This is because this specialised footwear is designed to give your feet the protection and comfort they need, even on uneven or challenging terrain.

For those of you who are lifelong hikers this probably comes as no surprise. However, for someone who enjoys a peaceful walk in nature at the weekend, we can assure you that the right pair of shoes will not only make your experience more enjoyable but will also help to avoid those nasty blisters.

If you’re on a tricky trail or the weather takes an unexpected turn at the local park, your shoes have an important job to do. In simple terms, what we mean is that hiking shoes aren’t just a luxury. They’re equipped with features that improve your grip, offer waterproof protection, and are generally light enough to keep you moving comfortably for hours on end.

When you head out for a walk, especially on rough ground, having shoes that offer a decent level of comfort is crucial. Unlike your everyday sports footwear, hiking shoes are designed to give your feet the support they need. This is achieved through cushioned midsoles and structured designs. This kind of specialised footwear allows you to cover endless miles (or kilometres) without a care in the world.

Did you know that hiking shoes also protect your ankle? Both our high and low cut boots provide stability, which reduces the risk of twists and sprains (which is the last thing you need on a mountain trail). Many of our designs also come with membranes with waterproof technology to keep the water out. Because if you’re heading into nasty weather or making your way along a rocky trail, you need your shoes on your side.

Footwear that’s built to withstand everything from muddy puddles to sharp rocks is required in the great outdoors. That’s why many of our hiking shoes include reliable waterproof protection to keep your feet dry when you're trudging through a rainstorm.

For colder climates, we recommend focusing your search on our winter models which provide extra insulation to keep your feet warm in sub-zero temperatures. Taking good care of your boots is also key to extending their lifespan.

Are there different types of hiking shoes to suit specific conditions? The answer is yes. Our winter boots provide a little extra insulation, while our summer models are super breathable.

But when it comes to weather, it’s not just your shoes you need to think about. The right woollen socks also play a crucial role in helping to manage moisture and prevent blisters. As many of you know, this can make all the difference on long treks.

We also suggest that you buy your boots a size larger than your usual shoes. We know this may sound a little strange, but it allows room for thick socks and for your feet to swell slightly, which is often par for the course on longer hikes.

If you’re on the lookout for the perfect hiking shoes, these are the key features you should keep in mind:

• Lightweight build to minimise fatigue (heavy boots should be avoided!)
• Waterproof options, to keep your feet dry
• Reliable grip and traction to handle slippery or rough surfaces
• High durability, so they can handle many miles (or kilometres) of use without wearing out prematurely

As you can see, hiking shoes are a really important part of your outdoor kit. No matter if you’re off on a gentle walk or tackling a more challenging trail, the right footwear really can make all the difference. At Columbia, we offer a wide range of options for all weather conditions and terrains.

Before you set off on your next adventure, we highly recommend taking a look at the variety of boots and shoes available.

Last but certainly not least, here’s a little more content related to questions that you might find helpful as you prepare for your next hiking adventure:

• Are hiking shoes good for walking?
• Are there hiking boots that are designed to be slip-resistant?
• High or low hiking boots?
• Hiking shoes, how much money is good quality?
• How can I prevent my feet from sweating in hiking boots?
• How important is the weight of a hiking boot?
• How long do hiking shoes last?
• How much distance do hiking shoes last?
• When buying hiking boots, should you generally go for a size larger than you normally wear?
• How to choose the right walking boot for you?
• How to clean hiking shoes?
• Is there a difference between summer and winter hiking boots?
• What is the difference between hiking shoes and hiking boots?
• What kind of hiking boots are suitable for forest treks?
• What’s the best hiking shoes for kids?
• What’s the difference between synthetic and leather hiking boots?
• When to replace your walking boots?
• Which hiking boots are the most comfortable for long treks?