How to choose the right walking boot for you? I Columbia Sportswear®

Do you love exploring the great outdoors on foot? If the answer is yes, then choosing the perfect pair of walking boots can be a highly enjoyable experience. But it’s not always easy. The good news is that we cater to all kinds of walkers, from those who love a long hike in the mountains, to those who relish nothing more than a short stroll in their local area.

No matter what category you fit into, selecting the right footwear is essential. Here, we’ll briefly cover how to select the best boots for you, focusing on materials, fit, and other important features.

Walking boot features to conside

Before buying your boots, you should think about the types of hikes or walks you enjoy most. For a casual walker whose second home is the local park, lightweight, flexible shoes will most likely provide sufficient support.

However, if you prefer longer or more technical hikes that often involve uneven terrain, you should look for boots with sturdy ankle support, a sole with optimal traction, and of course, those all-important waterproof uppers.

Waterproof boots are highly recommended for those of you who often encounter wet terrain or water, while breathable boots help keep feet dry in hotter climates. You could say that leather boots have it all, as they are both durable and waterproof, however synthetic fabric models always outperform them on breathability.

How to decide on your shoe size

It doesn’t take a genius to work out that the right fit is essential when it comes to preventing blisters and general discomfort. Expert advice often suggests purchasing shoes that are half a size bigger than your regular size to accommodate both thick socks and natural foot swelling. Always remember that your toes should have room to move, but your feet shouldn’t slip around inside the boot.

In addition to all this, a well-designed lacing system will help you adjust the fit depending on how your feet feel on any particular day. Proper lace adjustments also help significantly with blisters and improve overall comfort.

Key features to look out for when buying new boots

All our boots come with advanced technologies for guaranteed durability and comfort. One of our many standout features is the Omni-Grip™ rubber outsole. This gives you excellent traction on any surface, ensuring a firm grip no matter what the weather. Our boots are also known for their cushioned midsoles, offering all-day comfort during long hikes.

Our footwear comes in a range of styles

Not only are our shoes equipped with cutting-edge technologies, but they also come in a range of styles and types of boots. For example, our mid and high-cut boots provide extra ankle support for those who are prone to injury, while low-cut options give you more flexibility on the trail.

Each of our designs also come in a variety of colours to match your style preferences. Meanwhile, for young adventurers, Columbia also offers hiking shoes for kids that are both trendy and comfortable.

Don’t rush into a walking boot purchase

Before rushing to the shops to make your final decision, take your time to consider the outdoor conditions you’ll face, the level of waterproofing that suits you, and the durability of the materials. We also recommend taking a look at the outsole to get an idea of the traction provided and don’t forget to follow care instructions to prolong the life of your boots.

Now that you know how to choose the right boots for you, you're ready to hit the trails in comfort. Columbia’s range of hiking boots offers something for every type of adventurer, from casual walkers to experienced trekkers. For more expert tips on choosing the right shoes for you and answers to other related questions, take a look at these pages: