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Is there a difference between summer and winter hiking boots?

Do you sometimes wonder if you can wear the same hiking shoes all year round? Not sure which types of boots are best for each season? Well, if you’re a lifelong hiker, then you’ve probably noticed that your foot responds a little differently depending on the time of year.

That’s why our winter hiking boots are designed to offer a little extra insulation, greater protection, and waterproof features for when the weather turns colder. Our summer hiking shoes on the other hand are lightweight, breathable, and built for warmer conditions.

How do winter boots set themselves apart

At Columbia, our winter hiking boots prioritise insulation. This is because your feet are more likely to feel the cold, in snowy or wet conditions. Therefore, a good boot needs to offer superior warmth.

Our winter boots are designed using technologies such as Omni-Heat™. This includes reflective warmth layers that trap the heat around your foot, so that every step on a trail or mountain is taken in comfort, even in sub-zero weather.

In addition, our winter boots tend to be a little heavier on account of their extra insulation and waterproof membranes. However, all these features provide you with greater durability and protection against the elements. This is an absolute must-have for more demanding activities like trekking over steep or icy terrain, where cold, wet feet turn your adventure sour.

Waterproof membranes for cold and wet conditions

When the winter hits is when waterproof footwear is more important than ever. If you're trudging your way through deep snow or down the slushy front path, having a good waterproof membrane in your hiking boots is super important. Columbia’s winter boots come with Omni-Tech™ waterproof technology. This incredible invention works to keep moisture out and allows your feet to breathe.

Summer hiking shoes are a little lighter

For when the sun comes out, our summer hiking shoes prioritise breathability and lightweight materials. They are designed to keep your feet cool and dry. Our footwear for warmer weather often includes mesh panels and minimal leather, to allow the air to circulate freely around your foot. This makes them the ideal choice for hikes in hot climates. After all, the last thing you want is sweaty feet leading to discomfort or blisters.

The biggest difference is in the weight

One of the main factors that set summer and winter boots apart is their weight. As a general rule, winter boots are heavier as they come with increased insulation and protection, meanwhile summer shoes are lighter and more flexible. This reduced weight helps prevent fatigue, and means you can walk longer distances without your feet weighing you down.

However, there’s a flip side. While we highly recommend our lighter boots for warmer climates, they sometimes do not offer the same ankle protection as their winter counterparts. For this very reason, many seasoned hikers invest in multiple pairs of shoes, each of which are suited to different conditions and terrains.

How to choose the right boot for you

How do you decide between summer and winter hiking boots? The answer depends largely on the terrain, the weather, and when you’ll do most of your walking. For colder climates, go for a well-insulated, waterproof boot with Columbia’s Omni-Grip™ technology, offering superior grip on all types of surfaces. If you’re a summer hiker, then opt for a breathable, lightweight option that will keep your feet cool on those long walks in the sun.

It’s clear that choosing the right hiking footwear (and socks!) can make all the difference in your outdoor experiences, no matter whether you’re braving the winter chill or trekking in warmer seasons.

If you still have questions about finding the perfect boots or shoes for your needs, check out these guides with answers to common questions that many adventurers like you often ask: