What is the difference between hiking shoes and hiking boots?

Do you get a little confused when it comes to hiking footwear? Not sure what exactly separates hiking shoes from hiking boots? What’s clear is that choosing the right footwear for your outdoor adventures can make a significant difference to your comfort and performance. Let’s explore the key differences.

The biggest or perhaps most obvious difference between hiking shoes and boots is their design. As a general rule, hiking shoes are low-cut around the ankle, giving you a wide range of movement. This type of footwear is lighter and ideal for shorter, easier trails where you may want to pick up your pace. Hiking shoes are great for a walk around the local park or any terrain that isn’t especially rocky, as they provide a good level of support without feeling heavy.

Hiking boots, on the other hand, have a high ankle design that gives you that extra level of protection and stability. This is obviously very beneficial on uneven ground, where your ankles, especially if you’re carrying a heavy backpack, may need extra support. If you’re a big fan of multi-day treks or trails in mountain environments, then hiking boots are also the better choice.

They also weigh in differently. Hiking shoes are generally far more lightweight than boots. This makes them a popular choice with hikers looking to move faster and avoid foot fatigue on shorter hikes.

In sharp contrast, our hiking boots are often made from tougher materials, such as leather and synthetics, which makes them heavier. However, this added weight isn’t all bad as it also offers benefits in terms of protection, especially on rough terrain. For more challenging hikes, the extra bulk of boots tends to reduce strain on your foot and your body overall.

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.

Both our hiking shoes and boots provide comfort. However, our different types of footwear are suited to specific situations. On the one hand, they are great for day hikes on easy terrain, as they give you flexibility and breathability. They are also available in a wide range of styles and colours, giving you plenty of options.

That said, for more strenuous hikes, hiking boots are unbeatable. They deliver superior comfort, particularly when laden with extra equipment. What’s more, their cushioned midsoles and supportive soles distribute your weight evenly, which in turn, takes the pressure off your feet.

If you’re used to walking in unpredictable weather, then you know that waterproof footwear is a must. Many of our hiking boots are designed with advanced waterproofing technology to keep your feet dry.

That’s not to say that hiking shoes don’t also come in waterproof designs, but they prioritise breathability. This makes them a better choice for tropical and hot climates where your feet are more likely to overheat.

And don’t forget about the socks! It may sound crazy, but pairing your footwear with the right socks is just as important when it comes to keeping your feet dry and comfortable, rain or shine.

The final decision between hiking shoes and hiking boots depends on the type of adventure you’re planning. As we’ve seen, for shorter, lighter hikes on easy trails, hiking shoes are your best bet. For tougher treks, especially those with big backpacks involved, hiking boots are exactly what your feet need.

Take a look at Columbia's range of footwear, where you’ll find everything from lightweight hiking shoes to durable, high ankle hiking boots—there really is something for every hiker.

Here are our answers to a few of our most popular hiking shoe questions that may help you choose the right pair:

• Are hiking shoes good for walking?
• Are hiking shoes necessary?
• 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 should hiking shoes fit ?
• 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 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?