Hiking shoes, how much money is good quality?

So, if you’re on the lookout for a new pair of hiking shoes, you’re most likely wondering how much you need to spend to get your hands on an average pair? Trust us, we know times are tough, and it can be really tempting to go for the cheapest option, but just think about what that could mean for your feet on a rocky trail.

But that doesn’t mean spending hundreds. It all comes down to finding the right balance between price and performance. Thankfully, Columbia has a range of shoes to suit every budget and we’ve come up with this handy guide to set you on the right track.

If you’ve taken a look at our range, then you probably already know that our hiking shoes for men and women vary greatly in price. If you have a limited budget, you can find something for a fairly reasonable price, but if you’re looking for something durable that’s going to stand the test of time and meet your trekking goals, then it’s worth investing a little more.

The good news is that our shoes come with a range of advanced features no matter how much you decide to pay. Our exclusive Omni-Grip™ technology offers superb sole traction for the rock scramblers out there. Meanwhile, Techlite™, gives our shoes a unique cushioned feel, providing you with a little extra comfort for those longer hikes in the outdoors.

If you’re regularly tackling rugged terrains or planning a multi-day hike in a far-flung place, then it’s probably worth shelling out a little more. It all comes down to your hiking level and practice. Our mid-priced shoes feature things like waterproof linings and breathable materials that can make all the difference in extreme climates or in areas where the weather is unpredictable.

However, it goes without saying that if you’re looking for something to pull on for a gentle trail with the family, or to match with a pair of jeans, then you can stick to the lower end of the price range without a worry.

It’s really important to think about where you’ll be doing most of your hiking before you make your purchase. We have absolutely everything from lightweight shoes designed for easy trails to boots built to extreme conditions, so there’s no need to worry about not finding something that makes sense for you.

If you’re looking to be adding a few strenuous hikes to your tally in the near future, then take a look at our mid-height or high-cut boots for more ankle support. This style of boot also provides more stability, which is crucial when you're making your way along rough paths. We also recommend that you think about investing in shoes with some form of waterproof upper, because let’s be honest, you can never trust the British weather.

And here’s a pearl of wisdom from our years of hiking boot experience—don’t overlook the importance of decent socks. A good pair of quality hiking socks can truly make a significant difference during your hike. For some, they’re even more important than the shoes themselves.

Now that you’ve found the perfect pair of hiking shoes, you'll want to extend their shelf life for as long as possible. But don’t worry, it’s pretty easy. After each hike, all you have to do is brush off the dirt and wipe them over with plain water. But you should take extra care with harsh chemicals, especially on leather shoes.

At the end of the day, your budget is going to play a big part in your decision. But, as we’ve said, with Columbia, you don’t have to worry about compromising on quality. Whether you're a casual hiker or someone who practically lives on the trail, we can guarantee that there’s a shoe that’ll fit your needs—and your budget (and improve your hiking experience). Plus, if you keep a look out for seasonal sales online or in one of our stores, you might be able to snag a great deal that won’t eat into your monthly budget.

Got other hiking shoe related questions? Want to see how our shoes compare? Take a look through these articles and we’re sure you’ll find the answers:

• 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 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?