What are the different types of hiking?

You might think hiking is as easy as putting on a pair of all-terrain shoes and heading off on a trail with your backpack. But there are so many different types of hiking to experience depending on your activity levels, physical fitness and stamina required to complete a route. You might even base the type of hiking you enjoy from the many benefits it brings.

Let’s take a closer look at the different types you can get involved in and the gear you’ll need whether you are a beginner or are used to hiking at a high level of difficulty on challenging routes.

Combining long trips in beautiful wilderness with a camping experience, backpacking needs to be planned in advance and you can expect to carry multiple items from a tent and sleeping bag to pans and utensils. choose hiking shoes like our range of long hiking boots to give maximum support over long distances, but you can also opt for a men's hiking shoe to navigate those well-trodden paths.

Scale new heights for superior vistas on more challenging routes that will test your skill level in a variety of conditions. Having a hiking shoe or sturdy leather hiking boots will ensure you have the best traction whether you’re climbing on loose rock paths in a National Park or on a mountain range with steep slopes that will give you a great workout.

If reaching the peak is what really does it for you, then summit climbing an entire mountain is an awesome, memory-making experience. Your hiking soles should have a high level of traction giving you excellent stability underfoot. It’s advisable to choose waterproof hiking shoes and hiking socks to ensure you’re prepared for whatever the mountain challenges you with on your summit hike.

If you’re new to this outdoor activity or just want to explore the local map at your own pace then day hiking is the perfect introduction. The most important thing you’ll need to make sure the experience is enjoyed properly is a quality pair of light hiking shoes. You can opt for alow hiking shoe when the path isn’t going to be too rough, or even some hiking sandals for men which are great all-rounders for those easier, more popular trails.

Urban exploration isn’t just walking through a city in a pair of regular trainers. You’re going to experience what most tourists and even residents never will. Hit all of the main landmarks and places of cultural interest by walking many miles in a single day. You’ll need the support that wide shoes for men bring to wearied feet and a hiking jacket that can be easily stowed away.

Long miles lay ahead of the seasoned hiker when a trekking expedition is undertaken. Also known as thru-hiking, you can be walking for weeks and even months to discover a new area and the kind of gear you need for hiking depends on the journey length and the types of terrain you’ll encounter. You might need waterproof shoes for men or winter shoes during cooler seasons to cope with whatever nature throws at you.

Not for the faint-hearted, bushwhacking is next-level outdoor activity. Cut your own trail through the wilderness with no definitive direction in mind as you’re not following pre-made trails—but don’t forget your compass and map! Choose men’s and women's hiking boots that extend above the ankle to protect yourself from untamed scrub, and opt for hiking clothes for women and men in layers to adapt to your environment.

Whatever level of hiker you are, coastal hiking is an amazing experience that includes crashing waves, sandy beaches and rocky cliffs. Expect different levels of altitude depending on your route and there are plenty of coastal walking guides available with hiking tips on how to get the most out of your journey. Choose the right hiking boot size for your adventure and for easier routes you can even opt for a pair of hiking sandals. Don’t forget kids waterproof shoes as there’s bound to be frequent coastal mist and spray, as well as wetter walking conditions.

From simply spending time with friends and family in nature to seeking the best views from a summit hike, the reasons we go hiking differ but one thing remains the same—getting outdoors into natural surroundings brings a sense of wellbeing like nothing else in the world.

Also discover:

• Top Mountain hiking in the UK