Boots or Shoes For Hiking?
There are a variety of hiking shoes and classifications. Depending on what your hiking plans are you might consider hiking shoes, hiking boots, backpacking boots and for the most intense hiking, mountaineering boots. When considering which one fits your hiking needs, here are some things to consider:
- Weight of the hiking shoe or boot – A boot that is too heavy will cause fatigue and pain in the feet and legs.
- Type of terrain – Hiking shoes are designed for different types of terrain. Choose the appropriate type of shoe for the type of hike you will be taking.
- Climate – Wet or icy conditions require a waterproof and insulated boot. Hot weather requires a well-ventilated shoe.
- Level of experience – Novices should start with lightweight and less aggressive boots.
Before we look at the best hiking shoes, let’s review the different types first.