Fast Hiking Shoes

Fast hiking, or speed hiking, is a type of hiking that falls between a standard hiking pace and trail running. While you may only be hiking for a short time, it does demand much more from your feet. Combining the protection and durability of walking shoes and the lightness of a trail running shoe, a low hiking shoe is ideal. They are lightweight and have rigid soles that can withstand the intense demands of this sport. Plus, with the same waterproof technology you find in our waterproof hiking shoes, you don’t have to worry about wet weather slowing you down.

As one of the leading hiking brands, Columbia Sportswear® has men’s and women’s hiking shoes to help you stay ahead of the pack. With designs that combine style, comfort and innovative materials, we have options for every type of outdoor adventure.

The right comfortable hiking shoes for speed hiking will enable you to hike faster and for a long distance. Here are some of the key features of this type of footwear:

• Cuff height: Low-cut mountain shoes are lightweight and will help push you forward, making them ideal for picking up the pace. The lower cuff will give your ankles more mobility and freedom of movement while avoiding the risk of rubbing.

• Comfort: Comfort is key to staying the distance. Unlike men's walking sandals with open toes, our ultra-comfortable low-cut shoes have protective toe caps that absorb impact from rocks and falling debris. Meanwhile, the heel and forefoot deflection domes reduce load impact and improve comfort and rebound.

• Grip and stability: Flexible soles, cushioned Omni-Max™ midsole and rugged Omni-Grip™ traction rubber outsole provide winter shoes with grip and stability and better push-off.

• Lacing: When fast hiking along different terrains, you need your foot securely in place without slipping. The Navic Fit™ lacing system and Techlite™ midsole ensure your heel is securely locked in place, even on faster trails and your shoe is secure.

• Waterproofing: Nothing like muddy terrain and wet conditions slows you down unless you wear a waterproof shoe. Our range of waterproof shoes for men and women features a low-cut hiking shoe built with Omni-Tech™ technology that prevents water from penetrating the shoe’s fabric, even as you pound through puddles.

• Strong and durable: Women’s hiking boots have a technical mesh upper for added durability. They are designed to work hard and offer the same strength as leather hiking boots.

Need help with your foot size? Draw around your foot and measure the distance from the back of your heel to the tip of your big toe. You can then refer to our handy size guide to find the perfect fit.

Fast hiking requires much of the same basic gear as traditional hiking, for example:

• Footwear: A low-cut hiking shoe is ideal, but a hiking boot with a good grip and flexibility for running is a good alternative.

• Hiking socks: A pair of hiking socks that reach above your shoes are essential for preventing blisters and keeping you hiking longer.

• Hiking jacket: The right hiking jacket will do it all: keep you warm and dry without weighing you down. A softshell jacket protects you from the elements without being too heavy or bulky.

• Breathable clothing: Choose hiking clothing that’s lightweight, waterproof and designed to breathe. It will ensure you stay comfortable and cool during your speed hike.

• Backpack: A lightweight backpack to hold all your hiking gear while you’re on the move.

• Hat: Whether to protect your head and face from the sun, keep you warm or shield your face from tree branches.

• Hiking poles: Improves your posture and balance, helping you to walk faster.

• Water bottle: Essential for helping you stay hydrated as you pound the trail.

Browse our hiking clothes for women and men for more ideas on what gear you need for fast hiking.

Inspired to try something new? From mountain hiking shoes to all-terrain shoes, we have an excellent range of men’s and women’s hiking shoes for all types of hiking and terrain. So, wherever your adventures take you, we have all the hiking gear to help you get the most out of your time in the great outdoors.

Discover more

• Hiking boot size
• Choose hiking shoes
• Type of hiking
• Choose a type of shoe for hiking
• Hiking tips
• Hiking soles