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Are hiking shoes necessary?

If you're new to hiking (welcome!), you'll often hear that your footwear can make all the difference to your trail experience. But are hiking shoes necessary? The quick answer is yes! Hiking shoes are one of the best investments any hiker can make. After all, they are specifically designed for walking on rocky areas and uneven trails. Mountain hiking shoes handle challenging terrain and provide crucial support, comfort and stability when tackling trails, especially over longer distances. They keep you balanced on unstable terrain and help prevent blisters, keeping your feet happy every step of the way.

What are the benefits of hiking shoes?

A hiking boot offers a range of benefits that standard footwear may not provide. A well-designed pair ensures your feet remain comfortable and protected, regardless of the trail conditions. Here are some key advantages of comfortable hiking shoes:

  • Comfort: Men's and women's hiking shoes are designed for short and long distances, providing support, comfort and cushioning for miles. Some walking shoes feature Techlite™ high-performance cushioning for smoother, more efficient foot movement. Supporting your natural gait, it reduces fatigue and increases comfort. A good fit ensures maximum comfort, so always wear the correct size.

  • Warmth: Have you ever been on a hike or a long walk and had to stop because your feet were too cold? Aside from being extremely uncomfortable and sometimes even painful, the cold can greatly impact foot health. Outdoor footwear is designed for different temperatures and conditions. For example, snow boots contain up to 200 grams of thermal insulation, so they feel like you're wearing a fleece on your feet. Plus, Omni-Heat™ Infinity reflective stops heat escaping from your feet, helping to keep you warm and comfortable. Don a pair of thicker hiking socks for extra warmth and comfort.

  • Grip and traction: You need a good grip to avoid slipping and falling, especially in muddy and wet trail conditions. Trekking footwear, especially those with Adapt Trax™ outsoles, provides exceptional grip, even on uneven and slippery terrain. Whether tackling light trails or more heavy terrain, the right pair of shoes will help you stay on track.

  • Stability: When scrambling over rocks or navigating rocky terrain, you want your feet to feel secure in your footwear. While your foot may slip around in regular trainers, trail shoes with FIT SYSTEM™ lock your foot in place for greater stability. Your foot will stay firmly in place even if you're fast hiking.

  • Waterproofing: Our waterproof shoes for men and women feature multilayer technology to keep your feet dry. OutDry™, Omni-Tech™ and Omni-Shield™ create a continuous waterproof barrier so moisture cannot seep through. Even if you step in a deep puddle or cross a stream, the water won't penetrate the fabric of the waterproof hiking shoes and reach the inside. At the same time, the breathable materials allow sweat to escape, keeping your feet comfortable and cool.

  • Choice of styles: Depending on your needs, you can choose between low, mid, and high-cut mountain shoes. High-cut shoes are more akin to boots, reaching above the ankle. Like leather hiking boots, they provide maximum protection and support on challenging terrains. Mid-cut styles cover the ankle for medium protection. Meanwhile, a lightweight, low hiking shoe looks similar to trainers and sneakers and is ideal for greater freedom and flexibility for your ankles. It also reduces the weight you carry on your feet, allowing for better efficiency on the trail.

  • Durability: You could describe trekking shoes as tough as old boots. After all, they are designed to withstand harsh weather and challenging terrain. While they will inevitably experience wear and tear over time, trail walking footwear lasts much longer than regular shoes. You can confidently take on any trail with the right amount of durability and comfort.

Durable gear for every hiker

As specialists in hiking, Columbia Sportswear® knows a thing or two about what makes good outdoor gear. We offer superb options for all types of hikers and terrain. Whether you prefer longer treks, fast hiking or long-distance walks, we have all-terrain shoes and men's and women's hiking boots for the job. If you want reliable footwear, our picks ensure durability and comfort. Browse our range, from hiking clothes for women and hiking jackets to hiking sandals for men and unleash your inner adventurer.