How to choose hiking shoes | Columbia Sportswear®

If you need to choose hiking shoes for your next adventure, you're in the right place. Columbia Sportswear® has an immense collection of sturdy, supportive and comfortable hiking shoes for every adventure. Our range of men’s and women’s hiking shoes is your perfect trail companion. Featuring our innovative cushioning and waterproofing technologies, you can confidently step into the wild. Whether embarking on a gentle coastal walk, vigorous multi-day hike or exploring the countryside, we've got your perfect sole mate, no matter what types of terrain you’ll face.

How do I choose hiking shoes?

The right waterproof, comfortable hiking shoes enable a long and much more enjoyable hike. But with all the choices of all-terrain shoes, how do you choose the right pair for you? Start by asking yourself some crucial questions to help you understand exactly what you need from a hiking shoe. Consider the fit and flexibility of the material and whether the shoe is lightweight for easy trails or heavier for durability.

How experienced a hiker are you?

If you're new to trail walking, your priority will likely be comfort, especially if you plan to start with shorter and less challenging hikes. A light, low hiking shoe with plenty of cushioning is a good option for newbies. Shoes that offer better grip and support are a good option for more experienced hikers who are not afraid of a challenge. You’ll need footwear that can withstand various conditions, terrain and distances while also providing comfort. Look for hiking shoes designed for tough environments, providing stability, waterproofing membranes and protection against rough terrain.

What is the terrain like?

There are different types of terrain, so think about what you'll be facing on your hikes. Easy trails have more even and stable ground, making mens walking sandals the ideal match. Uneven trails are a little more technical to navigate and you'll need to be careful of roots, fallen branches, rocks and mud. These trails may also include steps and steep terrain. Off-trail hikes are where things can get exciting and unpredictable. These trails are not typically marked and the terrain is usually uneven and unstable, with loose rocks to navigate around. It's for true adventurers. For challenging, technical terrains, you’ll need mountain hiking shoes with Omni-Grip™ traction technology and Adapt Trax™ rubber outsoles. With every step you take, they will bite into the ground for a superior (and reassuring) grip.

How long will you be hiking for?

Are long hikes your thing? Do you relish packing up your gear and hitting the camping trails for several days? If that sounds like you, you need sturdy, comfortable hiking shoes to keep up with you. Look for stiff leather hiking boots or mid-cut walking shoes that support your foot and ankles and protect you from rocks. They should also have good grippy soles that provide excellent traction on wet and dry terrain. But not all outdoor adventures have to be long, multi-day backpacking adventures. Shorter walks and day hikes are just as fun but tend to demand less from your footwear. Light men’s or women’s hiking boots or light hiking shoes would be ideal. Whether a short or long hike, make sure your footwear has Techlite™ Plush foam cushioning technology for enhanced comfort without adding extra weight.

What will the weather be like?

Unfortunately, you can't always guarantee dry weather during a hike. So you'll need to know what you'll be facing. Wet weather can mean wet and muddy trails, puddles and slippery surfaces. It can also mean soggy hiking socks, wet feet and blisters. These conditions call for waterproof shoes for men or women to ensure your feet stay dry even if caught in a downpour or misjudged a puddle. Waterproof footwear from Columbia Sportswear® features our impressive waterproofing technologies - Outdry™, Omni-Tech™and Omni-Shield™. These each play a role in preventing water from penetrating the fabric of your shoe to keep you dry. And when the temperatures drop, switch to a model of winter shoes with added warmth and insulation for chillier treks.

How to choose the right size hiking shoes?

Footwear that is too big or too small could slip, rub and cause painful blisters. That’s why it’s important to wear the right size before you hit the trails. If you know your shoe size, you already have a head start. Fortunately, you can measure your feet at home if you don't know your size. Simply stand on a piece of paper, ask someone to draw around your feet and then measure between the two further points - the back of your heel to the tip of your biggest toe. Refer to our size guide to help you identify your correct size before you buy.

Our outdoor footwear pairs superbly with our hiking clothes for women and men. So, whether you’re looking for a hiking jacket or mountain shoes, Columbia Sportswear® is your one-stop shop for trail gear.

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