Hiking Shoes

Hiking Shoes for Every Trail

Hiking shoes are increasing in popularity as a lightweight alternative to traditionalboots. Many hiking shoes are waterproof, breathable, and durable, and unlike hiking boots they won’t weigh down your legs after many kilometres on the trail. With more than 900 styles to choose from, addnature.co.uk is the best place to find the perfect pair of hiking shoes for all of your outdoor adventures.

Hiking Shoes vs. Hiking Boots

Hiking shoes are generally cut at or below the ankle, whereas hiking boots are cut above the ankle and as high as the calf. Both types of footwear have advantagesand disadvantages, which are important to understand when deciding whetherhiking shoes are right for you.

• Weight - The main advantage of hiking shoes is that they’re lightweight. The old hiking adage is that every gram on your feet is like fivein your pack, so the reduction in weight between hiking shoes and hiking boots can be significant. If you plan on hiking long days, hiking shoes can allow you to travel further and faster without fatigue.
• Ankle Protection - What hiking shoes don’t offer to thesame extent as hiking boots is ankle protection. If your foot lands awkwardly in hiking boots, the boot itself will prevent your ankle from rolling. That’s not thecase in hiking shoes. If you’re hiking over rough terrain or with a loaded backpack, you may want to think twice before opting for hiking shoes.
• Durability - Hiking shoes aren’t quite as durable as hiking boots, but don’t let this deter you. They still last for hundreds to thousands of kilometres, and since hiking shoes are typically less expensive than boots it comes out to around the same price to replace them more frequently.
• Waterproofing - Modern waterproof hiking shoes offer just as much protection from wet trail conditions as hiking boots. In many cases, the materials and waterproof, breathable membranes used for hiking shoes are the same as those found in traditional hiking boots.

Choosing the Right Pair of Hiking Shoes

Breathability

One of the most important things to consider when choosing a pair of hiking shoes is how breathable they are. Many hiking shoes are constructed with a mesh upper, which readily allows hot air to escape your feet. Leather uppers aren’t as breathable, but they can provide a more snug fit and better durability, so many manufacturers use a combination of mesh and leather.

Waterproofing

Many, but not all, hiking shoes have a waterproof, breathable membrane to repel water. If you hike in wet conditions, make sure to get a waterproof hiking shoe.Keep in mind that you’ll need to treat the shoes at least once a season to maintain the waterproofing.

Stiffness

Another important quality to think about for hiking shoes is how stiff they are. Some lightweight hiking shoes allow your feet to feel every rock and bump underfoot, while others feel completely rigid when you step. Which style is better for you largely comes down to what you find comfortable.

Hiking Shoes at addnature.co.uk

The best way to find your perfect pair of hiking shoes is to shop our enormous selection at addnature.co.uk. We carry hiking shoes for men, women, and children in a variety of styles so that you can find the shoe and fit that’s right for your adventures.