Hiking can be ideal sports for the urbanites seeking respite from stressful urban living. Hiking is all about walking through nature, where it is the journey that matters - destination is not important.  

If you go through the hiking glossary, you will come across a number of hiking variations, such as Trekking, Backpacking, Bushwalking, Trailing or Mountaineering. At the core they all involve walking.  

So walking is what makes for the basic framework of this recreational sport and as we talk of walking the next thing that crosses our mind is the pair of - yes, footwear.  

In fact, in hiking, the footwear makes for the most important piece of equipment. The feet are a hiker’s most important resource. Irrespective of hiking terrains— flat and dry to rough and wet —a hiker must feel comfortable with his feet; it should be well protected and kept dry. For these reasons a hiker has to choose his/ her hiking boots wisely.  

As said above, hiking has its many variations. The choice of your hiking boots should be conditioned by the type of hiking you are planning to take up. Here is a brief introduction to several types of hiking boots. Select the type and style that best works for your needs. 

Hiking Shoes 

Also known as Trail Boots or Light Boots, these are designed as entry level Hiking Boots, to be used mainly on smooth terrains. These are flexible footwear made mostly of suede, nylon, or other light fabrics supported with leather. The frame architecture of these boots provides good support for the feet and ankles. 

Mid-weight Boots or the Cross Hikers

These are mid-weight Hiking Boots designed for less smooth trails and light off-trail terrains. Generally made out of slightly tougher leather or a combination of tougher synthetic materials and leather parts, these less flexible boots support longer or even multi-day hikes.  

Heavy Boots or the Off-trail Boots

Intended for rough terrain these types of hiking boots come with more complex technical constructions with the use of toe caps, cemented outsoles, molded midsoles, and synthetic linings. The interior of the shoe uses Gore-Text or other multi-purpose breathable, waterproof materials. The constructions of these boots give maximum support and shock absorption. However, to carry these heavy boots the hiker needs to get used to it through training. 

Mountaineering Boots These are the toughest hiking boots that may support you through the toughest of trails. They come with special attachment points at the top of the sole for securing Crampons. These boots are ideal for ice climbing, but uncomfortable for long hiking.However, mountain boots have more flexible variations where leather is used in combination with highly technical fabrics to ensure comfort and breathability. Mountaineering Boots are actually meant for the highest level of hikers, walking the border line of hiking and mountaineering. 

Sandals

Some hikers carry in their backpack a pair of sandals that can be used at the time of crossing streams or when the trail is completely smooth. This type of the hiking footwear is ideal for warm weather and easier terrains.  

All types of Hiking Boots —starting from very light and flexible to heavy and rigid— come with their respective tenets and unique benefits. Knowledge about the various types of Hiking Boots will help you buy the right boot for your next hiking expedition.

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