Here is a detailed guide to the different types of hiking shoes with their pros and cons:
Low Shoes (Trail Running):
Features :
- Weight: Very light (300-450g per pair)
- Height: Ankle-high
- Terrain: Well-maintained trails, short and sporty hikes
Benefits :
- Extremely light
- Very great freedom of movement
- Quick drying
- Maximum flexibility
- Ideal for fast and sporty hikes
Disadvantages :
- Minimum protection against obstacles
- Reduced stability on uneven terrain
- Shorter lifespan
- Minimal ankle support
- Limited protection against moisture and rocks
Mid-Cut Shoes:
Features :
- Weight: Lightweight (450-600g per pair)
- Height: Mid-ankle
- Terrain: Varied trails, day hikes
Benefits :
- Good compromise between lightness and stability
- Better ankle support
- Greater protection against obstacles
- Breathable
- Versatility on different terrains
Disadvantages :
- Average protection in very technical terrain
- Less waterproof than high-top models
- Less support for heavy loads
- Average durability
Lightweight High-Top Shoes:
Features :
- Weight: Moderate (600-800g per pair)
- Height: Above the ankle
- Terrain: Mountain hiking, varied trails
Benefits :
- Excellent ankle support
- Good protection against obstacles
- Improved waterproofing
- Suitable for more technical terrain
- Summer/mid-season versatility
Disadvantages :
- Heavier than the low models
- Generally higher price
- Less breathable
- Longer break-in period
Technical/Alpine High Boots:
Features :
- Weight: Heavy (800-1200g per pair)
- Height: High shaft with full ankle protection
- Terrain: High mountains, rocky terrain, paid hikes
Benefits :
- Maximum protection
- Very good ankle support
- Optimal waterproofing
- Compatible with crampons
- Excellent stability under heavy load
- Exceptional durability
Disadvantages :
- Very heavy
- Significant rigidity
- High price
- Less breathable
- Long and difficult running-in period
Selection criteria:
To select the right shoes, consider :
- Your type of hike
- Your body shape
- The practiced terrain
- Your physical condition
- The season
- Your budget
Technical Advice :
- Always try on shoes with hiking socks
- Test with a load close to what you will be carrying
- Plan a break-in before a major hike
- Check flexibility and support
- Think about breathability and waterproofing
Maintenance :
- Clean up after every hike
- Use a suitable waterproofer
- Dry naturally at room temperature
- Change the insoles regularly
- Replace shoes every 500-1000 km
Personalized Recommendation :
- Beginner/Easy trails: Low or mid shoes
- Casual hiking: Mid-top shoes
- Regular hiking/Mountain: High-top shoes
- High mountain/Terrain technique: Shoe techniques