Hiking shoes - with or without a membrane?
One of the most applied solutions in hiking shoes are membranes. How do they work? Their porous structure doesn't let water in while effectively wicking away sweat. This way, hiking shoes with a membrane are waterproof and airy at the same time. They are an excellent choice for autumn, winter or early spring hikes. Thanks to the membranes, they will provide thermal comfort even in difficult weather conditions.
However, hiking shoes with a membrane are not a good idea for summer trips. What you need when walking mountain trails on hot days is breathable footwear, so in this case you should opt for a lightweight model without a membrane. After proper impregnation, it will become resistant to light rain.
Buying hiking shoes - a high-ankle or low-cut model?
What hiking shoes to choose: a high-ankle or low-cut model? The choice of model depends mostly of the season, trail difficulty level and our hiking experience level.
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High-ankle hiking shoes - a good choice for high mountain hiking, best for beginners. Higher upper provides better protection of the ankle and ankle joint, and stabilises the foot. This way, the risk of injuries and accidents is reduced. High-ankle hiking shoes provide an additional protection from water, snow and mud.
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Low-cut hiking shoes - designed for hiking in lower mountains and on less demanding trails. They provide less movement restriction and breathability, and let you walk faster. However, they don't prevent small rocks or dust from getting inside.
The choice of hiking shoes height also depends greatly on the weight of your hiking equipment. High-ankle hiking shoes are designed mostly for people who carry heavy equipment. If your hiking equipment is a light backpack, you can opt for low-cut hiking models.
What hiking shoes for winter to choose?
Good winter hiking shoes must provide thermal comfort while protecting from snow, rain, moisture and mud. If you like hiking in winter, durable hiking footwear with a sturdy tread is a staple in your equipment. It's best to opt for a high-ankle model made of supeerior-quality material with a membrane. Such winter hiking shoes are warm, water-resistant and airy at the same time.
Summer hiking shoes - what to choose?
When it comes to summer hiking shoes, there are two key issues: breathability and grip. Shoes with a membrane, which will make your feet overheat and sweat, are not a good choice for hot days. Better opt for lightweight low-cut hiking shoes made of breathable materials which will allow for free air flow. Another key feature is a tread with a good grip and an outsole which provides stability and good amortisation.
Hiking shoes - how to choose the right size?
Choosing hiking shoes does not end with finding the perfect model. Matching the size also has a huge impact on our comfort. Wondering how to choose the size of hiking shoes? Is it true they must be bigger than our everyday shoes? It's mostly true.
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First: you should always try hiking shoes on when your feet are tired. Evening is a good time for it. Bear in mind that long walks make feet swell and increase their volume. You must make sure that shoes don't cause chafing or constrict your feet.
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Second: while trying hiking shoes on, put them over the hiking socks you wear on the trail.
If you buy shoes at a store, walking a little in the shoes is a good idea; if you buy them online - better order them in two sizes and take your time to compare them in the comfort of your home. When trying on hiking shoes, try putting your feet in different positions, getting on your toes or walking some stairs. With these tests, you can be sure that you chose the right size of your new hiking shoes and that successful, comfortable and - above all - safe hiking is just a step away.
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