Hiking Boots Review - 6 Types

There are two factors that determine the type of boot you select.

The first concerns your personal requirements. These include the shape of your feet and how much support they need.

You also need to consider how far you are travelling and the terrain.

Keep the weight of your boots as light as possible because unnecessary weight on your feet can be extremely tiring.

1. Lightweight Boot (Flexible fabric uppers allow the boot to breathe)




Men’s Merrell Moab Mid GORE-TEX® XCR®

Fabric and leather hybrids are popular on trails worldwide because they combine the support and traction of a boot with the weight and flexibility of a sports shoe.

Many have waterproof, breathable linings. These boots tent to cause fewer blisters, because of their flexible construction.

Fabric and leather hybrid: Hybrids are a good choice for day and overnight hikers on moderate terrain because of their comfort and light weight.

Price: $94.90 - $105.00




2. Middleweight Boot (The boot is cut low on the ankle, so it is more flexible)



Men’s Timberland Classic Hiking Euro Hiker M - Oiled Brown Smooth

A good compromise between the lightweight boots and the traditional heavier, higher-cut leather boots, middleweight boots are cut lower on the ankle, are made of lighter weight materials, and are more flexible than traditional leather.


On Sale: $92.95

Light Leather Boot: Nubuck leather boots provide more support and water repellence than a hybrid, and are a reasonable weight for hiking.




3. Traditional Heavy Leather Boot (a high cut gives good ankle support)



La Sportiva Mulaz GTX Boot - Men’s

Heavier Boots have fallen out of favour with the arrival of new lighter types. However they are frequently preferred by hikers who carry heavy loads on rough terrain.

Heavy Leather Boot: Three-season full grain leather boots are heavier but provide excellent support and good protection in snow.

Sale: $183.71




4. Snowshoeing Boot (Rubber soles have good traction and there are no seams where water can seep in)



Columbia Sportswear Women’s Bugaboot Omni-Tech Snow Boot

Traditional snowshoeing boots are lined with thick felt. Flexible uppers are comfortable, but do not give enough support for long hikes. Most modern boots have an insulated foot bed to reduce heat loss through the sole of the boot. The waterproof leather upper and rubber outsole keep feet warm and dry.

Snowshoeing boot: Snowshoeing boots usually have an inner insulating boot made of felt or a synthetic material such as Thinsulate.
Price: $99.95 - $99.99




5. Jungle Trekking Boots
   



Black Military Style Speedlace Jungle Boot with Cordura Upper

These are high boots made with rubber soles, leather toes, and heels, with canvas and nylon uppers. They should fit sufficiently snugly that the suction of thick mud cannot pull them off your feet.

Jungle boots can cause the feet to sweat and swell so make sure they are not too tight, and war moisture-wicking socks. In hot weather, carry alternative footwear such as light sports shoes or trekking sandals for camp and for use on easier terrain.

Jungle Trekking Boot: Jungle boots are waterproof, fit high on the lower leg, and are tight-fitting.

$27.95 - $39.95



6. Climbing and Hiking Hybrid
   
   Kahtoola KTS Steel Crampons - Available from: $130.95
   Crampons can be worn to give extra grip when walking on snow and ice.

   

   Men’s Vasque Wasatch GTX 07166 - Available from $169.95

   Modern climbing boots have a more flexible construction than traditional boots. They are designed to be worn with crampons and to keep feet warm in very cold temperatures, but they can also be worn without crampons for hiking on approach trails.

   The weight and stiffness of climbing boots make them inappropriate choices for very long-distance treks.

Similar Posts:

• 3 Types of Footwear for Day Hikes
• Best Hiking Boots - How To Pick Them
• Taking Care of Your Feet During Hiking
• How To Break In New Boots
• How To Repair Boots