How to choose the right shoes
Always start from what you're going to do and where you're going. Colder climates, as in the mountains, place different demands on the shoes than if you walk along the beach. How far you’re intending to go is another thing you need to consider. For longer hikes where you might have a lot of packing with you, you need a pair of hiking boots that are sturdy and shock absorbing.
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Frequently asked questions about shoes and boots
What is the difference between hiking shoes and hiking boots?
Hiking boots usually have higher shafts and are good to wear on your feet if you walk in hilly and wet terrain. Hiking shoes, which have lower shafts, are better suited if you hike along hiking trails. The lower shaft provides less support for the ankles.
How do I know what size I need?
In general, you should have at least one centimetre from your longest toe to the shoe edge, with a sock on. The shoe should be firmly attached to the ankle and heel, so that the shoe does not slide and cause shoe chafing. The shoe should also fit well around the foot and support the arch. Therefore, it is important to check if you need a slim or slightly wider model.
What sole should my shoes have?
The sole of your hiking boots should have a rough pattern, which gives you a good grip on both loose and wet surfaces. Let the terrain determine the thickness of the sole. When walking on rocks or in other sharp terrain, you should have a thick enough sole so that you never have to feel the surface through the sole. If you walk a lot in uneven terrain, it can be an advantage to have a lower sole, so that you get closer to the ground and reduce the risk of treading wrongly.
