Hiking is a fun and beneficial endeavor. It lets you explore places that you haven't been to before.
As an outdoor activity, hiking requires preparation. Even the shortest hike still requires you to do some planning. Among the things that you need to plan is what you are going to wear. If we run the specifics, one of the priorities should be your footwear.
One of the questions that people ask is whether or not they can hike without a pair of hiking boots. Is it really possible that you can ditch your boots for a pair of trail runners or running shoes?
Well, let's discuss this matter in the following sections.
One should know that you can wear a plethora of footwear on the trail. However, your choice should be influenced by factors such as the destination, the type of hike, and the time you are heading to the trail.
These days, it is evident that people enjoy using trail runners. Their preference for trail runners is due to their lightweight construction, comfortable architecture, and easy feel right from the get-go.
But of course, this doesn't mean that trail runners apply to everyone. As mentioned, there are a plethora of factors that could affect your choice. You have to include your preferences in the equation, as well.
Surely enough, there are different footwear that you can wear on a hike. You can see them in the table below:
| Type of Footwear | General Qualities | Recommended Usage |
| Trail running shoes | Offers ergonomic supportHighly comfortable Generally lightweight | Trail running shoes are ideal for easy and convenient trails. These shoes work well for casual hikes on established terrains or trails that you are familiar with. You can even use them on semi-long distance hikes, especially if you have trained ankles. Of course, other trail hikers who want to test their grit wear these trail runners. |
| Hiking shoes | Rugged and durable constructionOffers better feet and ankle support than trail running shoesProvides a decent level of comfort | Hiking shoes are suitable for all types of hikes. You can use them in virtually every type of trail. Hikers can use them on technical and casual hikes. If it is a technical hike, make sure it is done on established trails. Keep in mind that hiking shoes aren't suitable for slippery and muddy paths. But at the same time, you can guarantee that they can withstand constant use and abuse. |
| Hiking boots | Mostly heavyOffer the best level of protection and supportHighly rugged construction | Hiking boots are for rugged terrains. They are the best choice if you are going to tread muddy, snowy, or watery areas. You should use hiking boots if your trail has steep climbs in the mountains. Moreover, you should also use them if you require enhanced ankle support and ground traction. |
Even if you don't want to wear hiking shoes, you would still need to equip your feet with a pair of protective footwear. Wearing hiking shoes or running shoes would provide your feet with optimal support and comfort.
Without them, your feet are susceptible to various problems, such as blistering, tripping, and twisting. The wrong footwear can also cause your feet to be sore, especially during mid- and long-distance hikes.
Hence, it is crucial that you should pick footwear that provides optimal support and comfort to your natural feet’s pronation.
By the way, hiking sandals are also available for usage. But they are suitable for comfortable and familiar trails only. They are commonly used in kayaking and boating trips. But they can also be utilized in short leisure hikes. However, be reminded that they don't offer protection to your toes. This means that you are prone to injuries when you are hiking on rocky trails.
This time, we will highlight the long-age debate between hiking boots and trail running shoes. Truth to be told, there's no winner or loser here. Instead, you have to keep in mind that they have their intended usages and applications.
There are some guide questions that can help you choose between these two types of footwear. Here are some of them:
If the terrain is well-marked, established, and generally flat, then light running shoes will just work fine. If the trail is paved, you can even wear sandals and sneakers. For wet and cold terrains, you would need hiking boots that offer a sufficient degree of insulation and protection. Hiking boots with waterproof layers are great for this application.
At the same time, you have to consider how heavy your pack is. You may not need rugged hiking boots if you aren't carrying a bulky and burly pack. Trail running shoes should be enough for you. But then again, you might assess your condition first.
Use the table below to understand the key differences between hiking boots and trail running shoes. Based on their respective nuances, you will be able to decide which of them you should take on each of your hiking trips.
| Hiking Boots Advantages | Trail Running Shoes Advantages |
| Suitable for cold-season hikingCan be used in water, snow, and mudDurable and stableProvide optimal protection to your feet and ankleOffer excellent traction | Suitable for hot-season hikingWorks on various terrainsBreathable and doesn't require any break-inOptimal for fast-paced hikingAvailable in different traction configurations |
| Hiking Boots Disadvantages | Trail Running Shoes Disadvantages |
| Bulky and heavyNeed break-ins | Not as supportive and protective as hiking bootsLimited durability |
It is evident in the prior discussions that we have that it is alright to hike without wearing hiking boots. Trail running shoes are perfectly alright to be worn during hikes. In fact, a lot of people prefer wearing these running shoes on their hikes.
But of course, you need to take into account the factors that we have mentioned earlier in deciding whether or not you can ditch hiking boots. Specifically, you can hike without a pair of hiking boots if the trail is safe, established, and safe. Short-distance hikes may also not require hiking boots.
In challenging terrains, running shoes may not be the best footwear for you. You would need hiking boots or hiking shoes on these trails. Your feet require protection and support on wet, muddy, and rocky paths. If you are carrying heavy loads, you should also wear the appropriate footwear that would help you balance and disperse the weight of your body properly.
In a nutshell, you are allowed to hike without hiking boots if the terrain and weather are favorable. Otherwise, you should consider wearing hiking shoes or hiking boots.
There are specific reasons why you should consider wearing trail runners while hiking. Check them below:
Your feet consume 4 to 6 times more energy than your back when it comes to lifting objects. Hence, it is advantageous that you wear lighter footwear if you wish to conserve or extend your energy during your trip.
In fact, a broken-in pair of hiking boots can still cause blistering to your feet, especially if you wear them for an entire day.
If hiking boots aren't really required all the time, then does it mean that you can choose not to buy a pair?
Well, it depends on you. However, if you are into hiking, it is advantageous that you have reliable boots at your disposal.
Needless to say, hiking boots are tailored for hiking. That's already a given. These types of footwear will offer support, comfort, and protection to your feet while you are on a rugged hiking trail.
While it is true that trail running shoes or sports shoes are breathable and lightweight, they aren't as durable and protective as hiking boots. On casual hikes, running shoes are enough. But for technical and long-distance hikes, ordinary running footwear will cause discomfort to your feet.
You can find a plethora of hiking shoes today. They have varying designs and specifications. Some have minimal ankle support, while others are tailored to keep your ankles protected and comfortable. Hiking boots can either be fully waterproof or non-waterproof. Choose the ideal footwear design that fits your requirements.
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